This Lunar New Year, Celebrate the Year of the Horse at These Iconic Saddle-Ready Hotels

This Year of the Horse, travel beyond the ordinary and discover hotels where luxury and horsemanship meet in perfect harmony. From remote desert canyons to verdant European estates, these eight properties offer immersive riding experiences framed by impeccable design, gourmet cuisine, and world-class wellness. Whether you’re a seasoned equestrian or simply seeking a taste of the saddle life, these escapes promise unforgettable journeys.

NIHI Sumba — Sumba Island, Indonesia

Set on a remote Indonesian island, NIHI Sumba is a sanctuary for the senses — and for horses. Private villas overlook sweeping beaches, while guided horseback rides at sunrise and sunset traverse pristine sands and verdant hills. Beyond riding, guests can participate in holistic equine wellness programmes or unwind in the resort’s acclaimed spa, blending luxury with nature in one of the world’s most secluded destinations.

Ballyfin Demesne — County Laois, Ireland

Steeped in history and elegance, Ballyfin Demesne is Ireland’s quintessential country-house escape. Its 614-acre estate provides the perfect backdrop for private horseback rides through manicured trails, along historic parklands, and across secluded woodlands. Guests can complement their riding with carriage tours, fine dining, and the kind of bespoke service that makes every stay feel exceptional.

Lodge in the Woods — Bali, Indonesia

Tucked deep within Bali’s jungle, Lodge in the Woods combines tropical serenity with a profound equestrian connection. Guests enjoy curated trail rides, one-on-one equine wellness sessions, and sunset excursions through lush landscapes. The boutique villas, each designed with understated elegance, provide a tranquil counterpoint to the adrenaline and freedom of riding, making it an ideal hideaway for riders and nature lovers alike.

Amangiri — Utah, USA

In the stark beauty of Utah’s desert canyons, Amangiri offers riding experiences that feel both cinematic and intimate. Guests can explore the sweeping desert terrain on horseback, guided by expert riders, before returning to minimalist, ultra-luxurious suites with panoramic canyon views. The resort’s spa and wellness offerings provide restorative balance after a day in the saddle, ensuring every experience is as holistic as it is exhilarating.

Genghis Khan Equestrian Retreat — Mongolia

For those seeking adventure on a grand scale, the Genghis Khan Equestrian Retreat offers a truly nomadic luxury experience. Opulent ger-style accommodations sit amidst the vast Mongolian steppe, where guests can ride alongside expert horsemen, explore centuries-old traditions, and connect deeply with a landscape shaped by history. It’s equestrian immersion at its most authentic, paired with unexpected comforts that only true luxury can provide.

Gleneagles — Scotland, UK

Scotland’s Gleneagles estate is synonymous with luxury country living. Its stables host a variety of equestrian programmes, from estate trail rides to advanced riding lessons, all set against rolling highland landscapes. After the saddle, guests can enjoy fine dining, championship golf, and refined accommodations, creating a balanced escape where adrenaline and indulgence coexist effortlessly.

Selman Marrakech — Morocco

Selman Marrakech is a visual and equestrian feast. Inspired by Andalusian palaces, the resort houses magnificent Arabian horses and stables where riders can partake in polo clinics, guided desert rides, or estate trail adventures. Opulent suites, serene pools, and a luxurious spa complete the experience, offering a glamorous Moroccan retreat that celebrates both culture and horse-centered leisure.

Four Seasons Hampshire — UK

Nestled in the heart of Hampshire, Four Seasons offers a quintessential English equestrian escape. Guests can enjoy private lessons, scenic countryside rides, and events tailored for horse enthusiasts. The property blends traditional country charm with modern luxury, from spa treatments to fine dining, making it a haven for riders seeking a curated and sophisticated experience.