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Horseback riding tours
Rides in
Canada
Intro to Canada
British Columbia Quebec Saskatchewan Yukon
Extensions:
Johnstone Straight
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Quebec Ride on "Black Canadians"
Quebec
Canada
Special Offer Available!!
Special Offer Available!!
Would you like to challenge yourself with an active horseback riding holiday on beautiful "Black Canadian Horses," a rare breed native to the country of Canada and that at one time was near extinction. Over recent years, a small but always growing herd has become established in the The Eastern Township of Quebec, making their home at a quaint, little equestrian inn found nestled in the charming country paradise,
bordered by the majestic Appalachian mountains and the powerful St. Lawrence River. Many ranches in Canada can offer you the chance to discover the vast country's stunning landscapes, but you will be hard pressed to find another that can put you into the saddle of one of these lovely and historic animals! Come discover what makes the unique
French nation of Canada so spectacular in natural beauty and culture, on an iconic steed amidst the even more iconic Maple forests of Eastern Canada. This trip is an essential destination for outdoor nature lovers, horse riding enthusiasts and "foodies," providing admirable hospitality, darling auberge (inn) accommodations, deliciously fresh local products, and miles upon miles of extensive rural farmland, woodland trails and wide open meadows that you will fall in love with; many people return again, year after year, with friends and family to share Quebec's best kept secret! The peaceful lifestyle and landscapes afforded in this region, have become increasingly recognized for its great natural offerings, its two centuries of rich history, healthy and creative living.
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Suitable for riders over 210 lbs Center-based ride
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Meeting:
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Eastern Township of Quebec
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Airport:
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Quebec, Montreal
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Transfer:
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Quebec City Airport
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
Max
12 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF)
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2013
Special Offer: 10% OFF! Limited Time Special Offer
Special Offer: 10% OFF any trip between April 15 to October 30!
Rates include:
Accommodations, gourmet meals, 5 days of guided endurance type riding (5+ hrs each)
| A | 2013 | 7 day trip, AP | 7d / 6n | $1095 | $1095 |
| Single supplement (shared bath) | $150 | $150 |
| Extra day with meals and riding pp (dbl) | $175 | $175 |
Gratuity:
10
%
(to be paid locally)
GST (VAT) 2.5% (5% for Canadian residents)
Transfer and Other Options:
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2013
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Transfer from Quebec City Airport or Sherbrooke station (up to 4 people) return
This is a "Group Rate" - to be paid locally
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$
145
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$145
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Transfers are available at extra cost. Preferred airport for transfer is Quebec City - Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB). The airport is 16 km from downtown and about 1.5 hrs from your destination, the Auberge.
If you arrive into Montreal, please take the bus to Sherbrooke and we will pick you up from there.
A transfer is also available from Montreal Trudeau Airport (YUL)- it is 4 hrs drive to the Auberge.
Tour Dates for 2013
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| A |
2013
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04/01
- 10/31
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7d / 6n
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7 day trip, AP
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2
/12
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Reserve
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Any time with a minimum of 2 riders from April to October on request.
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Rates do not include:
No Riding on Day 1. Alcoholic beverages - bring your own.
Sample Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive to the quaint auberge in the countryside of Courcelles, full of rural charm and peaceful rest. Dinner will be your first meal with us, and your first chance to experience the delicious French cuisine prepared with great pride by our chef Gilles. The wonderful home cooked meals at the inn are becoming one of the main draws for guests… besides the excellent riding of course! Take this chance to relax in the special atmosphere at the inn, inhale the sweet scents of the kitchen baking, fresh wild grasses and flowers of the gardens, and of course the best smell of all: horses and leather!
Day 2
Here we take care of our horses as if they were your own. We will help you when needed, but this is the only way you will begin to really form that special bond between horse and rider that we highly promote on this experience. At the auberge, there is a growing herd of Canadian Horses, a special breed of the Northern country you are visiting, animals known for their black, broad and bold beauty. Not all of Gina’s horses are of this national breeding, however it is an increasing specialty of her equestrian inn and she is excited to show you her black beauties and let you try them out on the trails! On your first day you will spend time in the saddle getting acquainted with your new four legged partner, with numerous walks, trots and canters in the surrounding countryside and visits to the sweet little villages nearby. Picnic lunches on the trail will be simple, but thanks to Chef Gilles they are quite tasty and will put always put a smile on your face and give you the energy you need to finish each day’s riding. But tonight, your dinner is the real culinary highlight, back in the ambiance of the cozy dining room again and with a glass of your favorite wine (note: BYOB).
