Discover the equestrian world in Deauville
Deauville, the emblematic town of Normandy, has always been a must for horse-racing enthusiasts. Every year, the seaside town plays host to major events such as show jumping competitions, prestigious flat (gallop) races, young horse sales, international polo tournaments… At the heart of the city lies the Hippodrome de Deauville-La Touques, a veritable temple to equestrian sports. The Palais des Congrès de Deauville invites you to discover the different facets of equestrian events and learn more about the horse, another of the town’s strong symbols.
Deauville and its two equestrian jewels: one town, two racecourses
Deauville, an internationally renowned town in Normandy, is not only famous for its film festival and elegant beaches. It’s also known in the world of turf racing for a rather unique feature: the presence of two distinct racecourses that enliven its local life and attract equestrian enthusiasts from all over the world. The Hippodrome Deauville-La Touques and the Hippodrome de Clairefontaine, each with its own speciality, make Deauville a must for horse racing enthusiasts.
Deauville-La Touques racecourse: the heart of flat racing
The Deauville-La Touques racecourse, often cited as an emblematic example of flat racing, occupies a central place in the history of French horseracing. Renowned for its impeccable tracks and modern infrastructure, this racecourse hosts a large part of Deauville’s annual racing program. Its nickname, “Parisian racecourse”, bears witness to its notoriety and strategic importance for national and international racing.
- High-quality fibre turf: providing a fast, safe surface for racing.
- Prestigious races: including special days that attract spectators from the four corners of the globe.
- Diversified program: facilitating the discovery of new talent and the hosting of recognized champions.
The racecourse’s location in the heart of Deauville on the Côte Fleurie also enables it to link equestrian events with the town’s other tourist and cultural activities, creating an additional attraction for visitors.
Clairefontaine racecourse: the essence of versatility
In contrast to the exclusive profile of La Touques, the Hippodrome de Clairefontaine excels in its ability to provide a stage for several types of racing: gallop, trot and jumps. This particularity has earned it the title of tri-disciplinary provincial racecourse. On race days, the atmosphere is transformed, reflecting the enthusiasm and diversity offered by these varied disciplines.
- Race diversity: enabling all types of public to find their favorite category.
- Adaptable infrastructure: able to accommodate different configurations depending on race type and weather conditions.
- Family-friendly environment: with children’s activities and relaxation areas, making racing accessible to a wide audience.
The presence of this racecourse considerably enriches Deauville’s cultural and economic fabric, underlining its unique status as a city-duality in terms of equestrian activities.
Focus on the Deauville-La Touques racecourse, one of France’s leading horse racing venues… But not only…
Since its creation in 1864, the Hippodrome de Deauville-La Touques has established itself as one of the most prestigious horse racing establishments in France. Located in the heart of the Normandy seaside resort, it offers visitors an exceptional setting to watch the many equestrian competitions organized throughout the year. The Normandy racecourse is home to one of Europe’s largest training centers and a racing school. It hosts several internationally renowned events throughout the year. The summer meeting in August is one of the highlights of the season.
A varied and exciting racing program
The Hippodrome de Deauville-La Touques regularly offers a rich and diversified program, satisfying the expectations of horse lovers and demanding punters alike. Season after season, the track features flat races, notably on the famous 2100-meter fibrous sand track, which showcases the beauty and power of the horses as well as the talent of the jockeys.
The Hippodrome also plays host to a number of major events throughout the year, including the Grands Prix de Deauville, a crucial stage in the world of horseracing. These events bring together thousands of spectators to admire the performances of the best national and international champions in a unique setting.
Dive into the prestigious Deauville polo tournament
In the heart of Normandy, the Deauville-La Touques racecourse hosts a major event in the equestrian world every year: the Lucien Barrière Deauville Polo Cup International Polo Tournament. With its 3 magnificent dedicated fields, this tournament attracts internationally renowned polo teams and an audience from the four corners of the globe.
Deauville polo tournament: description of Deauville facilities
The Deauville-La Touques racecourse is much more than just a racetrack. Three of the finest polo fields in France are located at the center of the racetracks. These fields are renowned for their exceptional quality, guaranteeing fast, safe play for horses and riders alike. In addition to the playing fields, the racecourse also boasts modern facilities to welcome the public and participants with every comfort:
- VIP areas for an exclusive experience
- Catering stands to extend your visit
- Exhibition areas for commercial partners
The final of the Deauville International Polo Tournament is undoubtedly the highlight of the event. On this occasion, the teams that have dominated their opponents over the course of the tournament compete for the precious cup. The final match is not only a high-level sporting spectacle, but also a social event attended by polo fans, celebrities and important figures from the world of polo. The atmosphere is electrifying, with every shot played on the field being fervently followed by a passionate crowd.
