Transfer and Other Options:

The riding itinerary will be designed according to your riding package or packages.

CLASSICAL DRESSAGE RIDING PROGRAMS
The classical riding school has developed over the centuries. It respects the horse’s natural movement and requires from the rider those skills that enable the horse and rider to achieve harmony, ease of movement and elegance while eagerly getting to know each other and producing results. Only the classical riding school enables the development of such physical abilities of horse and rider that they may enjoy each other’s company for many years.
Throughout the centuries, the great riding masters asked themselves how to train a horse to carry a rider and respond to their orders while at the same time maintaining and developing its physical ability and relationship with the rider. Contemporary riders are still trying to figure out why all the skills and knowledge acquired in the classical riding schools and preserved throughout the centuries cannot be applied properly today. One of the answers is the fact that, nowadays, most riders strive for mastery of riding skills within the shortest time possible. Especially those whose ambitions reach for competitive riding, which is why they want to ride independently as soon as possible and take part in various competitions, while forgetting that the path to the competition arena is very long.
Owing to its centuries-old tradition and knowledge, the Stud Farm would like to devote its attention to those riders who prefer investing their leisure time in a quality activity, see a partner and friend in a horse, and experience a feeling of attachment. All the above is encompassed in the core principles of the classical riding school.

Riding Package Options:

1. NOVICE'S RIDING COURSE 
The package includes 6 riding lessons (1 riding lesson = 50 min.) in a group, 1 lessons per day over 6 days, with instructor. The riding course comprises practical instruction to apply the riders aids in basic exercises at walk, light/rising trot, and aids for gallop. Instruction is held in groups of max. 6 participants - (beginners with some riding experience).

2. INTERMEDIATE RIDING COURSE
For guests who have a good command of the basic skills in riding.
The program consists of 12 riding lessons (1 riding lesson = 50. min) in a group, 2 lessons per day with instructor over 6 days.
The course aims to help the riders on learning correct and safe way of riding. Riders get familiar with sitting trot; correct riding of different turns, large and small circles and changes of direction, canter exercises and transitions. The instructor focuses on correct seat, position and use of the aids.
Necessary previous knowledge: The rider rides independently in a walk, trot and gallop; Solid balance and knowledge of how to use the aids; The rider must have ridden at least 100 hours in the last 2 years .
Upgrade - Dressage: You can also upgrade the package to focus more on dressage in 12 group lessons - intended for dressage enthusiasts who wish to improve their dressage basics following the principles of classical dressage. Riders learn to be aware of their own movements and are constantly asking themselves what they did to make the horse react in a certain manner. This way the communication between the horse and the rider is established. Riders can improve their understanding of dressage terms and practice according to their previous experience in more complex movements, combinations, sideways. Level of instruction is therefore adapted to the abilities of participants on basic level. Results are achieved by cooperation and not by force.
Necessary previous knowledge: Good balance and use of the right aids; Leading a horse independently
The course includes: Port, Concentration, Balance, Relaxation in basic walks, Learning side passes (withdrawal upon leg pressure, shoulder laterally, traverse) at walk or trot, Serpentine riding, Horse bending
Instruction is held in groups of max. 5 participants.

3. PRIVATE INSTRUCTIONS
If you want to ride more than what is included in the package - you can add 6 individual private sessions during the week. The individual instructions can be organized for experienced riders on a basic dressage level, as well as for novice riders. The level of instructions is therefore adapted to the abilities of the participant. It is intended for experienced riders on basic dressage level as well as for riders with less knowledge and experience who wish to train intensively. The instructor can focus on single pair – rider and horse and help them to progress or solve specific problems.

4. HACKING OUT
This option can be added locally once the instructor has established adequate riding skills. The riding pace is walk and trot only on Lipizzan mares.

GENERAL CONDITIONS:
For all riding courses is required prior arrangement and confirmation.
All riders must wear riding clothes and boots, in cross-country rides also a riding cap. In dressage courses the riders are allowed to bring the riding crop and spurs. The rider should weigh less than 85 kg- 190 lbs .
The arrivals are on Saturdays; the riding courses begin on Sundays. 


Other activities:

Cycling tracks
Those fond of active holidays can find many walking and cycling trails in the Karst surroundings of the home of the beautiful white Lipizzaners.   The Karst is a haven for walkers and cyclists as its unique landscape, rich cultural heritage and natural beauties are attracting more and more people each year who are searching for an active holiday.
You may choose between one-day and several-day trips. A pleasant climate is perfect for year-round activities. Particularly attractive is a visit in the spring, when nature wakes from hibernation, or in the autumn, when the sumach bushes are turning crimson red.
A walk through the mysterious underground world of many Karst caves is a unique experience in itself. You may also explore the cultural heritage of Karst villages where the interaction over thousands of years between natural phenomena and the influence of man, whose work helped shape the curiosities, is undoubtedly eye-catching.
You can also cycle on many local quiet roads, village cart tracks and forest paths winding between the characteristic Karst stone enclosures. A network of cycle paths is well-marked, helping you to find your way.  And when you feel hungry, find a Karst inn and enjoy the typical air dried ham – ‘pršut’.

