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Mediterranean Spa & Wine Coast Trail
Catalonia
Spain
Special Offer Available!!
"...where the Pyrenees tumble into the sea..."
Swim with your horse, relax while sunbathing, breath in the salted air of the Mediterranean. This trail ends here, in coastal paradise, after an exhilarating descent from the wilderness of the Pyrenees. Paired well with a love of great wine, this trip explores rolling foothills, deep oak and cork forests and spectacular coastlines unique to Catalonia.
Throughout the trip nature and culture combine to provide a fabulous taste of Catalonia. Canter and gallop your way through forests of rosemary and thyme, explore the banks of the Fluvia River and escape onto open plains to visit Sant Marti de Sesceres, an incredible 12th century church and rectory. Pyrenean foothills provide a dramatic backdrop to the medieval castle and village of Sant Llorenc de la Muga. And not to forget the wine… the region of Avera offers abundant vineyards and olive groves that not only provide natural beauty but also excellent opportunities for wine tastings.
At the end of long riding days (average 5 hours per day) spa facilities await you in our small and exclusive hotels. If you’d like to refresh during the day, there are ample chances for refreshing swims, sometimes with your horses (this is particularly favored at Boadella, a lake surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery).
A venture through the Aiguamolls Natural Park introduces us to flamingoes and other exotic birds while the arrival at Cap de Creus, Spain’s most eastern point, provides spectacular views of the rugged coastal rocks and bays. At Talavera Baym an authentic smuggler’s cove with a fantastic beach and clear sea, we soak up the strange and beautiful contrast of lunar landscape meeting Mediterranean waters – an image that has inspired many artists, including Salvador Dalí, and visitors alike.
The Mediterranean Spa and Wine Coast Trail is a luxurious experience for those who want it all: swimming with horses, varied landscapes, wine tastings, flora and fauna, spa treatments and the exhilarating feeling of hope that this trip will never end.
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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
Special Offer: Oct 28 ride is now Euro 70 / US$ 100 OFF!
Rates include:
Accommodations, meals, 6 riding days
| A | 2012 | 8 day trip, AP | 8d / 7n | €1310 | $1755 |
| Single Supplement (requested) | €165 | $225 |
| 2-Week Combo Discount | (€75) | ($100) |
| Low Season Discount - OCT 28 departure only! | (€70) | ($85) |
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
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|
2012
|
Transfer from Gerona airport at 7:30 PM - drop off at 10:30 AM
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€
80
|
$110
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Transfer from Barcelona airport at 6:30 PM - it is not possible to pick up from downtown, but there is a good train commuter available.
The drop off at the airport is at 11:30 AM earlier is not possible. 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
|
| A |
2012
|
05/13
- 05/20
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP
|
6
/10
|
Expired
|
| A |
2012
|
06/03
- 06/10
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP
|
6
/10
|
Sold Out
|
| A |
2012
|
06/17
- 06/24
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP
|
6
/10
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2012
|
09/16
- 09/23
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP
|
6
/10
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2012
|
09/23
- 09/30
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP
|
6
/10
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2012
|
10/21
- 10/28
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP
|
6
/10
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2012
|
10/28
- 11/04
|
8d / 7n
|
8 day trip, AP
|
6
/10
|
Reserve
|
|
|
Rates do not include:
Non rider rates do not include lunches or transfers between locations - need to rent a car.
Single travellers: No single supplement if willing to share.
Day 1 Arrival and WelcomePick up from the airport in Barcelona at 6:30 PM. After a 1.5 hr drive north you will be driven up a winding track to the 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 and sample some of the region's local wines. You will learn of the special characteristics of our Andalusian trail horses. After dinner you will be given an introduction to the weeks' program with an opportunity for a one to one conversation, designed to find every rider their perfect horse. You will also learn how to play ´Champagne Rules’; where anyone found guilty of holding up the ride at any point will have to buy a bottle of local cava for the group that evening, making for lively dinners!
Day 2 The Trail Begins
After breakfast and tacking up, we leave following a ridge with spectacular views, through forest, rosemary and thyme. We pass by Besalu, a medieval village, the gateway to the Pyrenees. Down to the river Fluviá, out of the rolling hills onto the planes, we canter and gallop through olive groves and fields of wheat, past country farmhouses and churches and into the Pyrenean foothills. Our destination for today is Sant Marti de Sesceres, an XII century church and rectory, here we settle the horses for a well earned rest and we are driven back to the center. Before dinner we will try some Empurdan wines.
Day 3 The Wilderness Ride
The Mediterranean Pyrenean wilderness stretches out before us, foothills heavily forested with oak, cork and beech; witness the spectacular vastness of the Pyrenees! Today you will notice the fitness of the horses; at the end of the days they are still enthusiastic about a long gallop. Before lunch we lead our horses along a winding forest track. Picnic by a mountain river, enjoy a swim, a rest and then we ride through the ancient medieval village of Sant LLorenc de la Muga with its castle in the background. We tie up the horses and have a drink in the local cafe, and then on to our hotel for the night. “La Central” an art nouveau palace of blue ceramic tiled towers, a haven of peace and tranquillity. An exclusive spa hotel, La Central is infamous for its delicious cuisine, hydro massage pool and relaxing saunas, very welcome after 3 days in the saddle! Now we are on the edge of the Alvera, the oldest wine growing region of the Iberian Peninsula.
Day 4 The Coastal Vineyards
Today we leave the mountains and ride through the Alvera wine growing region, olive groves and vineyards, intense natural beauty. In the morning we stop at Boadella, a lake surrounded by a breathtaking mountainous scenery. The village of Cantallops, in the heart of the wine region, is our destination for today. Here we will settle the horses and visit one of the famous bodegas for a wine tasting session. Here you get the opportunity to taste some of the best local wines (even the French come here to buy it!). We will be driven back to hotel “la central” for another comfortable night.
