At Villa Les Olivettes, we welcome a unique herd of the characterful, robust, and reliable Mérens horse breed. These horses are born for adventure and each one is the perfect companion to explore the rugged beauty of the Ardennes.
The Mérens combines a compact, muscular build with a warm personality and incredible stamina. This breed finds its place in the rolling forests and meadows: their strong legs carry you effortlessly through woods and meadows, and their gentle nature invites a true connection between rider and horse.
Mérens horses think along with you, are level-headed, and remain focused, even when exploring more challenging terrain or pushing the pace. They have a down-to-earth attitude, yet with that typical Mérens spark: a combination of calm reliability and playful energy. For experienced riders seeking a deeper partnership, this breed is invaluable.
Our Merens horses were born at Villa Les Olivettes and have grown up together in the same herd from day one. As a result, they form a close-knit, stable, and well-balanced team. The foals remain with their mother for at least one year before joining the mixed herd. There, they grow up alongside peers and older horses, learning the rules and social structure of the herd. From their very first day, they are regularly handled. Around the age of four, their real training begins: they start working as hand horses to build their fitness and to become familiar with the obstacles they may encounter during rides. Each horse is assessed individually to determine when they are ready to carry a rider.
In their interaction with riders, they reflect these same qualities: you do not get a “robot horse,” but a thoughtful, respectful partner who works with you. They are both your reliable guide and your adventure companion, exactly what experienced riders look for in a horse they can trust, on any terrain.
In addition to Merens horses, Les Olivettes is also home to other breeds. We have several Cob Normand horses and Merens-Ardennes crossbreeds. These horses are larger and stronger, allowing them to carry more weight than a Merens. They integrate perfectly into the herd and easily keep up with the Merens in the wilderness of the Ardennes. The horses live mostly outdoors in the pastures and only return to the stables when they are required to work. This lifestyle makes them strong in character and fully accustomed to life outdoors.
Are you ready to discover together what such a special partner can do for you? Book a package at Villa Les Olivettes and embark on an adventure together with this magnificent horse breed.
