Real EstateEquestrians In Charleston SC – There’s Something for Every Rider

By Rebecca Halpin, Realtor, Luxury Simplified Real Estate

A horse drawn carriage rolling through the streets of Charleston, SC touring the historic neighborhoods is one of the sights that endears so many to the Holy City and adds to it annually being ranked as one of best places to live in the US.  Many people are enamored with horses, but what can an avid rider expect when moving to this wonderful, history-filled city and looking for equestrian properties or places to ride?

First, you can expect to ride on some of our nation’s most historic land. The two local fox hunts, Middleton Place Hounds and Lowcountry Hunt, ride a drag hunt on some of Charleston’s oldest plantations. Not only does this make for a fantastic social outing, but you have the added advantage of seeing all of the wildlife native to our area. Keep a look out for Starlings, Woodpeckers, Muscovy Ducks and of course the gators!

Not a fox hunter or it’s off season?  Don’t worry!  Mullet Hall Equestrian Center, located on Johns Island, has over 700 acres that you can explore on horseback.  Whether you want to pull in for the day or spend the weekend, they have you covered with camper hook-ups and plenty of stalls. Hack though the southern pines and mossy oaks, then gallop in the many open fields. Mullet Hall is also home to some great local shows for the dressage, hunter, and jumper riders. Every year, beginning of July, come join or spectate at the jumpers competing for a cash prize in the Charleston Summer Classic.

Beaches along the lowcountry coast are not just for swimming and tanning.  Recreate scenes from the movie like “The Black Stallion ” while riding your horse along the surf. You can also have the option to bring your non horse-owning family or friends along, because Seabrook Island offers horses for lease as well.  Botany Bay Plantation, on the northern end of Edisto Island, is another great location to spend the day riding surrounded by wildlife and views of the ocean.

Dressage is another widely popular equestrian sport in Charleston. This style of competition focuses of the expertise of obedience, flexibility, and balance for both horse and rider.  With locally recognized shows in the area it makes it quite easy to stay in your own backyard to compete. Another appealing aspect to Dressage riders and other equestrians is the close proximity to other popular equestrian areas. Aiken, SC and Tryon, NC are just some of the many places you can head to for the competitive side. With many FEI (Federation Equestre Internationale) trainers in the area you will have a wide selection of coaches to help you achieve your riding goals. 

Being an equestrian in Charleston allows you many options to enjoy the area. If buying equestrian property of your own is your goal, there are plenty of good options all around the lowcountry. You can walk out your front door and over to your barn, tack up and have your trainer there to instruct you, or, you can leave the ring and go explore everything this city has to offer you and your ponies!

NOTE:  If you desire exceptional waterfront living that offers privacy, luxurious living and your own world-class riding facilities then have a look at our exclusive listings. We have a wealth of information available to help guide you in the process of finding your perfect lifestyle. Start here …