Catalan Mountain Trails

Day 1 - Arrival

Riding: No riding.

Transfer from the airport to your country house accommodation. Meet your guide and fellow riders over dinner.

Day 2 - Camino Real/Besalu

Riding: 5 - 7 hours

Meet your horses and set off riding through hilly countryside of the pre-Pyrenees and follow Fluvia river towards the mountains, following a route taken by old herdsmen like Juan the shepherd. The pretty villages of the Alt Emporda bear witness to an amazing past. In a glade near a river you are welcomed with a glass of cava and beautifully laid table. After your siesta you ride quickly to the medieval town of Besalu. Your accommodation is a hotel right next to the beautiful romantic bridge with a view over Fluvia river and the town. Take a walk through the alleys of Besalu before dinner.

Day 3 - Mountains and simming

Riding: 3 hours

Ride to the wild, hilly countryside of the Alta Garrotxa, passing through the medieval town of Besalu and crossing the Roman bridge of Llierca. You'll discover sparkling turquoise rock pools where you can go for a refreshing swim. Your agile horses then carry you safely over the pass of Santa Barbara - from the top you have fantastic views of the bizarre rock formations. Your destination is a small mountain village where you overnight.

Day 4 - Rocky hills of the Garrotxa

Riding: 5 - 7 hours

The valley of Llierca lies ahead of you with its strong lime rocks. Only the clapping of the hooves, splashing of a stream and calm sounds of the cow bells interrupts the deep quiet of this secluded area. Birds of prey, reptiles and butterflies accompany you and with luck you may see wild pigs or a badger. Stop for a picnic under two thousand year old oak trees where the turquoise water of the stream invites you for a refreshing dip. In the afternoon you reach the picturesque village of Beget where you spend the night whilst your horses graze the green mountain meadows.

Day 5 - Ride into the High Mountains

Riding: 5 - 7 hours

Head deeper into the Pyrenees following an ancient merchants path which takes you over the border and into France. Leave the pre-Pyrenees and ride through beech, oak and chestnut forests that cover the hills. There are tremendous views of the 9000ft mountains surrounding you. Continue through lush flower and gentian meadows to reach the small town of Camprodon on the river Ter. Before dinner take a walk through the pleasant town and stop for a drink in a bar.

Day 6 - Pyrenees - the realm of the Herdsmen

Riding: 5 - 7 hours

An early start to ascend to the high regions of the Pyrenees. Your horses carry you over immense cattle fields where you meet cows, sheep, goats and occasionally wild Pyrenean horses. Arrive in the high plateaus which have alpine character, with narcissi, iris, gentian and alpine roses transforming the hilly meadows into carpets of flowers.

Reach a mountain pass at 6000ft for magnificent views of the steppes - to the west is the highest peak of Catalonia whilst to the east the Mediterranean glistens a deep blue. Take a siesta whilst vultures circle, and then follow a secluded path through the mountain paradise and back down into the valley. Spend your final night in a former farmhouse with a celebratory dinner.

Day 7 - Departure

Riding: No riding.

After breakfast you are transferred to the airport for your flight home.

Day 1 - Arrival

Riding: No riding.

Group transfer from the airport to a Catalan country house where your host is waiting to welcome you. Over dinner with your guide and fellow travellers you'll learn about the upcoming tour.

NB. Trail sometimes runs in reverse

Day 2 - Besalu - a pearl from the Middle Ages

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Meet your horse after breakfast, saddle up and set off along a trail winding through enchanted forests of holm oaks and pines. As the forest thins out you reach the river Fluvia where the horses can drink and you enjoy a picnic lunch. After a siesta, ride at a brisk pace to the medieval town of Besalu. Your accommodation is in a hotel next to the beautiful Romanesque bridge overlooking the Fluvia river and town whilst dinner is in a quaint restaurant on the Plaza Mayor.

Day 3 - Garrotxa - land of volcanoes

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Leave the enchanted forests and ride into the land of volcanoes - a landscape which is both cultivated and wild. The extinct volcanoes last erupted a few thousand years ago and only the black lava and craters remind you of their explosive past. In a river on the edge of a hidden village you cool your feet and enjoy your picnic before a long siesta. In the afternoon you trot and canter to a medieval village where you accommodation is right on the market square.

