From passionate participants to pleasure seekers: unique events for all!
The most prestigious stop on your equestrian tour must be the famous École Nationale d’Équitation (French National Riding School) and its famed Cadre Noir located in Saumur. The spectacular horse shows set an international standard for the equestrian arts and are without equal. It’s not just about the displays; you have VIP status and get to see behind the scenes. You can visit the 300 hectares, 50km of bridle paths, 16 outdoor arenas, 7 indoor arenas and meet the 400 horses. This is the perfect opportunity to watch the riders and their mounts in training and rehearsals.

Le Cadre Noir: listed as World Heritage by UNESCO in November 2011
“Riding, The French Tradition" has been awarded ‘unequal cultural heritage’ status by UNESCO. The Committee for safeguarding intangible Cultural Heritage, meeting in Bali, added the Cadre Noir as 213th on its list. This is an outstanding recognition for the Cadre Noir. The Cadre Noir was created in the reign of Louis XV. Now, the National Riding School, this national institution has a worldwide reputation for its galas in France and abroad. The aim of the school is training in the art of French horsemanship, competition and research. The stables, the grand ring and the armouries, the largest in Europe, are open to visitors. Riding enthusiasts can also attend events including dressage and practice sessions. The Museum of Cavalry offers an extensive collection of weapons, costumes and documents.

Dates for the Diary: public presentations of the Cadre Noir (April, May, June, July, August, September and October), the Horsemen of Spring in May, the summer festivals in July, and the musicals in October.

Sam's Scoop

After being dazzled by the horses, remember to visit Saumur’s town centre where you can sit in the sun and watch the world go by. If you are feeling peckish pop into the ‘Duchess Anne’ salon de thé for a coffee and one of their famous patisseries, chocolates or petits fours and if you are feeling generous you might even buy some to take home to friends.
For more information: www.laduchesseanne.fr