Nihi Sumba is located on the island of Sumba, which is part of the East Nusa Tenggara province of Indonesia. Image: Tania Araujo.
Dreaming of a relaxing tropical holiday with horses?
In the November 2021 issue of Equestrian Life magazine, we visited the magical Indonesian island of Sumba.
Horse lover Carol Sharpe visited Sumba in 2013 and enamoured by the island, its local equine residents, and the beautiful Nihi Sumba resort, she set about finding a way to incorporate the horses into Nihi’s suite of offerings. The equestrian element has since gone on to become incredibly popular with guests – in particular those with a penchant for ponies!
Most of Nihi’s horses are rescues who are trained for resort life by Carol Sharpe. Image supplied.
Nihi Sumba has introduced the Equine Wellness Retreat: uniting horses and wellness in an exceptional five-day program
Recently, the award winning Nihi Sumba proudly unveiled its latest offering, the Equine Wellness Retreat. This new program seamlessly combines the joy of horse riding with a transformative wellness experience. Designed to cater to guests of all ages and skill levels, this retreat spans five days and promises an unforgettable adventure for families and friends alike.
Nihi Sumba is the perfect way to relax in a tropical paradise… with horses. Image: Tania Araujo.
Participants will be immersed in the awe-inspiring beauty of picturesque local villages, undulating hills, and majestic mountains as they embark on the retreat’s versatile trekking program. They will traverse lush green paddy fields and be captivated by the azure coastline, basking in the stunning vistas that unfold before them.
The experience of cantering through tranquil waves is unparalleled, and riders seeking more saddle time can opt for longer rides to neighbouring Rice Island and Coconut Cove. As the journey draws to a close, guests will indulge in a unique equine spa day, featuring unhaltered liberty work, a sunrise ride, and a cliff-top breakfast at the renowned Nihi Spa Safari. Tailor-made massages will also be offered, providing the ultimate opportunity to soothe the senses and achieve mental clarity.
Nihi Sumba now offers Equine Wellness Retreat. Image: Tania Araujo.
Below is a glimpse into the itinerary:
Day One: Participants will connect with their horses during an early hilltop hike where they will find the horse that they bond with most within the free roaming herd. Having led their horses back to Sandalwood Stables this is then followed by unhaltered liberty work in the specially designed round pen. Inclusive discussions about abilities and concerns will be encouraged during the day, with further lessons available for those seeking additional support in order to make the whole program inclusive of all.
Day Two: A scenic bush to beach ride awaits, lasting 1.5 to two hours, immersing participants in the captivating natural surroundings.
Day Three: The day begins with invigorating yoga on horseback and meditation on the beach, either on horseback or walking alongside the horse. In the afternoon, guests are invited to swim with their horses in crystal-clear waters, followed by a magical sunset beach ride.
Day Four: Experienced riders can embark on a thrilling two-and-a-half-hour ride to Rice Island, culminating in a delightful picnic brunch. Those wishing not to ride can be transported by jeep to allow them to still take part in the picnic.
Day Five: Guests will rise at dawn to join the Spa Safari Ride, arriving at Nihi’s award-winning spa, where a fire-cooked breakfast awaits. A day of personalized spa treatments will follow, offering relief for tired muscles and rejuvenation for the spirit.
The renowned Nihi herd has been meticulously selected for their temperament and versatility, ensuring that riders of all ages, including children, can feel comfortable. For those who prefer not to ride, transportation to destinations is available by vehicle.
About Nihi Sumba:
Nihi Sumba, an internationally acclaimed and award-winning resort located 50 mins plane ride off the coast of Bali, offers an unmatched and transformative experience for discerning travellers. The resort seamlessly combines luxury, sustainability, and the preservation of Sumbanese culture, providing guests with a truly unique and authentic stay. Committed to conservation and community engagement, Nihi Sumba strives to make a positive impact on the environment and the local community.
For more information, please visit www.nihi.com or for further media information please contact phoebe@equinecollective.co.uk.
Source: The Equine Collective press release
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