Warm summer days together with the beautiful nature of the Gastein valley are the perfect opportunity to be on horseback for a few days before the everyday worries. The great news is that the whole family can enjoy the view from the back of the majestic animal. Thanks to experienced instructors, the family's little ones can enjoy dressage, while the more experienced or adventurous ones will have the opportunity to try jumping or riding directly in the countryside and enjoy the ride to the full.

Where will you have to go? The amazing thing is, nowhere really. There are several riding stations right around Bad Gastein. The first one, Reitclub Gastein, is right in Bad Gastein. Around half an hour rides here will set you back €35.00 for most, and there's a pony ride option for kids that will set you back €15.00. Helmets are of course always available to rent.

Alternatively, there is a riding school in nearby Bad Hofgastein. Here you can enjoy every day of the week except Monday. This riding school is more dedicated to lessons, but single rides are also available. For children up to 6 years of age there are again wonderful ponies waiting for € 9,00! Classic rides here cost € 18,00. You will be pleased to know that it is possible to negotiate a quantity discount if you include your friends!

Rounding off the complete selection is the riding school in Dorfgastein, which focuses primarily on relieving the fear of riding and on strengthening the relationship with horses in general. For the children, the lessons are conducted in a play and fun style, which contributes to a positive relationship between children and horses, but also to being outdoors and in nature, which children lack so much these days.

It is said that the unique experiences we take away from our holidays are the best souvenirs. In the case of a horse ride in the picturesque Gastein valley in the company of friends and family, this is at least doubly true!