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Horseback riding tours
Rides in
Spain
Intro to Spain
Catalonia Central Spain Galicia Mallorca/Menorca Southern Spain
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France
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also:
Hiking in Spain
Cycling in Spain
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Menorca Explorer on Horseback
Mallorca/Menorca
Spain
Visit the most beautiful and unspoilt countryside and beaches of Menorca on horseback on this equestrian escape, based at a beautiful 4-star country estate. Enjoy high grade purebred horses out of the own breeding farm on daily excursions to explore the breathtaking surrounding.
Menorca, the smallest and most eastern of Spain’s Balearic Island, has a long standing history with horses. In fact, some might say that Menorca has no history without its equestrian friends. The horses on this program are the finca’s own breed of the infamous Menorcan horse: a harmonious animal, it has a peaceful character and is smart and obedient. With a sleek silhouette and a handsome black coat, this noble horse has led explorers around this gem of an island for centuries.
The Menorcan Riding Program takes advantage of Cami de Cavalls, the island’s ancient route once used to defend the island and allow military officials surveillance of the coastline. Today, it is an efficient and rewarding way to discover the beauty of this island. Following the entire Menorcan coastline and occasionally crossing through farms, the Cami de Cavalls is a path that resourcefully takes the equestrian traveler to diverse areas of dynamic topography. The Menorcan Riding Program also takes advantage of the Menorca Biosphere Reserve, declared as such by UNESCO in 1993.
However, what would a great riding program be without a venture off the beaten path? The Menorcan riding tours one dip in and out of the interior to discover plentiful and great ravines and caves, unique flora and fauna, isolated and pristine beaches, and historical and beautifully preserved churches and buildings, all nestled among breathtaking landscapes and views across the Mediterranean.
When all the riding has worn you out, you can relax at the ancient Menorcan farm, redone as a 4 star country hotel. Here, no amenity is out of your reach: the onsite restaurant prepares local flavors and dishes in a charming atmosphere, the swimming pool is delightfully refreshing and several beaches lie within 3 kilometers. Located amongst nature in the centre of the island, the restored accommodations are easily accessible from each coastal area.
For 2011 we are offering 8- and 5-day trips.
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Center-based ride
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Meeting:
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Es Migjorn Gran
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Airport:
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Menorca - Mahón Airport
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Transfer:
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Menorca Airport
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Riders:
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Min
3 riders
Max
8 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF)
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2013
Rates include:
Accommodations at 4 star rural hotel, all meals except 1 lunch, wine with dinner, support vehicle during the riding days, 5 full riding days with qualified English speaking guide
| A | 2013 | 8 day trip- (subject to pricing change for 2013) | 8d / 7n | €1480 | $1925 |
Rates Note:
Rates shown above are for 2012. Please inquire for 2013 rates!
Transfer and Other Options:
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2013
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Transfer from the airport of Menorca is included
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Tour Dates for 2013
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| A |
2013
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03/01
- 06/30
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip- (subject to pric...
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3
/8
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Reserve
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| A |
2013
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09/01
- 11/30
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8d / 7n
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8 day trip- (subject to pric...
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3
/8
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Reserve
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Other dates are possible for 3+ riders
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Rates do not include:
One Lunch. Travel and medical insurance (can be provided) is mandatory.
