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Culture & Beaches of Catalonia
Catalonia
Spain
Picturesque Catalan village, varied scenery and the gallop of your life on through crystal surf on a deserted beach.
The Ampurdan region of Spain is
brimming with culture, history and natural diversity, making it the
perfect destination for those who enjoy culture, history and beaches
with their horseback experience. From the mountains to the sea, your
handsome Andalusian horse will introduce you to the beauty of Catalonia.
Immerse yourself in the contrasting colors that have inspired centuries
of painters including vivid green hills, multicolored fields of
flowers, blue rivers, sea and sky and the reddish brown and black of the
volcanic rock. The exhilarating beach, coast and mountain trail continues to provide a wonderful ride through the beautiful natural of Spain’s Ampurdan region. Each hour passes excitedly, accompanied by beautiful villages, castles and churches. Follow lush hidden valleys and their meandering rivers, cross green
hills and mountains and travel through rolling hills and fields of
wheat, poppies and sunflowers. Along the way discover unspoiled medieval villages (like Besalu, Crespia and Bascara) and rolling hills of diverse flora, including wild and aromatic herbs. As you gallop long coastal planes you are grateful for the great company of horse, guide and group: to experience this alone would mean not being able to share it. This trail contains the classic formula for an unbelievable and unforgettable ride, don’t miss out!
This trip affords magnificent hill top views that
stretch over valleys to the bright sea and will create love at first sight for the traveler, from the mountains to
the beaches and everywhere in between.
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Progressive Ride (no camping)
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Meeting:
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San Jaume de Llierca
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Airport:
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Barcelona / Girona
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Transfer:
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Barcelona airport 6:30 PM
Girona 7:30 PM
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Riders:
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Min
6 riders
Max
10 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF) 
Trip Rating
Video
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Rates and Dates for 2012
Rates include:
Accommodations, meals, 6 riding days
| A | 2012 | 8 day trip, AP (Low Season) | 8d / 7n | €1070 | $1435 |
| Single supplement (requested) | €165 | $225 |
| Mar 11, Oct 28, Nov 11 Discount | (€90) | ($115) |
| 2-week Combo Discount | (€75) | ($100) |
| B | 2012 | 8 day trip, AP (July dates) | 8d / 7n | €1160 | $1555 |
| Single supplement (requested) | €165 | $225 |
| 2-week Combo Discount | (€75) | ($100) |
| C | 2012 | 8 day trip, AP (Peak Season) | 8d / 7n | €1230 | $1650 |
| Single supplement (requested) | €165 | $225 |
| 2-week Combo Discount | (€75) | ($100) |
Reg. Transfer fees are waived for Groups of 9 or 10 riders
Transfer Option:
|
2012
|
Transfer from Barcelona airport at 6:30 PM - drop off at 11:30 AM
|
€
80
|
$110
|
|
2012
|
Transfer from Gerona airport at 7:30 PM - drop off at 10:30 AM
|
€
80
|
$110
|
Transfer from Barcelona airport at 6:30 PM - it is not possible to pick up from downtown, but there is a good commuter train available.
The drop off at the airport is at 11:30 AM. If you have to be there earlier, you will have to hire a private transfer at approx Euro 230.
Tour Dates for 2012
Check here for details and availability
|
| C |
2012
|
03/25
- 04/01
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (Peak Season)
|
6
/10
|
Expired
|
| C |
2012
|
04/15
- 04/22
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (Peak Season)
|
6
/10
|
Expired
|
| C |
2012
|
05/13
- 05/20
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (Peak Season)
|
6
/10
|
Expired
|
| C |
2012
|
05/20
- 05/27
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (Peak Season)
|
6
/10
|
Expired
|
| C |
2012
|
06/03
- 06/10
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (Peak Season)
|
6
/10
|
Reserve
|
| C |
2012
|
06/10
- 06/17
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (Peak Season)
|
6
/10
|
Sold Out
|
| C |
2012
|
06/17
- 06/24
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (Peak Season)
|
6
/10
|
Reserve
|
| C |
2012
|
06/24
- 07/01
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (Peak Season)
|
6
/10
|
Reserve
|
| B |
2012
|
07/01
- 07/08
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (July dates)
|
6
/10
|
Sold Out
|
| B |
2012
|
07/08
- 07/15
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (July dates)
|
6
/10
|
Reserve
|
| B |
2012
|
07/15
- 07/22
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (July dates)
|
6
/10
|
Sold Out
|
| B |
2012
|
07/22
- 07/29
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (July dates)
|
6
/10
|
Reserve
|
| C |
2012
|
09/02
- 09/09
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (Peak Season)
|
6
/10
|
Reserve
|
| C |
2012
|
09/30
- 10/07
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (Peak Season)
|
6
/10
|
Reserve
|
| C |
2012
|
10/14
- 10/21
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (Peak Season)
|
6
/10
|
Reserve
|
| C |
2012
|
10/21
- 10/28
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (Peak Season)
|
6
/10
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2012
|
10/28
- 11/04
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (Low Season)
|
6
/10
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2012
|
11/04
- 11/11
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (Low Season)
|
6
/10
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2012
|
11/11
- 11/18
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (Low Season)
|
6
/10
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2012
|
11/18
- 11/25
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (Low Season)
|
6
/10
|
Reserve
|
|
|
Rates do not include:
Non rider rates do not include lunches or transfers between locations - need to rent a car.
