Splash into Summer: Lake Riding with Finnhorses in Finland

Various horseback riding excursions are organized across Finland, but Resort Naaranlahti’s unique selling point is its own beach, from which you can easily and quickly take a dip in the clean lake water with the horses. Both beginners and experienced riders can join the ride, as now both horses and humans focus on enjoying summer and the water element rather than technique!

Location: Resort Naaranlahti, Punkaharju

Those embarking on the swimming trip will get acquainted with the horses at the stable, where they are brushed and bridled for swimming. Saddles are not used at all, as the leather equipment would suffer from moisture. There’s a slight thrill in the air about how one will manage to stay on the horse’s back. Fortunately, there are reins and you can hold onto the mane tightly if you wish. It feels a bit odd to take off your shoes and socks and roll up your pants before riding. At the same time, I hope for summer heat so I could ride in just my swimwear! In all its simplicity, it seems a bit wild.

Riders mount the horses (not saddles) in the stable yard and from there the pairs are led across the grass field to their own sandy beach. The journey is short, but even small inclines feel amusing without a saddle and you need to find your balance. Upon reaching the beach, many thoughts whirl around. Can the horse swim away? How fast does a horse swim? Is the water cold? Would I rather fall on the sand or into the water?

The accompanying instructor explains how and in what order to guide the horses into the water. The horses can also be led throughout the swim, with the horse and rider being guided around the pier a few times while the instructor remains on the pier. Boldly, I head towards the lake with my horse, but my enthusiastic steed unexpectedly prefers splashing water over majestically riding straight into the waves. The horse’s playfulness brings a smile and a bit of tension. It’s rare to think about or experience how other creatures relate to swimming.

Encouraged by another pair, we too get to try out what water horse riding feels like. My head is full of sensations, and it’s simply amazing to be on an animal’s back in the water! Apparently, horses can also be guided in the water, but my limited skills seem to vanish completely as I glow with joy and amazement, walking in the water with my horse. I’m riding in a lake!

An under-an-hour swim ride makes the whole body buzz with wonder for a long time. And riding without a saddle feels physically in the inner thighs for three days. This is a great activity for families or groups of friends who want to try something that is simultaneously easy and challenging, safe and exciting, local and exotic.

Prepare Like This:

• Pants that can get wet and are comfortable to sit on a horse
• You can also ride in swimwear! Remember sunscreen in this case
• Shoes and socks are not needed for this ride
• A change of clothes to wear after riding

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