Hoffest auf dem Gestüt an der Hainleite

Stud Farm in the Shadow of the Hainleite

The Gestüt an der Hainleite is located in Niederbösa in the Kyffhäuser district in the state of Thuringia — on the southern slope of the Hainleite, a flat plateau between Sondershausen and Sangerhausen. The Hainleite, a shell limestone plateau with sparse oak and beech forests, offers ideal conditions for horse keeping: vast pastures, a mild microclimate, and varied terrain for rides. The Hagen family has been running the stud farm for years as a boarding and breeding operation for several horse breeds, complemented by a riding school and trekking tours in the surrounding area.

Hoffest of the Pferdefreunde Niederbösa e.V.

The Hoffest is organized by the Verein Pferdefreunde Niederbösa e.V. — a local riding and equestrian sports club whose members are based at the stud farm. The association finances its club activities through the Hoffest: riding lessons for children and young people, participation in competitions, and the purchase of riding equipment and horse accessories. Thus, the Hoffest is both a family event and club fundraising — a combination that many visitors appreciate.

Program with and around Horses

As expected, the program revolves around horses — but not in a competitive sports sense, rather as a family and experience day. Riding demonstrations by club members showcase various disciplines (dressage, Western riding, vaulting, small show acts). Pony rides for children on a lead rein are the most popular offering — children ride under supervision on the calm club ponies for a short loop around the yard. The petting zoo with ponies, goats, donkeys, and sometimes rabbits complements the horse-centric offerings. Carriage rides through the Hainleite foreland offer adults and families a relaxing round-trip experience. Bouncy castle, straw castle, horseshoe throwing, and other games round off the children's program.

Niederbösa and Kyffhäuser District

Niederbösa is a small village in the Kyffhäuser district in the state of Thuringia, on the border with Saxony-Anhalt. The region is scenically attractive: Hainleite in the south, Kyffhäuser Mountains with the Kyffhäuser Monument (Barbarossa legend, national monument) in the north, and the Goldene Aue as a transitional landscape. The Kyffhäuser Monument, the Barbarossa Cave, and the town of Sondershausen with its castle are worthwhile tourist destinations. The Hoffest is a great opportunity to get to know the area away from the main tourist routes — and to experience a break with horses and a family atmosphere.