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Horseback riding tours
Rides in
Spain
Intro to Spain
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Riding in:
France
Spain
Portugal
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Europe Overview
also:
Hiking in Spain
Cycling in Spain
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Bandalero Trail - Volcanoes, Mountains & Canyons
Catalonia
Spain
The horse riding adventure "Bandalero Trail" is based on the biography of the famous "Bandalero" Joan Sala Serrallonga, the Catalonian Robin Hood. In north-east Spain, the bandit Serrallonga wandered around the mountains of Guilleries and Garrotxa during the 17th century. The vast pathless area of woodland offered good hiding places to outlaws. Canyons, table mountains and volcanoes rise up in this wild landscape. Rivers, lakes and waterfalls provide pleasant refreshment. In the picturesque villages there are still stories told about the gangs of thieves and the Catalan rebels. Today we find an incredible riding paradise where outlaws once hid. This is an extremely diversified horse riding trek through massive canyons, table mountains and volcanoes. The trails weave through a marvelous mountain landscapes which
appears rugged or soft depending on the season. The
air is usually pleasantly aromatic and there is peacefulness with only the
sounds of nature. On our ride we explore the high plateau
of Collsacabra, where the merging of the north and south, Mediterranean
Sea and high mountains is a very special sight. Lush
meadows and dense beech forests cover the land. Ferns spread over, the
jungle sprawls and seems to be impermeable. The temperatures are
pleasantly cool, with springs and calm brooks refreshing us on the way. In Spring and Summer
the deep green beech forests blink through grey rock mountains, and on
the 'Indian Summer' days of Autumn the forests shimmer like gold, the
ambiance reminds us of landscapes in Canada. High on top of the edge of the
table mountains we ride to the mountains of Guilleries, home of the
bandit Serrallonga, the Catalonian Robin Hood. The
view from the 'roof top of Catalonia' over the green mountains is
unique. The evergreen and moist landscape is in contrast to the red,
brown and silver grey rocks of the table mountains. We then leave the Guilleries and emerge into the land of volcanoes. The
extinct volcanoes lie there resting until the end of time. Finally trots and canters take us along the brook
"Ser" into the river
"Fluvia" which points us towards the Costa Brava.
Highlights of the trip
- Spring: the soft green of the deciduous forests
- Summer: comfortable climate on the high plateau
- Fall: "Indian Summer"
- Long canters on ancient bandit-trails
- Picnic at the foot of the Table Mountain
- Accomodation in the village Tavertet at the edge of the Table Mountain
- Ride through a diverse, fascinating landscape
- Sunrise at the monastery "El Far", at the highest point of the Table Mountain
- Picnic with view on extinct volcanoes
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Progressive Ride (no camping)
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Meeting:
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St. Joan de Abadeses
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Airport:
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Barcelona
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Transfer:
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Barcelona airport or city
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Riders:
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Min
4 riders
Max
12 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF) 
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2013
Rates include:
Accommodations, most meals, 6 riding days. Transfer from Barcelona.
| A | 2013 | 8 day trip, AP (High) | 8d / 7n | €1394 | $1815 |
| Single supplement | €210 | $275 |
| Young Rider Discount (up to 28 years) | (€139) | ($181) |
| B | 2013 | 8 day trip, AP (Mid) | 8d / 7n | €1295 | $1685 |
| Single supplement | €210 | $275 |
| Young Rider Discount (up to 28 years) | (€130) | ($168) |
| C | 2013 | 8 day trip, AP (Low) | 8d / 7n | €1097 | $1430 |
| Single supplement | €210 | $275 |
| Young Rider Discount (up to 28 years) | (€110) | ($143) |
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
|
$0
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|
2013
|
Catalonia Hotel Tax (MANDATORY) pp
- to be paid locally
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€
7
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$10
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Barcelona Airport transfer at 5 pm at Terminal T1
Barcelona City Centre (at the taxi stand at the statue of Columbus (below the "Rambla" at Port Vell).): Shared Transfer at 5:30 pm.
