Söderåsens Nationalpark: 2,5h horse back ride

If you’re an experienced rider looking to explore the stunning landscapes of Sweden’s Söderåsens National Park, this 2.5-hour horseback ride with Tostarp Bed’n Ride offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and expert guidance. While not suited for beginners or children under 15, it’s ideal for those comfortable in the saddle who want to enjoy prolonged riding in diverse terrain.

What we love about this tour is the chance to ride large, gentle horses through varied forests, the intimate small-group setting, and the opportunity to canter and gallop across open spaces. The only potential drawback? The ride is quite physically demanding, so it’s best suited for seasoned riders with good stamina. Overall, if you crave authentic trail riding in Sweden’s breathtaking wilderness, this experience hits the mark.

This tour is best for experienced riders who want a scenic, active day in nature without the crowds. Beginners or those traveling with young children will likely find it too intense. Still, those seeking a combination of beautiful scenery, expert guides, and well-trained horses will find it hard to beat.

Good To Know

• Suitable for advanced and expert riders only, with experience required.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and safety.
• Beautiful trail routes through Söderåsens National Park, with varied terrain.
• Well-trained, large horses equipped with English saddles for comfort and control.
• Includes all necessary safety gear, but riders should wear appropriate clothing.
• Total experience around 4.5 hours from start to finish, including preparation and post-ride time.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Starting at Tostarp Bed’n Ride: Your Base for Adventure

The adventure begins at Tostarp Bed’n Ride, a cozy farm that acts as a gateway to the park’s natural beauty. The guide will greet you warmly and introduce you to your horse for the day. Since the horses are large and gentle, they are suitable for riders with experience, but your guide, possibly a Swedish or English speaker, will ensure you’re comfortable and familiar with your mount before departure.

The briefing is straightforward and emphasizes safety, especially as the horses are well-trained but lively. You’ll get a quick insight into handling your horse, with some riders mentioning the helpfulness of the staff, which adds a layer of reassurance before setting off.

The Ride: Trails, Terrain, and Scenic Highlights

The riding itself lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours, covering approximately 13 km of trail. The route weaves mainly through the diverse forests of Söderåsens National Park, including beech, birch, and coniferous woods. These forests are lush and offer a wonderful backdrop for riding, especially with the changing scenery as you ascend hilly terrain and pass along old stone fences—remnants of the agricultural past.

One of the favorite features noted by riders is the long trot and gallop stretches. You might find these exhilarating, especially if you’ve come prepared for a quick pace. The guide keeps the group moving at a comfortable yet lively rhythm, allowing experienced riders to enjoy the full scope of their skills.

The route also includes a short section outside the park, adding a bit of variety to the scenery, and the terrain offers enough ups and downs to keep riders engaged without being overly challenging.

The Guides: Knowledge and Personal Touch

The guide, who is fluent in Swedish and English, is praised for their knowledge of the local landscape and their ability to tailor the experience to the group’s pace. They are attentive, ensuring riders are comfortable and safe throughout, which is especially important given the varied terrain.

As one reviewer noted, “The guide was very good,” which hints at the quality of instruction and the friendly, professional atmosphere. This personalized approach makes a difference, especially when navigating different trail conditions or when riders want to accelerate or slow down.

Post-Ride and Return

After the ride, you’ll return to Tostarp Bed’n Ride, with about 15 minutes to cool down and share your experiences. Most riders find the total time—roughly 4.5 hours from arrival to departure—perfect for fitting into a full day of sightseeing or outdoor activities.

Since the ride is outside the park for only a short stretch, the majority of the scenery and riding occurs within the protected, scenic areas, giving a true sense of wilderness without the need for long travel times.

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Value for Money and Practical Considerations

At $128 per person, the price reflects the quality of the experience. It includes helmet, horse, and guide, but riders are responsible for bringing their own riding clothes and shoes—important for comfort and safety.

The tour emphasizes small group sizes (limited to 4 participants), which enhances safety and allows for more personalized attention. This is especially valuable for experienced riders who want to maximize their riding time and skill development.

While the experience is aimed at advanced riders, pros will appreciate the well-maintained horses and scenic route, which offers a perfect blend of challenge and enjoyment.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trail ride is best suited for experienced riders comfortable with longer, more physically demanding rides. It’s ideal for those wanting to explore Swedish forests on horseback, enjoy gallops across open spaces, and learn from a knowledgeable guide.

It’s not suitable for children under 15 or people over 209 lbs (95 kg), as the horses and terrain are tailored for seasoned riders. If you fall into these categories or prefer a more relaxed riding experience, this might not be the best fit.

This 2.5-hour horse riding tour in Söderåsens National Park offers an authentic and exhilarating way to experience Swedish nature. With large, gentle horses, expert guidance, and scenic trails through diverse forests, it’s perfect for confident riders who want an active day in the outdoors. Expect to enjoy long trot and gallop stretches, discover beautiful landscapes, and leave with a true sense of adventure.

While it’s a bit demanding physically, the small-group setting and stunning views make every moment worth it. If you’re after a memorable equestrian adventure that combines wilderness, skill, and scenic beauty, this tour delivers on all fronts.

Who Should Book?

This experience is ideal for experienced horse riders seeking a scenic, active day in nature. It’s perfect for those who value small-group intimacy and expert guides. It’s less suited for beginners or families with children under 15 due to the physical and skill requirements.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, it’s intended for advanced and expert riders only. Beginners might find the terrain and pace challenging.

Are riding clothes and shoes provided?
No, riders need to bring their own appropriate clothing, like long pants and closed-toe shoes. Helmets are included.

What is the total duration of the experience?
From arrival to departure, expect around 4.5 hours, including preparation, riding, and post-ride time.

Can I participate if I haven’t ridden much before?
This tour isn’t recommended for those with limited riding experience. It’s designed for confident, experienced riders.

What should I wear for the ride?
Long pants and closed-toe shoes, preferably sports shoes or hiking shoes. Avoid high heels, shorts, or open-toed footwear.

Is there an age limit?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 15 years old.

What about weight restrictions?
Participants over 209 lbs (95 kg) are not advised to join, due to safety and comfort considerations for the horses.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides can speak Swedish and English, making communication straightforward for most travelers.

This horseback riding experience in Söderåsens National Park provides a genuine opportunity to explore Sweden’s beautiful forests on a well-trained horse, guided by professionals who prioritize safety and enjoyment. Perfect for those seeking a satisfying, scenic ride in the great outdoors.

You can check if your dates are available here: