Today’s visit to the Lipica Stud Farm, breeding centre for the famed Lipizzaner horses, provides insight into the history and artistry of these magnificent creatures and their riders.

Drive just over an hour into Slovenia’s Karst Region, a green oasis beneath the Mediterranean sky. Very near the border with Italy, the farm has been producing these thoroughbreds for over four centuries. Today there are about 400 horses roaming the estate, divided between show, competition and riding horses. All of the foals are born bay or black in colour, gradually attaining their nearly white coat as they mature. Their carefree lives last for three years, with training beginning at four years old; they are only ready for performance around age seven. Lipizzaners live for 25 to 30 years on average, usually performing into their early 20s. Prior to World War II, the horses were trained primarily at the Spanish Riding School in Vienna. (Horses for that school are now bred in Austria.)

Your time at the farm includes a guided tour as well as a one-hour performance in a large outdoor ring. Skilled riders in period costume demonstrate training techniques, dressage and group riding, showcasing the amazing expertise of these handsome animals.

PRICE:

$ 110 25-34 participants

$ 120 20-24 participants

$ 140 15-19 participants

W1: Easy activity. Very light activity including short distances to walk; will include some steps in and out of the transportation.