Day 4 - The home of Serrallonga

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Continue riding through the ancient volcanic landscape of Garrotxa. The earth turns ochre-brown and black and the dark lava rock contrasts with the bright green deciduous forests. Stop for lunch at a bar in a typical Catalan village where the fountain gurgles and plane trees provide shade.

The afternoon offers an overwhelming landscape. In spring and summer, grey rocky mountains wink through the deep green beech forest, whilst in autumn the forest glows in all colours. Open cattle pastures offer great views over valleys and mountains and a majestic monastery rises at the highest point of the mesa. This is one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Catalonia and you spend the night here, to be woken by the sun rising over the sea.

Day 5 - Canyons and table mountains

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Over lush cattle pastures you descend into the valleys between mighty table mountains with canyons reminiscent of Arizona and waterfalls plunging deeply into steep gorges. Hear the cries of birds of prey soaring over towering rock formations as you ride through evergreen and humid forests which were once outlaws hideouts. In the midst of this fascinating mountain world you discover a lonely chapel where a delicious lunch awaits.

After lunch you ride to the end of the Table Mountains for a spectacular view as you ride along steep cliffs. Vultures soar into the depths, and like an eagles nest, a small village clings to the edge of the mountain. Below you the Canyon Lake glows deep green. You spend two nights in this idyllic place.

Day 6 - Panorama of Table Mountains

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Make your way adventurously through ancient beech forest like robbers, with your horses mastering every challenge with surefootedness. Whilst your companions graze peacefully near some cattle, you discover a rock with a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire Table Mountains - the home of Serrallonga. Here you enjoy your saddlebag picnic.

Well rested, you start your descent through spectacular rock formations to the same remote village as last night. From your accommodations terrace you can watch over the horse pastures during dinner.

Day 7 - High Plateau

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Ride up to a high plateau with spectacular views - the north, south, Mediterranean and high mountains merge in a special way. Lush meadows and dense beech forests cover the land, ferns spread out and the primeval forest proliferates and appears impenetrable. The temperatures are pleasantly cool with many springs and quiet streams to refresh you. In the heart of the high plateau lies Jodi's horse farm where you can hear only the wind in the trees, the singing cicadas and the babbling brook. Here you spend the night and enjoy a robbers menu served at an old wooden table whilst Catalan rogue tales are told over a glass of wine.

NB. Trail sometimes runs in reverse

Day 8 - Departure

Riding: No riding.

After breakfast you are transferred to the airport for your flight home.

PLEASE NOTE: On certain dates the ride itinerary will run in reverse.

Day 1 - Departure

Riding: No riding.

After breakfast you'll be transferred to Barcelona airport for your flight home.

Day 1 - Arrival

Riding: No riding.

Transfer from Barcelona airport to your accommodation and get to know your guide over dinner.

Day 2 - Little Mongolia

Riding: 6 - 8 hours

After a ride briefing and meeting your horse you saddle up and head out across an old mining village and through dense boxwood forests. You'll experience some spectacular ascents to reach endless high alpine pastures. Pass herds of cattle and mountain horses whilst vultures and eagles circle overhead. At the top you are treated to a magnificent panoramic view in all four directions - high 3000m peaks rise to the north, the towering stone mountains of the pre-Pyrenees to the west, the Mediterranean coast to the east and the extraordinary mountain range of Montserrat to the south. After admiring the view which is reminiscent of Mongolia, descend into the valley. The forests and moss-covered ground soften the noise of the horses hooves until you reach your charming mountain hotel.

Day 3 - Chamois in the Mongrony Massif

Riding: 6 - 8 hours

Mount up and emerge from the shadows of the forest into the wide open spaces of the mountain meadows. You may spot the silhouettes of chamois on the horizon, jumping over rocks with breathtaking speed. There are plenty of opportunities for trots and canters until you reach the mountain ridge in a stunning final spurt. Tonight you sleep in a nicely managed hikers hut with a communal sleeping room. The sunset over the surrounding rocky mountains is a unique natural spectacle.

