How a Hobby Became a Family Farm
When Anastasia Ropa, a lecturer at the Latvian Academy of Sport Education, bought her first horse, owning a farm was never part of the plan. For more than fifteen years, her horses lived at private stables while she balanced her full-time job with training sessions and the daily care of her animals.
“A huge amount of time was spent travelling, looking after my horses and volunteering at the stable. All of this happened alongside my main job and gradually began to create tension within the family,” she recalls.
The turning point came during the pandemic. When the opportunity arose to bring the horses home, the family decided to create their own equestrian farm. That is how Kumeļi Farm & Active Recreation Place was born.
Today, the farm is home to seven family-owned horses and ponies, as well as several privately owned horses entrusted to the family’s care. The animals are looked after by the family themselves, with their older children lending a hand during school holidays.
Connection Comes Before Skill
“Horse riding is really a team sport because a horse isn’t a piece of sporting equipment—it’s your partner. You have to learn how to communicate, build trust and work together. Only then can you expect good results,” says Anastasia.
That is why Kumeļi teaches much more than riding techniques. Both children and adults learn how to care for horses, groom them, saddle them and understand their behaviour. The farm also hosts children’s camps, family celebrations and photoshoots. For those looking for something special, it even has authentic ladies’ and medieval saddles.
A Business Built on Passion and Perseverance
According to Anastasia, running an equestrian business is rarely a story of big profits.
“Horses need to be fed every single day. They also need daily care and training. During the summer we have plenty of visitors, but throughout the school year most people only come at weekends. That’s why you shouldn’t start this business because you want to make money. You should start it because you love horses and you’re prepared to work hard.”
At the same time, Latvia remains one of the few places in Europe where owning a horse farm is still a relatively achievable dream.
“In England, where we bought our first horse, land for a private stable is extremely expensive. In Latvia, making that dream come true is far more realistic—provided you’re not afraid of hard work.”
Anastasia also notes that more and more horse owners are choosing to keep their animals in conditions that closely resemble their natural environment. At Kumeļi, the horses live outdoors all year round, helping them stay calm, resilient and healthy.
Where to Go Horseback Riding in Latvia
KLAJUMI: HORSEBACK TREKKING IN LATGALE
What is it?
One of Latvia’s best-known equestrian tourism destinations, welcoming visitors for almost nine decades.
Why visit?
Klājumi organises multi-day horseback trekking tours through the Daugavas loki Nature Park, offers accommodation and introduces guests to the cuisine, traditions and culture of Latvia’s Latgale region. It’s an ideal destination for anyone wanting to experience authentic rural Latvia.
Best for
Outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, horseback trekking fans and anyone looking to spend several days away from the city.
Editor’s tip
Plan to stay for at least a weekend to fully experience the unique atmosphere and hospitality of this remarkable place.
KUMEĻI FARM & ACTIVE RECREATION PLACE: DISCOVER LIFE ON A HORSE FARM
What is it?
A family-run horse farm in the Baldone area where visitors can experience life around horses, spend time in nature and enjoy horseback riding.
Why visit?
Kumeļi offers much more than riding lessons. Guests can discover what life on a working horse farm is like, learn how to groom and saddle horses, and better understand their behaviour. During the summer, the farm hosts themed children’s camps featuring English lessons, archery and historical fencing. It also welcomes guests for photoshoots, family celebrations and corporate events.
Best for
Families with children, beginner riders and anyone looking to spend a day on an authentic horse farm.
Editor’s tip
Plan to stay for at least a few hours. It’s the perfect amount of time to experience the farm, meet the horses and enjoy the peaceful countryside atmosphere.
Address: Kumeļi Farm & Active Recreation Place, Baldones pagasts
ĪRISS: RIDES ALONG THE BALTIC COAST
What is it?
An equestrian club in Vecāķi offering horseback rides through pine forests, sandy trails and along the Baltic Sea coastline, just a short drive from Riga.
Why visit?
The scenic routes wind through beautiful forest paths and along the beach, turning every ride into both an equestrian experience and a relaxing day in nature. The rides are suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
Best for
Anyone looking to spend a day by the sea, try horseback riding for the first time or enjoy a unique outdoor experience close to the city.
Editor’s tip
Book an evening ride and combine it with a beach picnic or sunset walk along the shore.
Address: Stāvvadu iela, 17, Ziemeļu rajons
MĪTAVAS ZIRGI: HORSE YOGA
What is it?
