Noordhoek Beach horse riding

Cape Town’s beautiful Noordhoek beach is perfect for a gallop. Photo courtesy genewolf

Noordhoek is popular for horse rides along a white, sandy beach that stretches for miles.

There’s nothing quite like cantering on the beach, wind in your hair, surrounded by postcard-perfect views of Chapman’s Peak and the ocean waves crashing just metres away.

Noordhoek is one of the Cape’s most spectacular beaches, stretching from the base of Chapman’s Peak to Kommetjie. Pristine is the word that comes to mind, and the area is great for walks, bird watching and of course, horse riding.

Many of the residents of Noordhoek have their own stables. For visitors, there are a number of places where you can book your place on trails through the wetlands and along the beach.

There are also riding schools in the area, for first-timers and for those who want to hone their skills.

Sleepy Hollow Horse Riding, +27 (0)21 789 2341, offers rides with experienced guides. Visit the Kakapo shipwreck and learn more about the indigenous birdlife in the area.

Imhoff Equestrian Centre, +27 (0)82 774 1191, offers morning, noon and sunset rides along the beach.

After you’ve enjoyed your time on the beach, stop off at Noordhoek Farm Village with its lovely restaurants, delicatessens, arts and craft shops and children’s play area.