Horseback Riding in St. Lucia

Horseback Riding

Creole horses, a breed indigenous to South America and popular on the island, are fairly small, fast, sturdy, and even-tempered animals suitable for beginners. Established stables can accommodate all skill levels and offer countryside trail rides, beach rides with picnic lunches, plantation tours, carriage rides, and lengthy treks. Prices run about $40 for one hour, $50 for two hours, and $70 for a three-hour beach ride and barbecue. Transportation is usually provided between the stables and nearby hotels. Local people sometimes appear on beaches with their steeds and offer 30-minute rides for $10; ride at your own risk.

Atlantic Shores Riding Stable (Savannes Bay, Vieux Fort. 758/454-8668 or 758/484-9769) is located in south St. Lucia; trails take in Honeymoon Beach, mangroves, grassy fields, and the rugged Atlantic coast. Country Saddles (Marquis Estate, Babonneau. 758/450-5467 or 758/450-0197), 45 minutes east of Castries, guides beginners and advanced riders through banana plantations, forest trails, and along the Atlantic coast. International Riding Stables (Beauséjour Estate, Gros Islet. 758/452-8139 or 758/450-8665) offers English- and western-style riding. The beach-picnic ride includes time for a swim -- with or without your horse. Trim's National Riding Stable (Cas-en-Bas, Gros Islet. 758/452-8273 or 758/450-9971), the island's oldest riding stable, offers four sessions per day, plus beach tours, trail rides, and carriage tours to Pigeon Island.