Alpine Trails of Slovenia

5 Days | From £995pp

Slovenia ( Best airport: Ljubljana/Zagreb)

This exploratory trail is a brand-new itinerary that hasn’t been ridden by SaddleTravel clients before. It’s offered at a reduced price because it hasn’t yet been fully tested and reviewed in the same way as our established rides. While the riding, accommodation, and logistics have been carefully planned by the local team, there may be small changes or adjustments along the way.

This destination is in the heart of Slovenia at Pule Equestrian Estate, a 17th-century countryside retreat in the rolling hills of Dolenjska, a celebrated wine region. This short break includes four riding sessions where you’ll ride through forests, vineyards, and meadows. Accommodation is in elegant suites with fireplaces and terraces, and the food is all prepared on site, a masterclass in farm-to-table dining paired with local wines. All riding abilities can be accommodated here making it ideal for couples or friends of mixed ability.

The Riding

Horse riding here is designed to suit all levels, from complete beginners to experienced riders. Guests can take lessons in the outdoor arena, join relaxed rides through the estate’s forests and meadows, or set out on guided trail rides into the surrounding countryside. There is around 2-3 hours of riding on most days with one day of 4 hours and one day of 6 hours. The riding here is bespoke so you can choose how much riding you want to do.

Experienced riders will find plenty of variety and challenge. Daily rides venture across forests, vineyards, and rolling hills, with opportunities for longer trail routes into the Dolenjska countryside. Horses are well-schooled and forward-going, while guides adapt each ride to suit the group’s pace and preferences. Combined with visits to local wine producers, historic sites, and even day trips to the Lipica Stud Farm, riding here offers both adventure and cultural depth in equal measure.

The estate is equally welcoming for those new to riding. Lessons in the outdoor arena build confidence and skills, before relaxed trail rides through meadows and woodland paths. The estate’s calm, well-trained horses and supportive guides make it an ideal place to try riding for the first time. Each session is personalised to match comfort and ability, ensuring that beginners can enjoy the experience of exploring Slovenia’s countryside from the saddle at their own pace.

Level of Riding and Fitness

On arrival, each guest takes part in a short riding assessment so that horses and routes can be matched to ability. Beginners can start with gentle lessons in the arena and relaxed countryside trails, while more experienced riders may enjoy longer outings with opportunities for faster paces. A reasonable level of general fitness is recommended, as rides can last from one to several hours, though no special training is required. For the wellbeing of the horses, the rider weight limit is 95 kg. Above all, safety and enjoyment are prioritised, with each ride adapted to the pace and confidence of the group so that every guest can feel comfortable exploring Slovenia’s landscape from the saddle.

Guides and Group Size

In the mornings, you’ll usually head out on trail rides through forests and meadows, while most lessons take place in the afternoons. There are also faster-paced rides for up to 6 experienced riders, and slower, more relaxed rides for up to 8 riders. Advanced riders are guided by one experienced guide, while less experienced riders are accompanied by two guides for extra support. Riders are grouped by ability.

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The Horses

The horses are carefully chosen for their calm temperaments and strong schooling, with breeds ranging from steady Holsteiners and affectionate Hanoverians to spirited Andalusians. Living between stables and pasture, they are healthy, well-balanced and sure-footed on the trails. Each guest is matched with a horse to suit their ability, so beginners ride safe, steady mounts while experienced riders enjoy forward-going partners. With care rooted in respect and natural practices, the horses are trusted companions for exploring Slovenia’s countryside.

Tack and Riding Equipment

The horses are ridden in English tack. Please note, saddlebags are not provided so we recommend bringing a bumbag or similar if doing the longer trails.

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Accommodation and Dining

The accommodation here is in one of nine spacious suites, these are private houses on the estate each featuring king-size beds, fireplaces, private terraces, bathrooms and views over the 130 hectacre estate. Suites vary between one-bedroom and two-bedroom layouts, making them suitable for couples, friends, or small groups. Amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, air conditioning, welcome treats, and thoughtful touches such as Illy coffee machines and Atelier Rebul toiletries.

Dining at Pule is centred on local produce and seasonal flavours. Mornings begin with generous breakfasts made from ingredients sourced in the region, while light lunches and picnic baskets can be prepared for days spent outdoors. Evenings are relaxed and sociable, with 4 course family-style dinners featuring farm-to-table dishes paired with Slovenian wines from the estate’s own cellar. Guests can also enjoy wine tastings, barbecues, or picnics in the grounds. All food and drink is included from dinner on your arrival day to breakfast on your departure day.

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Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive at Ljubljana or Zagreb Airport, where a private transfer will bring you to Pule Estate, or make your own way through the rolling hills of the Dolenjska region. After settling into your suite, meet the team and take a short orientation tour of the stables and grounds. In the late afternoon, enjoy a gentle introductory ride through meadows and forest paths to get to know your horse. The evening ends with a family-style dinner featuring seasonal Slovenian dishes and local wines in the estate’s restaurant.

Day 2 Begin the day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the stables for your morning ride across the estate’s forests, vineyards and open fields. Return for a light lunch, then spend the afternoon at leisure: take a dip in the plunge pool, join a yoga session, or relax in the spa. Later, enjoy a guided tasting in the estate’s wine cellar before sitting down to a relaxed dinner showcasing regional flavours.

Day 3 After breakfast, saddle up for a longer ride to the nearby hills and the ruins of Klevevž Castle. Stop by the natural spring for a refreshing break before returning to the estate for lunch. In the afternoon, join an excursion to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s vibrant capital, for a guided bike tour through its medieval streets and riverside cafés. Back at Pule, unwind over dinner and share stories from the day.

Day 4 This morning, ride out across meadows and woodland trails to a scenic picnic spot, where you’ll enjoy a relaxed outdoor meal prepared by the estate. In the afternoon, head to the Kolpa River for a kayaking adventure, or simply relax by the water with time to swim and explore. Return to Pule for a farewell dinner, perhaps a barbecue on the terrace, celebrating your final night with local food and wine.

Day 5 After breakfast, take one last ride through the estate’s trails, soaking in the peaceful countryside and enjoying a final connection with your horse. Return to the stables to say goodbye, before departing for your onward journey with memories of Slovenia’s landscapes, culture, and hospitality.