Horse riding and bringing your horse in the Wildschönau

The Haflinger: Tyrol's own horse

The Haflinger is a Tyrolean breed: compact, strong, golden chestnut in colour with a light mane and tail. It is known for its calm temperament and has long been used in mountainous terrain, where a sure foot matters. That is why Haflingers are such a common sight in riding in the Alps, whether under saddle or in front of a carriage or sleigh. In and around the Wildschönau you will meet them regularly, in the paddock, in the stable or on a ride. For children and beginners a calm mountain horse is a pleasant introduction to horses, although every animal is an individual and the instructors on site decide who rides which horse.

Horse riding in the Wildschönau

In Niederau itself, our partner Hotel Wastlhof is the best-known place to ride. The hotel has run a riding school for over fifty years, with an indoor arena, an outdoor ring with a jumping course and some fifteen horses, including Haflingers. You can take lessons, whether you are a beginner or experienced, and there are trail rides for those who can already ride independently, including to an alpine hut at over 1,300 metres. Elsewhere in the valley, other accommodations with their own horses also offer rides, and in summer some organise guided tours of the surroundings. Ask in advance about current options, the level required and whether you can ride if you are not staying at the hotel.

Pony rides for little ones

For children of about 3 to 6 there are pony rides at the riding school of Hotel Wastlhof. A short loop led by a helper is, for many toddlers and pre-schoolers, their first experience of sitting on an animal, and it usually goes well if you take it slowly. Bring sturdy shoes and, ideally, your own riding helmet if you have one; otherwise ask whether one can be lent. If your child is still nervous around large animals, let them watch and stroke the pony gently first. Days and times vary by season, so check with the riding school beforehand.

By horse-drawn sleigh through the snow

In winter a horse-drawn sleigh ride is a peaceful way to see the valley. You sit under a blanket while the horses pull you past snowy meadows and through the woods. In the Wildschönau such rides are offered from a mountain hut in the valley, among other places, often with a minimum number of participants and not on every weekday. The rides suit children and adults who do not need ski lessons or pistes, and they make a good alternative on a day with poor skiing weather. Dress warmly, with a hat and gloves, because you sit still. Book in advance and ask about current days, which depend on snow and season.

Fohlenhof Ebbs: Haflingers up close

If you want to know more about the breed, visit the Fohlenhof in Ebbs, near Kufstein. It is known as the world centre of Haflinger breeding and has existed since 1947. Visitors can see the riding halls, the stables and the open-air stalls for young horses, among other things. In summer there is usually a horse show on Friday evenings; the exact period and start time change, so check before you go. Guided tours of the stud are also offered. Allow roughly 45 to 60 minutes by car from Niederau. It makes a fun day trip for children who love horses and combines well with Kufstein or the Kaiser region.

Bringing your own horse

If you travel to Austria with your own horse, sort out the paperwork first. You always need the horse passport and usually also a health certificate from an official vet, which is valid only for a short time. Longer or commercial transports have extra requirements, such as a transport plan and a suitable vehicle. Ask your vet and the relevant authorities for the current rules, and allow several working days for the documents. Guest boxes are not available everywhere, and for the Wildschönau this has not been confirmed. Ask your accommodation or a nearby riding stable in advance whether there is space, what the conditions are and whether turnout is possible.

Routes, alpine pastures and safety

In Tyrol, alpine pastures are first of all farmland. Walking is usually allowed there, but horses and bikes are different: expect to need the landowner's permission or a guided route. Ask the tourist office or the riding stable about permitted riding routes and stay on the marked paths. Livestock is a second point of attention. Mother cows protect their calves, and horses can spook. Keep your distance, ride calmly around the animals and leave gates as you found them. Always wear an approved riding helmet and sturdy footwear, and preferably a safety vest. Check the weather beforehand: thunderstorms in the mountains arrive quickly.

Frequently asked questions