Which countries are best known for riding?

Riding is an art that has spread across the world. There are even countries recognised as territories excelling in breeding, competition and equestrian products. If you're looking for a specific destination in which to live out your passion for horses, these best-known countries are your best bet.

Germany

Germany is one of those countries where riding culture is still firmly rooted in people's minds, even among the youngest. You only have to look at the population's daily habits. If you don't fancy going out by bike in this country, the horse is there for you. All you need is a saddle with the right features, like the saddles on show at La Sellerie Française . What's more, in the world's biggest competitions, Germany ranks among the leaders with a number of top professionals. That is what has allowed it to build a considerable reputation as an equestrian nation worldwide. Germany is even a point of reference for every other European country.

If you want to see well-run yards that combine a friendly atmosphere with a natural approach, just take a trip to the land of Goethe. The ground is there should you want to ride out on open land in the middle of the countryside.

France

France's reputation in the equestrian world is no longer in question, now that the country has become a demographic heavyweight in terms of horses. Normandy in particular has helped it take this leading position. The region has more than 115,000 horses. It is therefore recognised as a breeding heartland.

There, traditional care techniques are used alongside a new generation of care and breeding products.

France also hosts the world's largest equestrian gathering, in Sologne. It is a record even validated by the Guinness Book of Records. This confirms the essential place of the land of the Gauls in the equestrian world.

United States of America

Everyone knows where westerns come from. The United States has managed to popularise the whole story of farmers and rangers to the point of turning it into a global phenomenon. The presence of the Apache in particular, and Native Americans in general, has contributed to this state of affairs. That is also what earns the country its place in the ranking of the most renowned equestrian nations.

Until 2012, the largest gathering of horses took place there. This is therefore a breeding ground for good equestrian professionals. Riding schools, farms, ranches and livery yards abound.

Turkmenistan

This country is not generally the best known for riding. Even so, it is home to a rare and highly prized breed of horse. That breed also serves as its emblem.

The Akhal-Teke is a horse with a naturally lustrous coat that shines brilliantly in the sun. Enthusiasts therefore call it the golden horse. The breed has great stamina, is athletic and capable of the technical feats riders look for. It is an endangered breed that the whole country is trying to preserve as far as possible.