The tournament’s strategic interests and stakes
Participating or winning at Deauville goes far beyond the sporting stakes. It’s a real springboard for players and associated brands. Winning teams increase their profile, attracting sponsors and lucrative partnerships. Likewise, companies associated with the event benefit from exceptional visibility among a targeted and influential audience. Organizing or sponsoring matches in Deauville therefore represents a sound business strategy for brands seeking to reinforce their image in the luxury and sports sectors.
Racing events in Deauville for all ages
Although the Hippodrome de Deauville-La Touques is primarily reserved for horse racing and polo enthusiasts, it is also a place where the whole family can relax and enjoy themselves. A variety of activities are offered throughout the year, allowing you to take full advantage of its enchanting setting. In between races, you can take part in creative workshops, guided tours or even an introduction to horse betting.
Deauville International Horse Center: beyond the races
In addition to its racecourses, Deauville is also renowned for its Pôle International du Cheval (PIC). The Pôle International du Cheval de Deauville is a modern, multi-purpose equestrian complex located in Deauville, Normandy. It includes stables, riding arenas, training tracks, indoor riding arenas, competition areas, exhibition spaces and relaxation areas.
The PIC regularly organizes major events, particularly in show jumping and dressage. The center is not only a venue for top-level competition (CDIO), but also serves as a meeting point for professionals from the equestrian world, further reinforcing Deauville’s image as the capital of the horse.
- High-level competitions: attracting international competitors and spectators (e.g. Longines Deauville Classic — Jump’in Deauville).
- Training courses and workshops: designed to enhance the skills of riders and trainers from all over Europe.
- State-of-the-art equipment: facilitating training and the staging of major equestrian events.
The complex also includes a training center dedicated to horse-related professions, offering vocational training programs in areas such as breeding, dressage, veterinary care, farriery, stable management and more. The PIC’s role therefore transcends that of a mere sports facility, acting as a veritable catalyst for the development of all aspects of the equestrian sector in Deauville. The Pôle International du Cheval de Deauville thus contributes to the promotion and development of the equine industry in the Normandy region, which is renowned for its expertise in this field.
Arqana: the leading horse auctioneer
Finally, no complete overview of Deauville’s equestrian scene would be complete without mentioning Arqana, the leading horse auction company. Located just a stone’s throw from the racecourses, Arqana makes a substantial contribution to the region’s equestrian economy with its regularly record-breaking sales. Each sale is an event in itself, attracting buyers, sellers and the curious.
- Prestigious sales: featuring the finest specimen horses
- Recognized expertise: guaranteeing transparent and fair transactions
- International influence: with participants from all the major countries in the equestrian world.
Arqana symbolizes Deauville’s commercial dynamism, and perfectly illustrates how this small French town has managed to acquire a global stature in the equestrian world. The synergy between the two racecourses, PIC and Arqana, creates an inclusive and dynamic atmosphere, solidifying Deauville as a pillar of world equestrian sport.
The Deauville equestrian training center
The Centre d’Entraînement de Deauville is an emblematic site in the Normandy region, renowned for its excellence in equine training.
Prime location
Located in Tourgéville, near Deauville in Normandy, the Centre d’Entraînement benefits from an ideal environment for the development and training of racehorses. Its proximity to the Deauville-La Touques racecourse makes it a strategic location for equestrian professionals. Nestled in the heart of the Normandy countryside, the equestrian training center offers a peaceful, natural setting conducive to the health and well-being of horses. The picturesque landscapes and proximity to the sea add to the appeal of this location for equestrian professionals and enthusiasts alike.
High-quality facilities
The training center boasts extensive facilities designed to meet the needs of horses and their trainers. It includes grass and sand training tracks, paddocks, modern stables, care and rehabilitation facilities, as well as infrastructure for the physical training of horses.
Services tailored to equine professionals
Equine Training Center professionals offer a full range of services for racehorse owners, including customized training, veterinary care, competition preparation, race management and much more. Qualified experts accompany trainers and owners throughout the process to ensure the best results for their horses.
A strong reputation
The Deauville equine training center enjoys an international reputation for the quality of its facilities and the competence of its staff. Many renowned horse owners and breeders choose the center to train and prepare their horses for national and international competitions.
The equine training center at Deauville is a world-renowned facility where racehorses benefit from the best training and preparation conditions, thanks to modern facilities, personalized services and an exceptional natural environment.
The Palais des Congrès de Deauville: a showcase for professional and cultural events
A key venue in the town’s social and cultural life, the Palais des Congrès de Deauville hosts a large number of public and private events throughout the year. Equipped with modern, modular facilities, it is the ideal venue for conferences, seminars, concerts and exhibitions on equestrian themes.