VAL DE VIE EQUESTRIAN CLUB
Experience the joy of riding and creating lasting memories in our safe and welcoming environment. From children to adults, riders of all ages can find their place here.
Our experienced instructors are dedicated to helping you gain confidence and skill in the saddle. With personalised lessons tailored to your needs, you’ll quickly develop a strong bond with our horses. If you prefer a more leisurely experience, we offer scenic outrides through the surroundings of the Estate.
At the Val de Vie Equestrian Club, we have a range of offers to suit everyone’s horse riding needs. Whether you are looking for a casual ride or aiming to become a fierce competitor, our riding instructors are ready to assist you. Contact us today to book your lessons.
MEET OUR INSTRUCTORS WHO WILL GUIDE YOU ON YOUR EQUESTRIAN JOURNEY
Zita Bothma
Zita’s love for horses started at the age of seven when she rode for the first time at a birthday party, and after 13 years, her passion hasn’t dwindled. As well as being an instructor who works with riders of all levels and abilities, she knows nothing rivals the feeling of improving in the saddle. Zita is also a competitive rider who regularly participates in shows – and she believes there is always something new to learn about horses and ponies.
Riding Lessons and outrides:
Email: instructor2@valdevie.co.za
Phone: +27 76 960 7891
*please feel free to WhatsApp us
Marzé du Plessis
“Marzé’s journey into the world of horses began at the age of four, shaped by her upbringing in a small community. Without formal riding lessons, she learned the ropes herding cattle and camping, immersing herself in natural horsemanship and “cowboy culture”.
A pivotal moment was when she decided to volunteer at a riding school for special needs children in Lydenburg. Inspired by the profound impact of Equine-Assisted Learning,
she witnessed first-hand the transformative power of equine interaction, spurring her to pursue formal studies in Equine-Assisted Therapy.
Marzé is committed to fostering a deep understanding of horsemanship, aiming to make a difference one hoofprint at a time.
Riding Lessons and outrides:
Email: instructor3@valdevie.co.za
Phone: +27 63 646 3406
*please feel free to WhatsApp us
Adré Poolman
Adré’s equestrian journey spans over 20 years, beginning straight out of high school when she travelled to England as a working student and earned her British instructor qualification. Her international experience has taken her to England, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, enriching her expertise.
For over a decade, Adré has been an independent force in the equestrian world, serving as a freelance instructor in the Western Cape. Her specialisation in dressage and jumping, coupled with her focus on enhancing the communication between horse and rider, has established her as a leading figure in the field.
Adré, as an EQASA examiner, has dedicated herself to training students for their international level 1 qualification. Her approach ensures riding is not only fun but also educational, making her an ideal mentor for riders of all levels.
Riding Lessons and outrides:
Email: Instructor1@valdevie.co.za
Phone: +27 71 365 6775
BOOK A LESSON
Email: Instructor1@valdevie.co.za | Phone: +27 71 365 6775
STABLING & LIVERY
Val de Vie Estate is an equestrian utopia, offering two exceptional facilities to cater to every discipline. Located next to our prestigious Hurlingham standard Pavilion Polo Field, Val de Vie Stables provides a haven for our beloved horses. Our dedicated equestrian management team ensures their well-being and care.
Facilities at Val de Vie Stables include:
- Stables
- Wash bays
- Tack room
- Feed room
- Hay-barn
- Sand Fibre arena
- Extra large Lunging and schooling ring
- Two Standard Lunge rings
- Sand track surrounding the facility
- Two Hurlingham Standard polo field
- Stick and ball grass field
- Scenic outrides with sand tracks within and beyond the Estate
PEARL VALLEY EQUESTRIAN CENTRE
Situated near the Pearl Valley Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, the Pearl Valley Equestrian Centre offers fantastic amenities to meet all your equestrian needs:
- Stables
- Wash bays
- Tack rooms
- Feed rooms
- Sand Arena
- Lunge ring
- Two grass jumping and schooling arenas
- Scenic outrides with sand tracks within and outside of the Estate
For more information and to explore the equestrian wonders of Val de Vie Estate, contact Elaine Palvie at yard.manager@valdevie.co.za. Get ready to embark on an equestrian adventure like no other.
Livery and Stabling options:
Val de Vie Stables: Elaine Palvie yard.manager@valdevie.co.za
Pearl Valley Stables: Sarah Salvage yard.managerpv@valdevie.co.za
MEET OUR HORSES
Merger
Hello, my name is Merger. I am an “Off the Track” Thoroughbred, and in my second career, I used to jump in the 110cm classes. I am known for my soft and gentle nature, and I am very patient with my riders. Some even call me “the big teddy bear.” I absolutely love kisses and cuddles—and definitely carrots too!
