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Wild Coast Wine Trail
Catalonia
Spain
On horseback in Catalonia along the "Wild Coast", you will find perfect sandy beaches, picturesque bays and intriguing mountains that will fulfill dreams of exploring the Spanish countryside as we bring friends together over fantastic local wines and delicious Catalan cuisine! When we are not cantering on stunning stretches of beach and climbing the mountainside for the best possible views, riders will be introduced to the local wine cellars for wine and cava sampling, stay at rural but luxurious guesthouse and hotel accommodations and be served the best regional cuisine available along this exciting and adventurous trail! A fun and fascinating exploration of the Mediterranean coast that will take you through quiet olive vineyards, lovely wine estates, bright sunflower fields, ancient medieval villages, the Bay of Roses, the 16th C farmstead of Mas Alba and Cap de Creus. The Cap de Creus peninsula is one of the largest protected natural reserves in Catalonia. The spectacular geological outcrops here are one of the most significant features - intricate and beautiful, they can vividly stir one's imagination! Created by the wind and sea, the shaping of the rocky peninsula that began thousands of years ago and it continues into present day, has created the imagery of mythical lions, dragons, camels, eagles and cats.
Highlights of the Trip
- Delicious tasting of wine and cava!
- Visit to the medieval village of Perelada!
- Overnight at the former castle of Espolla!
- Breathtaking beach gallop at the crack of dawn!
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Progressive Ride (no camping)
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Meeting:
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Cap de Creus
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Airport:
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Barcelona, Girona
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Transfer:
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Barcelona at 5 pm, Girona at 6:30 pm
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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 2012
Rates include:
Accommodations, most meals, 6 riding days. Transfer from Barcelona.
| A | 2012 | 8 day Trip (Low) | 8d / 7n | €1090 | $1465 |
| Single supplement | €175 | $235 |
| Young Rider Discount (up to 28 years) | (€109) | ($140) |
| Non-rider - Discount (no lunch) | (€218) | ($285) |
| B | 2012 | 8 day Trip (Mid) | 8d / 7n | €1250 | $1675 |
| Single supplement | €175 | $235 |
| Young Rider Discount (up to 28 years) | (€124) | ($160) |
| Non-rider - Discount (no lunch) | (€248) | ($325) |
| C | 2012 | 8 day Trip (High) | 8d / 7n | €1370 | $1840 |
| Single supplement | €175 | $235 |
| Young Rider Discount (up to 28 years) | (€135) | ($175) |
| Non-rider - Discount (no lunch) | (€270) | ($355) |
Transfer Option:
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2012
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Transfer included from Barcelona at 5 PM, last day drop off around 11:30 AM
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2012
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Transfer included from Girona at 6:30 PM, last day drop off around 11:30 AM
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Tour Dates for 2012
Check here for details and availability
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| B |
2012
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03/18
- 03/25
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8d / 7n
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8 day Trip (Mid)
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4
/12
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Expired
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| B |
2012
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04/22
- 04/29
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8d / 7n
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8 day Trip (Mid)
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4
/12
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Expired
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| C |
2012
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05/27
- 06/03
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8d / 7n
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8 day Trip (High)
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4
/12
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Sold Out
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| C |
2012
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06/17
- 06/24
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8d / 7n
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8 day Trip (High)
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4
/12
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Reserve
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| B |
2012
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07/01
- 07/08
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8d / 7n
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8 day Trip (Mid)
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4
/12
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Reserve
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| C |
2012
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09/02
- 09/09
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8d / 7n
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8 day Trip (High)
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4
/12
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Reserve
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| C |
2012
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09/30
- 10/07
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8d / 7n
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8 day Trip (High)
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4
/12
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Reserve
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| A |
2012
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11/04
- 11/11
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8d / 7n
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8 day Trip (Low)
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4
/12
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Reserve
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Rates do not include:
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)
Day 1: Cap de Creus
Arrival at Barcelona or Gerona (Catalonia) and transfer to a Catalan country house. The house dates back to the 16th century and immediately welcomes you to explore. The rooms are tastefully furnished with views over meadows, forests and the surrounding horse pastures. The unique light transforms the surroundings into a picturesque painting. What a place to start your horse riding holiday!
Day 2: Vamos a la Playa
Riding through thick pine forests and passing peaceful villages, our journey leads us through the hilly landscape of the Ampurdán. A calming silence surrounds us and it’s not until we ride through the little Catalan villages built of stone, that the mesmerizing clatter of our horse’s hooves can be heard in the narrow alleys. We have a picnic next to a delightful Roman church. Strengthened and rested we ride on and canter toward the coast. On our first day we have already reached the sandy beaches of the Gulf of Roses! Those who want to can take a refreshing swim in the sea. Later we arrive at our accommodation for the night, which will be either an old converted mill or a beach-side hotel (depending on the season).