Return flights from Barcelona Airport after 2:30 pm !
Tour Dates for 2013
Check here for details and availability
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| A |
2013
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05/12
- 05/19
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, AP (High)
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4
/12
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Expired
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| A |
2013
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06/16
- 06/23
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, AP (High)
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4
/12
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Reserve
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| B |
2013
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08/04
- 08/11
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, AP (Mid)
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4
/12
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Reserve
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| A |
2013
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08/25
- 09/01
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, AP (High)
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4
/12
|
Reserve
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| A |
2013
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09/22
- 09/29
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8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (High)
|
4
/12
|
Reserve
|
| B |
2013
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10/27
- 11/03
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, AP (Mid)
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4
/12
|
Reserve
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| C |
2013
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11/24
- 12/01
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip, AP (Low)
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4
/12
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Reserve
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Rates do not include:
2 lunches, drinks and food in bars, alcoholic and soft drinks, coffee at dinner. Gratuities. Entrance fees. Mandatory Hotel Tax in Catalonia - 1 Euro/night
Day 1: Spain/Catalonia, Barcelona, Girona
We will meet the riders in Barcelona or Girona in the afternoon. The transfer brings us into the mountains. Deep in the Spanish Pyrenees, at the foot of the mountain range of Cavallera, there is the small mountain village of St. Joan de Abadeses. This is the starting point of our trail of bandits. During our first meal together (around 9 pm) we get to know our guide and chat about the upcoming horse riding trek.
Day 2: High mountains of the Pyrenees
The horses are saddled and we mount up. The trail weaves through a marvelous mountain landscape which appears rugged or soft depending on the season. The air is pleasantly aromatic and there is peacefulness with only the sounds of nature. High above on a mountain range a small roman church enjoys an incomparably beautiful position and invites us for a picnic. In a little mountain village we stay overnight in a cozy guesthouse, where Joan serves us the 'best' Paella.
Day 3: High plateau
We are riding to the high plateau of Collsacabra, where the merging of the north and south, Mediterranean Sea and high mountains is a very special sight. Lush meadows and dense beech forests cover the land. Ferns spread over, the jungle sprawls and seems to be impermeable. The temperatures are pleasantly cool, with springs and calm brooks refreshing us on the way. In the heart of the high plateau there is the remote but very cozy riding farm of Jordi. Here we can only hear the wind in the trees, the singing of the cicadas and the splashing of the brook. In the evening we enjoy a bandit's menu and a glass of wine at an old wooden table, while Joan tells Catalonian stories of desperadoes.
Day 4: Canyons and table mountains
Brilliantly our agile "Andalusians" climb over an overwhelming landscape. In Spring and Summer the deep green beech forests blink through grey rock mountains, and on the 'Indian Summer' days of Autumn the forests shimmer like gold, the ambiance reminds us of landscapes in Canada. Vast cattle meadows give us amazing views over valleys and mountains and we stop for a picnic in the open air 'Restaurante Buffalo'.
After lunch speedily in trot and canter we approach the abundant table mountains. Here we see canyons and waterfalls and hear the calling of birds of prey that sail above. Like an eagle's nest the small village of Tavertet is located majestically on the edge of a table mountain, where we have a beautiful view looking down at a canyon lake that shines in a deep green below us.
Day 5: Home of Serrallonga
High on top of the edge of the table mountains we ride to the mountains of Guilleries, home of the bandit Serrallonga, the Catalonian Robin Hood. The view from the 'roof top of Catalonia' over the green mountains is unique. The evergreen and moist landscape is in contrast to the red, brown and silver grey rocks of the table mountains. At a clearing we rest and feel like 'Outlaws' from long ago, then we continue our trek through a mystical jungle like area with ferns that cover the path. At the highest point of the table mountain the monastery 'El Far' rises up majestically. It is one of the most beautiful viewpoints of Catalonia. We stay here overnight and wake the next morning to the sun rising up over the sea.