Tennis
There are four sand and one concrete tennis courts.

Nature trails
The area of the cultivated Karst landscape of the Stud Farm, which is under the special protection of monumental heritage, encompasses pastures and meadows with protective fences, oak groves and avenues of trees. The man-made landscape is an integral and redesigned natural environment whose development is based on many centuries’ tradition of horse breeding. The present site plan of Lipica is the same as it was prior to 1817, evidence of which can be found in the cartographic records of the time. Even earlier than 1817, the estate was lined with an eight-kilometre long dry wall which is typical of the Karst. The role of the time-consuming construction of this dry wall was not merely functional, as the wall also symbolises the integrity and uniqueness of the Lipica landscape. From a historical point of view, the primary function of the stud farm and its pertaining land was the breeding of a single breed of horse. The spatial integrity of the stud farm which gave birth to one of the oldest breeds of horses makes this place unique – even on a global scale.
In view of the immense importance of this area, we would like to familiarise Slovenian and foreign visitors with this unique birthplace and home of the Lipizzaner. For this purpose a network of nature trails and promenades of various lengths have been arranged within the protected area. The planning of trails was underpinned by the basic principles of monument management which added another dimension to the core activity of horse breeding. Our nature trails will lead you through the remarkable man-made landscape of the Stud Farm. Its development and unique identity distinguish it from the immediate Karst surroundings. Throughout the centuries the land has been improved and cultivated for the purpose of horse breeding. The legacy of our ancestors includes not only typical Karst pastures with isolated oaks but also many other elements of the man-made landscape such as Karst ponds, wells, ice-pits, mines, limekilns, carved boundary markers and much more.

All riders must wear riding clothes and boots, in cross-country rides also a riding helmet.

In dressage courses the riders are allowed to bring the riding crop and spurs. Weight limit:  85 kg (185 lb).

Hotel Maestoso was built in the 1970's and was named after one of the six original lines of stallions. The renovated hotel in 1999 offers 59 comfortable superior rooms and 7 suites. These are well-equipped three star single and double rooms with bathroom (with shower or bath tub) and hair dryer, and have telephone, TV-SAT, radio and mini bar. There are a few English speaking TV channels in the hotel. There is wifi internet connection, however you have to pay at the reception for this...it's not included.
Some rooms with a balcony offer a beautiful view of the golf course. Hotel guests have access to the swimming pool with its sun terrace and the Finnish sauna.
The hotel features three conference halls and is an ideal venue for business meetings, seminars and other events which could be combined with the cultural and historical aspects of Lipica.
The snack bar and hotel restaurant offer a variety of à la carte dishes, Karst specialities and Mediterranean dishes.
Those looking for entertainment may visit the Grand Casino Lipica.
The friendly staff is always at your disposal at the Hotel Maestoso.

Meals
The Slovenian word for Karst is ‘Kras’ which has the connotation of ‘good, magnificent’ in the local language. The hotel restaurant offers many specialties which originate from the Karst and reflect its unique climate.
You will be served a variety of delicious dishes made from Karst meats as cold and hot starters or main courses. As a hot starter we will be pleased to serve you pasta with various sauces and tantalizing flavors that are much adored by our Italian guests. We have added a touch of the Karst to our selection of pastas and we highly recommend our mouth-watering tagliatelle with prosciutto and ‘teran’, a ruby-red Karst wine. You will find a wide choice of main courses, particularly meat dishes including pork medallions on red chicory, veal medallions with prosciutto and beef fillet 'à la Karst'.
Enjoy this exquisite cuisine with a glass of premium Karst wine. Our waiters will be pleased to help you make the right choice.
Seafood lovers are also welcome to taste a variety of fish with baked potatoes or grilled fish, scampi à la Buzara and much more.
In addition, we also offer a menu of freshly-baked pizzas.
Of course, this gastronomic journey must end with one of our delicious, fresh desserts prepared daily by our pastry chefs.

Summer garden
In the summer garden, under the shade of chestnut trees, we serve a variety of grilled and spit-roasted dishes. Whether you want to cool down in the shade, decide to take a rest after a hot summer day or simply roam around in the summer evening you will find the summer garden an idyllic spot where intimate music events are often held.

Golf cafe
In the pleasant café next to the golf course you may quench your thirst after completing the 3,163m, 37 par golf course or just relax as a passer-by in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
Our Golf Café offers a wide variety of real teas and coffees – with a French croissant. We also offer cigars and French Cognac to create an atmosphere of real relaxation.
In the summer, those with a sweet tooth can enjoy our delicious ice-creams and chill out in our summer garden.

Swimming pool
Hotel Maestoso features an indoor swimming pool with an open terrace for basking in the sunshine.
There is also a corner by the side of the pool designed for relaxation, where you can read a book or newspaper on sunloungers, or grab a snack in the pool bar.
Pool dimensions: 25 m x 12.5 m; depth: 1.20 m to 1.60 m.
Water temperature: 29 °C; air temperature: 30 °C
Hotel guests have free admission.
Opening hours:  15.00 – 21.00
The swimming pool is closed on Tuesdays and in July/August.

