Equitypes – Versoix

A breath of nature in the company of horses

A stone's throw from Lake Geneva, in the Richelien area of Versoix, Equitypes welcomes families to an equestrian training and therapy centre. You come here to approach the ponies and horses gently, learn to care for them and take your first steps in the saddle, at your own pace. The atmosphere aims to be warm and reassuring, designed so that every child gains confidence.

What your children will discover

• Direct contact with the ponies and horses: approaching them, stroking them, getting to know them.
• Everyday care routines: grooming, getting the mount ready, putting away the gear before and after the session.
• The first sensations in the saddle, at a walk then a trot, supervised step by step.
• An approach based on the relationship with the animal and listening to it, which teaches patience as much as riding.

What you do there and the atmosphere on site

Sessions take place by reservation, as a private lesson or in a small group, which gives each child time to get used to the animal. The first lessons are often on the lunge, time to find your balance and master the gaits. The centre also offers programmes adapted for children and young people with disabilities, in an inclusive spirit. We love the rural setting, calm and tree-lined, a change from the pace of the city.

Before you go

• Recommended age: from around 6 years for the first lessons; packages also exist for younger children (to confirm with the centre).
• Duration: allow about 45 minutes for a private lesson, plus time to prepare and care for the mount.
• Booking: essential; activities take place by appointment only. Contact the centre in advance.
• Accessibility: the centre offers activities adapted for people with disabilities; ask about the details (stroller, terrain).
• Transport: accessible by public transport from Versoix (TPG network) then a short walk; parking possible on site, check with the centre.
• What to bring: comfortable clothes, closed shoes with a small heel if possible, and something to protect against the sun or rain depending on the season.
• Best season: open all year round, with a covered arena for rainy days.

Tips from parents

• Arrive a little early to give your child time to discover the place and the animals without stress.
• Let the centre know if your child is shy or has never been near a horse: the team adapts the approach.
• Dress your child according to the weather: part of the time is spent outdoors, on foot beside the animal.
• Don't hesitate to ask about prices and available packages directly at the centre, as they vary by type of lesson.

Useful information

• Address: Avenue de Richelien 12, 1290 Versoix
• Official website: https://equitypes.ch
• Opening hours: by reservation only, see the official website
• Getting there: from Versoix by bus (TPG network) then a few minutes' walk; on-site parking to check with the centre

Why we recommend it

Because it's an out-of-the-ordinary activity, in the open air, where a child learns gentleness, patience and self-confidence in the company of horses. The caring approach and the option of adapted lessons make it a welcoming place for many families in the Geneva region.

In a nutshell

A lovely equestrian experience in Versoix, by reservation, to discover ponies and horses in a natural, caring setting, all year round.