Reitschulen

Reitschulen are facilities or institutions that provide instruction in horse riding and horse care. They serve riders of different ages and abilities, from beginners to advanced, and offer training in disciplines such as dressage, show jumping, eventing, and recreational riding. In addition to riding lessons, many schools provide groundwork, grooming, horse welfare education, and safety training for riders and handlers.

Riding schools can be run by equestrian clubs, private stables, educational institutions, or tourism operators. They typically feature riding arenas (indoor or outdoor), stables, tack rooms, and equipment. Programs may include group instruction, private lessons, pony rides for children, summer camps, leasing arrangements, and therapeutic riding for people with disabilities.

Historically, riding schools in Europe grew from cavalry and aristocratic training traditions and later diversified into public and private recreational and competitive facilities. Some establishments maintain the traditions of classical riding, while others emphasize contemporary sport disciplines. A prominent example is the Spanische Hofreitschule (Spanish Riding School) in Vienna, renowned for its classical dressage and Lipizzaner horses. In many regions, Reitschulen serve local communities by providing access to training, horse care, and equestrian sport.