The Spanish Riding School

This afternoon we had the pleasure of visiting Vienna's famous Spanish Riding School for a behind the scenes tour of the stables where the famous white stallions live and train.

They are all such beautiful creatures, and so incredibly athletic!  We met quite a few of the horses, and watched them enjoy their afternoon meal in their pristine stable stalls, admired their exercise arena as well as the elegant baroque riding hall lit by several enormous crystal chandeliers, and we also saw their immaculate saddles and bridles all neatly stored according to each horse's name (see extras).

Afterwards we walked to one of Vienna's famous coffee houses where we enjoyed a sinful slice of Sachertorte and (naturally!) a cup of coffee.