Horse Riding Holidays, France
France is a great country for horses and riding and is the most wonderful destination for horse riding holidays. The layout of fields, the pattern of crops and woodlands, the grouping of the population in hamlets, villages and towns, the material and style of the buildings all contribute to the individual 'pays' which themselves contribute to the identity of the larger regions. All of these regions have different landscapes and each has its own natural charm and personality, most of which is unspoilt, so ideally suited for many different horse riding trails.Blessed by nature, France has oaks and olive trees, apple and orange trees and horseback riding becomes a real pleasure through this diverse landscape. In spring the temperatures are perfect for sight seeing by horseback and in May and June when the days are long, it is a great opportunity to ride in the Loire Valley and see the castles or experience the sights and smells of Provence. In summer when the days are hot you are still able to take your horse into the mountains where it is cooler. After a long day in the saddle you will be able to experience French hospitality and cuisine - a glass of French wine will be most welcome.
The French are proud of their horses and whilst there are many different breeds in this country, any horse you ride will be in excellent condition and will enable you to have a fantastic holiday. Your guide has to be well qualified and in order to lead riding holidays will have passed many examinations and long courses. All this will ensure that whether riding over the beaches in Northern France or in the peace and tranquility of the Auvergne you will be assured of a wonderful holiday.
See our horse riding holidays in France below.
Rides
Aquitaine Adventures, France
Set in the stunning Landes Forest, this ride offers some dreamy beach riding as well as wonderful paths through the forests and across various terrain. The different programmes offer adventures into the Pays Basques, experiencing wild valleys, trips along the Atlantic Coast with vast beaches of foamy waves, perfect for a summertime dip on your horse, and even based stays at the organised and certified riding centre in the pretty resort town of Mimizan-Plage.
Cathar Trails, France
These rides along the Cathar Trail offer a wonderful opportunity to experience the unblemished countryside of this Southern part of France. Here you will be close to the Spanish border, riding into the Pyrennean mountains and enjoying the red earth and sights of the region. There are both guided and unguided tours so depending on your wishes and level of experience, a trip can be made to suit you.
Dordogne Wine & Dine, France
Referred to as 'The Galloping Gourmet' by Horse and Hound Magazine, this exclusive destination is set in and around the spectacular Dordogne countryside in South-Western France. Guests ride through thousands of hectares of beautiful private estates, exploring thick forests, valleys, vineyards and meadows, on well schooled and loved horses. Picnic lunches and luxurious dinners, accompanied by fine local wines, add the finishing touches to this high end holiday destination.
Livradois Forez, France
A fantastic French getaway offering based stays and trails which are open to riders 12 years and older. The beautiful Auvergne region of France comprises spectacular countryside with varied terrain, making for riding holidays which can be both challenging and relaxing. The Dutch hosts are experienced guides with a selection of fabulous horses and their rides are extremely good value.
Lot Valley, France
This destination is the ideal opportunity to enjoy some exciting riding in the beautiful Averyonese countryside, whilst also relaxing when out of the saddle. The charming surroundings offer both excellent riding terrain and an all round beautiful setting which different levels of rider can explore. The countryside here allows for trekking through enchanting French villages and unspoilt woodlands with an abundance of fascinating wildlife such as deer, wild boar, red squirrel, hares, buzzards and kites. There are rivers and gorges leading down to open valleys where riders can canter over the rolling landscapes or try their hand over the valley’s cross country course of eleven jumps.
Provence, France
Established in 1987, your experienced host and guide has put together a team who love horses, travel and this beautiful countryside. They offer a large variety of rides in south-east of France. Having a loyal client base they now create new itineraries every year to explore this fabulous region. They are best known for their Inn to Inn programme which allows the rider to enjoy the spectacular diverse terrain from the back of a horse. As one of the first organiser of horse trips in France, they offer frequent departures as well as a large choice of dates and itineraries.