Fontainebleau is distinguished by its deep attachment to equestrian tradition, inherited from five centuries of royal and imperial history. The vast white-sand bridle paths bordered by centuries-old oak trees still bear witness to this ancestral passion for horsemanship. Recognized as the "Capital of the Horse" by thePays de Fontainebleau Tourist Office, Fontainebleau combines sporting excellence and leisure pleasures in an exceptional forest environment.
Housed in the former stables of the Château de Fontainebleau, theÉcole Militaire d'Équitation (EME) has been home to a historic complex of riding schools, stables and quarries for two centuries. The Sénarmont riding school, built by Napoleon I and recently renovated, is a listed historic monument, according to Fontainebleau Tourisme.
This prestigious school, made up of around 100 men and women accompanied by 200 horses, is the keystone of military equestrian sports. It has distinguished itself in top-level international competitions, including the Olympic Games. The EME is also home to an equestrian center open to the general public, offering lessons for ponies and horses, as well as guided tours organized each month by thePays de Fontainebleau Tourist Office.
Visit the École Militaire d'Équitation in Fontainebleau
The École Militaire d'Équitation, adjacent to the Château de Fontainebleau, opens its doors once a month for an exceptional guided tour. This mecca of military equestrian sports, with over 500 years of history, is open to visitors by reservation through the Fontainebleau Tourist Office. Want to know more? We're off to discover it... [Read more]
The Grand Parquet de Fontainebleau is the largest open-air stadium in Europe. Inaugurated by Napoleon III, this exceptional site extends over 30 hectares in the heart of the forest and can accommodate up to 10,000 people, according to the official Grand Parquet website.
Its facilities include 6 riding arenas, a show ring, stables with 237 fixed boxes, 1,200 parking spaces, an exhibitors' village area, a year-round restaurant and 5 meeting rooms. The adjoining cross-country course can host top-level international competitions. Access to the Grand Parquet and parking lot is free forthe public during equestrian events.
In 2025, work on the main arena was completed, bringing back to life the mythical grass arena that has seen the birth of some of the world's greatest equestrian glories. The site is now home to the Printemps des Sports Equestres, a major event bringing together the world's top riders.
In Fontainebleau, the Grand Parquet is a vast domain dedicated to equestrian sports and major outdoor events, nestled in the forest. A former hunting ground turned Olympic site, it now hosts equestrian competitions, flea markets, nature shows and dog demonstrations. Open all year round, it offers a rich program until November 2025. [Read more]
The Solle racecourse is one of the oldest in France. Inaugurated in 1862 by the imperial couple Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie, it perpetuates a tradition that began in 1776 with the first horse race organized in front of Louis XVI.
EquuRES-labeled since May 2021, the racecourse is committed to the well-being of horses and the protection of the environment. A restaurant welcomes visitors every race day, with free access for under-18s and free parking.
Have you heard of the Hippodrome de la Solle in Fontainebleau, where you can enjoy horse racing in an exceptional historic setting? This century-old racecourse in its natural setting has been offering races and events since 1862. [Read more]
The Bo Ranch, located in Chapelle-la-Reine, is the largest ranch in Europe. This new international equestrian competition center takes its inspiration from the American world, in a breathtaking setting surrounded by vast stretches of farmland.
Just 10 minutes from Fontainebleau, this exceptional site boasts a top-of-the-range infrastructure, including a large riding arena for top-level western dressage competitions. It also accommodates numerous boarding horses and offers a restaurant-bar in a unique setting.
At La Chapelle-la-Reine, just a few minutes from Fontainebleau in the Seine-et-Marne region, Bo Ranch immerses you in an authentic western atmosphere. Europe's largest ranch, this unique venue combines a convivial restaurant-bar with a venue for reining competitions, all in a natural setting. An ideal getaway to enjoy tasty cuisine, admire horses in action and share warm moments, whether you're with family, friends or even lovers. [Read more]
The Fontainebleau forest, with its 25,000 hectares of white sand paths, sandstone boulders and centuries-old oak trees, is an ideal setting for horseback riding. A number of service providers offer rides suitable for all levels, from beginner to experienced rider, and are listed by theTourist Office.
Espace Équestre Henson is particularly renowned for its rides with Henson horses, offering a unique opportunity to discover the area's natural, cultural and historical heritage. These sturdy horses, originally from the Baie de Somme, are perfectly adapted to the forest trails and offer an authentic experience for riders of all levels.
Numerous equestrian centers on the edge of the forest offer forest walks, riding courses and lessons for all levels. Specialized companies such as Des sabots dans la forêt and Caval&go also organize complete equestrian holidays. TheFontainebleau Cheval association helps visitors to choose a service provider suited to their level of riding ability, based on recommendations from Fontainebleau Tourisme.
Dreaming of an authentic horseback ride near Paris? We've tested the Espace Equestre Henson in the Fontainebleau forest. This unique equestrian experience with the famous Henson horses awaits you in Seine-et-Marne - 77. [Read more]
The Fontainebleau forest is particularly well known for its hiking trails, natural climbing blocks and beautiful vegetation. Less than an hour from Paris, you can also discover the forest on horseback! [Read more]
The Pays de Fontainebleau hosts internationally renowned equestrian events throughout the year. The Printemps des Sports Equestres, created in 2022 by GL events Equestrian Sport, is the major event, with CSI 5*, CDI 5*, CPEDI 3* and Master Pro FFE competitions, as detailed by the Fédération Française d'Équitation.
TheFontainebleau Cheval association regularly organizes cultural activities around the horse, drawing competitions for children and takes part in entertainment at major events, according to their official website. The region also offers horse racing at theSolle racecourse and reining competitions at the Bo Ranch.
The area can also be visited via the Route Européenne d'Artagnan and the Lo boucle équestre du Gâtinais, offering fascinating itineraries for riders wishing to explore the region on their own. For more information on equestrian activities in Seine-et-Marne, visit the official departmental tourism website.
To discover other nature destinations in the Paris region, take a look at our guides to nature outings in Île-de-France or forest activities near the capital.
Dates and Opening Time
From August 18, 2025 to December 31, 2028
Location
Fontainebleau
Fontainebleau
77300 Fontainebleau
Booking
www.fontainebleau-tourisme.com
Visit the École Militaire d'Équitation in Fontainebleau
The Grand Parquet de Fontainebleau: a mecca for horses and outdoor events
The Hippodrome de la Solle in Fontainebleau between races and festive events
Bo Ranch, the huge restaurant-bar and reining venue unique in the Fontainebleau region
Horseback riding with Henson Horses in the Fontainebleau forest, we've tried it!
Discover the forest of Fontainebleau on a supervised horseback ride
