This is a fabulous opportunity for confident riders to ride unguided, on a well trodden route, through the beautiful mountains and forests. You will be riding very fit horses that are well trained to cope with the difficult terrain and who will safely carry you onto your new destination every day. Whilst this may sound daunting, you will be well equipped with map and compass. At the end of the day a warm welcome and delicious meal will be waiting for you.

Itinerary:

Day 1:

You will arrive at the stables in the quaint little village of Granès. This village is surrounded by forests and vine groves with a natural spring in the village square - the water is a delight to drink. You may well be introduced to your horse today and will certainly have a look at a map and a description of the ride. There is a delicious dinner and overnight at comfortable accommodation in the village.

Day 2:

Today is a 'test' ride with a guide to see how well you are able to read a map and compass. You need to be very comfortable with your horse before embarking on this trail as well being competent handling him/her both in and out of the saddle. If all goes well, you will be able to head out on your own on the following day.

You will ride through woods past the village of Rennes-le-Château. After a picnic lunch, you will make your way back to Granès through a green oak forest for dinner and overnight as on the previous night.

Day 3:

Today will you start your adventure and leave Granès to make your way to Puivert (about 5 hours). You will cross the upper valley of the Aude River, studded with vineyards, and arrive on the plateau of Puivert.

You ride across the plateau and up into the courtyard of the castle ruin. The Château de Puivert was subjected to a three day seige in 1210, by the army of Thomas Pons de Bruyère, and became property of the northern barons (having originally belonged to the Cathar family of Congost). After visiting the castle you make your way to Michel and Francois in the village nearby where you will spend the night. Michel and Francoise make and sell puppets from the workshop in their gîte.

Day 4:

After getting your horse ready you will ride through the forest of Picaussel with a variety of majestic trees, climbing to a lake then towards the ancient village of Labau on the side of a hill. The region is famous as the base for the Maquis during WW2. The journey from Puivert to Labau takes 5 to 6 hours. Labau is a small hamlet situated at the top of the valley and has the most fantastic views. Tonight your host is Patrice who rears Merens horses, famous for their trekking ability.

Day 5:

Today you ride from Labau to Ayguebonnes (5 hours). You will follow the valley of Rebenty where there are opportunities for faster riding. You will be able to visit another famous Cathar castle called Puylaurens. This is an amazing castle described as a true masterpiece of military architecture and design. This magnificent fortress is placed high on a mountain top, surrounded by dark forests, and was once an impenetrable stronghold.

You will spend the night in a farmhouse where the owners Collette and Christine raise cattle. The home cooked food here is delicious.

Day 6:

Today is the longest day with over 6 hours in the saddle. After crossing the valley of Fenouilledes and observing its small castles, you will head towards the plateau of Malabrac situated at the base of Bugarach Peak (4,500 ft.). Having explored this area you will ride into the Bouchard estate where deer and wild boar are often roaming the lands. Overnight is spent at Bouchard.

Day 7:

Bouchard to Granès (5 hours). Today you ride through a reserve with deer and wild boar, following the valley of Bugarach at the north base of Bugarach Peak. Here you will traverse forests of pine, beech and oak, progressing into a small valley with large rocks of chalk and limestone. From here you return to your starting point in Granès.

Day 8:

Departure after breakfast.

This trip will often take you over steep and difficult terrain. Riders therefore must be fit, able and willing to dismount and lead their horse in places. French speakers will be at an advantage on this trail, even those who know just a few words.

This is very similar to the unguided trail but here you are accompanied by a knowledgeable and worthy guide. They will lead you through this gorgeous region as you ride a safe and trustworthy horse. Each night sees you relax in the warmth and comfort of a welcoming family home or gîte with a delicious meal at the ready.

The itinerary varies from that of the unguided trail (which can be seen above) as there is no 'test ride' on Day 2. The trail gets underway a day earlier so you are given an extra day of exploring on the end which is as follows:

Day 7:

Today you cross the Bouchard Estate and pass by the Pech de Bugarach and the 'white valley'. You eat a delicious picnic by the river before travelling through the '4 ritous' valley. This leads you back into Granès where you will enjoy your last night and have a farewell meal with your companions.