Explorer 8-day Itinerary Day 1 ARRIVAL AND WELCOME. Transfer from the airport to the hotel. Check in and accommodation in the rooms. Dinner at the hotel’s Restaurant Day 2 FIRST CONTACT: Visit to the stables and horses assignment. Short ride around the farm. To begin the program, we will visit the stud of San Adeodato, where we are going to be told more about Menorcan horses. Afterwards, we are going to assign the horses according to the rider’s skills and we are going to do a short ride around the farm. At lunch, we will sit around a table to taste typical Menorcan products and to enjoy a typical Spanish Paella. In the afternoon we will tour the inside of the Cami de Cavalls, visiting the farm of Sa Torre with its old lime kiln. On the way back we will cross the Barranc de Son Fideu (ravine), a famous ravine that houses one of the highest and most impressive caves of Menorca: Sa Cova d’es Coloms, which is also known as “the Cathedral”. On the way to the end point of the day, the stables of the Hotel rural Binigaus Vell, we will detour to visit the prehistoric village of Sant Agustí. Today’s trip finishes at the stables of the hotel rural Binigaus Vell. Day 3 THE TRAIL OF THE RAVINES. San Adeodato-Binigaus-Escorxada-Fustam-Trebalúger-Mitjana The meeting point will be the stables. On the journey we will pass through the major ravines of the island: Algendar, Trebalúger and Albranca, with water that flows all year around in them suggestive streams. That’s the reason why in many stretches of the path we need to leave the coast to venture inside and save the steep slopes caused by those vertical cuts. In the morning, we are going to ride to the most beautiful beaches, wilder and more difficult to reach: Escorxada, Fustam y Trebalúger. Later on, we will reach the beach of Cala Mitjana, where is well prepared with tables and wooden benches for having a lunch. After a short rest we will come back to the stables of San Adeodatos Farm taking the original path of the Camí de Cavalls. Day 4 DAY OFF. An excursion (not included in the price) can be organized to discover more about Menorca. Lunch on your own and dinner is back at the hotel. Day 5 NATURAL RESERVE OF S’ALBUFERA D’ES GRAU. Es Grau-Favaritx-Port d’Addaia This path runs entirely inside the limits of the Natural Reserve of S’Albufera (marsh) d’Es Grau (the center of the Biosphere Reserve) and it covers some of the most suggestive cliffs of the island. During the route, we will find several wetlands (Tamarells Cove, Sa Torreta creek, Arenal de Morella) and also some of the Watch Towers which, in the past, safeguarded Menorca from several attacks and sieges. (If we leave the path for a while and we go deep into the west, we will find the megalithic settlement of Sa Torreta). This stretch will lead us to one of the seven Lighthouses which surround Menorca’s coastline: Favàritx Lighthouse. Here is where we take the opportunity to serve a succulent picnic, while we all get our strength back. On its second part, the route goes wavy and alternates farming and wild landscapes, with areas with an interesting ecological value such as Pou d’en Caldés, which concentrates many endemic plants. We will pass as well through the ancient military installations of Favàritx. During the ascent through Sa Marina de Mongofra Vell we will observe spectacular rock formations like: Es Capell de Ferro. At the end of the itinerary, the path presents a new ecosystem: the Port of Addaia Wetlands, combining saline marsh and aquatic vegetation. Both in autumn and spring, this is a good place for bird watching. Day 6 THE IMPRESSIVE AND ABRUPT NORTH COASTLINE Binimel.là-Cala del Pilar- Algaiarens- Cala Morell We are just about to ride trough one of the most unspoilt, hidden and beautiful stretches along the north coastline. The starting point is the beach of Binimel.là. The path through the dunes takes us to Cala Pregonda, where we will discover a single and astonishing landscape. Going around the coast, we will ride in parallel journey to the Menorca´s Marine Reserve, created in 1.999, with an area of 5.199 marine hectares. We will do several cliffs up to reach Ets Alocs, where deservedly, we will have a break to eat and to have a rest. After that, we will go to Cala Pilar, to its red dyed walls, following the path we have Arenal d’Alfurí: another spot which concentrates important endemic plants and floral species. We will admire Es Pla de Mar and its fantastic pebble cove, afterwards we go deep into Sa Muntanya Mala area to finally reach Algaiarens beach. From now we will bump into the dry Menorca: forest practically disappears and the coast vegetation adapts itself to the strong Tramuntana (north wind) influence. This land is rich in plants such as the Rosemary or the appreciated Menorcan Camomile. Upon arriving at the end of the route, Cala Morell, we will visit a necropolis from the megalithic age (1.500-1300 a. C), consisting of caves dug out of the rock. Day 7 THE WINDING SOUTH Es Canutells –Cala en Porter-Son Bou-Sant Tomàs-San Adeodato On our last journey, we will ride through the Camí de Cavalls from East to West. It starts gently but finishes covering the most rugged landscape that the southern gullies form along the central coast. Es Canutells is our meeting point, which surprises because its elm grove. We are going off course the original path to visit Cales Coves: an ancient necropolis from the Iron Age which has more than 90 caves. After crossing the urbanization of Cala en Porter the path runs far away from the coast until arriving to Son Bou. Before that, we leave the original way once again to visit one of the most important prehistoric sites, which better represents the talaiotic culture: Torre d’en Gaumés. At the beach’s edge of Son Bou (the longest beach on the island, nearly 1.9 miles) we find an interesting Christian basilica dated from the 400 a.C. Here in Son Bou we will savour a delicious picnic. Once we have eaten and relaxed, we will start marching again trough the path surrounding El Prat de Son Bou: an important wetland which represents the rich biodiversity on Menorca. This is another ideal spot for bird watching. Soon after we will cover the gully of Sa Vall and its wetland, we will pass in front of Talis farm from where we will follow the cliffs that lead us to our final destination: Sant Tomàs and San Adeodato. Son Bou is one of the best places for beach riding. Day 8 END OF THE ACTIVITIES. Breakfast and transfer from the Hotel to the Airport.
