Horse Riding Terms & Conditions and Safety Guidelines

At Posestvo Pule Equestrian Estate we are committed to offering you an unforgettable equestrian experience that blends nature, elegance, and personal growth. Your safety, the welfare of our horses, and the respect for the environment are our highest priorities. Please read the following carefully. By booking your package and submitting payment, you agree to all terms and confirm your understanding of these rules and guidelines.

1. General Participation Conditions

• All riders must complete a Rider Registration Form prior to participating in any lesson, ride, or equestrian activity. This includes disclosure of relevant health conditions or injuries.
• Parents or legal guardians must complete the form on behalf of minors. Riders under 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
• New riders are required to undergo a riding skills assessment to determine their level before being allowed to ride independently or on trails.
• Riders returning after more than 12 months must book a reassessment session.

2. Eligibility & Physical Requirements

• Horseback riding is a risk sport that requires mental focus, physical coordination, and body control. Only individuals in good physical condition may participate.
• All riders must:
  • Be able to mount, dismount, and control a horse confidently at walk, trot, and canter.
  • Maintain correct posture and balance during riding.
• Inexperienced riders are not permitted on trail rides for their safety and that of the horses.
• Maximum rider weight: 100 kg.
• Minimum age: 16 years (exceptions only with advance approval).
• All riding is at your own risk; all participants must sign a liability waiver.
• Non-riders can enjoy horse grooming and introduction activities.

3. Safety is Our Primary Concern

At Posestvo Pule, your safety and the welfare of our horses are our top priorities.

• All rides, lessons, and activities may be altered, shortened, rescheduled, or canceled due to:
  • Weather (extreme heat, lightning, storms, icy terrain)
  • Horse welfare (injury, fatigue, behavior)
  • Rider experience and preparedness
  • Unforeseen circumstances
• All safety decisions made by our team are final and non-negotiable.

4. Arrival, Punctuality, and Scheduling

• Arrive 15–20 minutes before your session for helmet fitting and safety briefing.
• Late arrivals will result in shortened sessions without refunds.
• We may adjust scheduled times for weather or animal care reasons.

5. Required Safety Equipment (PPE)

• Helmet: Must meet PAS015, ASTM F1163, or similar safety standards. No helmet = no riding.
• Footwear: Only riding/jodhpur boots with a heel. No sneakers, sandals, or hiking boots.
• Clothing: Long pants, close-fitting tops. No flapping clothes, skirts, or oversized jackets.
• Body Protectors: Recommended. Limited supply available.
• Jewellery: Not advised. You ride at your own risk if wearing it.

6. Rider Conduct and Stable Etiquette

• Follow instructor guidance at all times—no exceptions.
• No access to private areas, paddocks, or stables without permission.
• Speed limit on the estate: 5 km/h. Horses and tractors have right of way.
• No smoking anywhere on the premises.
• No shouting, running, or sudden movements near horses.
• Do not feed or handle horses without permission.

7. Safe Horse Handling Guidelines

1. Approach horses from the side, calmly.
2. Never approach from behind without alerting the horse.
3. Walk close behind or far enough away to avoid kicks.
4. Avoid loud noises and quick movements near horses.
5. Never wrap reins or ropes around limbs.
6. Face horses away when releasing them into fields/stables.
7. Always ask for help if uncertain.

8. Riding Etiquette and Trail Safety

1. Obey all guide instructions.
2. Keep safe distances between horses.
3. Ride in single file unless told otherwise.
4. No overtaking or galloping ahead of the guide.
5. Alert the guide if you feel unsafe or unwell.
6. Warn others about trail hazards.
7. No filming during fast riding. Photos allowed only when stationary and safe.
8. Stay on marked trails. Off-trail riding is prohibited.

9. Insurance and Liability

• All riders must hold personal insurance covering horse riding.
• Riding involves inherent risk, including injury or death.
• Posestvo Pule is not liable for:
  • Injuries, accidents, or illnesses.
  • Lost or stolen items.
  • Damage to vehicles or property.
• All participants must sign a risk and liability waiver.

10. Cancellations, Refunds & Right to Refuse Participation

• No refunds for:
  • Lateness
  • Weather-related changes
  • Horse behavior or rider skill limitations
  • Voluntary withdrawal
• We reserve the right to:
  • Refuse participation for safety non-compliance
  • Remove riders for unsafe behavior or animal mistreatment
  • Deny specific horse or instructor requests

11. Final Agreement

By booking a horse riding experience at Posestvo Pule, you confirm that:

• You have read and understood these terms.
• You accept the risks of horse riding.
• You will follow all instructions given by staff.
• You agree that all safety decisions are at the sole discretion of Posestvo Pule management.

For any further information or clarifications, please contact us at: info@pule.si