Innsbruck Tourismus Press Release Moments of bliss for young horse lovers Free pony rides, riding lessons and adventure days with like-minded buddies A muzzle soft like velvet, big dark eyes, smooth and cuddly fur – these are just some of the features that make ponies absolutely irresistible to kids. In Innsbruck and its holiday villages, children of all ages are welcome to saddle up and make their dreams come true. At Sonnhof in Rinn, for example, where young mom and certified riding instructor Stephie Mayer knows exactly what makes the heart of little horse lovers beat faster. This intimate, family-run riding stable offers one-to-one tuition, group lessons as well as unforgettable pony outings. Riding Club Innsbruck-Igls is home to Ponolino, a fun children’s club where little horse whisperers find everything they could possibly wish for. The diverse range of activities includes introductory lessons for beginners and the more experienced as well as therapeutic horseback riding for disabled children. Riding Club Royal in neighbouring Vill caters to up-and-coming equestrians with pony riding lessons and exciting Adventure Days that offer plenty of opportunity to get aquainted with the animals while having an absolutely brilliant time with like-minded buddies. Also to the west of Innsbruck, a number of villages cater to young animal lovers, guaranteeing memorable adventures with a vast network of trails and family-friendly riding stables. At the Mairhof in Oberperfuss, Martina Holzknecht and her dedicated team of riding instructors introduce young riders to gentle Noriker horses in a playful manner. The training programme includes lessons in the sand arena as well as guided outings (also for adults). Also in Oberperfuss, Magdalena Hörtnagl – together with pony Charly and Haflinger mare Arizona – welcome pony-mad youngsters for a unique riding experience. The Michelfeld Arena equestrian centre in Kematen, a small village to the west of Innsbruck, opened its doors to the local riding community in 2013. With two outdoor paddocks, complete with lunge ring and horse walker, and a riding hall measuring 22 x 84 metres, this state-of-the-art facility represents the largest riding arena in the Tyrol. Besides hosting frequent equestrian events, the venue offers private riding lessons as well as expert group tuition. In nearby Axams, at Fritz Ehrensperger’s Innsbruck Tourismus Silvana M. Giuliani International Marketing & Press Tel. +43 512 / 59 850 - 123 s.giuliani@innsbruck.info Innsbruck Tourismus Press Release Postkutscherhof, it is all about horses and their important role as a versatile and entertaining means of transport. The varied programme features outings in horsedrawn sleighs and carriages - even in traditional stage coaches - as well as riding lessons. From June until September, free weekly pony rides for little holidaymakers are an absolute highlight. Every Wednesday (prior arrangement required), rapt young horse lovers get a first taste of pony riding under expert supervision. This wonderful experience is just one of the many benefits included in the Innsbruck guest card. Nestled in the holiday village of Ampass, the delightful Hasental pony ranch is a dream come true both for young children and adults alike. Because once the kids return from their pony ride, the whole family can stay on for an exciting afternoon and get to know the animals that can also be taken for a unique walking tour through the forest. Information: Innsbruck Tourismus, tel. +43 512 59 850, office@innsbruck.info, www.innsbruck.info Innsbruck Tourismus Silvana M. Giuliani International Marketing & Press Tel. +43 512 / 59 850 - 123 s.giuliani@innsbruck.info