Getaway 5-day Itinerary (days 1,2,3,7 and 8 of the 8-day itinerary)
Day 1 ARRIVAL AND WELCOME. Transfer from the airport to the hotel. Check in and
accommodation in the rooms. Dinner at the hotel’s Restaurant Day 2 FIRST CONTACT: Visit to
the stables and horses assignment. Short ride around the farm. To begin the program, we will visit the
stud of San Adeodato, where we are going to be told more about Menorcan
horses. Afterwards, we are going to assign the horses according to the
rider’s skills and we are going to do a short ride around the farm. At
lunch, we will sit around a table to taste typical Menorcan products and
to enjoy a typical Spanish Paella. In the afternoon we will tour the
inside of the Cami de Cavalls, visiting the farm of Sa Torre with its
old lime kiln. On the
way back we will cross the Barranc de Son Fideu (ravine), a famous
ravine that houses one of the highest and most impressive caves of
Menorca: Sa Cova d’es Coloms, which is also known as “the Cathedral”.
On the way to the end point of the day, the stables of the Hotel rural
Binigaus Vell, we will detour to visit the prehistoric village of Sant
Agustí. Today’s trip finishes at the stables of the hotel rural Binigaus
Vell. Day 3 THE
TRAIL OF THE RAVINES. San
Adeodato-Binigaus-Escorxada-Fustam-Trebalúger-Mitjana On the journey we will pass through the major ravines of the island: Algendar, Trebalúger and Albranca, with water that flows all year around in them suggestive streams. That’s the reason why in many stretches of the path we need to leave the coast to venture inside and save the steep slopes caused by those vertical cuts. We are going to start the route from the stables of the hotel and we will ride to the most beautiful beaches, wilder and more difficult to reach: Escorxada, Fustam y Trebalúger. After visit Cala Mitjana, we will come back to the stables. Day 4 THE WINDING SOUTH Es
Canutells –Cala en Porter-Son Bou-Sant Tomàs-San Adeodato On our last journey, we will ride
through the Camí de Cavalls from East to West. It starts gently but
finishes covering the most rugged landscape that the southern gullies
form along the central coast. Es Canutells is our meeting point, which
surprises because its elm grove. We are going off course the original
path to visit Cales Coves: an ancient necropolis from the Iron Age which
has more than 90 caves. After crossing the urbanization of Cala en
Porter the path runs far away from the coast until arriving to Son Bou.
Before that, we leave the original way once again to visit one of the
most important prehistoric sites, which better represents the talaiotic
culture: Torre d’en Gaumés. At the beach’s edge of Son Bou (the longest
beach on the island, nearly 1.9 miles) we find an interesting Christian
basilica dated from the 400 a.C. Here in Son Bou we will savour a
delicious picnic. Once we have eaten and relaxed, we will start marching
again trough the path surrounding El Prat de Son Bou: an important
wetland which represents the rich biodiversity on Menorca. This is
another ideal spot for bird watching. Soon after we will cover the gully
of Sa Vall and its wetland, we will pass in front of Talis farm from
where we will follow the cliffs that lead us to our final destination:
Sant Tomàs and San Adeodato. Day 5 END OF THE
ACTIVITIES. Breakfast and transfer from the Hotel to the Airport.
NOTES: The route can be changed due to security reasons, bad weather or for reasons beyond our control such as natural disasters, local events, local strikes… The staff will provide all the means and resources to provide the best solution, even modifying the route if is necessary or offering alternatives.
According to the Menorca law, during the summer, (from May to October, both inclusive) horse beach riding is forbidden on some beaches .
