Belle Terre Farm, Piedmont

At Royal Oak Equestrian Center, the horses are not just beasts—the farm owners consider them friends who can teach people of all ages leadership, patience, and compassion. These steeds and the passionate equestrians work together to instill proper horsemanship essentials in students during both private and semi-private lessons. With an eye on safety, the instructors coach students to take the reins of a friendly horse and command its attention and obedience in the show ring. They focus on the Hunter discipline and tailor sessions to the student's particular goals for riding, whether they want to feel comfortable in the saddle, begin competing, or speak fluent Horse.