Day 4 - Sierra Cadi - wide plateau of Cerdanya

Riding: 6 - 8 hours

Rise with the sun and rode through the overwhelming nature park of Moixero. Arrive at a mountain hut and stop for a snack and cold drink before starting your descent. You'll catch a glimpse of the impressive Cerdanya plateau before cantering to your picnic spot with views of the Sierra de Cadi. Tonight you're accommodated in a country house with cosy rooms and hot showers.

Day 5 - Land of the Cathars

Riding: 5 - 8 hours

Ride briskly through the lush plains of the Cerdanya - the numerous meadows and grain fields offer opportunities for trots and canters. Cross the river Ter to enter the land of the Cathars and set up camp in an enchanting Pyrenean valley. The turquoise pools invite you to bathe and relax whilst high on a rock, the ruins of a Cathar castle remind you of days gone by. The horses graze peacefully on the lush mountain grasses whilst you rest under a starry sky.

Day 6 - Andorra

Riding: 5 - 8 hours

Set off on a challenging climb to Andorra. It is an exciting day as you've packed everything you need for the next two days in your luggage. You are amply awarded for your effort of the ascent - the view over the high mountains is unique. At an altitude of 2500m you have ridden across two countries! Your horses graze in a pretty meadow whilst you cool your feet in the stream. By evening you reach a beautiful spot where you set up camp and prepare a rich dinner from the saddle bags. The bells from alpine cows will lull you to sleep.

Day 7 - High Pyrenees of Andorra

Riding: 6 - 8 hours

As you ride across the beautiful mountain meadows and through river valleys, keep your eyes open for marmots. After some challenging climbs you cross the pass and reach the highest point of your journey - 2600m. From here you have a spectacular view of the Serra de Cadi and the highest mountain in Catalonia - Pica d'Estats. Make your way carefully down from this enchanting landscape to a shining mountain lake. You are back in Catalonia and can enjoy a well deserved shower at your guesthouse before a farewell dinner.

Day 8

Riding: No riding.

After breakfast, farewell and transfer to Barcelona.

Day 1 - Arrival

Riding: No riding.

Transfer from Barcelona airport to a cosy country hotel where you meet your fellow riders and guide over dinner.

Day 2 - Along the Fluvia River

Riding: 6 - 9 hours

Meet your horses and set off on your adventure. Follow old shepherds paths across the hilly landscapes of the foothills of the Pyrenees and the follow the path of the Fluvia river towards the mountains. The pretty villages of Alt Emporda are impressive witnesses to a grandiose past. Stop for a packed lunch in a clearing near the river. After a siesta, ride at a leisurely pace to the medieval town of Besalu where your accommodation is situated next to the beautiful Romanesque bridge overlooking Fluvia and the town. Before a traditional dinner in a restaurant in the square, you can stroll through the old streets of Besalu.

Day 3 - Rocky Gorge and mountain stream

Riding: 6 - 9 hours

In the morning ride upside the river at a fast pace and then follow mountain paths and enjoy some relaxed cantering. Stop for a picnic lunch in a beautiful river valley where a small river beach near the Roman bridge invites you for a cooling dip. After a siesta, you start a climb up a mountain path into the Garrotxa mountains. An atmospheric dome tent near a gorge and surrounded by mighty rocks will be your sleeping place for the night (no single room option).

Day 4 - Garrotxa mountains

Riding: 6 - 9 hours

The mountainous landscape begins to change as you ride through the area of the old Garrotxa with its deep valleys, rugged cliffs and dense oak forests. Stop for a saddlebag picnic in a lovely spot by the river with another chance for a refreshing dip. After lunch, continue at a brisk pace until reaching your accommodation in one of the most beautiful villages in Spain, with stone houses and a picturesque Romanesque church. Enjoy a regional dinner at the hotel.

Day 5 - Camprodon

Riding: 6 - 9 hours

The route of your trail takes you deeper and deeper into the Pyrenees. Follow an ancient trade route dating back to the Middle Ages and reach the border region with France. Leaving the foothills of the Pyrenees behind, the mountains are now covered with forests of beech, oak and chestnut. The views of the surrounding 3000m peaks are breathtaking. Cross the lush meadows of flowers and gentians to approach the mountain town of Camprodon on the banks of the river Ter. Here you spend the night and can take an evening stroll through the town to take a drink in one of the many bars.

