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Perigord Noir Trails
Dordogne
France
Enjoy our new horseback trips which take you through the beautiful Périgord region!
The Périgord, which corresponds roughly to the current Dordogne département, is for many people the picture-perfect image of the French countryside, a gentle landscape of patchwork fields, hilltop towns, turreted mansions and jade green woods. It is also the spiritual home to two of the country's enduring culinary passions - foie gras and the black truffle! The Périgord region is famous for its stunning cave paintings, as well as for its many fortified chateaux and bastide towns - reminders of the bloody battles waged here during the Middle Ages and the Hundred Years' War.
There are four different geographic Perigord designations: the White Perigord, the Purple Perigord, the Green Perigord and the Black Perigord. This riding tours will take you in the Black Perigord, an area that overlooks the valleys of the Vezere and the Dordogne. This limestone plateau, delimited to the West by the valley of the Vezere and to the South, by the valley of the Dordogne, is covered by forests of chestnut trees, pines and holm oaks, which give it a dark colour and its name "Black Perigord".
The « black » Périgord, named after the black oak forest, largely spread across the valleys of the Vézère and the Dordogne, will seduce you with its centuries old history. Visits
of castles and bastides (medieval fortified villages) in varied landscapes will offer riders memorable sights of this area as well as numerous culinary pleasures.
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Progressive Ride (no camping)
Suitable for riders over 210 lbs
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Meeting:
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La ferme du Peytavit in Couze
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Airport:
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Bordeaux
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Transfer:
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Lalinde's/ Bernac's train station
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Riders:
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Min
5 riders
Max
10 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF) 
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2021
Rates include*:
Accommodations, All meals, Wine with lunch & 6 riding days
Saddlebags, ponchos and water are provided during this trip.
| A | 2021 | 8 day trip, AP | 8d / 7n | €1765 | $2100 |
* prices are per person based on double/twin occupancy
Rates Note:
Single supplement will be applied if we cannot find another rider to share.
Transfer and Other Charges:
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2021
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Transfer from Lalinde's train station roundtrip, pp (pick up is 6:00pm, drop off is 9:00am)
- to be paid locally
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€
20
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$25
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2021
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Single supplement
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€
460
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$550
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2021
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Non-rider rate
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€
1,340
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$1,595
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Pick-up/ drop-off for this trip is from Lalinde's train station. Pick-up is scheduled for 6:30pm on Day 1. On the last day, you will leave the hotel after breakfast, around 9:00am, and be dropped off at the train station.
Rates do not include:
Beverages in hotels and restaurants, Transfers, Entrance fees & Gratuities
Note:
Due to COVID-19 Corona virus pandemic and certain travel restrictions we are applying some temporary policy changes to some of our tours.
For Perigord Noir Trails (IT-FRABR04):
If your booking is affected by the coronavirus pandemic, it is possible to postpone your trip to a later date in 2021 (depending on availability). It is also possible to postpone your trip to 2022, but you will need to pay the price difference.
With regards to accommodations and restaurants, the French government has imposed strict health rules for all establishments receiving guests so we trust our yearlong partners to apply them correctly for our clients.
Regarding horse riding, the equipment is cleaned and disinfected between each stay. In addition, it is only our team that prepares the horses and manipulates the tack and clients team up with the same horse for the whole week .
Our lunches are served as a buffet but instead of it being self-service, it is our team who will provide the service.
Hydro alcoholic gel will be available freely throughout the horse trail .
We don't impose wearing a mask on the trail (the French riding federation and the French government don't require wearing one while horse riding) but of course, riders can bring their own mask for hotels, restaurants & sightseeing visits if they feel the need of wearing one .
We ask that you follow the hygienic measures below during your stay:
- wash your hands regularly with soap and water (access to which must be facilitated by providing disposable towels) or by hydro-alcoholic friction;
- systematically cover your nose and mouth by coughing or sneezing into your elbow;
- blow your nose in a disposable handkerchief and dispose of it immediately in a trash can;
- avoid touching your face, especially your nose, mouth and eyes.
- masks must be worn systematically by everyone when the rules of physical distance cannot be guaranteed.