Day 1: Arrival
Pick up from the airport in Barcelona at 6:30 PM. After a 1.5 hr drive north we enter a winding mountain track to the lodge and riding center, an 11th century farmhouse perched high up on a ridge overlooking the Pyrenees. Here you will meet the family, the guide and the team. At dinner the guide will go over the week’s program, you will be told about the special characteristics of our specialized Andalusian trail horses. After dinner you will be given an introduction to the weeks program with an opportunity for a one-on-one conversation designed to find every rider their perfect horse. Finally you will discover how to play the ´Champagne Rules’- anyone found guilty of holding up the ride at any point having to buy a bottle of local cava for the group that evening, making for lively dinners!
Day 2: The Journey Begins
Today we saddle up and ride out through the mountains, during the morning we pass through the scented oak forests above beautiful ravines that so characterise this mountainous region known as the Garrotxa. After lunch on the banks of the river Fluvia, we continue through scenery of rolling hills and pine forests dotted with interesting little villages with Romanesque churches. This region is steeped in history. By now the stamina and agility of the Andalucian horses starts to become evident. In the evening a delicious super awaits us, you will taste the fine regional cooking, prepared by our hosts Miquel and Magalie of Mas Torrent a charming rural Inn.
Day 3: MILES (into the Empurdan)
Today is a long day in the saddle. With lots of long canters and gallops through the lower Ampurdán pine forests. Every hour we pass another beautiful village, castles, churches, arches, tunnels, old wooden doors with wrought iron knockers, the beauty of the stonework of the past. As the afternoon draws on you can sense the proximity to the coast and at last we arrive at the Mediterranean,the beautiful gulf of Rosas stretches before us. Our hotel for the night is right on the beach.
Day 4: VAMOS A LA PLAYA !!! and the DALI theater museum
After an early start, we trot our horses 1 km down to the beach. The long curve of the bay of Rosas stretches before us, kilometers of golden sand. Here we enjoy some excellent canters and gallops on the beach. After the beach ride we head inland again following the river Fluviá, past a bird sanctuary where we can sea flocks of migrating birds. The terrain is flat with lots of peach, pears, and apple orchards. The pace today is lively. By lunchtime we arrive at our destination Castellon d´Empurias. From here you can easily go down to the beach and have another afternoon- evening swim. Or you can go to Figueres to visit the famous Dali-museum, you can explore Castellon d´Empurias and do some shopping. Castellon d´Empurias is a lively cathedral town where we can enjoy some excellent tapas and cold drinks on one of the nice terraces and the local nightlife.
Day 5: BOADELLA
After an excellent breakfast on the magnificent roof-top terrace of the hotel over-looking the cathedral with the Mediterranean on one side and the gentle curve of the Pyrenees on the other, we saddle up again to continue our journey back to the mountains. Today the riding is spectacular, once more a lively pace as we trot and canter out across the planes, through fields, meadows, and Mediterranean woodland rife with the scents of wild herbs and flowers. In the afternoon we ride through olive groves and vineyards and past the lake of Boadella, on the edge of which we find our accommodation for the night. “La central” an art nouveau palace of blue ceramic tiled towers a haven of peace and tranquillity, a exclusive Spa Hotel, renound for its delicious cuisine Hydro massage pool and relaxing saunas, very welcome after 4 days in the saddle.
Day 6: BACK INTO THE MOUNTAINS
Now the stamina and agility of our Andalucian horses becomes evident. The morning starts with a long ascent back up to the craggy peaks of the Alta Garrotxa. This is a region of cork oak forests where the Rioja region comes to buy its wine corks, once again we are in a different type of countryside, a beautiful mountain wilderness. Before lunch we lead our horses along a winding forest track. Then a glorious picnic with a view over the varied and beautiful landscape that we have ridden through. By evening we arrive in the enchanted valley of Riu a paradise of mountain meadows surrounded by craggy peaks, where the goat herds are watched over by hungry vultures and eagles. Here we stable the horses for the night, and go back to Can Jou for another delicious dinner.