Day 3
Today we will visit an authentic sugar shack nestled in the 300 year old forest, heavy in those regal and ancient Maple trees. A very rustic and long standing set up, we may take a traditional and sweet breakfast meal here and let the chef at the auberge have a sleep in for once! Learn about the Maples that have long provided great resources to the settlers of the land past, present and in the future to come. We will explore the forests, river beds, and the endless rolling countryside on horseback, and we are welcomed wherever we go with the kind smiles of the locals and excellent service, no matter where we choose to stop. We will set a riding pace comfortable for us and our horses, making the day’s trails as challenging or relaxing as we wish.
Day 4
Today we enter the noble and wild Frontenac Park wilderness, located on the edge of Lake St-Francois. The 51 km2 water body supports more than 191 species of birds and over 30 types of mammals, not to mention gives life to the verdant surrounding land they all call home. Although we will be too occupied with our trail riding today, this lake is a favourite for many water sports and swimming enthusiasts, and we will be sure to visit as we ride on through the park. The park is remarkable and picturesque, with many treasures to discover along paths lined with spruce, pine and maple trees. Everyone we meet is friendly; it’s hard not to be happy in such a parkland paradise. I think you will find even the horses agree!
Day 5 and Day 6
These next couple of days we head out to really test our horseback endurance! The extended trail systems we will conquer are highly reflective of the region’s allure: wonderfully wild, with two centuries of history within the sleepy, hidden villages with their old churches and educational museums, paired with a majestic natural environment filled with fresh and flowing rivers, ancient forests, panoramic vistas, and off-road treasures no tour bus will find! We promise a truly great riding experience here and the best trail horses around; these trails are not for the average tourist looking to take a short country jaunt on horseback, but for real riders who want to do what they love best: ride, ride and RIDE some MORE!
Day 7
We send you off with a last great breakfast at the auberge. This morning you can wish your new friends, two and four legged, a sincere final good bye. We will deliver you back to Sherbrooke station or Quebec City airport - Au Revior!
Meeting:
Eastern Township of Quebec
Airport:
Quebec, Montreal
Train station:
Sherbrooke
Transfer:
Quebec City Airport
Distance:
85 miles from Quebec City, 138 miles from Montreal
Transfers are available at extra cost. Preferred airport for transfer is Quebec City - Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB). The airport is 16 km from downtown and about 1.5 hrs from your destination, the Auberge.
If you arrive into Montreal, please take the bus to Sherbrooke and we will pick you up from there.
A transfer is also available from Montreal Trudeau Airport (YUL)- it is 4 hrs drive to the Auberge.
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Tack:
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Western, English
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Horses:
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Black Canadians
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Pace:
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Moderate forward going with trots and canters, 5+ hours daily
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
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Level:
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(2.5
out of 5) Intermediate
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Age:
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Min
14
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Weight:
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Max
250 lbs
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
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Max
12 riders
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Horses:
You will be riding one of Gina's beautiful Black Canadian Horses.
The Canadian Horse is a little known national treasure of Canada. This hardy breed descended from horses originally sent to the “New World” by King Louis XIV of France in the late 1600’s. These Norman and Breton horses were felt to be of Arab, Andalusian and Barb ancestry – traits of which can still be recognized in the Canadian Horse today.
For hundreds of years, the French horses bred with little influence from outside breeds. They eventually developed into their own distinct breed - the Canadian Horse or Cheval Canadien. Because they evolved under the adverse conditions of harsh weather, scarce food, and hard work, the Canadian Horse remains the sturdiest and most acclimatized horse in Canada today. They are tough, strong horses, tolerant of inclement weather conditions, and are extremely “easy keepers”. Because of these traits, the Canadian Horse is often referred to as “The Little Iron Horse”.
Tack:
English Tack is available if you prefer - but is limited in numbers so please request in advance.
Riding Level:
Ride approx. 4 hours per day in different areas of this beautiful countryside. Visiting wonderful ranches, riding along breathtaking lakes and into wild territory. We ride up to 20 miles a day with walks, trots and canters, as well as some gallops for the most advanced riders.

Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passport valid for at least one day beyond the intended departure date from Canada required by all nationals referred to in the chart except the following: (a) 1. Canadian citizens holding a Canadian . more
The average temperatures in April are 45 F (8 C) during the day, and 25 F (-1 C) at night.
During
the summer months the daytime temperatures are generally in the upper
70s during the day (25 C), cooling down to the mid 50s (13 C) at night.
In October the average daytime temperature is 52 F (11 C), dropping to
36F (2 C) at night.
Our
season commences in June with the debut of tender soft greens of
spring, which turn into a glorious abundance of wildflowers, and it
extends throughout the warm vibrant days of summer, and comes to
spectacular finale mid October, when the hardwood forests are ablaze
with color, competing easily with other areas in the world, known for
their beautiful fall foliage. The average fall foliage season is mid
September through mid-October.
Bring along your favorite
games, a deck of card or a good book for reading in the evenings as
there is no television. If you play piano, there is one in the dining
room!
