Dreams of Paradise

One of the many joys of living in a beach-side city is the plentiful number of outdoors activities one can engage in. Diving the wonders of the Red Sea allows people to visit any number of spots up and down the coast line, while snorkelling provides a more surface friendly view of the Red Sea. There are of course many opportunities for water-sports enthusiasts, and the increasingly popular desert 4 x 4 rides and safaris.

Yet there are hidden wonders that remain to be discovered nestled along Hurghada’s infamous coast line. I took it upon myself to discover some of these, and in my quest to do so, reawakened one of my deepest passions.

Shaharazade, my new favourite little mare

It is said that the “wind of paradise blows between a horse’s ears,” and nothing could be more true when this wind is the salt-tinged wind rolling off of the sparkling emerald and sapphire waters of the Red Sea. To ride a horse along the beach with the sea spray kissing your face is to experience true freedom and beauty. Surprisingly enough, many Hurghadians are not even aware of this little bit of paradise available to them. I’m here to share this secret.

Tucked neatly in the Magawish Swiss Inn you will find the result of a life’s love and labour. Owned by Charlotte and her husband Sambu, the Horse-Stables at the Magawish Swiss Inn will let you taste true paradise on the back of a horse. Launched over 7 years ago, Charlotte and Sambu have been working with horses for as long as either of them can remember. Their combined experience and passion for their horses and the sport is evident in the dedication and commitment they have invested in their horses and horse-barn. Although the road has been long in getting to where they are today, Charlotte will be the first to tell you that she would not have it any other way.

With a stable of 16 horses, ranging in age from the latest foal to mature horses, even the most inexperienced of riders is sure to find a suitable horsey companion. Children are also always welcome! The location of Charlotte and Sambu’s stable mean it is possible to gallop through the surf on the beach, or explore the hidden wonders of the desert surrounding Hurghada. Whether you prefer short and easy rides, to longer more challenging rides, you are guaranteed an experience to remember.

Cynthia trying her hand at beach riding!

Charlotte and Sambu offer early morning rides, up into dusk rides where you will witness some of the most breathtaking views of the sunset Hurghada has to offer. But don’t take my word for it, get out there and experience the true joy of beach living on the back of a horse, and see for yourself if Churchill was right when he said “No hour of life is wasted that is spent in the saddle.”

For more information or to book a ride, contact Charlotte on 017-204-0146, Sambu on 010-620-1990, or Moustafa on 010-136-3844.