Rather synonymous with the beautifully hued and brisk autumn season is equestrian style — perhaps it is due to the association with all that is classically equestrian— beginning primarily with the rich colors . . .
. . . at home, the warm, textural plaid blankets, and paintings of races hung in hallways; hearty, blazing fires and stylishly, meticulously finished and fitted crested blazers, buttery soft leather riding boots, gloves, and the like.
Perhaps what is so fascinating and alluring are the aristocratic appeal and the open adventures outdoors that these things also represent, or, maybe it is the old world appeal—the history, the sport, and the celebration, as well the beauty of horses to be appreciated.
Though certainly not succinct only with autumn, with layers and leaves falling, an appreciation of equestrian beauty is afresh and particular notes of equestrian style (such as beloved Hermès blankets) returns . . .
Beyond magnifying equestrian style, for many, an equestrian escape, where one might enjoy the sport, races, adventures and exploring different trails and areas, is befitting.
From an exotic and welcoming resort in India, to a classic castle in England full of comforts, here is a selection of a variety of lovely accommodations, worldwide, to visit . . .
With just thirteen rooms, this quaint, country boutique hotel located in Italy is nothing short of charming.
Here at Mandra Edera, majestic horses roam freely about the grounds, surrounded by woods and a lush, picturesque countryside.
As an added bonus for all who are equestrian inclined, the hotel owners, in fact, breed championship-winning horses and are happy to offer horseback riding lessons for all levels.
You may also enjoy authentic cuisine in their gourmet restaurant, with many ingredients grown on site, and a taste of local wine.
Take a swim in their pristine pool, lounge on the terrace, or for something different, trekking and excursions may be arranged by jeep to visit ancient archaeological sites.
Bovey Castle is a wondrous castle of history, excitement, glamour, and adventure.
One can plan on a full day, starting with an outdoor adventure in the morning, golfing in the afternoon, followed by fine dining, and a relaxing evening by the fire to finish.
However, do not be fooled by its elegance and glamorous furnishings throughout — this vast castle is also child friendly and welcomes you to make yourself at home.
If you prefer something separate from the castle, there are also beautiful individual lodges for rent on the property.
Bovey is the essence of a true traditional country retreat, with modern necessities at your fingertips.
The location is prime for horseback riding, naturally, with renowned Shilstone Rocks stables located just moments away for convenience.
Amangani, meaning peaceful home, is a year-round destination that calls many for its stunning location and inspiring surroundings.
The hotel offers twenty-nine well-appointed, deluxe suites and private homes to rent, and includes many additional spots, such as a library, lounge, a spa & fitness centre, and even a pool.
A premier ski resort from December all the way through to March, and for the warmer months of the year, a fascinating place to discover natural beauty.
And while you are not out and about on an excursion, one can enjoy the comforts of the indoors—the encompassing redwood-paneled walls and ceiling, specially commissioned artwork, hearty fireplaces, and the quiet, magnificent views of the mountains that surround.
The incredible scenery and history alone certainly calls one to visit this scalable resort.
In fact, the countryside that surrounds Amanbagh reveals the ruins of an ancient empire, and year round, excursions on horseback are offered to explore these as well as the awe-inspiring views—to Ajabgarh from Amanbagh.
Interestingly enough, the resort’s unique name derives from from “aman”, meaning ‘peace’ in Sanskrit and “bagh”, meaning ‘garden’ in Hindi.
Indeed, this beautiful accommodation is very much about luxury from every angle, from supreme quality linens to offering a beautiful boutique with locally made products, a spa, library and more.
And although Amanbagh seems to be a prestigious and untouchable palace, it is quite warm and inviting, with modern essentials, spacious areas, all with a polite nod to India’s golden age.
Capturing the attention of many, for its appealing and unique design, as well as its approach and dedication to sustainability, Valle de Uco is a wonderful development, offering a number of things including: a boutique hotel and a five-star hotel, as well as the opportunity to purchase villas and lake houses—all with an open, modern, airy feeling and its own water source.
Additionally, this 310-hectare site has its own winery and golf course, contemporary observatory, nature reserve, as well as an equestrian centre—as Argentina is so well known for—with horseback riding lessons offered.
For those who particularly enjoy the outdoors, there are also futuristic tree houses and designated spots for ‘glamping’, or luxurious camping.
Mount Juliet House is renowned for its equestrian experiences, glorious grounds, and as one of the most grand and luxurious hotels in the whole of Ireland.
With thirty-one bedrooms in the Manor House, including two presidential suites, each room has been individually designed with the unique concept of creating a private family home.
Additionally, and interestingly, drawing on the history of the estate, each room has been named.
As for equestrian pursuits, the estate offers a fantastic cross-country schooling facility with a total of 20 challenging fences, as well as lessons, trekking, trailing, and much more.
Apart from horseback riding, one might take up archery, go fishing or, visit places nearby, such as Kilkenny City centre, Mount Juliet, Kilkenny Castle, shopping, and more.
Which would you like to visit? –Sarah
[images : victoria magazine via haute design // pale & interesting via a previous post // charlotte casiraghi photographed by mario testino via vogue // equestrian bridal shoot by kt merry photography via the wedding chicks // photography by ditte isager // horse & rider via a well-traveled woman // champagne via flickr // white horse, from here // all hotel images from their respective websites]
