Noordhoek Beach Ride, Imhoff Equestrian Centre

The ride does not start on Noordhoek beach. It starts at the stables at Imhoff Farm in Kommetjie, and the first twenty minutes or so are the crossing — out through the wetlands on the protected side of the valley, before the sand opens up ahead of you.

Once on the beach the ride works along the water’s edge, or along the back pan behind the dunes, heading towards Chapman’s Peak and back. Noordhoek is a long, wide, largely empty beach, and the horses are used to it. The operator lists whales, seals, otters and a lot of birdlife among what riders regularly see from the saddle.

This is a walking ride. There is no trotting, cantering or galloping on the standard beach rides, which is what makes them workable for people who have never ridden. Riders of all levels are catered for, and a separate experienced private ride exists for people who want more.

Three departures run daily: group rides at 10h00 and 15h00, and a private ride at 12h00. Check-in is thirty minutes before, and the operator asks for that sharply. Group rides take a maximum of five riders and private rides four, so the slots are small.

Riders must be at least twelve years old and weigh no more than 95kg. Younger children are not turned away from the farm — the stables run fifteen-minute pony rides for children eleven and under, led on foot, which must be booked in advance so a pony and leader can be arranged.