The horses of Lipica - Slovenia

The stables here, which date back 400 years, produce raise pedigree horses renowned the world over. The famous Lipizzan breed owes its name to the town of Lipica (pronounce "Lipitsa") and are recognised by their coat which changes from black to white within a space of 10 years, which is how long it takes these horses to reach adulthood. A creature of dressage, the Lipizzan learns how best to develop its natural athleticism in arenas on home turf in the hope of being accepeted to the Spanish Riding School of Vienna where a rigorous selection process is in place. The visitor to Lipica can go and watch the horses in training in a one hour show. Throughout the 60 minutes you'll witness combined driving, single file processions, trotting in rhythm, levade (where the horse carries all of its weight on its back leg) and croupade (where the horse jumps into the air keeping its hind legs tucked in). At the Lipica stable, you can also visit the stables where the horses are kept as well as sign up to horse riding lessons. If horses are not your calling then have a round of golf, have a flutter at the casino in the Maestoso hotel or the Klub hotel, take a dip in a covered pool or relax in a sauna. www.lipica.org. © Texte : Estelle Mariotte. Photo : OT Slovénie.