Catalonia Weekend Ride
Catalonia Spain: (IT-SP-CJWE)
URL: http://www.hiddentrails.com/tour/spain_catalonia_getaway.aspx
Introduction
Catalonia
Spain
In today's hectic world where your time is so precious, take two days out of the routine to explore the refreshing, unique and varied Catalonian landscape in Spain! Historical mountain villages, medieval castles, abbeys and churches await you during this weekend getaway. This break from reality offers a wonderful balance of exhilarating horseback riding combined with the excitement of discovery and the welcome of relaxation. The mountain lodge, an 11th century stone farmhouse with commanding views overlooking miles of Spanish wilderness, will be your home for the weekend. The beautiful peaks of the Pyrenees frame the countryside in which you will be exploring aboard your reliable and stunning Andalusian mount. Feel your stresses and strains disappear as you are immersed in Catalonia's rich heritage and warmth. Your adventure will take you alongside Garrotxa Volcanico, one of Europe's largest volcano regions. Explore the mountain ridge of St Julia del Mont with its breathtaking views then get ready for gallops galore through the valley of Santa Pau. Visit the villages of El Torn and El Sallent, walk their narrow winding streets and admire the unique local architecture. Enjoy opportunities to swim or siesta by the large and inviting river pools of the area. Somehow we pack all of this into two unforgettable days, filling as much of Catalonia in as possible and with the thrill of riding the beloved Andalusian horses of Spain.
Combine this weekend ride with a visit to the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Barcelona or nearby Girona and you have a wonderful introduction to beauty that is Northeast Spain!
Accomodation
You will stay at the 17th century country stone house, which has been lovingly restored. As the house is situated on the top of a hill, you can enjoy wonderful vistas of the surrounding countryside.
The farm draws drinking water from its own well, while electricity is generated by a solar power system and a generator.
This trip includes
and can accommodate special dietary requests.
Riding
The Trail Horses
The horses have been specially selected for trail riding. As well as the inherent traits of the Andalusian of stamina agility and good character these horses have been trained on the local terrain to achieve greater resistance and balance.
Due to hard work and good schooling we have developed some extremely hard working and enthusiastic trail horses capable of nimbly climbing mountains crossing rivers swimming in the sea and maintaining long sustained gallops across the plains.
The Andalusian horse dates back many centuries and we find evidence of it as far back as 8th century BC. Although it was slightly smaller than today, the conformation of the Spanish horse was already established and appears in the numerous likenesses in paintings and Mosaics of the pre Christian era. This can be clearly seen in frescos and statues of the Merida arcealogical museum.
Until the 16th century, the Andalusian horse was the most treasured war horse for it’s swiftness and agility in battle, until heavy amour was used and a heavier slower horse was necessary to carry the weight.
Cow sense and courageous, sensible, and sure footed, spirited and fast, it has temperament and beauty, hardiness and valour.
Extraordinarily intelligent and will come to terms with anybody. This is the horse who will carry a child on its back without danger.
Natural horsemanship
This is a very important aspect of our training process. We use these methods when starting young horses and training experienced horses. Generally this philosophy is inherent in all of our handling of the horses when under the saddle, in the stable or on the trail ride.
The horse has to respond to the rider-handler of its own free will because it wants to and not due to pure obligation.
Itinerary
The Weekend Getaway goes from Thursday evening to Sunday morning.
A long weekend filled with riding in the varied countryside of Catalonia. Two full days of trail riding, Friday and Saturday. With the Pyrenees on one side and the Mediterranean in the distance on the other, this is an ideal setting for a refreshing short break! This also combines well with a visit to Barcelona or Girona.
DAY 1:
Transfer from Barcelona at 6:30 PM to Sant Jaume de Llerca and up a narrow winding track through thick forest and Mediterranean "jungle". Perched high up on top of a ridge we come to our destination: An 11th century stone farmhouse with a commanding view over miles of forests and mountains looking out to the snow capped peaks of the Pyrenees. Here you will meet the family, the guide, the cook and of course, the horses that are stabled here. At dinner, the guide will go over the riding days and you will be told about the special characteristics of our Andalusian trail horses. We can discus riding experience and the sort of horse that you would like to ride.