Grand Casinò
With its entertainment programmes Grand Casino Lipica will bring new experiences to your days and nights at Lipica. A new casino offering roulette, card games and a variety of slot machines, Lipica is a perfect place for those who enjoy the experience, the tension and the excitement of the casino.
Opening hours
Every day from 10 a.m. to 5 a.m.
The casino is closed on 24 December.

There is no entrance fee and the casino welcomes all visitors over 18, who are able to present a valid form of ID upon entry.
The company Casino Portorož, d.d. accepts the following credit and payment cards: Mastercard, Visa, Diners, Maestro, Karanta and BA Card. The currency used in all gaming rooms is Euro (€).
The following currencies are accepted at the cash desk: AUD, CAD, CHF, DKK, GBP, HRK, NOK, SEK, USD and SIT. The playing values for slot machines range from €0.25 to €2, and in classical games from €2 to €500.

Tack:		English
Horses:		Lipizzan
Pace:
Level:		(2 to 3 out of 5)    Novice
Weight:		Max 185 lbs
Riders:		Min 1 riders	Max 6 riders (per riding group)	Max Capacity 60

Horses:
The school horses are well trained - school horse lessons include lateral movements like shoulder in and half-pass, but no flying changes, piaffe or passage that are typical elements of higher dressage level.
Our packages inlude ONE riding package, but you can extend your training by adding an additional package if you like.  The most common package combination would be a 12 hr group lessons package combined with a 6 hour individual one on one training session package.
- lessons are 50 minutes long, lunge lessons are 30 minutes long
- riding equipment is mandatory
- No Riding on Saturdays (additional private session can be booked on Saturdays)

RIDING ABILITY
1. Elementary course:
a rider who is capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, has a firm seat, is capable of applying basic aids, is comfortable and in control at walk, trot and canter, but with less experience (about 100 riding hours in previous 2 years).
2. Basic dressage course:
riders with a good balance and firm seat, capable to control the horse in school paces and use their aids correctly. The course is suitable for riders who would like to improve basic dressage elements and understand the terms, used in dressage riding; riders practice more complex elements, transitions, lateral movements, various corrections that make horse supple and balanced.

Breed profile
The Lipizzaner breed originates from Lipica from where it has been exported all over the world. The task of the original, royal stud farm of Lipica was to breed elegant cart and saddle horses for the Habsburg court and the Spanish Riding School in Vienna. Today, the Lipizzaner is bred in six national stud farms: Piber in Austria, Đakovo in Croatia, Fara Sabina in Italy, Szilvasvarad in Hungary, Simbata de Jos in Romania, Topolcianky in Slovakia and Karadjordjevo in Serbia. The work of many breeding organisations around the world plays an important role in the promotion of Lipizzaners in both breeding and equestrian terms. Such organisations are found in all of the above countries, in most Western-European countries and even in the USA, Australia and South Africa.
Beginnings and development
Throughout the history of the Lipica Stud Farm many lines of stallions and families of mares have developed. However, only six classical lines of stallions and sixteen classical families of mares have been preserved. 
Characteristics
The Lipizzaner breed has built its exceptional reputation due to its characteristics which include: elegance, docility, endurance and a moderate nature. A number of national and private stud farms in Central Europe started breeding Lipizzaners in the 19th and 20th centuries and most of them are still operating today, which speaks in favour of the exceptional quality of this breed.

Presentations of the riding school are:
Training Sessions: Wednesday and Thursday at 12 noon.
Presentation:  Tuesday, Friday and Sunday at 3 PM

The Stud Farm
The stud farm was founded in 1580 and, today, it is a jewel among the cultural and historical monuments of the Republic of Slovenia. For over four centuries, the Lipica Stud Farm has nurtured the tradition of breeding and selecting thoroughbred horses. In the period after World War II Lipica established its own classical riding school and has successfully performed with its horses at various equestrian events all over the world.
Today, Lipica is a world famous recreational centre with a hint of tradition, offering its visitors unforgettable moments of relaxation. Here at Lipica we have two hotels: Hotel Maestoso and Hotel Klub, a golf course, tennis courts, mini golf, saunas, swimming pool, gym, casino and, on top of all that, our herd of noble and proud white beauties from the Karst, residing in their historic stables and nurtured throughout the centuries.
Enjoy the unspoilt nature, riding lessons on the back of amazing Lipizzaners, ride through the Lipica park in an elegant horse-drawn carriage, visit one of the oldest stud farms in the world and the permanent gallery of August Černigoj which features a collection of his most remarkable works of art, or watch the beautiful Lipizzaner horses dancing to music in the classical dressage riding performances.

Passports
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart except:
(a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.
Note: EU nationals are only required to produce evidence of their EU nationality and identity in order to be admitted to any EU Member State. This evidence can take the form of a valid national passport or national identity card. Either is acceptable. Possession of a return ticket, any length of validity on their document, sufficient funds for the length of their proposed visit should not be imposed.
Passport Note
Slovenia joined the Schengen Agreement on 21 December 2007 for overland entry points and seaports, and on 29 March 2008 for airports.

Visas
Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above for stays of up to three months.
Note: Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements