La Paz Dressage - Mallorca's Premier Dressage Facility
The original riding surfaces have been replaced with two state-of-the-art arenas, one larger international-sized arena measuring 70mx30m and a smaller 60mx20m.La Paz Dressage has an 18m lunging circle and numerous post-and-rail paddocks, including areas reserved for stallions. The arenas were installed by Dammann of Germany - the company that provided the surfaces at Montenmedio and the Escuela de Arte Equestre in Estepona, to name but a few. The moisture levels in the new riding surfaces are constantly monitored by computer systems and irrigation or drainage instigated as required to keep the surfaces at optimum performance.The sand was imported from Cadiz and is combined with specialist fibres which fully support the horse, preventing injury and making for healthy and happy horses. The surfaces can be illuminated for evening training and performances by the numerous floodlights professionally installed around each arena. The lights have been carefully aligned so as not to create shadows or dark spots so that horse and rider may perform as if it were day. Overlooking the main arena are custom-built judging boxes and a raised 'control room' for managing affairs on the day of a competition. Overlooking the main arena are custom-built judging boxes and a raised 'control room' for managing affairs on the day of a competition. Anyone who has visited the site in previous years may have wondered what has happened to the open pool that was visible from the main road. During the refurbishment works, the entire water system for the site has undergone a major upgrade. Water from the onsite well is now processed by industrial-grade water-filtration equipment, and this water stored in a covered and sealed reservoir. All areas of the site are now provided with clean water fit for human consumption - all paddocks and stalls are equipped with automatic waterers, so that no horse need ever go thirsty under the summer sun. Other parts of the original site that have been renovated include the rustic farmhouse. The original farmhouse was in major disrepair and required a new roof and numerous internal works. The renovation work has preserved the original look and style of the farmhouse, but converted into two modern and comfortable apartments for staff. The site also has what used to be a clubhouse, featuring a dining area and bar. This is not currently in use commercially, but in time this may be restored. Also planned for the future, is the eventual refit and refurbishment of the iconic Mallorcean windmill that towers over the site.