Sardinian riding lessons

The centre offers Sardinian riding lessons. The horses, which are indigenous or Anglo-Arab-Sardinian, are all harnessed traditionally and have a work saddle that makes them docile and suitable for non-experts and children. Mario Cadau, a capable instructor and trainer leads us in discovering the old Sardinian way of riding.

Sardinian Bridle	The Sardinian bridle comes from Spanish bridles and is less punishing that it seems. If the horse is trained and a rider uses it properly, the horse does not suffer. Sardinian bridles are still handcrafted today by the Salaris brothers and the company Mura in Santu Lussurgiu.
Su Sedazzu – Traditional saddle made in Santu Lussurgiu	The Sardinian saddle (su sedazzu) is a hardwearing work saddle that is almost indestructible. The saddle-bow is made from wild olive or oak and covered with calf head leather. It is a simple saddle that is comfortable when you learn how to use it. Our riding has a tradition and history that is every bit as good as that of the Maremma cowboys. Sardinians should be proud of their way of riding and should promote it around the world.
An old way of training stemming from Roman times	"In a country where journeys are done by horse due to a lack of roads and where the very same women know no other way of travelling other than on horseback, it is evident that the preferred gait is the one least uncomfortable. This is the reason why this amble, considered on the continent as being a dissolute gait, called 'portante' and often used in Sardinia. The horses are trained for this type of pace using reins or ropes" (From Viaggio in Sardegna by A.F. Della Marmora)