*Please bring your bathing suit- there is a spa jacuzzi. Also, you need to bring your own water bottle for the ride.*
| This list is only a guideline for you |
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| Travel Documents and Travel Voucher |
| Flight tickets |
| Passport |
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| RIDING GEAR |
| Riding pants or Jodhpurs (used if possible!) |
| Riding boots + Minichaps |
| Long-sleeved shirts - lightweight |
| Riding helmet (recommended) - there area few helmets available, however it is best if you bring your own |
| Riding gloves |
| Lightweight rainwear - poncho/slicker (recommended) |
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| PERSONAL CLOTHING |
| Jacket or sweater for cool evenings - casual |
| Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts |
| Jeans |
| Shorts |
| Underwear and socks |
| Pyjamas |
| Light summer jacket |
| Comfortable shoes/sneakers |
| Swimsuit |
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| ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING |
| Personal Toiletries |
| Insect protection |
| Personal medications |
| Sore cream (for an emergency) |
| Sewing kit |
| Handkerchiefs |
| Camera |
| Bring your own water bottle |
| Sun glasses with strap |
| Sun tan lotion and lip balm |
| Hairdryer can be supplied upon request or bring your own |
| Laundry is available upon request |
Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
** No trip reports found
with the tour ID you provided.
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..view other reports for different trips
Winner of the Eastern Township Grand Prix in Eco Adventure Tourism - the inn is a cozy and simple B&B in the farming countryside of Quebec.
Guests dine together in the dining room (common room) or sit separate if they wish. The inn does not have a Liquor License, so bring your own - there is a small refrigerator where guests can store their alcoholic beverages.
There is a store en route from Sherbrooke or Quebec City, where we can stop with you to purchase some, although the selection is limited, so if you are particular you may want to bring some from home or buy at the duty free in the airports!
WIFI internet access is available, so bring your laptop if you wish to stay connected during your stay !
The inn has a big hot tub for warming up and and relaxing in after a ride out in the cool and crisp weather! There is an unheated outdoor pool for the summer guests!!
Rooms are decorated nicely with antique furnishings and have private bathroom facilities (except for 2 rooms that share one bath - high season only). Most rooms have one Queen size bed, except for the one larger unit that has 3 separate beds.
There are decks of cards, board games and some books available there. Big windows overlook the pastures. There is a nice patio, however, in winter it will be closed.
Meals:
Your pallet will delight in the gourmet meals that consist of homegrown vegetables, homemade "Duck Foie Gras", Buffalo steaks, Venison and poultry. Organic veggetables will be served whenever possible, meats from the farm, local cheeses.
Vegetarians can be catered to as well.
**Vegetarians can be catered to as well.
This trip includes
and can accommodate special dietary requests.
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Tack:
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Western, English
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Horses:
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Black Canadians
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Pace:
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Moderate forward going with trots and canters, 5+ hours daily
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
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Level:
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(2.5
out of 5) Intermediate
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Age:
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Min
14
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Weight:
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Max
250 lbs
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
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Max
12 riders
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Horses:
You will be riding one of Gina's beautiful Black Canadian Horses.
The Canadian Horse is a little known national treasure of Canada. This hardy breed descended from horses originally sent to the “New World” by King Louis XIV of France in the late 1600’s. These Norman and Breton horses were felt to be of Arab, Andalusian and Barb ancestry – traits of which can still be recognized in the Canadian Horse today.
For hundreds of years, the French horses bred with little influence from outside breeds. They eventually developed into their own distinct breed - the Canadian Horse or Cheval Canadien. Because they evolved under the adverse conditions of harsh weather, scarce food, and hard work, the Canadian Horse remains the sturdiest and most acclimatized horse in Canada today. They are tough, strong horses, tolerant of inclement weather conditions, and are extremely “easy keepers”. Because of these traits, the Canadian Horse is often referred to as “The Little Iron Horse”.
Tack:
English Tack is available if you prefer - but is limited in numbers so please request in advance.
Riding Level:
Ride approx. 4 hours per day in different areas of this beautiful countryside. Visiting wonderful ranches, riding along breathtaking lakes and into wild territory. We ride up to 20 miles a day with walks, trots and canters, as well as some gallops for the most advanced riders.

Passports
Passport valid for at least one day beyond the intended departure date from Canada required by all nationals referred to in the chart except the following:
(a) 1. Canadian citizens holding a Canadian Certificate of Identity, Canadian birth certificate or a certificate of Canadian citizenship;
(b) permanent residents of Canada with proof of status, ie Permanent Resident Card, Record of Landing, Returning Resident Permit or a Refugee Travel Document issued by the government of Canada to refugees who have been resettled in Canada;
(c) 2. citizens of the USA holding proof of citizenship (eg US birth certificate or US naturalisation papers).
