|
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
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ride and Swim in Catalonia
Catalonia
Spain
A Special trail from the Pyrenees to the Mediterranean Sea with daily opportunities to swim in fresh water lakes, rivers and finally in the salt water sea. On one day we can even swim with our horses. We pass through deep stone oak and pine forests on secluded paths, where we find our first pool deep within the Mediterranean forest, where a waterfall splashes from high above. The atmosphere reminds us of Costa Rica. On long canters we pass through the valley of the river Fluvia up to the foot hills of the Pyrenees. Here we enter deep into a mixed forest providing shade. At the mountain stream Manol we again discover a huge pool - perfect for swimming! Deeper and deeper we ride into the nature reserve of Garrotxa and then descend to the most beautiful natural pool in the Pre-Pyrenees, with turquoise and crystal clear river water, where we swim and have a picnic! Following high paths with beautiful views of the Mediterranean, we come to a new vegetation zone - chestnut and cork oak forests cover the mountains here. In the middle of the Pyrenees we stay overnight in the pretty wooden houses of Can Roquet. We take a dip in the pool and while we are having our evening meal on the terrace, we have a fantastic panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. The next day our swim will be in a mountain lake and it's a dream comes true - we can go for a swim with the horses! The next day we quickly trot through a soft hilly landscape with its broad forests and meadows. The sweet smelling pine forest and the soil with a tinge of red remind us of Arizona. In front of us, the plateau of the Alt Emporda opens. We ride quickly to the nature reserve of the Albera mountains and discover the "Gorga Negra", a dark pool with lovely cool water, where we have a swim and a cowboy picnic. Through countryside with large round stones, which resembles Africa, we arrive to the village of Espolla, where we stay overnight in the old castle of the village. Finally the next day we reach the Mediterranean. Our strong Andalusian horses manage the mountains easily and in the afternoon we descend to the picturesque fisherman's bay. We have reached salt water and can have a swim in the sea! On the terrace of the hotel we conclude the wonderful trail with good wine and a delicious meal.
Highlights of the trip
- Ride through peaceful forests of stone oak and cork trees
- Wonderful long gallops through the wide lowlands of the river Fluvia
- A unique experience: swimming with the horses
- Breathtaking panoramic view on the peaks of the Pyrenees
- Refreshing bath at the "Gorga Negra"
|
Progressive Ride (no camping)
|
|
Meeting:
|
La Palma
|
|
Airport:
|
Barcelona, Girona
|
|
Transfer:
|
Barcelona or Girona
|
|
Riders:
|
Min
4 riders
Max
12 riders
|
|
Trip Brochure (PDF) 
Trip Rating
|
|
|
|
Rates and Dates for 2013
Rates include:
Accommodations, meals with table wine, 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) | ($169) |
| 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:
|
2013
|
Transfer included from Barcelona at 5 PM, last day drop off around 11:30 AM
|
€
0
|
$0
|
|
2013
|
Transfer included from Girona at 6:30 PM, last day drop off around 11:30 AM
|
€
0
|
$0
|
|
2013
|
Catalonia Hotel Tax (MANDATORY) pp
- to be paid locally
|
€
7
|
$10
|
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
|
| A |
2013
|
05/19
- 05/26
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (High)
|
4
/12
|
Expired
|
| A |
2013
|
06/02
- 06/09
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (High)
|
4
/12
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2013
|
06/16
- 06/23
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (High)
|
4
/12
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2013
|
06/30
- 07/07
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (High)
|
4
/12
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2013
|
07/14
- 07/21
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (High)
|
4
/12
|
Reserve
|
| B |
2013
|
07/21
- 07/28
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (Mid)
|
4
/12
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2013
|
08/11
- 08/18
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (High)
|
4
/12
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2013
|
08/18
- 08/25
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (High)
|
4
/12
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2013
|
09/01
- 09/08
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (High)
|
4
/12
|
Reserve
|
| B |
2013
|
10/13
- 10/20
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP (Mid)
|
4
/12
|
Reserve
|
|
|
Rates do not include:
Drinks and food in bars. Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks. Coffee at dinner. Mandatory Hotel Tax in Catalonia - 1 Euro/night
Day 1: La Palma
Day 2: Mediterranean jungle
Day 3: Pyrenees
Day 4: Turquoise pool
Day 5: Swimming with the horses
Day 6: Nature reserve Albera
Day 7: Salt water
Day 8: Hasta la vista
Day 1: Arrival - La Palma
Arrival in Barcelona or Girona and transfer to our base, La Palma, a country hotel with a large pool situated beautifully at the riverside. A delicious evening meal and overnight stay with views of the surrounding horse meadows and forests. The unique light transforms the surroundings into a picturesque painting!
