Our horses

QUALITY

The quality of Cheval & Châteaux horses is our best asset.

Most part of them were born in our place. Historically, we used to breed pure bred Franches-Montagnes horses (born from mares and stallion imported from Switzerland). We chose them because of the perfect selection made by Swiss breeders on character and temperament. Lots of these « Home-made Franches Montagnes » take part in our tours.

We also improve our horses mix by crossing these Franches-Montagnes with Arabian or Thoroughbred to improve their paces and energy on long rides.

Those of our horse who weren’t born in our place, are bought by Ken and Sophie according to strict criteria : excellent character, strong and solid conformation… We search for « long-term colleagues » able to provide the best experience for riders.

This long-term quality process allow us to perfectly know our horses and select the right companion for riders according to their riding habits.

HORSES WELFARE

Despite the professional aspect of our activity, the horse welfare is in the heart of our preoccupations.

Our horses are provided with the essential 3F principles :

• Freedom : 24/7 outdoors life all year long with shelters in case of rain or insects.
• Food : 80% fiber diet with hay or grass on-demand because horses are made for eating 18h a day. High quality grain when energy is required at work.
• Friends : 100% social life in groups.

They are educated and daily cared with horsemanship methods, observed and understood thanks to all recent scientific studies published.

They are also provided with best quality farrier, vets and natural cares. Natural products are mainly used, chemical treatment only in case of absolute need.

Finally, we keep our horses from the moment they are born/bought until their retirement. When retirement time arrives, we provide them with good cares until the end, or trust riders friends who used to ride them, to take care of them.