For more information please visit our COVID-19 Updates page at https://www.hiddentrails.com/article/covid19update.aspx
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Sample-Itinerary - subject to changes
Day 1 (Sunday): Arrival
We welcome the riders at 6:30pm at the Lalinde's train station and transfer our guests to the La ferme du Peytavit in Couze. After settling in, enjoy a quick visit of the bastide town of Villeneuve-sur-Lot.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight in Couze or Lalinde
Day 2 (Monday): Château de Bannes to Limeuil
After breakfast, around 10:30 am, we will be introduced to our horses at Château de Bannes (private castle from the 15th century). We will ride through Lalinde's bastide, then follow the canal towards Mauzac (village on the Dordogne's right bank) where we will have a picnic before going to Limeuil, an ancient fishing port.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight in Limeuil
Day 3 (Tuesday): Limeuil to Castelnaud-la-Chapelle
After crossing the forest, we will have a picnic near the village of St Cyprien at the Dordogne's edge. In the afternoon, we will ride towards the Milande castle, Josephine Baker's former property (1947-1968). To finally reach the place where we leave the horses to rest for the night, we will go along a medieval path between the Tayac's and Castelnaud-la-Chapelle's castles.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight in Domme
Day 4 (Wednesday): Ride from Céou valley to Dordogne valley
We will ride from the Céou valley to the Dordogne valley where a picnic is awaiting us at the foot of a windmill in the Domme bastide. You will enjoy the beautiful sight of the Dordogne valley from this medieval village before going to Vitrac, night stop for the horses. We drive to Sarlat, a well-preserved medieval city.
-In the morning, visit of Castelnaud-la-Chapelle's castle (12th century) and its museum (war in the middle age). The castle offers a magnificent panorama of various areas (Beynac, Marquessac, La Roche Gageac).
-Before or after the picnic, visit of Domme, royal « bastide » from the 13th century.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight in Sarlat
Day 5 (Thursday): Ride around Sarlat
We will ride only in the morning and go through Sarlat before stopping at the Campagnac castle to have a picnic. Free afternoon to fully enjoy the splendid city of Sarlat. Possibility of a city tour in the afternoon or after diner, by night.
- Capital of the « Black » Périgord, city of art and history, Sarlat is considered one of the most beautiful cities of Europe with its sumptuous architecture.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight in Sarlat
Day 6 (Friday): Sarlat to Audrix
The path we will follow to reach Meyrals will give us the chance to see the Puymartin castle, built during the 15th century. Picnic at the foot of Meyrals' church before going to Limeuil through the Vézère's valley in the afternoon.
– Visit to the Puymartin castle, first built in the 12th century, destroyed in the 14th century and then rebuilt in the 15th century.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight in Sarlat
Day 7 (Saturday): Ride back to Bannes Castle
We will ride along the Dordogne river towards Cadouin, where we will have a picnic near its abbey (12th cent). From there, we go through the Béssede forest, the most important forest of the Périgord, and take the time to visit Molière's village, bastide from the 12th century, before going back to the Bannes castle.
– Visit of the 12th cent. abbey after lunch.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight in Sarlat
Day 8 (Sunday): Departure
Departure or transfer to train station (Lalinde) after breakfast.
Non Riders
Non-riding companions are welcome to join this trip. It is best to have a car in order to do some sightseeing while the rest of the group explores on horseback.
Meeting:
La ferme du Peytavit in Couze
Airport:
Bordeaux
Train station:
Lalinde's train station
Transfer:
Lalinde's/ Bernac's train station
Pick-up/ drop-off for this trip is from Lalinde's train station. Pick-up is scheduled for 6:30pm on Day 1. On the last day, you will leave the hotel after breakfast, around 9:00am, and be dropped off at the train station.
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Tack:
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Trail saddles custom-made for each horse and "Myler" bridle
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Horses:
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Arabian, Paint horses, and Arabian/Paint crossbreds.
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Pace:
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Riders should be at ease at 4 paces (walk, rising trot, canter/gallop in a forward seat), on varied terrain. Can gallop several minutes. We ride moderate to fast paced around 5-6 hours riding each day
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
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Level:
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(3.5
to
4
out of 5) Strong Intermediate
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Age:
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Min
16
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Weight:
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Max
220 lbs
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Riders:
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Min
5 riders
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Max
10 riders
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Riding Ability
This ride is open to riders who are comfortable and in control at all 4 paces (walk, rising trot, canter and gallop in a forward seat) on varied terrain, in open spaces and practice a regular habit of riding. There are certain sections of the trail where we need to lead the horses. It is recommended that you be in good physical condition in order to participate. Previous experience of trail rides over a number of days would be beneficial but is not required.
