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Horseback riding tours
Rides in
Spain
Intro to Spain
 CataloniaCentral Spain Galicia Mallorca/Menorca Southern Spain
Riding in:
France
Spain
Portugal
Italy
Europe Overview
also:
Hiking in Spain
Cycling in Spain
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Coastal Gourmet Passion Ride
Catalonia
Spain
Riding and Wellness, Gourmet, beach gallops and coastal mountains - pleasurable riding at the highest level!
Want to get away from it all and explore breathtaking landscapes on horseback? Welcome to Catalonia.
Tempting and delicious! This Coast Trail spoils the rider in two ways as it provides pure pleasure for your palate and your soul! Spanish horses, gourmet food and wellness treats: experience Catalonia with all your senses!
Mediterranean Spain is full of culture that goes back thousands of years. Evidence of these times can be seen along all our trails. The romantic architecture of villages, with their natural stone houses, is as captivating as the churches and abbeys that we find along the way. Built by feudalistic landowners and members of the aristocracy, the magnificent "Masias" and "Castillós" take you back to a remarkable past.
Ride from inn to inn on most precious horses of an award-winning Andalusian horse stud and enjoy the spicy taste of goat's cheese or paella with fresh seafood and vegetables - served with delicious wines from vines that are hundreds of years old ! Dive into the variety of Catalonia's culinary world. Whether typical tapas, regional fish or meat, homemade olive oil or a selection of fruits - let yourself be enchanted by our gourmet cook David and his exceptional cuisine! Enjoy the different regional wines with your meal - you will surely love Garnacha and Carinena! Allow yourself some relief after adventurous days with beach gallops. Let your muscles relax with a relieving massage. Horse riding, wellness treats and gourmet cuisine at its best: This is what makes your riding holiday in Spain so special!
Highlights:
- Typical Catalan gourmet menus
- Delicious wines of the region
- Long canters on the beach
- Breathtaking landscapes
- Wellness Treats (Massage, Spa)
- Accommodation in historical inns
Day 1: Country house Mas Roca
Day 2: Costa Brava - Alt Empordà
Day 3: Catalonia's oldest P.R.E Andalusian horse stud
Day 4: Beach Gallop and history of the Spanish horse!
Day 5: Castle and Cava!
Day 6: Wine fields and Bodega visit
Day 7: Natural Park Albera - Mediterranean Sea
Day 8: Hasta la Vista!
Get to know and love Catalonia and our horses - We look forward to seeing you soon!
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Progressive Ride (no camping)
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Meeting:
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Mas Roca
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Airport:
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Barcelona, Girona
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Transfer:
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Barcelona at 5 pm, Girona at 6:30 pm
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Riders:
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Min
4 riders
Max
8 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF) 
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2013
Rates include:
Accmmodations, gourmet meals, wine with dinner, 6 riding days, free transfer from Barcelona or Girona at set times
| A | 2013 | 8 day trip, AP | 8d / 7n | €1648 | $2145 |
| Single supplement (requested) | €210 | $275 |
| Young Rider Discount (up to 28 years) | (€165) | ($214) |
Transfer and Other Options:
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2013
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Transfer included from Barcelona at 5 PM, last day drop off around 11:30 AM
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€
0
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$0
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2013
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Transfer included from Girona at 6:30 PM, last day drop off around 11:30 AM
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€
0
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$0
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2013
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Catalonia Hotel Tax (MANDATORY) pp
- to be paid locally
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€
7
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$10
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Tour Dates for 2013
Additional dates are available on request with 4+ riders between March and November.
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Rates do not include:
Entrance fees to Museums and Monuments, Vineyards and Wine/Cava cellars (Bodegas), massages and wellness treats. Drinks / food in bars.
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks. Coffee at dinner. Mandatory Hotel Tax in Catalonia - 1 Euro/night
Day 1: Riding, Gourmet and Wellness
Individual arrival in Barcelona or Girona and free transfer to Mas Roca. Our friend Bogi welcomes us to his home, an old mill from the 16th century which enchants us with its unique character. We get to know our guide and our gourmet cook David, who will inspire us with the traditional cuisine of the Empordá region for the week ahead. Delicious dishes of lamb, goat or beef are part of David's repertoire, as well as sole, gilthead and prawn. You will get to know and enjoy tapas and paellas. The tasty olive oil of the region will be part of your daily dishes, as well as homemade cheese specialties. David creates our first meal that we enjoy with a wonderful wine from the region. Today dinner is around 9 pm.
Day 2: Costa Brava - Alt Empordà
Our first riding day leads us away from the horse ranch Mas Alba, through forests of pine and stone-oak. In a hidden valley we pass a small creek. Sunbeams break through the deep green of a tropical forest. Shrubs of bamboo line the path and lianas and climbers surround the trees above. We are in Catalonia but the ambiance reminds us of Costa Rica.
