Ronivaara · Kuusamo, Finland

Rider Guidelines at Ronivaara

A few things to know before setting out with a Finnhorse

Your guide will explain what you need to know for your particular experience. You do not need to know our stable routines before you arrive.

These guidelines help us choose a suitable horse, prepare the experience safely and make the beginning of your ride as easy as possible.

Before you arrive

Please tell us honestly about your current riding experience when booking.

Knowing when you last rode, what kind of riding you have done and how confident you currently feel is more useful than simply describing yourself as a beginner or experienced rider.

Please also let us know in advance about anything that may affect your participation or safety, including:

  • a need for an assistant or support person
  • mobility or other functional needs
  • illnesses, allergies or other health-related matters relevant to safe participation
  • anything else you think your guide should know before choosing a horse or planning the activity.

If you are unsure whether something is relevant, ask us before your visit.

Different riding experiences have different experience and participation requirements. Always check the individual programme page before booking.

Explore Trail Riding

Maastoratsastusta Ruska Laukan tallilla Ruka-Kuusamossa

Dress for riding and for the weather

Riding at Ronivaara usually means spending time outdoors.

Wear comfortable clothes that allow you to move freely and suit the weather of the day.

For riding, we recommend:

  • long, flexible trousers
  • a long-sleeved top or jacket
  • sturdy footwear with a good sole and a small heel
  • gloves
  • warm layers, footwear and gloves in cold weather.

Avoid very loose or strongly flapping clothing. Long hair should be tied back.

A riding helmet is always worn when riding. Helmets and safety vests are available to borrow at Ronivaara.

For more information about Kuusamo weather, arrival and preparing for your visit, see Plan Your Visit.

Around the horses

Ronivaara is the everyday home of the horses and other animals.

Move calmly around the farm and follow your guide’s instructions when approaching or handling a horse.

Please remember:

  • enter paddocks, pastures and horse areas only with staff permission
  • do not feed horses or other animals unless your guide tells you that you may
  • do not lead, groom, tack up or otherwise handle a horse independently unless you have been asked to do so
  • give horses enough space and avoid sudden movements around them
  • ask your guide whenever something is unclear.

For most trail riding experiences, the horses are prepared before the ride. Depending on the programme, meeting or preparing the horse may also be part of the experience.

Before the ride begins

The horses are chosen according to the riders, the particular programme and the horses themselves.

Your guide will introduce the horse and explain the things you need to know before setting out.

Mount, start riding and dismount when your guide asks you to.

Tell your guide straight away if:

  • you do not hear or understand an instruction
  • you feel unsure or uncomfortable
  • controlling your horse feels difficult
  • you notice a problem with the equipment
  • you or your horse do not feel well.

There is no need to wait and see if a problem disappears on its own. It is easier to help when we know about it early.

Riding together on the trail

Trail rides are guided, and the guide chooses the riding order.

Stay in your place in the group unless your guide asks you to change it.

Keep a safe distance from the horse in front of you. As a general rule, leave at least one horse-length between horses.

Do not ride alongside or pass another rider unless your guide gives permission.

Listen for instructions during the ride and, when needed, pass the guide’s message on to riders behind you.

The group rides together. If one horse or rider needs help, the others may be asked to stop and wait. if a problem disappears on its own. It is easier to help when we know about it early.

Maastoratsastusta suomenhevosilla Ruska Laukan tallilla Ruka-Kuusamossa

The plan can change

Weather, ground conditions, the riders and the individual horses all affect how a trail ride is carried out.

Your guide may change the route, pace, riding order or other parts of the programme when safety or horse welfare requires it. Trail riding is not carried out during a thunderstorm.

Sometimes the best plan for the day is different from the one originally expected.

If something feels wrong

Horses can react to their surroundings. If your horse becomes startled, you feel unsure or something does not seem right, let your guide know and follow their instructions.

Do not try to solve a difficult situation by passing the other horses or leaving your place in the group.

Your guide is there to help both you and the horse.

The horse is part of the decision too

Each Finnhorse is considered as an individual when horses and activities are chosen.

Read About Horse Welfare

Before you set out

tTell us accurately about your riding experience, follow your guide’s instructions and ask whenever you are unsure. We will guide you through the rest.

Explore Trail Riding · Plan Your Visit · Frequently Asked Questions · Contact Us