Day 5 Along the Plains to the Cathedral of Castellon de EmpuriasHeading out across the plains with some long trots and canters. Hard working, responsive horses enjoying the pace. Today we pass some interesting villages, like Peralada famous for it´s cava, casino in the castle and big Empurdanees farm houses, follow a beautiful river and enjoy the wide open space. We stop in the lovely town of Peralada for lunch and we can visit the Cava cellers. This evening our destination is Castellon d´Empurias. In ancient times this was the capital of the region, a village dominated by its spectacular cathedral. Our hotel has an outdoor swimming pool where you can relax on one of the sun beds on the lovely patio or you can do some shopping, enjoy some excellent tapas or cold drinks at one of the nice terraces and the local nightlife.
Day 6 Aigumols, the Natural Park
After breakfast on the magnificent roof-top terrace of the hotel over-looking the cathedral and with amazing views of the surrounding landscape, we saddle up again to continue our journey through the Aiguamols. The Aiguamols is a natural park, home of bright flamingos and other exotic birds. We will ride out of this medieval village through the northern part of the Aiguamols Park over a small mountain range and on to the Cap de Creus peninsular. From up here the views are spectacular, kilometres of coast rocks, cliffs and little bays. We will have lunch in a pine forest near a lake where you can swim. In the afternoon we will ride down out of the mountains through an idyllic vineyard of beautiful terraced vines. Our evening destination is Port de la Selva, an active fishing village in the small bay, on the northern side of the peninsular. The hotel for the night has an excellent spa and is situated right on the edge of the port. You can enjoy a swim in the sea & a delicious fish dinner next to the sea.
Day 7 Riding on the Moon
Today we ride further along the Cap the Creus. This peninsula of sculptured rock is full of flowering shrubs, a truly remarkable lunar landscape. This is Salvador Dali country, the area that inspired many of his paintings. This morning will have spectacular views on the Mediterranean coast. We lead our horses down to Talavera Bay, a smugglers cove and fantastic beach, where we have a picnic. Here you can swim with your horses and its a pleasure to see how much they like to swim. Following a lovely afternoon on the beach, we ride on to the ridge above the village of Cadaques. Before we are driven back, we will celebrate our arrival with a glass of Cava at a lighthouse overlooking the coast and the terrain we have been riding through. Tonight we will be back at the mountain lodge for a final farewell supper, a glorious end to a wonderful journey.
DAY 8 Goodbye
We enjoy one last breakfast then say goodbye. You leave for the airport with a lot of memories and a little more peace of mind, we hope. 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 center.
Subject to Changes
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 train commuter available.
The drop off at the airport is at 11:30 AM earlier is not possible. 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:
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Spanish & Andalusian Cross
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Pace:
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Moderate with long canters, some steep descents, approx 5 hrs in the saddle - 20 miles per day
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
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Level:
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(3
to
4
out of 5) Good Intermediate
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Riders:
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Min
6 riders
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Max
10 riders
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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.
As the rides on
some days are up to 6 hours in the saddle, we highly recommend that you
ride regularly for at least 2-3 months before your departure, and that
in the fortnight beforehand you go on at least two or three longer rides
of 3 or 4 hours in length. Try also to get yourself in a state of
reasonable general fitness.
HORSES AND TACK
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 |
| |
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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 |
*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
For the week's accommodation (except for first and last nights) is in local inns and small hotels selected for their character and comfort as well as for their cuisine. At midday we will eat delicious picnics.
It is a good idea to bring your own soap, since not all hotels supply it. There will be no opportunity to have laundry done while on the ride.
In general the hotels only heat the rooms during the winter months. Even newer buildings are seldom insulated. Therefor when the weather turns cool you can have an impression of dampness. In case your room is too cool during your stay, you should find an extra wool blanket in the closet, or ask at the reception.
On the first and last nights of the trip you will stay at the 11th century farmhouse, the horses home-base. It has been lovingly restored into a rural inn for international travelers from all walks of life. It is tucked away in the
Catalonian hills with breathtaking panoramic views over the Catalan
Pyrenees. It offers the warmest climate of all the Pyrenean range, an
almost unknown corner of Spain, but once discovered it is never forgotten. Dating back to AD 1000, the farm draws drinking water from its own well, while electricity is generated by a solar power system and a generator.
CATALAN CUISINE: Catalonia produces an extraordinary variety of foodstuffs: 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:
|
|
Spanish & Andalusian Cross
|
|
Pace:
|
|
Moderate with long canters, some steep descents, approx 5 hrs in the saddle - 20 miles per day
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
|
|
Level:
|
|
(3
to
4
out of 5) Good Intermediate
|
|
Riders:
|
|
Min
6 riders
|
Max
10 riders
|
|
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.
As the rides on
some days are up to 6 hours in the saddle, we highly recommend that you
ride regularly for at least 2-3 months before your departure, and that
in the fortnight beforehand you go on at least two or three longer rides
of 3 or 4 hours in length. Try also to get yourself in a state of
reasonable general fitness.
HORSES AND TACK
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.
|
|
|
|
Mediterranean Spa & Wine Coast Trail
Tour Code:
PR-CJTW
8 days /
7 nights
~$1,755.00
Dates :
April to Oct
Trip Rating :
Difficulty :
Lodging:
Introduction
Day to Day Itinerary
Rates | Dates
Accomodation
Tack:
English, Spanish
Horses:
Spanish & Andalusian Cross
Pace:
Moderate with long canters, some steep...
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
|