At the flood plains of the river Fluvia our head chef David awaits with a glass of sparkling Catalan Cava, which we enjoy while admiring the delightfully set table full of delicacies. Fresh bread, Manchego, homemade goat's cheese and fruits such as figs, peaches and cherries make this a perfect lunch. In the evening we ride to Bogi's place, where we spend another night. The garden with its South American feel is a beautiful spot to relax! This romantic place offers unique accommodation both for us and our horses. And, of course, another Gourmet dinner created by David is waiting for us.
Day 3: Catalonia's oldest P.R.E Andalusian horse stud
Today's morning is dedicated to the river Fluvia that curls through the countryside. We follow it to the Gulf of Roses where the river flows into the Ocean. David awaits us with a delicious picnic under old cork trees. What a great place to enjoy local delicacies! With renewed energy we mount our horses once again. Amid paddy fields we reach our impressive accommodation for the night: Catalonia's oldest P.R.E. (Pura Rasa Española) Andalusian horse stud.
Wonderful horses and charmingly furnished rooms await us. Tasteful furnishings and a great ambience are perfect for relaxing after a day's riding. In this wonderful atmosphere we are spoiled with delicious paella with seafood and fresh vegetables.
Day 4: Beach Gallop and history of the Spanish horse!
Miles of a sandy beach are ahead of us. A dream comes true: pure horse riding!
The water splashes, sand is everywhere and we gallop through the surf. Our horses play with the waves while we try to stay dry. After this great experience we enjoy a gourmet picnic in the garden of the P.R.E Andalusian horse stud. We have a great view of the gorgeous brown Andalusian horses, grazing on the luscious green grass. We enjoy today's gourmet picnic with the beautiful scenery. After lunch, those who want to can enjoy some relaxation with a massage from our masseuse Cerrie. Later we visit a horse presentation at the stud and get to know the history of the P.R.E. Andalusian horse. We have enough time to look around and relax. Who knows, maybe this is the place where you find your dream horse! We spend another evening at the noble stud and discuss the memories of the day while of course we are served another wonderful gourmet dinner! What flavour experience is waiting for us today? Will David conjure up something with Boletus and Chanterelle, or create a dish with wild boar or deer? Let yourself be surprised!
Having relaxed at the beach and in the ocean, we are taken to Garriguella. Here we visit a Bodega and are introduced to the world of wine. After an adventurous day David awaits with another terrific meal. Later we can relax in the whirlpool or have a massage.
Day 5: Middle-age village of Perelada - Castle and Cava!
We canter and gallop past the village of Castelló with its impressive cathedral. From there we get to the marsh of Aiguamolls which is refuge and hatchery to many birds. Crossing grazing land, we ride speedily and pass fields of vines and sunflowers on our way to Perelada. Here we arrive at the friendly guesthouse of Fina and Pere where we spend the night. The beautiful garden and the swimming pool are perfect for relaxing! We enjoy our picnic and look forward to the afternoon when we will visit the glorious castle and its Bodega. Here we not only learn a lot about Cava but we also have a cava tasting. Salud!
Your body needs a little more wellness? No problem: if you like we can arrange a Spa and Wellness treat for you at the golf hotel in Perelada. Their specialities are treatments with wine, whether a body peel, a massage or a beauty treatment: wine can be used in several ways to refresh your body. If you like more "classical" treatments, there are many offers to choose from!
After another eventful day, David is waiting for us with a terrific meal sweetened by tasty almonds, hazelnuts and walnuts of the region - what a great way to end a perfect day! Another highlight of our day is a tasting of the delicious local wines! We let the evening come to a comfortable end.
Day 6: Wine fields and Bodega visit
The flood plains of the river Llobregat are not only home to a variety of flowers, but also mushrooms like Chanterelle, Boletus and Borel grow here very well.
Our picnic break today includes visiting a bodega. During the wine tasting we get to know the grapes of the region and learn a little more about how their delicious taste ripens and develops.
After this tasty and interesting break we mount our horses again. We pass intricate stone terraces and age-old olive trees line the path.
This is where the regional olive oil comes from, that plays an important role in the Catalan cuisine. On the outskirts of the lovely village Gariguella, our horses arrive at their spacious accommodation. We stay at Emilia's cozy house, where we let the day come to an end. Those who want to can relax in Emilia's Jacuzzi-Spa or enjoy a massage. For dinner David creates another great menu. This time - of course - with the special olive oil and honey from the village!
