Saumur the "Equestrian Capital" of France

Saumur: The Equestrian Heart of France and Home of the Cadre Noir

Saumur, often regarded as the equestrian capital of France, is the birthplace of the world-famous Cadre Noir. Founded in 1815, this elite group of riders originally trained officer cadets in classical riding at the National School of Horse Riding. Today, the Cadre Noir represents the pinnacle of French equestrian expertise, performing at national and international competitions and promoting the art of French riding worldwide. The Cadre Noir is one of the big four riding schools.

Discovering the Charm of Saumur

Nestled in the scenic Loire Valley, Saumur is a picturesque town known for its white tufa stone buildings, grey slate roofs, and stunning riverside setting, all crowned by its majestic chateau. Located between Angers and Tours, the town offers plenty to explore and is easily accessible from Paris, with a direct train journey of around two hours, making it an ideal day trip or weekend getaway.

The city is famed for its equestrian heritage, with numerous riding events and spectacular Cadre Noir gala performances held throughout the year. These master horsemen, dressed in their iconic black uniforms, bring the traditions of classical riding to life in breathtaking displays.

Visiting the Cadre Noir

The Cadre Noir headquarters is located at the National School of Riding, just a 10-minute drive from the town centre. Visitors can explore its rich history through a classic guided tour, which includes a visit to the stables, the grand carousel, and the saddlery. If you are fortunate, you may even witness a live training session of these world-class riders in action.

For an unforgettable experience, consider attending a Cadre Noir gala performance or public presentation, where these elite riders showcase their exceptional horsemanship. Tickets can be booked through the National School of Horse Riding or the Tourist Office.

The Cavalry Museum: A Journey Through Military History

To deepen your equestrian experience, a visit to the Cavalry Museum is a must. Located in the former stables of the Cadre Noir, built in 1827, this museum traces the history of French cavalry from the 15th century to modern times. The exhibits include uniforms, harnesses, armour, historical weapons, paintings, and sculptures, offering a fascinating glimpse into France’s military equestrian heritage.

Exploring Saumur Beyond Horses

While equestrian traditions are at the heart of Saumur, the town has much more to offer:

Saumur Chateau: A Castle Steeped in History

Perched on a hill, Chateau de Saumur is one of the town’s most iconic landmarks. Originally a 13th-century fortress, it later became a leisure residence during the 14th century, earning the nickname “Castle of Love.” Over the centuries, it has served as a governor’s residence, a prison under Napoleon I, and a weapons depot before being transformed into a museum in 1862.

Today, the Saumur Chateau Museum features two main collections:

Decorative Arts – Showcasing exquisite wood carvings, tapestries, paintings, ceramics, and medieval artefacts.
Horse Museum – Dedicated to the history of equestrianism, with saddles, stirrups, spurs, and ornate harnesses from around the world.

During July and August, visitors can enjoy live equestrian performances in the château gardens, blending dance, mime, and horsemanship in a magical 30-minute show.

Wine & Vineyards: The Taste of the Loire Valley

Saumur is also renowned for its wines, particularly its sparkling white wines. Many troglodyte wine cellars are carved into the region’s tufa and chalk cliffs, offering unique wine-tasting experiences. A visit to a local winery allows you to meet passionate producers and sample Saumur’s famous red and white wines.

Exploring the Old Town

Saumur’s charming old town is best explored on foot. Stroll through its lively streets, admire the beautiful tufa stone facades, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this historic town.

Experience the Magic of the Cadre Noir

From April to October, visitors can witness the Cadre Noir ecuyers at work in the Grand Manege. The performances provide a deeper appreciation of classical riding, including jumping, long rein work, and the legendary airs above the ground.

For more details on schedules and gala performances, visit the official Cadre Noir website:
👉 https://www.ifce.fr/en/cadre-noir

🔹 Tip: If you are attending a performance, request an English translation headset at the ticket shop, as the narration is in French.