Terms

All rides and activities related to the horses are subject to Appaloosa Horse Trails’ standard terms and conditions. Please review the points below carefully before making a reservation. Submission of a booking request indicates agreement with these terms and acceptance of any applicable charges.

Please use the “Judge Your Riding Ability” guide below when describing each rider on the booking form. The same ability level should be used again on the indemnity form on the day of the ride.

Judge Your Riding Ability

Beginner (BEG) — A rider with limited or no experience. Unable to mount or dismount unassisted, give basic aids, walk, trot, or canter. All beginners will be led on the trail.

Novice (NOV) — A rider who can mount and dismount unassisted, apply basic aids, and remain comfortable and in control at the walk, trot, and short canters. Occasional holiday or out rider. Rides less than 10 times a year. Novice riders may ride alone, but a guide may be present on the ground to assist if needed.

Intermediate (INT) — A rider with a firm seat who is in control at all paces, but does not ride regularly.

Strong Intermediate (SINT) — A rider with a firm seat who is in control at all paces, rides regularly at home or at a riding yard, and has at least 5 years of experience.

Advanced (ADV) — All of the above plus an independent seat, soft hands, and the ability to handle a spirited horse in open country. Around 10 years’ experience, including riding in competitions or events.

Important Information

  • We are an English-speaking company. Please ensure you understand the basics or have a translator present so you can fully understand the safety brief.
  • Rude, arrogant, or disrespectful behavior will not be tolerated.
  • We do not show preferential treatment to anyone, group, or company.
  • We ask clients to respect that our horses are not overused or pressured beyond safe limits.
  • Riders may be grouped together to fill available ride slots. Romantic picnic rides may be handled separately and privately.
  • All clients must complete a Rider Registration / Indemnity Form before taking part in horse-related activities.
  • All participants must arrive at least 30 minutes before their confirmed booking time.
  • Please call if you are running late. Late arrivals without notice may be charged 100% cancellation fees.
  • For the safety of clients and horses, there is a strict weight limit of 95 kg. Riders may be asked to be weighed before departure. Riders above this limit may be refused, and no same-day refund will be given.
  • If a rider is not capable of the level required for a particular ride, Appaloosa Horse Trails reserves the right to refuse or stop participation at its sole discretion.
  • For safety reasons, rides may proceed at a slower pace than some guests would ideally prefer. Beach or trail galloping is not allowed.
  • We use the following gait terms: 1. Walk 2. Trot 3. Canter 4. Gallop.

Client’s Responsibility

  • We do not provide or arrange transport. Please arrange this in advance with your hotel or guesthouse.
  • Please dress appropriately for riding and weather conditions: long pants, closed shoes, sun protection, and a light rain jacket if needed. Flip-flops and unsuitable clothing will not be accepted.
  • Bookings are accepted on the basis that riders do not suffer from any illness or disability that could prejudice their safety on horseback.
  • Clients accept that horse riding and horse-related activities involve inherent risks and participate at their own volition.
  • Clients are responsible for understanding the risks involved. Appaloosa Horse Trails assumes no responsibility for injury, loss, or damage before, during, or after activities related to horse riding or while at the premises.
  • Clients agree to accept the authority and decisions of guides and staff. Failure to do so may result in refusal to commence or continue a ride, without refund.
  • If, in the opinion of Appaloosa Horse Trails, a client’s health or conduct endangers the safety or enjoyment of others, that client may be excluded from all or part of the ride without refund.
  • Although the operator may hold various insurance policies, clients must assume they are not covered by any insurance held by the operator, including liability insurance for death, injury, damage, or other loss.
  • Appaloosa Horse Trails is not responsible for loss or damage to personal goods or property, including theft, fire, or natural or man-made disasters.
  • Clients are advised to obtain adequate medical and travel insurance for horse-related activities.
  • The person making the booking confirms they have authority to do so on behalf of all listed persons and confirms that all such persons accept these terms.
  • A parent or legal guardian must confirm bookings for anyone under 18 years of age.
  • Clients may not ride while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs. Anyone found intoxicated may be refused without refund.
  • Damage to equipment or property beyond normal wear and tear may be charged for.

Booking Policy and Conditions

  • All rides are subject to availability. Appaloosa Horse Trails reserves the right to cancel or reschedule any ride at its sole discretion.
  • Daily riding times may change continuously depending on tides and weather. Ride times are confirmed once the booking date is secured.
  • All riding itineraries and routes are approximate and may change due to conditions.
  • Bookings are generally for a maximum of 2 to 3 riders per ride per day. Children aged 6 to 15 may need to ride on lead or with a groom present throughout.
  • Payment may be made in cash on the day before the activity begins, in € or SCR or other agreed currency.
  • Cheques and unsupported payment methods are not accepted.
  • No refunds will be given if a rider falls from a horse or chooses to dismount and not continue the ride or activity.

Cancellation and Refund Policy for Advanced Bookings

Cancellations affect operations significantly, especially when reservations are made well in advance and other inquiries have been turned away. For this reason, the policy below is applied strictly. Reservations are not transferable and rescheduling cannot be guaranteed.

  • Cancellations received more than 5 days before commencement of the ride will not be charged.
  • Cancellations received within 48 hours of commencement of the ride will be charged 100% of the total booking amount.
  • No-shows on the day of a booked ride will be charged 100% of the ride amount.

Please Phone or Email Us to Make a Cancellation

Rides and horse-riding activities operate in all safe weather conditions, rain or shine. If Appaloosa Horse Trails cancels because riding conditions are unsafe, we will prioritize the safety of guests and horses and will try to offer an alternative date if available. Please note that the cancellation policy still applies even if you are injured or ill.

Errors and omissions excepted.