Day 6: Garrotxa, Land of the volcanoes
We leave the Guilleries and emerge into the land of volcanoes. The landscape is well cultivated but also has a wildness about it. The extinct volcanoes lie there resting until the end of time. The last eruption was some thousand years ago and only the black lava and some craters remind us of the explosions. In the medieval village Santa Pau we find cozy accommodation.
Day 7: Costa Brava
We trot and canter along the brook "Ser" and leave the area of Garrotxa. The brook leads into the river "Fluvia" which points us towards the Costa Brava. Stone oaks and pines are the dominant trees here and under their pleasant shade we enjoy our "Bandalero" picnic. After a long and diversified trail we reach a guest farm. During our farewell dinner we talk about the adventures of our horse riding trek.
Day 8: Hasta la vista!
After breakfast (approx 9 am) we say goodbye and transfer to Girona or Barcelona.
Note: Depending of the time of year, weather conditions and national holidays, the horse riding trek can be ridden in both directions! There may be alterations to this program.
Meeting:
St. Joan de Abadeses
Airport:
Barcelona
Transfer:
Barcelona airport or city
Barcelona Airport transfer at 5 pm at Terminal T1
Barcelona City Centre (at the taxi stand at the statue of Columbus (below the "Rambla" at Port Vell).): Shared Transfer at 5:30 pm.
Return flights from Barcelona Airport after 2:30 pm !
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Tack:
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English Trekking
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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. Daily 5-7 hours in the saddle, total distance about 220 km/140 miles
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
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Level:
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(3.5
to
4
out of 5) Strong Intermediate
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Riders:
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Min
4 riders
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Max
12 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. On the riding holiday, you will be expected to tack up and un-tack your own horse each day; it helps you bond with your animal on the trail!
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.
Not included in price
- Flight or public transport (on arrival and on departure), taxi
- Entrance fees to Museums and Monuments, Vineyards and Wine/Cava cellars (Bodegas)
- Drinks / food in bars
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Coffee at dinner
- Lunch on 2 days (cost of restaurant approx €10 - €20)
Add on a City Tour
Interested in a city tour with a local on your arrival or before coming back?
Our partners "Urban Adventures" offer half day or full day city tours with a difference!
In just a few hours they get under the skin of the city you're visiting - so you know it like a local!
Hidden Trails clients get a 10% Discount off all city tours, just use the promo code "HIDDENTRAILS" when booking your tour.
Barcelona City Tours
Passport and Visa Requirements:
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.
Riding Helmet/Hat
Some riding helmets are very lightweight and are vented, which means
they are more comfortable in hot weather, we have a limited supply of
basic helmets so we advise that you bring your own.
Riding Footwear
A pair of comfortable boots with a good grip is very important. There
are boots on the market which you can use for riding but are also
excellent if the terrain dictates that you walk beside your horse for a
while. We recommend an ankle boot with half-leg chaps as they are a
favorite for comfort both while riding and walking.
For the Trail of Bandits, Paths of Herdsmen and Sweet & Saltwater
Trails you should definitely bring good walking boots and half-chaps. In
the mountains you will need to lead your horse downhill on rocky
terrain!
Riding Trousers
Riding trousers or jodhpurs together with half-leg chaps will ensure you
are comfortable for long hours in the saddle. Two pairs of trousers or
jodhpurs are usually enough.
Important Extras
Riding gloves, personal toiletries (towels are usually provided in your accommodation).
You will have saddle bags for riding, but a waist bag is always handy to
carry your camera and small items whilst riding. A camera with a
zoom-lens will ensure you capture the best images of your holiday. As
well as your camera you must remember to take spare batteries.
A torch on trail may well come in handy. A few plastic bags will
definitely be useful to protect items which may suffer from water
damage.
Sun protection, this is essential and we recommend that you carry a
small tube or stick with you so you can re-apply it throughout the day.