Day 7: Heading for the base camp
Back to the horses again by car. From here the view is spectacular, majestic peaks all around on every horizon. The morning is spent winding our way down into the gorge of Sadernas, above a gushing mountain river of crystalline water that has carved out splendid forms in the rock. Lunch is wonderful, a picnic by a Romanesque bridge that spans a huge rockpool, a swim before lunch is a must. In the afternoon we are down on the flood plains these we cross at a lively pace to climb once more back up to the heights and our base, where a warm welcome and a delicious supper awaits us. After six days of riding and adventure we toast to the horse and our new found friends, and to life.
Day 8: Adios Amigos
Breakfast and departure and we hope to see each other again soon!
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
Meeting:
San Jaume de Llierca
Airport:
Barcelona / Girona
Transfer:
Barcelona airport 6:30 PM
Girona 7:30 PM
Distance:
88 / 25 miles
Transfer from Barcelona airport at 6:30 PM - it is not possible to pick up from downtown, but there is a good commuter train available.
The drop off at the airport is at 11:30 AM. If you have to be there earlier, you will have to hire a private transfer at approx Euro 230.
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Tack:
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English, Spanish
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|
Horses:
|
|
Andalusian, Andalusian Crosses and various Spanish breeds
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|
Pace:
|
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6 days lively and varied riding at different paces with long canters covering 18 to 22 miles in approx 5 hrs per day
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
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Level:
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(3
to
3
out of 5) Intermediate+
|
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Riders:
|
|
Min
6 riders
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Max
10 riders
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Dunes, plains, cliffs, beach gallop, medieval villages, rice fields, rolling hills, forests, local fish dishes, Mediterranean countryside, long canters, active.
HORSES AND TACK
The horses used are well schooled pure or crossbred Andalusians. They
have all been carefully chosen and most are between 14.2hh (150cm) and
16hh (165cm) and are of a medium build. They are sure-footed, fit,
forward going, responsive to ride and well adapted to the requirements
of the sometimes rough terrain.
The horses are all trained using natural horsemanship techniques which
helps to create an enthusiastic, good natured horse that is keen to
collaborate with its rider, and really enjoys its work.
The tack is English and trekking style and most horses are ridden in
snaffles. We use English saddles and trekking saddles. Saddle bags are
provided to carry items required during the day and for picnic lunches.
A great deal of time has been spent selecting and training the horses
for these trekking routes. Not too boisterous to be difficult for lower
level riders, yet with enough spark to make an enjoyable ride to
experienced riders. The majority of the horses used are Andalusian and
Andalusian crosses, interspersed with other various beautiful Spanish
breeds.
The horses live outside all the year round in a herd to helps to create a
psychologically balanced animal well adapted to the necessities of
trail riding and group riding. The herd of horses naturally adapts well
to the rhythm of a trail ride, traveling up to 30km a day from place to
place as a wild herd would do when looking for food and water.
Daily return to the center at the trail's end. Varied scenery, ride to
rural villages, swim in the river pools, mini trail taster, tapas. Local
culture, trip to Girona, the old city.
Full inventory of our rides in Catalonia: Catalonia Rides Comparison
THE RIDING AND PREPARATION
As with all rides, to participate in these trips you must be a
reasonably competent rider (English style). You should be well
balanced, comfortable and secure in the saddle and able to control a
well-schooled horse outside at all paces. Riders are expected to be
able to cope with a variety of different going and different types of
terrain. All the rides are aimed at reasonably capable riders, who are
also fairly fit and riding regularly.
Participants are expected to ride regularly in the months before they go
to ensure they can cope with the hours in the saddle. There are also
places on the rides where you will need to dismount and lead your horse -
if the ground gets rough or steep, and for a short time to warm the
horses up and cool them down each day. Riders are expected to groom and
tack up their own horse each day in preparation for rides.
Your guide will go over the week's program when you first arrive
(usually at dinner on the first night), explaining the special
characteristics of the Andalusian trail horse and of the tack used, then
discussing each rider's ability, experience and their preference as to
the kind of horse they would like to ride.
Natural Horsemanship course are available throughout the year !
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.
Untitled 2
SPECIFICALLY
FROM OUR PARTNER IN CATALONIA:
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!