Day 6 - Pyrenees - Kingdom of the shepherds

Riding: 6 - 9 hours

An early start as you will be climbing high into the mountains. Cross wide pastures as you ascend towards the summit and pass cows, sheep and mountain goats. You are in the high Pyrenees with its alpine characteristics such as narcissi, irises, gentians and mountain roses transforming the meadows into carpets of flowers. At 1800m you reach a pass - an endless steppe of grass and stone with a magnificent panorama - to the west you can see the highest peaks of Catalonia and to the east the blue of the Mediterranean. Stop for a siesta and perhaps watch vultures circling above. Then follow an elongated mountain pass on lonely paths through this mountain paradise to drop down to a small Pyrenean village. Spend the night in a former farmhouse in the valley.

Day 7 - Little Mongolia

Riding: 6 - 9 hours

In the morning you cross an old mining village and ride through dense boxwood forests before some spectacular ascents over endless high alpine pastures. Pass herds of cattle and mountain horses and watch vultures and eagles circling above. Once at the top you are rewarding with a panoramic view in all four directions - high 3000m peaks to the north, towering stone of the pre Pyrenees to the west, Mediterranean coast to the east and the extraordinary Montserrat mountains to the south. After admiring this landscape which is reminiscent of Mongolia you descend into the valley through forests and moss covered paths. Your accommodation is a charming mountain hotel.

Day 8 - Chamois in the Mongrony Massif

Riding: 6 - 9 hours

Emerge from the shadows of the forest into the wide open spaces of mountain meadows. If you're lucky you'll spot the silhouettes of chamois on the horizon, jumping over rocks with breathtaking speed. There are lots of opportunities to trot and canter uphill until you reach the mountain ridge in a final spurt. Another magnificent view awaits! Here you spend the night in a nicely managed hikers hut (communal sleeping room) and watch the sunset over the rocky mountains.

Day 9 - Sierra Cadi - wide plateau of Cerdanya

Riding: 6 - 9 hours

Leave camp at sunrise and ride through the overwhelming nature park of Moixero. Stop at a mountain hut for a snack and cold drink before descending. Catch a glimpse of the impressive Cerdanya plateau before cantering to your picnic spot with views of the Sierra de Cadi. Tonight you are accommodated in a nice natural stone village with cosy rooms and hot showers.

Day 10 - Land of the Cathars

Riding: 6 - 9 hours

Ride briskly through the lush plains of the Cerdanya - the numerous meadows and grain fields offer plenty of opportunities to trot and canter. Cross the river Ter and enter the land of the Cathars to set up camp in an enchanting Pyrenean valley. The turquoise pools invite you to cool off and high on a rock sits the ruins of a Cathar castle. Whilst the horses graze on the lush mountain grasses you rest under a starry sky.

Day 11 - Andorra

Riding: 6 - 9 hours

Set off on a challenging climb to Andorra. It's an exciting day as you have packed everything you need for the next two days in your saddle bags. You're amply rewarding for the effort of the ascent as the view over the high mountains is unique. You are at an altitude of 2500m and have ridden across two countries! Your horses graze in a pretty meadow next to a river whilst you dangle your feet in the stream to cool off. In the evening you reach a beautiful spot in the middle of the high Pyrenees where you set up camp. Help prepare dinner from the pack bags and rest to the sound of the alpine cow bells.

Day 12 - High Pyrenees of Andorra

Riding: 6 - 9 hours

As you cross the beautiful mountain meadows and river valleys keep an eye out for marmots. After some challenging climbs you cross the pass and reach the highest point of your journey 2600m. There's a spectacular view of the Serra de Cadi and the highest mountain in Catalonia - Pica d'Estats. Carefully make your way back down through this enchanting landscape to a shining mountain lake - you are back in Catalonia! Spend the night in a nearby guesthouse with a well deserved shower and a farewell dinner.

Day 13 - Departure

Riding: No riding.

After breakfast you are transferred to Barcelona airport for your flight home.