Ambassador of our region and nicknamed "the Maîchard", this robust horse which was a renowned warhorse during conflicts over the centuries was above all a strong ally for the labors of the earth. He has long assisted farmers with field work and remains employed today at timber logging and various forestry and land workIt is the most common draft breed in France. The first Comtois draft breed competition took place for the first time in 1 in Maîche and this competition still takes place every year in September.
Every year in the month of September takes place in Maîche, cradle of the Comtois Horse, the national competition of the Comtoise breedThis competition, which is the occasion for a great and beautiful celebration, allows the best subjects of the breed to be gathered and classified by age category according to criteria. Traditionally, the model and gait competition for fillies and mares takes place on Friday, and that of the stallions takes place on Saturday. The male competition allows the selection of future stallions authorized for reproduction.
The National Association of the Comtois Draft Horse The mission of the organization of this event is to contribute to the improvement of the Comtoise breed. Before this major national event, other competitions are organized in the various cantons of Doubs to determine the selection of horses that will be present at Maîche in September.
On the occasion of this gathering of experts of the Comtoise breed, amateur or novice visitors can enjoy entertainment, shows equestrian and a village of exhibitors.
National Comtois Draft Horse Competition on Friday 12 and Saturday 13 September 2025
> Friday, the day is dedicated to fillies, mares with foals.
> Saturday, the day is dedicated to males… and to show !
Events between 14h and 16h to see horses and trainers perform their show!
If you love nature and the beautiful landscapes of the Jura Mountains, what could be better than discovering them during a horse-drawn carriage ride pulled by ComtoisTake the time to appreciate every detail and listen to the horses' hooves landing on the paths, the bells of the Montbéliarde cows and the birds singing...
Thanks to its calm, gentleness and patience, the Comtois can be ridden for hiking, for leisure or even trained for showsDemonstrations take place every year during the Comtois draft breed competition. It is also possible to visit the Ferme des Comtois where Guillaume Mauvais, nicknamed "the man who whispered in the ears of the Comtois," will introduce you to this breed in a fun way.