You may need to pack a good quality insect repellent, some have a much
higher percentage of DEET and a spray or stick will be easier to use.
Please remember to bring a water bottle (1 litre).
Medical Kit
It is advisable to travel with a small medical kit that includes any
basic remedies you may need such as antacids, painkillers,
anti-inflammatories such as Ibuprofen, antihistamines and cold remedies.
It might be wise to take anti-diarrhoea medication such as Imodium. If
you wear prescription glasses or contact lenses you might want to take
some spares.
Hot weather
You will need long sleeved shirts to protect against the sun as well as a couple of cotton t- shirts.
Remember that the Spanish (mountain) sun is strong and you can burn
quickly. Wide brimmed hats are preferable to baseball caps for sun
protection at the picnic. Both sunglasses (elastic is useful to keep
them in place whilst riding) and a good quality sunscreen (rated SPF15
or higher) should be used including lip salve. For those fair skinned it
may be wise to take a complete sun-block.
A pair of flip flops, swimming costume and shorts for when you get a
chance to relax. It may get chilly in the evening even on hot days, so a
fleece is a must and a lightweight jacket may be useful.
You should be prepared for all weather conditions in the mountains as
well as during spring, autumn and winter on any trail. A waterproof mac
or poncho will not take up much space but may prove very handy.
Winter Riding/Cold Weather
For trails where the weather is inclement, it is vital that you pack
correct clothing to keep you warm and dry. Silk vests and thermal
underwear will be a good base followed by layers of warm clothes. A good
waterproof/windproof coat will prove a good investment. Waterproof
trousers and waterproof gloves are light to pack and will be invaluable
if it is really wet. Plenty of socks and a spare pair of boots are a
good idea.
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.
..view other reports for different trips
On the trail you stay overnight in carefully chosen country guest
houses, pensions and friendly family-run hotels. Sorry some of them are fairly remote and do not have Wifi access yet, but this is changing with time.
Your hosts spoil you with delicious Catalan and Spanish food. Delectable
fish, meat and vegetarian dishes are served. Enjoy the different
regional wines with your meal - you will surely love Garnacha and
Carinena!
During the trails our Catalan helper 'Joan' or his assistant, will
surprise us with delicious picnics.
In "Restaurante Buffalo", under the
open skies, you can enjoy an excellent 3-course meal including cava,
wine and water. On days where the picnic is in a remote place, we will
take the picnic with us in the saddle bags.
This trip includes
and can accommodate special dietary requests.
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Tack:
|
|
English Trekking
|
|
Horses:
|
|
Andalusian, Andalusian Cross and Spanish
|
|
Pace:
|
|
Moderate with extended trots and nice canters. Daily 5-7 hours in the saddle, total distance about 220 km/140 miles
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
|
|
Level:
|
|
(3.5
to
4
out of 5) Strong Intermediate
|
|
Riders:
|
|
Min
4 riders
|
Max
12 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. On the riding holiday, you will be expected to tack up and un-tack your own horse each day; it helps you bond with your animal on the trail!
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.
Not included in price
- Flight or public transport (on arrival and on departure), taxi
- Entrance fees to Museums and Monuments, Vineyards and Wine/Cava cellars (Bodegas)
- Drinks / food in bars
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Coffee at dinner
- Lunch on 2 days (cost of restaurant approx €10 - €20)
Add on a City Tour
Interested in a city tour with a local on your arrival or before coming back?
Our partners "Urban Adventures" offer half day or full day city tours with a difference!
In just a few hours they get under the skin of the city you're visiting - so you know it like a local!
Hidden Trails clients get a 10% Discount off all city tours, just use the promo code "HIDDENTRAILS" when booking your tour.
Barcelona City Tours
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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Bandalero Trail - Volcanoes, Mountains & Canyons
Tour Code:
IT-SPCA03
8 days /
7 nights
~$1,815.00
Dates :
May to Nov
Trip Rating :
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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