Since the creation of Sastarrain, horses became an inseparable part of us. In the stable, horses and mares have shared their place with other animals and thousands of schoolchildren have ridden them.

However, there is a horse species which we specially love: the pottoka, a small sized species, native from the Basque Country, which is why it is also known as the Basque pony. Like many other local species of horses, the pottoka has gone through hard times, often, fearing extinction.

Fortunately, in the last years, big steps have been taken to ensure its survival. For the sake of saving endangered species, but mostly as a result of the Basque ponyÕs uniquely integrated character as part of the natural and cultural legacy, Sastarrain is preparing many activities. These activities will be part of the "Sastarrain Pottoka Centre".

The pottoka is a breed of horse classified as a Celtic horse type. The size of the original pottoka should be around 120 and 132 cm, and the weigh between 220 and 300 kgs. The original colour of the animal is dark, it is also very strong and the appearance is almost prehistoric, which makes it strong for hard weather conditions.

Pottoka Workshop. An approach of the scholars to the world of pottokas through didactic workshops and the guided ride lessons with ponies in riding schools.

Introductory course on the riding of pottokas. For five consecutive days you can learn the first basic riding skills. The surroundings of Sastarrain are perfect to spend a nice day.

For occasions like these, we offer you carriage walks ridden by pottokas, riding walks and we can even take your horse to pupil. In the future, at Sastarrain we want to offer horse therapy programmes (the therapeutic use of the horse for disabled people), breeding and taming pottokas, and creating a small "Museum of Pottoka", and finally, organising parties and competitions with horses.