Day 3: Beach Ride & Catalonia’s oldest P.R.E Horse Stud
We wake early morning to the murmuring sounds of the waves. We smell the coast, the wind and the salty air - we are right by the sea with our horses. A dream comes true and in front of us we have a long sandy beach. With the sunrise we canter through the break point, our horses playing with the waves - they love the refreshing water. After this wonderful beach ride we follow the river Fluvia and wind through fruit orchards of apples, peaches and pears. Ahead is the open expanse of rice fields amid which we find our impressive accommodation for the night: Catalonia's oldest P.R.E. (Pura Rasa Espanola) Andalusian horse stud. Wonderful horses and charmingly furnished rooms await us. We enjoy today's picnic with beautiful scenery - gorgeous Andalusian horses grazing on luscious green grass. After lunch we are free to explore the Stud Farm and make the most of this unique opportunity.
Day 4: Perelada – A journey to the Middle Ages
We canter and gallop past the village of Castelló with its impressive cathedral. From there we get to the marsh of Aiguamolls which is refuge and hatchery to many birds. Crossing grazing land we ride speedily and pass fields of vines and sunflowers on our way to Perelada. Here we arrive at the friendly guesthouse of Fina and Pere where we spend the night. The beautiful garden and the swimming pool are perfect for relaxing! We enjoy our picnic and look forward to the afternoon when we will visit the glorious castle and its Bodega. Here we not only learn about Cava but we have a Cava tasting as well. Salud!
Day 5: Wine tasting & Cork Oak Forests
We follow the path of the river Llobregat and then ride through the wild landscape at the foot of the Albera Mountains. Cork and stone oak forests are now dominating the landscape and magical vineyards occasionally interrupt the landscape. We visit a family owned vineyard and taste one of the best wines of the lowlands. Geological formations and old Celtic tombs from per-Christian times arise mystically and are the reminders of a great past. In the afternoon we arrive at the village of Espolla, where we stay in the old village castle.
Day 6: Ancient Olive Trees
We pass wild cane, cork oaks and intricate stone terraces with age-old olive trees lining out path. The olive oil from this area plays an important role in the Catalan cuisine. The lowlands of the Ampurdán resemble an amphitheater surrounded by mountains, whose exit is at the Gulf of Roses. We stay the night at Emilia’s country house in the village of Garriguella, which lies in the wine growing district. The tasteful furnishing, the whirlpool and a nice ambiance are perfect for relaxing. Emilia is well-known for her delicious Mediterranean cuisine which we can enjoy extensively.
Day 7: Wild Coast, ride to the Gulf of Lion
Diligently our horses climb over the coastal mountains, the last foothills of the Pyrenees. Having reached the crest, a breathtaking panoramic view on the entire Gulf of Lion up to the mysterious mountain Canigó is awaiting us. After a delicious picnic at the beach, we travel back to Emilia’s country house. It’s nearly time to say farewell. We enjoy our last dinner together and let a wonderful week come to an end.
Day 8: Hasta la vista!
Breakfast at 9 am and then transfer to Barcelona or Girona.
Subject to changes.
Depending on the season, the weather, national holidays and the number of trails running, we may make alterations to itineraries at short-notice.
Trails can also be ridden in both directions.
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.
Please book direct with "Urban Adventures".
Barcelona City Tours
Meeting:
Cap de Creus
Airport:
Barcelona, Girona
Transfer:
Barcelona at 5 pm, Girona at 6:30 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. Some gallops on the beach
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
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Level:
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(3
to
4
out of 5) Intermediate
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Weight:
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Max
200 lbs
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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.
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)
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. On two days it may be necessary to share bathroom facilities - otherwise all private bathrooms.
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.
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Tack:
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English Trekking
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|
Horses:
|
|
Andalusian, Andalusian Cross and Spanish
|
|
Pace:
|
|
Moderate with extended trots and nice canters. Some gallops on the beach
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
|
|
Level:
|
|
(3
to
4
out of 5) Intermediate
|
|
Weight:
|
|
Max
200 lbs
|
|
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)
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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Wild Coast Wine Trail
Tour Code:
IT-SPCA02
8 days /
7 nights
~$1,465.00
Dates :
Trip Rating :
Difficulty :
Lodging:
Introduction
Day to Day Itinerary
Rates | Dates
Accomodation
Tack:
English Trekking
Horses:
Andalusian, Andalusian Cross and Spani...
Pace:
Moderate with extended trots and nice ...
Walk,
Trot,
Canter,
Gallop,
Airport:
Barcelona, Girona
Location on Google Map
Image Gallery
Image Slide Show
Customer Trip Rating
Climate
What To Bring
Download tour PDF
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