Assateague, the enchanted island where wild horses gallop between sea, dunes and legends

There are places in the world that are much more than incredible places; to see them it almost seems they cannot exist and instead they are there… and you can visit them. One of these is Assateague , a long and thin island between Maryland and Virginia where nature dictates its rhythm. A true paradise where herds of free and wild horses run among the dunes. Considered a natural reserve, it is certainly the destination to enjoy the soul of the Atlantic Ocean between white beaches and poetry.

Discover Assateague, the island where horses run wild

Assateague is a natural wonder not to be missed: the island gives you the opportunity to get in touch with the wildest soul where it is not men, but animals that dictate the rhythms. The noise of the city here vanishes and is replaced by the call of the osprey and the salty scent of the ocean breeze.

The real protagonists of this pearl of the United States divided between Maryland and Virginia ? Obviously the legendary wild horses of Assateague . Forget the image of sweet ponies to pet and fairy-tale creatures, they are wild descendants who live in freedom and are not accustomed to contact with humans. They are divided into herds and are organized in small groups with leaders, hierarchies and dynamics that tell a lot about the breed.

Alongside them, however, there is no doubt about the beauty of the Assateague beaches , equally wild and authentic. There are, obviously, no establishments, but here it is not uncommon to spot dolphins or simply relax. The charm of the beaches is enhanced by the dunes where plants resistant to salt and wind grow. It is also not uncommon to spot a red fox or a deer while venturing along the nature trails.

An unmissable event takes place in the area annually in July: the Pony Peening . The so-called “ Saltwater Cowboys ” round up the herd from the Virginia side and lead them across the water to Chincoteague Island . It is a truly epic ride, followed by a charity auction that funds the protection of horses. An event that combines history, folklore and community.

Outdoor enthusiasts will not be able to resist the many well-marked hiking trails immersed in vegetation; they can be explored on foot or by bike. It is even possible to organize a campsite; just inquire about the equipped areas where you can sleep under the stars just a stone's throw from the ocean.

Where is Assateague and how to get there

Assateague Island is an island located on the eastern coast of the United States . It faces directly into the Atlantic Ocean and extends between Maryland and Virginia. It is about 60 kilometers long and when seen you can notice its barrier structure that separates the mainland from the salt water.

To reach it, the best option is to rent a car starting from Ocean City, then crossing the Verrazano Bridge that connects directly to the northern area managed by the National Park. Those who prefer to reach the wilder area to the south, then they could start from Chincoteague . The closest airport is however the Salisbury Regional Airport about an hour's drive from the island. Once you arrive here, you can continue with your own car, or on foot or rent a bike to travel the many trails.