Two National Stud farms to visit in the Pays de le Loire:

Those who are interested in pedigree and breeding should visit the Haras National (National Stud Farm) at Le Lion-d’Angers . The ‘Mondial du Lion ’ in October, together with the world championships for young horses, attracts riders from all over the world.

The Haras de la Vendée  in La Roche-sur-Yon  is one of France’s largest stud farms. It is set in 11 acres in the centre of the town. Here you will find an academy for horses and there are equestrian shows with all aspects of horsemanship including dressage; but it is also very educational and includes saddlers, blacksmiths and a collection of the various breeds of horses of the world.