DAY 2 and 3:
After meeting and tacking up your horse, you can enjoy two days of interesting and varied riding. The scenery is spectacular with beautiful panoramic views. You will ride out of the rolling hills onto the River flood plains, ideal for long canters and gallops. The Meadows are rich in scented herbs and wild flowers. Shady rivers make ideal spots to stop for a picnic and a rest. The local villages are unspoiled and the architecture a treat. Stop off on the way at a local bar for a refreshing drink. This region is full of lovely old churches, castles, culture and history. This is a taste of rural Catalonia, a great discovery. The horses are a joy to ride! At the end of a long trail ride they are still enthusiastic about a gallop. At the end of a good days riding, sit on a terrace with a glass of cava looking out on the spectacular views!
Day 4:
Departure after breakfast - transfer back to Barcelona or Girona. Arrival at the airport in Barcelona is estimated around 11:30 AM. If you are staying for an extra few days, there is a good train connection from the airport to the city center.
Rates and Dates for Catalonia Weekend Ride
Rates include:
Accommodations at mountain lodge, all meals, 2 full riding days
Packages and Options
| A | 2009 | 3 day weekend trip, AP | €395 | $595 |
| Single supplement (requested) | €70 | $105 |
| C | 2009 | 3 day weekend trip, AP | €395 | $595 |
| Single supplement (requested) | €70 | $105 |
Transfer Option:
|
2009
|
Transfer from Barcelona airport at 6:30 PM - drop off at 11:30 AM
|
€
85
|
$130
|
|
2009
|
Transfer from Gerona airport at 7:30 PM - drop off at 10:30 AM
|
€
85
|
$130
|
Tour Dates
|
| A |
2009
|
09/24
- 09/27
|
3d / 3n
|
3 day weekend trip, AP
|
2
/10
|
Expired
|
| A |
2009
|
10/01
- 10/04
|
3d / 3n
|
3 day weekend trip, AP
|
2
/10
|
Expired
|
| A |
2009
|
10/08
- 10/11
|
3d / 3n
|
3 day weekend trip, AP
|
2
/10
|
Sold Out
|
| A |
2009
|
10/22
- 10/25
|
3d / 3n
|
3 day weekend trip, AP
|
2
/10
|
Expired
|
| A |
2009
|
10/29
- 11/01
|
3d / 3n
|
3 day weekend trip, AP
|
2
/10
|
Expired
|
| C |
2009
|
11/05
- 11/08
|
3d / 3n
|
3 day weekend trip, AP
|
2
/10
|
Sold Out
|
| C |
2009
|
11/19
- 11/22
|
3d / 3n
|
3 day weekend trip, AP
|
2
/10
|
Expired
|
|
Dates Note:
Other Info
Meeting: Sant Jaume de Llerca
Airport: Barcelona / Girona
Transfer: Barcelona Airport at 6:30 PM or Girona Airport at 7:30 PM
Climate:
|
|
Feb
|
Mar
|
Apr
|
May
|
Jun
|
Jul
|
Aug
|
Sep
|
Oc
|
Nov
|
Dec
|
|
Highest Temperatures in
°C
|
13
|
16
|
18
|
21
|
25
|
28
|
28
|
25
|
20
|
16
|
13
|
|
Hours of daily sunshine
|
5,5
|
6
|
7,5
|
8,5
|
9,5
|
9,5
|
9,5
|
6,5
|
5,5
|
5
|
4
|
|
Days of rain
|
3
|
6
|
6
|
6
|
4
|
3
|
4
|
5
|
6
|
4
|
4
|
|
Temperature of Mediterranean in °C
|
12
|
12
|
13
|
15
|
19
|
21
|
23
|
22
|
19
|
16
|
14
|
What To Bring: Please pack your luggage in one or two soft bags rather than a cumbersome suitcase.
Laundry Facilites and Internet access available at the mountain lodge.
Winter (additional to list above):
- Normal riding gear & rubber boots
- Sturdy shell for wind and rain
- Warm sweater
|
...this list is only a guideline for you
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|
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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 strap) for sun protection
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Rain poncho that fits over saddle and over the boots
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Saddle bags provided
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PERSONAL CLOTHING
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Jacket or sweater for cool evenings
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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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Light shell jacket
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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 an 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 extra batteries
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Address book and pen (for postcards!)
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Sun glasses with strap
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Sun tan lotion and lip balm
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