Day 7: Natural Park Albera-Mediterranean Sea
Age-old olive trees and vineyards influence the landscape in the morning. We get closer to the coastal mountains of Rodas. The light in this wild and fascinating landscape is impressive. We admire the proud formations of the Pyrenees' summits and the deep blue colour of the Mediterranean Sea. Our Andalusian horses climb the mountains brilliantly. In the afternoon we get to a picturesque bay of the "Wild Coast" where David is waiting for us with a mouth-watering picnic on the beach. In the evening we return to Emilia's place. For our last dinner David has come up with a very special idea: a menu with 5 courses that we won't forget in a hurry!
We enjoy the delicious food and celebrate the end of our gourmet trail with local cava and vino tinto. Visca Catalunya!
Day 8: Hasta la Vista!
Breakfast is around 9 am and then we transfer to Barcelona or Girona.
Note to the Itinerary: Reverse itinerary is possible. Subject to changes
Meeting:
Mas Roca
Airport:
Barcelona, Girona
Transfer:
Barcelona at 5 pm, Girona at 6:30 pm
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Tack:
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English
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Horses:
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Andalusian, Andalusian Cross and Spanish
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Pace:
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Moderate with extended trots and nice canters. Some gallops on the beach
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
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Level:
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(3
to
3
out of 5) Intermediate
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Riders:
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Min
4 riders
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Max
8 riders
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 Horses: You can rely on our well trained Andalusian and Spanish Horses. They have a very balanced character and are very sturdy. They are forward going and totally sure-footed on difficult ground. They are fast and powerful in trot and canter.
The Andalusians and Andalusian-cross breeds are well kept. With their loose manes and proudly worn tails, these elegant Andalusians make an adorable holiday partner. We look after the breed appropriately — we take care of our 'Spaniards'. During your holiday you ride well educated, spirited, but balanced and comfortable horses. These Andalusian horses make your riding holiday a unique experience! A rider on a horse is a symbol of being proud in Spain. Spain is rich in equestrian tradition that dates back far beyond the middle ages. You can feel this history when riding through Spain on your holiday.
For centuries Andalusians have fascinated people due to their beauty and nobility. The name PURA RAZA ESPAÑOLA dates back to the beginning of the century. The common name ANDALUSIAN is not a correct indication of the breed and is often used for horses without ancestry certificates and non purebred examples. There are different theories about the development of the today's breed of Spanish horse. However, it is certain that as far back as 300 — 400 years before Christ, the Spanish horse held the same main features as today.
 Equipment: We use only high quality branded English trail saddles. The tack is in very good condition and guarantees you and your horse a relaxed holiday.
Trail riding without transfers: Travel with your horse. Staying in accommodation close to your horse is our philosophy, so on all trails the horses graze nearby. No annoying transfers along winding roads. After an exciting riding day, horses and riders can rest comfortably.
Guides: The trails are carefully developed. On remote paths and lanes our friendly trail guides show you a wonderful and unknown Catalonia, situated in the north east of Spain. The trail leaders are experienced riders and hold a trail leader license. Guides and helpers know the horses, the area and the Catalan/Spanish culture.
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart except:(a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.Note: EU nationals are onl. more
The overall climate of Catalonia is similar to Southern California.
In the spring time temperatures in Catalonia reach 15.9 degrees by day
in March falling at night time to around 6.7 degrees Celsius.
June: temperature averages are in the region of from 15.7 to 24.2 degrees.
In September maximum temperatures are approximately 25.5 degrees and
minimum temperatures are about 16.7 degrees on average. In winter the
climate in Catalonia has average temps by day peaking at 14.3 degrees
Celsius in December. At night time temps fall to a minimum of of 5.7
degrees.
Don’t forget your Passport!
| This list is only an HT general guideline for you |
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Travel documents and Voucher |
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Flight tickets |
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Passport |
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Visa (check with your consulate) |
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RIDING GEAR |
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Normal riding gear, no rubber boots, please |
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Light pants without any strong seams |
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Ankle-high solid shoes with flat heels |
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Long sleeved cotton shirts (sun protection) |
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Riding helmet (recommended for all trips) |
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Light gloves, if wanted |
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Hat (with chin strip) for sun protection |
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PERSONAL CLOTHING |
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Lightweight jacket or vest |
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Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts |
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Jeans |
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Shorts |
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Underwear and socks |
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Pyjama |
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Bag for dirty clothes |
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Trekking boots/ comfortable shoes |
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Swimsuit |
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ADDITIONAL THINGS
TO BRING |
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Personal Toiletries |
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Insect protection |
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Personal medications |
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Sore cream (for the emergency) |
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Sewing kit |
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Handkerchiefs |
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Adapter for electric appliances |
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Camera and enough extra films and batteries |
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Address book and pen (for pictures postcards!) |
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Sun glasses with strap |
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Sun tan lotion and lip balm |
We
recommend wearing jodhpurs, as these protect your legs from soreness of jean
seams, and you will find a light-weight, cotton pair the most comfortable
during the summer months. You may want to bring two pairs.
