In a recent investigation of the new property scene in Florida and Georgia, a remarkable growth in the influence of equestrians has become very obvious.

Obviously aimed at the Baby Boomer set; these properties unfortunately will not be within reach of the average horse enthusiast. Where once the leading attraction on new large scale developments was to have a golf facility enclosed within the designs, more and more of the up market projects are including horse riding facilities as a much higher priority.

As a horse riding fan, this is not difficult to understand, for although other recreational facilities such as golf, and close proximity to other attractions such as theme parks, can provide a certain amount of relaxation, nothing can really beat the lure of horseback riding as the ultimate in unwindingness.

The first signs of this were spotted at a massive development that is still being constructed on a 2,500 acre site just adjacent to Disney in Orlando. However the presence of a number of signature golf courses, and the close proximity to Disney overshadowed the equestrian facilities that are there. But, there they are, and all visitors to this complex have to pass by the stables and training areas as they approach the magnificent entrance to this development.

However, all this pales into insignificance when compared to the facilities being offered at a development in the nearby State of Georgia, at a purpose-built Country Estate, close to Lake Oconee in White Plains.

Unlike the developments in Florida, here the home stead sites all range from 1 to 6 acres, with estate home plans ranging from 2,400 to over 8,000 square footage. On homesteads of at least three acres in size, owners will be able to keep up to 2 horses on their own private enclave.

OK, these homes are not going to be within reach of every horse lover, as the home plots themselves will range from $200,000 to $450,000, but look at the range of facilities available to you equestrian enthusiasts.

1. The Riding Club and Boarding Stable. This barn will include a full tack room, tack lockers, members lounge, and stalls, jumping facilities, quarantine facilities and much, much more.

2. The Club Horse Boarding Stable. The Equestrian Village will feature a club horse-riding program.

3. Multiple Riding Areas and Training Facilities. A number of training facilities to provide a world class equestrian experience including an Indoor and Outdoor Riding Arena, and a standard Dressage area.

4. Club horses will be available to Club members for trail rides at no extra cost

Then look at the range of horse care facilities offered

1. Clean and muck stall and outside pen once a day

2. Feeding twice daily or special feeding and exercise programs.

3. Visual monitoring during normal business hours, special medical attention and grooming services on a fee basis.

It just goes to show, how much horse riding has come back into its own when large leisure organizations start to heed to desires of equestrians. But then, it is hardly surprising, as we all know horse back riding is far more relaxing for the body and the sole than hectic and busy Disney style entertainment.

So, when you set off in search of these luxurious leisure resorts, you may want to have a book or two handy to polish up your techniques, and according to a number of international 'horsy' specialists, a good site is very useful. One such site worthy of more than a quick glance can be found at www.anyhorsebackriding.com for an ever-expanding variety of horsy topics and advice.