Saddlebrook Equestrian Center

The facility is beautifully maintained and the horses well cared for. Multiple rings to work in make sure that everyone has room. Large pastures and very nicely maintained working areas. My review is for the facility, as I haven’t taken or had any association with the lesson program.

Well-​maintained facility at a competitive rate. There are a lot of empty stalls, though!
My main complaints are that the horses spend too much time in the stall and they nickel and dime you to death… I’ve never taken any of their lessons because they are too expensive.
Example: this past summer was very wet, so they would not put the horses in the pasture for fear they would tear up the pasture. However, they did offer to put your horse on the hot walker for $ 10 per day but you had to buy 10 days minimum.
In addition, they insist on keeping your credit card on file to automatically charge. To push this strategy, they charged extra if you paid by check, stating that it was due to the extra costs of cashing checks… uh… there ARE no extra fees for cashing checks but you do pay more for credit card transactions!

Dissapointing. The facilities are immaculate and well maintained, but it seems to mask the lack of real trainers. I would describe it as a «Barbie goes to riding school» place, which would be really nice for kiddos at the beginner levels or pony club members.
I don’t recommended if you are serious about improving flatwork/​advanced riding/​showing, this place is not guided towards the real equestrian art. The very young instructor yelled ALOT during the lesson, but never went into explaining technique or cues for the horse. Like I said, this seems to be more for any kid that wants to ride a pony, but not if you are looking to advance your career (IEF and above type).

I’ve been impressed with the operations at Saddlebrook and their facilities are the best in the area. I’ve done my research with other places (i recommend everyone do the same) and it’s really a no-​brainer.