Your
riding boots should have a sole with a safe tread and be comfortable for
walking, as you are certain to lead your horse on some occasions. Paddock
boots and half-chaps are the most flexible combination for comfort and leg
protection than tall riding boots.
A
long-sleeved shirt is recommended for protection against the sun and against
scratches when riding through undergrowth. A light cotton scarf can help to
avoid breathing in too much dust in dry areas. Bring sunglasses, also to
protect your eyes from dust.
We
strongly recommend bringing a water-bottle which can be refilled en-route;
these can be carried in the saddle-bags provided.
Rain
gear suitable for riding should be carried along, particularly during the
months from November through April. It is essential that you bring good wet
weather gear. Although it rains very little, when it does it is normally
a heavy downpour, consequently a jacket or cape and waterproof trousers are a
good idea.
Good
sun protection - gloves, sunscreen, and hat with a chin strap, sunglasses with
straps!
A
swimsuit, towel, shorts, and a windbreaker should also be taken.
A belt
pack in which to carry your camera and other small valuables during the ride is
handy.
Attire
on the ride daytime and evening, is strictly informal throughout, though if you
are planning to visit other cities on your own later you may wish to bring
dressier evening clothing.
Regular
film can be obtained locally, but special sizes may not be available - bring
plenty. And make sure you have plentiful batteries.
It is
a good idea to bring your own soap, since not all the hotels supply it. There
will be NO opportunity to have laundry done while on the ride.
It is best to pack in soft sided
luggage rather than suitcase styles. It is much more efficient for the
staff to handle and transport!
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
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Tack:
|
|
English
|
|
Horses:
|
|
Andalusian, Andalusian Cross and Spanish
|
|
Pace:
|
|
Moderate with extended trots and nice canters. Some gallops on the beach
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
|
|
Level:
|
|
(3
to
3
out of 5) Intermediate
|
|
Riders:
|
|
Min
4 riders
|
Max
8 riders
|
|
Horses: You can rely on our well trained Andalusian and Spanish Horses. They have a very balanced character and are very sturdy. They are forward going and totally sure-footed on difficult ground. They are fast and powerful in trot and canter.
The Andalusians and Andalusian-cross breeds are well kept. With their loose manes and proudly worn tails, these elegant Andalusians make an adorable holiday partner. We look after the breed appropriately — we take care of our 'Spaniards'. During your holiday you ride well educated, spirited, but balanced and comfortable horses. These Andalusian horses make your riding holiday a unique experience! A rider on a horse is a symbol of being proud in Spain. Spain is rich in equestrian tradition that dates back far beyond the middle ages. You can feel this history when riding through Spain on your holiday.
For centuries Andalusians have fascinated people due to their beauty and nobility. The name PURA RAZA ESPAÑOLA dates back to the beginning of the century. The common name ANDALUSIAN is not a correct indication of the breed and is often used for horses without ancestry certificates and non purebred examples. There are different theories about the development of the today's breed of Spanish horse. However, it is certain that as far back as 300 — 400 years before Christ, the Spanish horse held the same main features as today.
Equipment: We use only high quality branded English trail saddles. The tack is in very good condition and guarantees you and your horse a relaxed holiday.
Trail riding without transfers: Travel with your horse. Staying in accommodation close to your horse is our philosophy, so on all trails the horses graze nearby. No annoying transfers along winding roads. After an exciting riding day, horses and riders can rest comfortably.
Guides: The trails are carefully developed. On remote paths and lanes our friendly trail guides show you a wonderful and unknown Catalonia, situated in the north east of Spain. The trail leaders are experienced riders and hold a trail leader license. Guides and helpers know the horses, the area and the Catalan/Spanish culture.
Passports
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart except:
(a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.
Note: EU nationals are only required to produce evidence of their EU nationality and identity in order to be admitted to any EU Member State. This evidence can take the form of a valid national passport or national identity card. Either is acceptable. Passports held by EU nationals need only be valid upon entry to and exit from Spain. Possession of a return ticket, any length of validity on their document, sufficient funds for the length of their proposed visit should not be imposed.
Passport Note
Spain is a signatory to the 1995 Schengen Agreement.
Visas
Not required by nationals of EU countries regardless of purpose and/or length of stay; 2. not required by nationals of other countries referred to in the chart above for stays of up to 90 days.
Visa Note
Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements
| Passport Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
1 |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
No/2 |
| Canadian |
No/2 |
| USA |
No/2 |
| Other EU |
No |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
No |
| Canadian |
No |
| USA |
No |
| Other EU |
No |
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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Coastal Gourmet Passion Ride
Tour Code:
IT-SPCA01
8 days /
7 nights
~$2,145.00
Dates :
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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