Day 2: Mediterranean Jungle
From the horse riding farm Mas Alba we pass through deep stone oak and pine forests on secluded paths. A lovely quietness surrounds us - now our holiday can start! Unexpectedly, we find our first pool deep within the Mediterranean forest where a waterfall splashes from high above. The atmosphere reminds us of Costa Rica - we have a bathe and then a picnic. In the afternoon we reach the small paradise "La Palma". Those who want to can go for a refreshing bathe in the pool.
Day 3: Pyrenees
With long canters we pass through the broad valley of the river Fluvia up to the foot hills of the Pyrenees. Here we enter deep into a mixed forest providing shade. At the mountain stream Manol we discover a huge pool, where we have a picnic and swimming! Afterwards our Spanish horses climb safely and diligently over a pass with a fantastic panoramic view of the high peaks of the Pyrenees. We stay overnight close to a beautiful mountain village on the edge of the river Muga. David´s style of cooking will impress you.
Day 4: Turquoise pool
Deeper and deeper we ride into the nature reserve of Garrotxa. We stop in front of impressive looking lime rocks. We descend to the most beautiful natural pool in the Pre-Pyrenees, with turquoise and crystal clear river water where we have swimming and a picnic! On the high paths there are beautiful views of the Mediterranean and we come to a new vegetation zone - chestnut and cork oak forests cover the mountains here. In the middle of the Pyrenees we stay overnight in the pretty wooden houses of Can Roquet. We take a dip in the pool and while we are having our evening meal on the terrace, we have a fantastic panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.
Day 5: Swimming with the horses
Today we want to bathe in the lake. We pass through a cork oak forest which gives out a silver, shimmering light. The sandy ground invites us to lively canters and soon we have reached our bathing place. It's a dream comes true - we can go for a swim with the horses! After a picnic and a siesta we follow the lake until we come to our comfortable accommodation. Only the sounds of the crickets and the splashing of the stream interrupt the relaxing peacefulness of the forest.
Day 6: Nature reserve Albera
We quickly trot through a soft hilly landscape with its broad forests and meadows. The sweet smelling pine forest and the soil with a tinge of red remind us of Arizona.
In front of us, the plateau of the Alt Emporda opens. We ride quickly to the nature reserve of the Albera mountains and discover the "Gorga negra", a dark pool with lovely cool water, where we have swimming and a cowboy's picnic.
Through countryside with large round stones, which resembles Africa, we arrive at the village Espolla. We stay overnight in the old castle of the village.
Day 7: Salt water - Mediterranean Sea
Ancient olive trees and vineyards dominate the countryside this morning and we come near to the coastal mountains of Rodas, where the light in this wild and fascinating countryside is impressive. We look at the proud formation of the Pyreneean peaks and onto the deep blue of the Mediterranean. Our strong Andalusian horses manage the mountains easily and in the afternoon we descend to the picturesque fishermen's bay. We finish our ride near to the sea of Garbet and will then be transferred to our hotel in Colera just infront of a little bay where we can go for a swim. On the terrace of the hotel we conclude the wonderful trail with good wine and a delicious meal.
Day 8: Hasta la vista
After breakfast, transfer to the airports
Note: This itinerary is a general guideline and in order to offer our customers the best riding holiday experience we often makes changes. Depending on the season, the weather and national holidays, we may make alterations to itineraries at short-notice. Trails can be ridden in both directions. We endeavour to ensure that our high standards of quality are maintained and reflected in the alternatives we choose.
Meeting:
La Palma
Airport:
Barcelona, Girona
Transfer:
Barcelona or Girona
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 !
|
Tack:
|
|
English Trekking
|
|
Horses:
|
|
Andalusian, Andalusian Cross and Spanish
|
|
Pace:
|
|
Moderate with extended trots and nice canters.
|
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.
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 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.
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
some wine with dinner
and can accommodate special dietary requests.
|
Tack:
|
|
English Trekking
|
|
Horses:
|
|
Andalusian, Andalusian Cross and Spanish
|
|
Pace:
|
|
Moderate with extended trots and nice canters.
|
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.
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.
|
|
|
|
Ride and Swim in Catalonia
Tour Code:
IT-SPCA04
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. |
|