Hold your horses

Thinking about bringing your horses to France, or becoming a first-time horse owner there? Hannah Evans finds out how to get started

- Hannah Evans

Horses for courses’ is a phrase we all know, used to indicate that different people are suited to different things. It originated from the horseracing world, and the idea that some racehorses are better suited to certain courses

Sticking to the equine theme, it seems that horse owners are particularly suited to, and often drawn to, France, with its undulating countryside, scenic trails and, of course, the fact that large amounts of land are far easier to come by compared to the UK. While many horse lovers have found their perfect match in a French equestrian property, even setting up their own horse-riding businesses, others may be put offthe idea because it seems too complicated – but don’t be dissuaded. Here are the basics of owning horses in France and finding your perfect equestrian property across the Channel.

GIDDY UP AND GO

Lyon-born Erick-Pierre Valls spent 25 years of his life owning horses in Australia and when he decided to move back to France last year, to the peaceful countryside of BourgogneFranche-Comté, one thing he knew for sure is that horses would be a central part of his new lifestyle. “When you have owned horses it is very difficult to live without one around,” he tells me. “I started riding when I was six years old, I love it, and the connection it gives you with the animal.”