Meeting:
Es Migjorn Gran
Airport:
Menorca - Mahón Airport
Transfer:
Menorca Airport
Distance:
16 miles
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Tack:
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English
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Horses:
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Purebred Spanish/Menorcan and Spanish mix
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Pace:
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Moderate slow with trots and some controlled canters - 5 hrs per day
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
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Level:
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(2.5
to
3
out of 5) Low Intermediate
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Age:
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Min
12
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Riders:
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Min
3 riders
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Max
8 riders
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THE HORSES The horses are of the own stud (Yeguada de San Adeodato) and they are Menorcan and also Spanish thoroughbred and crossbred as well. The Menorcan horse is an harmonious animal; it has a peaceful character, smart and obedient. Its silhouette is sleek and the colour of its coat is black. It is a noble horse, it has warm blood, and it’s rustic, robust and energetic, with a great aptitude for the seat and hitch. REQUIRED RIDING LEVEL The rider must be able to control the horse in all gaits (walk, trot and canter) with a medium level. It is advisable to be physically fit. It is possible that during some specific periods, weeks for beginners will be organized, with a diverse program suitable to beginners. THE GUIDES We have at our disposal an expert guide specialized in horses. He/She has a medium/high level of English and broad experience with horses. He/she knows the horse and the land on which we will move, providing the necessary security and being at all times the pace and tempo of the route. He/she will be in possession of first aid training and experience in the equestrian world.
MENORCA BIOSPHERE RESERVE Menorca is located at the eastern end of the Balearic Islands and is the most oriental Spanish region; therefore we are the first ones in Spain to see the sunrise. Has a maximum length of 48 km (nearly 30 miles) from Ciutadella (west) to Maó (East). Its perimeter is 220 km coastline, along which there are more than 50 beaches, of which 2/3 are unspoilt. It is the ideal destination for families who want to relax by combining cultural visits with pure nature. Menorca surprises as well by its romanticism, with so many and such different idyllic places where to get lost. Menorca houses the best preserved natural spots on the Mediterranean, that’s why it was declared Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO on October 8, 1.993. In its 702 km2, we find a natural park S’Albufera d’Es Grau (marsh), five nature reserves, a marine reserve along the north coast and 19 ANEI areas (natural areas of special interest) The island is a natural paradise shaped by a multitude of canyons, caves land, underwater caves and unique plant and animal species.
CAMI DE CAVALLS Despite the impossibility to establish its origin with accuracy, in the oldest documentation kept it is said that throughout the 18th century the Camí de Cavalls was basically used as a perimeter track around all of Menorca used to defend the island and allow the military or governmental authorities adequate surveillance of the coastline and an effective channel of communication and service to watchtowers, military units and other fortifications. Beyond this military use, documentation shows that the Camí de Cavalls was also built as an easement when necessary as well as for public use. It followed the entire Menorcan coastline and occasionally crossed private farms. The Camí de Cavalls is a singular feature of the landscape of the Island territory that favours a complex approach to the land while on foot within different areas of great morphologic and dynamic diversity.
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
Menorca's climate is typically Mediterranean, with mild average temperatures and seasonal rainfall, dry season coinciding with the warm summer. Average annual temperatures are between 16 and 18 º C. The strongest wind and damaging to the island is the North (Tramuntana), which in winter often reaches 100 km / hour. In summer, thermal winds usually blow on the coast and do not cause bad state of the sea. The rainfall is characterized by irregular, varying greatly from year to year, until the end of causing droughts. Most of the rain is concentrated in a few days, heavy or very heavy rainfall in autumn and the rest of the year of low intensity. The average annual precipitation on the island is 650 mm, changing from year to year depending on the areas.
Untitled 2
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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 |
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.
** No trip reports found
with the tour ID you provided.
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..view other reports for different trips
Your overnights will be at a historic Menorcan farm restored as a 4 stars rural-country hotel. The hotel has 20 rooms, refurbished respecting the original Menorcan style. They all have any possible convenience (TV, telephone, Internet, safety deposit box, bathroom, etc.). Situated less than 1 km from the beautiful village of Es Migjorn Gran and at less than 3 km from the sandy beaches of Binigaus and Sant Tomas. The swimming pool with salt water chlorination and organic form has been designed thinking with the environment. Its shape, colours and texture reminiscent of the pristine beaches of Menorca. Its location in the middle of the nature makes it a perfect place to
have a rest and relax 365 days a year. Its location on the centre of the
island makes easy to reach both sides of the island. The hotel has 6 double rooms, 9 superior rooms each with is own terrace and 5 junior suites, also with their own terraces. The hotel, run with great attention to detail is open for ten of the twelve months of the year.
