Keeping horses in France is a popular past time. A hectare of land is enough for one horse, with good management, two horses, so the opportunities for home, land and potential stables, often converting existing outbuildings, are plentiful.
Looking for properties suitable for keeping horses in France
The cost of agricultural land averages around €10,000 per hectare in France and the cost of upkeep of horses is lower than in the UK. This is why Midi-Pyrénées and Poitou-Charentes attract those seeking equestrian homes.
As with farming properties, location is all about the quality of the grass. The far south can be hot in summer! The rule of thumb is to buy a hectare per horse – double the amount required in the UK. Whatever equestrian disclipline interests you, you’ll find properties to suit.
Prices range from around €200,000 for houses with land, through to around €5 million for studs, liveries, competition or racing yards and châteaux with hundreds of hectares.
Martin Sheach, Leggett’s equestrian expert, says: “The typical buyer who is moving over with their horses enquires initially about the equestrian facilities. Then they ask about the features and quality of the property.”
By Liz Rawlinson