An equestrian club in the Jelgava region where visitors can enjoy horseback riding as well as a range of unique outdoor experiences.
Why visit?
One of the club’s most distinctive activities is horse yoga. The exercises are performed on the back of a calmly walking horse, making the sessions suitable even for people who have never ridden before. The focus is on relaxation, connecting with the horses and spending quality time in nature.
Best for
Anyone looking for an unusual experience, a chance to slow down, unwind and escape the pace of everyday life.
Editor’s tip
Book an evening session—horse yoga and sunset rides create an especially peaceful and memorable atmosphere.
Address: Vircavas pagasts, Jelgavas novads
JSK TELFAS: LEARN TO RIDE WITH CONFIDENCE
What is it?
An equestrian sports club in Baldone offering riding lessons for both children and adults.
Why visit?
The club’s experienced instructors specialise in both show jumping and dressage. Visitors can choose from private or group lessons, while nearby forest trails provide an excellent setting for relaxed trail rides. The club welcomes complete beginners as well as riders looking to improve their skills.
Best for
Anyone who wants to learn to ride confidently or plans to take up horseback riding as a regular sport.
Editor’s tip
If you’re looking for more than just a leisurely ride and want a solid introduction to horseback riding, this is an excellent place to start.
Address: Ramatu Iela, 3, Baldone, Baldone pilsēta, Ķekavas novads
JSK ATĒNA: A FAMILY FARM FULL OF ANIMALS
What is it?
A cosy family-run farm in the Baldone area where visitors can spend an entire day surrounded by nature and friendly animals.
Why visit?
Alongside horses and ponies, the farm is home to a miniature cow, a pig, ducks and chickens. Guests can meet and feed the animals, enjoy horseback riding and relax in a peaceful countryside setting.
Best for
Families with children, animal lovers and anyone looking for a quiet escape from the city.
Editor’s tip
Plan to stay for a few hours—or even the whole day. Children, in particular, will love the experience.
Address: Ramatu Iela, 6, Baldone, Baldone pilsēta, Ķekavas novads
JŪRAS ZIRGI: HORSEBACK RIDES BY THE SEA
What is it?
An equestrian club in Zvejniekciems, near Saulkrasti, offering horseback rides through pine forests, coastal dunes and along the Baltic Sea shoreline.
Why visit?
The scenic routes lead through beautiful forests and across sandy beaches. After the ride, visitors can meet the residents of the farm’s small petting area, home to ponies, goats, rabbits and domestic birds.
Best for
Nature lovers, families with children and anyone who wants to combine a seaside getaway with horseback riding.
Editor’s tip
After your ride, spend some time on Saulkrasti Beach—it’s a wonderful place to relax and make a full day of your trip.
Address: Upes iela 6, Zvejniekciems, Saulkrasti pilsēta, Saulkrastu novads
NACIONĀLAIS REHABILITĀCIJAS CENTRS “VAIVARI”: EQUINE-ASSISTED THERAPY AS PART OF REHABILITATION
What is it?
A national rehabilitation centre in Jūrmala where therapeutic horseback riding is integrated into comprehensive medical rehabilitation programmes.
Why visit?
Equine-assisted therapy helps improve coordination, balance, muscle tone and emotional well-being. Sessions are provided by certified equine therapists and are carried out according to individual medical recommendations.
Best for
Children and adults who have been advised to include therapeutic horseback riding as part of their rehabilitation programme.
Editor’s tip
If you’re looking specifically for the therapeutic benefits of working with horses, choose a specialised centre with certified equine-assisted therapy professionals.
Address: Nacionālais rehabilitācijas centrs “Vaivari”, Jūrmala
LIBERTY EQUESTRIAN: A MODERN EQUESTRIAN CENTRE
What is it?
One of Latvia’s most modern equestrian centres, featuring spacious indoor arenas, outdoor training facilities and a busy calendar of events.
Why visit?
In addition to regular riding lessons, the centre hosts competitions, masterclasses and family events throughout the year. Its state-of-the-art facilities make it an excellent choice for both recreational riders and competitive equestrians.
Best for
Anyone looking to ride regularly, develop their equestrian skills or train in a modern, professional environment.
Editor’s tip
Check the club’s events calendar before your visit—during the summer, it frequently hosts open events for the whole family.
Address: Eimuri, Ādažu novads
