Horseback riding! Our kids had yet to experience it, so we set off to Bella Rosa Riding Academy, located in Howell, NJ. They took an introductory class in horse riding and it turned out to be one of the best Saturday afternoon excursions we could have asked for.
The staff at Bella Rosa is the friendliest lot you’ll ever come across, and their love for horses shows. Our introduction lesson took 1.5 hours per person. The kids had a great experience, and asked for more lessons. Fortunately, Bella Rosa makes it affordable.
Their specialized “Itty-Bitty Riders” program starts at $30 a session. Each rider is provided with a horse handler who assists with the lesson by leading the pony during walks and helping with tack up and grooming. The student can graduate to regular group lessons after progress has been made with several different horses, ensuring the student is fully competent.
Set on 25 acres, Bella Rosa has over 25 horses and ten instructors to accommodate almost any schedule. Lessons are offered year-round in either outdoor or indoor riding arenas. Week-long summer camps are available for beginner, intermediate, and advanced riders. The intensive riding clinics take place over the course of the summer from June through August; the 2011 summer schedule can be found on their website.
For more rates, schedules, and information on Bella Rosa’s other amenities (including horse boarding, leasing, and sales), visit www.bellarosara.com or call Stephen at 732.938.5445.
Bella Rosa Riding Academy 151 Oak Glen Road Howell, NJ 07731