Don’t forget your Passport!
| This list is only a guideline for you |
| |
|
Travel documents and Voucher |
|
Flight tickets |
|
Passport |
|
Visa (check with your consulate) |
| |
|
RIDING GEAR |
|
Normal riding gear, no rubber boots, please |
|
Light pants without any strong seams |
|
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 |
| |
|
PERSONAL CLOTHING |
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Lightweight jacket or vest |
|
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 |
|
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 |
|
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 |
*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 will stay at charming hotels selected for their character and comfort as well as for their delicious cuisine. The home base (for first and last nights) is at a lovely restored 11th century stone farmhouse which has been converted into a rural lodge. As the lodge is situated on the top of a beautiful hill, you can enjoy wonderful vistas of the surrounding countryside from all sides. The farm draws drinking water from its own well, while electricity is generated by a solar power system and a generator. Catalonia produces an extraordinary variety of foodstuffs for you to enjoy: wild mushrooms and game from the Pyrenees, the trinity of olives, grapes and wheat from the hilly heartland, all manner of fruits, vegetables, and nuts from the irrigated lowlands, rice and fish from the river deltas, and a great variety of fish and shellfish from Catalonia’s 500 km of coastline.
This trip includes
and can accommodate special dietary requests.
|
Tack:
|
|
English, Spanish
|
|
Horses:
|
|
Andalusian, Andalusian Crosses and various Spanish breeds
|
|
Pace:
|
|
6 days lively and varied riding at different paces with long canters covering 18 to 22 miles in approx 5 hrs per day
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
|
|
Level:
|
|
(3
to
3
out of 5) Intermediate+
|
|
Riders:
|
|
Min
6 riders
|
Max
10 riders
|
|
Dunes, plains, cliffs, beach gallop, medieval villages, rice fields, rolling hills, forests, local fish dishes, Mediterranean countryside, long canters, active.
HORSES AND TACK
The horses used are well schooled pure or crossbred Andalusians. They
have all been carefully chosen and most are between 14.2hh (150cm) and
16hh (165cm) and are of a medium build. They are sure-footed, fit,
forward going, responsive to ride and well adapted to the requirements
of the sometimes rough terrain.
The horses are all trained using natural horsemanship techniques which
helps to create an enthusiastic, good natured horse that is keen to
collaborate with its rider, and really enjoys its work.
The tack is English and trekking style and most horses are ridden in
snaffles. We use English saddles and trekking saddles. Saddle bags are
provided to carry items required during the day and for picnic lunches.
A great deal of time has been spent selecting and training the horses
for these trekking routes. Not too boisterous to be difficult for lower
level riders, yet with enough spark to make an enjoyable ride to
experienced riders. The majority of the horses used are Andalusian and
Andalusian crosses, interspersed with other various beautiful Spanish
breeds.
The horses live outside all the year round in a herd to helps to create a
psychologically balanced animal well adapted to the necessities of
trail riding and group riding. The herd of horses naturally adapts well
to the rhythm of a trail ride, traveling up to 30km a day from place to
place as a wild herd would do when looking for food and water.
Daily return to the center at the trail's end. Varied scenery, ride to
rural villages, swim in the river pools, mini trail taster, tapas. Local
culture, trip to Girona, the old city.
Full inventory of our rides in Catalonia: Catalonia Rides Comparison
THE RIDING AND PREPARATION
As with all rides, to participate in these trips you must be a
reasonably competent rider (English style). You should be well
balanced, comfortable and secure in the saddle and able to control a
well-schooled horse outside at all paces. Riders are expected to be
able to cope with a variety of different going and different types of
terrain. All the rides are aimed at reasonably capable riders, who are
also fairly fit and riding regularly.
Participants are expected to ride regularly in the months before they go
to ensure they can cope with the hours in the saddle. There are also
places on the rides where you will need to dismount and lead your horse -
if the ground gets rough or steep, and for a short time to warm the
horses up and cool them down each day. Riders are expected to groom and
tack up their own horse each day in preparation for rides.
Your guide will go over the week's program when you first arrive
(usually at dinner on the first night), explaining the special
characteristics of the Andalusian trail horse and of the tack used, then
discussing each rider's ability, experience and their preference as to
the kind of horse they would like to ride.
Natural Horsemanship course are available throughout the year !
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.
|
|
|
|
Culture & Beaches of Catalonia
Tour Code:
PR-CJTW-B
8 days /
7 nights
~$1,435.00
Dates :
Feb - Nov
Trip Rating :
Difficulty :
Lodging:
Introduction
Day to Day Itinerary
Rates | Dates
Accomodation
Tack:
English, Spanish
Horses:
Andalusian, Andalusian Crosses and var...
Pace:
6 days lively and varied riding at dif...
Walk,
Trot,
Canter,
Airport:
Barcelona / Girona
Location on Google Map
Video
Image Gallery
Image Slide Show
Customer Trip Rating
Climate
What To Bring
Download tour PDF
|