Meals When evening falls or night comes down and stars sprinkle the heavens with their light, the hotel kitchen offers a magnificent opportunity to indulge in the irresistible seduction of the most exquisite pleasure. A menu - at the same time young and ageless being both modern and traditional - offers the best of excuses to blindly surrender to the intensity of tastes and smells which invite the guests to submerge themselves in a whirlwind of sensations. The restaurant offers you the opportunity to taste the local flavours in
a pleasant and charming atmosphere.
This trip includes
some wine with dinner
and can accommodate special dietary requests.
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Tack:
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English
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Horses:
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Purebred Spanish/Menorcan and Spanish mix
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Pace:
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Moderate slow with trots and some controlled canters - 5 hrs per day
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
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Level:
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(2.5
to
3
out of 5) Low Intermediate
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Age:
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Min
12
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Riders:
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Min
3 riders
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Max
8 riders
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THE HORSES The horses are of the own stud (Yeguada de San Adeodato) and they are Menorcan and also Spanish thoroughbred and crossbred as well. The Menorcan horse is an harmonious animal; it has a peaceful character, smart and obedient. Its silhouette is sleek and the colour of its coat is black. It is a noble horse, it has warm blood, and it’s rustic, robust and energetic, with a great aptitude for the seat and hitch. REQUIRED RIDING LEVEL The rider must be able to control the horse in all gaits (walk, trot and canter) with a medium level. It is advisable to be physically fit. It is possible that during some specific periods, weeks for beginners will be organized, with a diverse program suitable to beginners. THE GUIDES We have at our disposal an expert guide specialized in horses. He/She has a medium/high level of English and broad experience with horses. He/she knows the horse and the land on which we will move, providing the necessary security and being at all times the pace and tempo of the route. He/she will be in possession of first aid training and experience in the equestrian world.
MENORCA BIOSPHERE RESERVE Menorca is located at the eastern end of the Balearic Islands and is the most oriental Spanish region; therefore we are the first ones in Spain to see the sunrise. Has a maximum length of 48 km (nearly 30 miles) from Ciutadella (west) to Maó (East). Its perimeter is 220 km coastline, along which there are more than 50 beaches, of which 2/3 are unspoilt. It is the ideal destination for families who want to relax by combining cultural visits with pure nature. Menorca surprises as well by its romanticism, with so many and such different idyllic places where to get lost. Menorca houses the best preserved natural spots on the Mediterranean, that’s why it was declared Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO on October 8, 1.993. In its 702 km2, we find a natural park S’Albufera d’Es Grau (marsh), five nature reserves, a marine reserve along the north coast and 19 ANEI areas (natural areas of special interest) The island is a natural paradise shaped by a multitude of canyons, caves land, underwater caves and unique plant and animal species.
CAMI DE CAVALLS Despite the impossibility to establish its origin with accuracy, in the oldest documentation kept it is said that throughout the 18th century the Camí de Cavalls was basically used as a perimeter track around all of Menorca used to defend the island and allow the military or governmental authorities adequate surveillance of the coastline and an effective channel of communication and service to watchtowers, military units and other fortifications. Beyond this military use, documentation shows that the Camí de Cavalls was also built as an easement when necessary as well as for public use. It followed the entire Menorcan coastline and occasionally crossed private farms. The Camí de Cavalls is a singular feature of the landscape of the Island territory that favours a complex approach to the land while on foot within different areas of great morphologic and dynamic diversity.
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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Menorca Explorer on Horseback
Tour Code:
IT-SPMEN
8 days /
7 nights
~$1,925.00
Dates :
March-June, Sept-Nov
Difficulty :
Riding Level Explained | A | Beginner  | Beginner A rider who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot and does not canter. | | B | Novice
 | Novice A rider who is capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, capable of
applying basic aids, comfortable and in control at the walk, moderate length posting
trots, and short canters. | | C | Intermediate
 | Intermediate A rider who has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces
(including posting trots, two point canters and gallops), but does not ride regularly. |
| D | Strong Intermediate
 | Strong Intermediate An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly and is comfortable in the saddle for at least 6 hours per day. | | E | Advanced
 | All of the above, plus an independent seat, soft hands, and capable of handlinga spirited horse in open country. |
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