Cheval Castillonnais

The Association Nationale du Cheval Castillonnais d’Ariège Pyrénées (ANCCAP) promotes and supports the Castillonnais, a mountain horse native to the Biros Valley in southwestern Ariège, in the French Pyrenees. The breed is known for its suitability to mountain life, sure-footedness, strength and willingness to work. Typically around 1.50 metres at the withers, the Castillonnais has a dark pangaré or chestnut-bay coat, often with reddish markings on the flanks and a lighter, “fox-coloured” muzzle.

ANCCAP provides information about the breed and its heritage, and maintains resources including a genealogical studbook, horse listings, photographs and videos. Its website shares breed news, cultural traditions and event updates, and features announcements for horses and breeding services available for sale. The association also coordinates membership, supports breeders and owners, and organises participation in breed competitions, with entries submitted through its website. Members can access association information and connect with the Castillonnais community. ANCCAP is part of the Federation of Local Pyrenean Breeds with Small Populations, and its zootechnical programme receives support from the Occitanie regional authority and its biological heritage conservatory.