Note: As of 23 January 2007 all persons, including US citizens, travelling by air between the USA and Canada, Central and South America, the Caribbean and Bermuda are required to present a valid passport or other approved document when entering or re-entering the USA. Similar requirements for those travelling by land or sea will be introduced as early as 1 January 2008. For further details about the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, visit the website of the US Department of State: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cbpmc/cbpmc_2223.html.
(d) persons entering from St Pierre & Miquelon or the USA who are legal permanent residents of the USA and hold a US alien registration card (Green Card);
(e) 3. citizens of France who are residents of and entering from St Pierre & Miquelon.
Note: (a) Children under 18 years must have information with them on the people responsible for their welfare, if travelling alone; this includes a letter of permission to travel from guardian(s), and also a letter from the custodian in Canada. (b) Depending on circumstance and nationality, certain applicants may need to undergo a medical examination in order to receive their visas; this must be carried out by a physician on Canada's list of Designated Medical Practitioners.
Passport Note
Visitors to Canada must satisfy an examining officer at the Port of Entry that they are genuine visitors, in good health, with no criminal convictions, and have sufficient funds to maintain themselves during their stay in Canada and to return to their country of origin, as well as evidence of confirmed onward reservations out of Canada. Persons under 18 years of age who are unaccompanied by an adult should bring with them a letter from a parent or guardian giving them permission to travel to Canada.
Identity/travel documents issued to non-national residents of the country of issue, refugees or stateless persons are recognized for travel to Canada.
Visas
Not required by all nationals referred to in chart above (visitor or transit) for stays of up to six months except the following:
(a) 4. holders of passports endorsed ‘British Subjects’ and ‘British Protected Persons’;
(b) 5. nationals of Bulgaria and Romania;
(c) those visiting Canada who, during that visit, also visit the USA or St Pierre & Miquelon (a French Overseas Territory) and return directly to Canada as visitors within the period authorised on their initial entry (or any extension thereto).
Note: Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the high commission to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).
Visa Note
The Government of Canada refuses admission to: (a) holders of passports issued by the UK Government entitled 'British Temporary Resident's Passport'.
(a) A single-entry visa is still valid if used to visit the USA. (b) Persons wishing to attend a course of six months duration or less, at any level, do not require a study permit. However, if there is the possibility that you will extend your period of study in Canada, or if you are a full time student and wish to work on campus, you may apply for a study permit.
Types of Visa and Cost
Visitor: C$75 (single-entry); C$150 (multiple-entry). Family: C$400 (for families of six or more persons). Transit: free. Transit visas are necessary for all nationals who require a visitor visa. Although transit visas are not required by British citizens, they may be required by foreign nationals with British passports; check with the embassy or high commission for details. For further information on payment methods, contact the high commission. Prices are subject to frequent change.
Validity
Up to six months depending on circumstances of individual applicant. The determination regarding length of stay in Canada can only be decided by the examining officer at the port of entry, but visas cannot exceed the validity of the passport and cannot be longer than five years. If no actual departure date is indicated within the visitor’s passport, then the visitor will be required to depart within three months from the date of entry. Visitors must effect their departure from Canada on or before the date authorised by the examining officer on arrival. If an extension of stay is desired, an application must be made in writing to the nearest Canada Immigration Centre at least three weeks before the expiry of the visitor visa. Multiple-entry visas cannot be valid longer than passport. Transit visas are only allocated if a national's flight/onward journey is continuing within 24 hours. Single-entry visas can be used multiple times by nationals of St Pierre & Miquelon and the USA.
Applications to:
Consulate (or consular section at embassy or high commission)
Working Days Required
10 days are required from receiving applications, but applications should be made at least one month prior to the intended date of departure. Certain nationals are subject to longer processing times. For urgent applications it is advised to apply in person. Same-day processing is available for applications made in person and 24-hour processing for those using the drop-in service.
| Passport Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
1 |
| USA |
2 |
| Other EU |
3 |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
No/4 |
| Australian |
No |
| Canadian |
N/A |
| USA |
No |
| Other EU |
5 |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
N/A |
| USA |
No |
| Other EU |
Yes |
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
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Quebec Ride on "Black Canadians"
Tour Code:
GRPQ02E
7 days /
6 nights
~$1,095.00
Dates :
April to Oct
Difficulty :
Riding Level Explained | A | Beginner  | Beginner A rider who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot and does not canter. | | B | Novice
 | Novice A rider who is capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, capable of
applying basic aids, comfortable and in control at the walk, moderate length posting
trots, and short canters. | | C | Intermediate
 | Intermediate A rider who has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces
(including posting trots, two point canters and gallops), but does not ride regularly. |
| D | Strong Intermediate
 | Strong Intermediate An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly and is comfortable in the saddle for at least 6 hours per day. | | E | Advanced
 | All of the above, plus an independent seat, soft hands, and capable of handlinga spirited horse in open country. |
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