Tiny Roatán, probably the most popular destination nowadays among Honduras's Caribbean offshore Bay Islands (Islas de la Bahia), provides its own equestrian pleasures aside from the many aquatic attrac

tions that have made it prominent on the adventure travel map of the region. While there are several horseback riding operators around the island, we opted for the convenience of the Hitching Post onsite at Anthony's Key Resort. Located in Sandy Bay, at Roatán's northwestern end, this stable offers daily morning and afternoon rides that take you out for about an hour and a half of beachfront exploration headed eastward along a wide and largely unspoilt stretch of dark cream sand. The opening and closing minutes of your ride also give you a close glimpse of Roatán village life as your guide leads the horses through often narrow side streets before heading out into the open beach, making this easy-paced ride a memorable slice of both nature and humanity. Once out on the sands, you will pass driftwood, occasional low rock formations, the remains of some wood piers, while on the inland side are a few homes and small hotels. Most of the ride, however, is a peaceful trek across this section of Roatán 's shoreline, with your local guide pointing out the points of interest both offshore and inland.

Although we enjoyed the occasional canter along the more clear stretches of beach, the horses were, if anything, extremely docile and easy-natured, preferring to take their pace on the slower side, while also being well acquainted with every slight detour into the water or across low patches of rock that we encountered. This stable operator recommends wearing long pants to prevent scratches to the legs, and closed toe shoes, but as far as scratching there is little to pass enroute to be concerned about scratching from, other than if you take a turn too tight and sharply against the bushes as you head in or out from the Sandy Bay streets.

Written by  Hal Peat.

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