Day 1 - Arrival
Riding: No riding.
You will be met at Bergerac Train Station or Airport around 3:30 pm and will be driven to your cozy, countryside Bed and Breakfast (appr. 1 hour 15 minutes). This newly renovated “Chambres d’hôtes” “Aux Truffes de Combecave” is in the heart of the Malbec region near the village of Mauroux. The area is known for its medieval villages, slow-moving rivers and rolling hills covered with vineyards and orchards.
Take the time to enjoy the outdoor pool and terrace or maybe take a stroll through the “Truffiere” (Truffle Orchard) on the property. Enjoy a relaxing dinner with your host on-site.
Day 2
Riding: 4 hours
After a lovely continental breakfast, you will head to the stables and meet the horses. This morning’s ride offers opportunities for trots and canters, winding through the woods and hilly farmland of the Lot Valley. You will stop for lunch at a charming local restaurant surrounded by vineyards.
After the afternoon ride, you should have time to relax around the pool. Tonight, you will dine at a nearby restaurant where you can try some of the region’s culinary specialties.
Day 3
Riding: 3 hours
Today, you ride south through the quiet woodlands and countryside on your way to the Royal Bastide of Tournon d’Agenais for lunch. After eating in the quaint village square, you can meander through this lovely little French village, built in the 13 th century by Philippe III, son of King Saint Louis.
After your visit, riders will loop back through the forest to the stable then head back to your accommodation for dinner with your host.
Day 4
Riding: No riding.
Today the horses have a rest, while you take an exciting excursion into the small town of Cahors.
Your first stop will be at the 14th century Pont Valentré. This incredibly well-preserved bridge is emblematic of medieval construction and is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Historical Monument. From LePont, you can wander into the old town and experience local market day. You will not want to miss a visit to the 12th century Saint Etienne Cathedral, a glorious example of Romanesque and gothic architecture. This site is also a classified Historical Monument and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The adjacent cloister, is certainly worth visiting - it was added to the Cathedral in the 14th and 15th centuries.
Enjoy lunch at the Michelin restaurant located inside the exquisite 13th century Chateau de Mercuès. Afterwards, there’s an option to enjoy a tasting of the Chateau’s award-winning wines. After this gastronomic experience, you can return to your accommodation to relax for the remainder of the afternoon.
In the evening, dinner will be onsite with your host.
Day 5
Riding: 6 hours
Heading east from the stables, today’s ride crosses hill and dale to reach the Chateau de Chambert, home to an award-winning vineyard, producing Malbec and other wines since the 12th century. You will enjoy lunch on the hillside terrace at the Chateau’s Tapas-style Café served with a sampling of the Chateau’s famous Malbec region wines.
The afternoon ride heads back to the stables via another scenic route. However, the afternoon ride is optional if you prefer a little extra time on your own back at the B&B then your hosts will take you back.
This evening, you return to Chateau de Chambert for a formal dining experience at their gastronomic restaurant.
Day 6
Riding: 3 - 4 hours
Today you will ride north, crossing the Lot River enroute to Bonaguil Castle, a medieval fortress built on a rock face during the 13th, 14th and 15th centuries. Bonaguil was classified as an historical monument in the 19th century and to this day remains a premier example of classic medieval architecture.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch in a café-restaurant. After lunch and a self-guided tour of the castle, you will be driven back to the B&B for your farwell dinner.
Day 7 - Departure
Riding: No riding.
After breakfast, transfer to Bergerac train station or airport arriving by 12 noon. If you are flying from Bergerac airport, please plan a departure flight around 1:00 pm or later.
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.