Pace
The pace is varied depending on the terrain, with long periods of walk and plenty of opportunities to canter and gallop. We ride around 5-6 hours riding each day. We cover about 150km in total.
Horses
Most of our horses were born on the farm. They live in herds in a 70 acre field and this is what makes them strong. This social lifestyle is very close to their ideal living conditions, which is a natural environment.
Every horse has its own character, but all are gentle, balanced, and multi-talented.
The horses are a mixture of purebred Arabian and Paint horses as well as Arabian/Paint crossbreds and Thoroughbreds.
The relationship with the riders and our horses is crucial. Above all, we place attention on the welfare and education of our horses.
Tack
Our saddles are a French trail saddle (JMS brands), which blend the best of English and western styles to make the perfect trail saddle. Horses will work in bridles with Myler bits. Helmets are not mandatory but are strongly recommended.
Our team will take care of tacking up the horses during this ride.
Equipment
Saddlebags, ponchos and water are provided during this trip.
Logistics
There is a support van for the transport of luggage and riders. It is possible for a rider or a non-riding companion to follow along the horse riders in the van.
We ask the riders to have only one suitcase (size 69x47x27) and one handbag.
Group Size & Staff
Riding groups have a minimum of 5 and maximum of 10 riders, plus the Guide and the Translator.
David (GTE/ BPJEPS TE) is a certified Equestrian Tour Guide. He creates the routes and leads all the riding tours. He is also a trainer of apprentice instructors in Equestrian Tourism.
Britta is your riding companion and translator (English, Dutch, German, and Spanish). She is always available to facilitate any language concerns.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart above except: (a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card. Passport NoteFranc. more
Sarlat-la-Canéda area
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Month
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Jan
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Feb
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Mar
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Apr
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May
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Jun
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Jul
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Aug
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Sep
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Oct
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Nov
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Dec
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Average High Temperature (°F)
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49
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52
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59
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64
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71
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77
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82
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82
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76
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67
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55
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50
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Average Low Temperature (°F)
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36
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36
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40
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43
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50
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55
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58
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58
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53
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49
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41
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37
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Average High Temperature (°C)
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9
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11
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15
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18
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22
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25
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28
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28
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24
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19
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13
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10
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Average Low Temperature (°C)
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2
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2
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4
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6
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10
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13
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15
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15
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12
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9
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5
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3
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Average Precipitation (days of rain)
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10
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8
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9
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10
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10
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8
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5
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6
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7
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9
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9
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9
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Source: NOAA
Seasons
The Greater Bergarac Area (Dordogne/Perigord), under oceanic influence, enjoys a temperate climate and sunshine, which makes it possible to sojourn there pleasantly all year, to take advantage of open-air activities and to discover its natural and cultural richness.
Spring
In the springtime, the rise in temperature and the beneficial rain showers awaken the sleeping nature to reveal glistening flora and protected wildlife.
Summer
In the summer, the 30-degree Celsius average maximum temperature is ideal to take advantage of the region’s tourist assets. Stroll along the edge of the Dordogne’s beaches, visit historic sites...The very mild evenings are the ideal moment to savor the generous gastronomy outdoors.
Some evenings, thunderstorms bring a bit of well-appreciated coolness.
Autumn
Autumn, mild and damp, is a fairyland of colors. The trees adorn themselves with yellow and orange-tinted foliage. It is also the season of numerous flavors and smells, with mushroom gathering in the undergrowth, and the harvest of sun-filled grapes.
Winter
Winter, with a few episodes of intense cold, freezes the landscape for awhile under a thin layer of ice or snow, and makes the frost-covered trees into ephemeral sculptures.
The luggage is transported in vehicle and transferred to each accommodation. We ask that riders only bring one suitcase (69x47x27) and one handbag.
… this list is only a guideline for you
Hidden Trails Travel Documents and Trip Voucher (contains important local tour contact info.)
Flight tickets
Passport
Visa (check with your consulate)
RIDING GEAR
Riding pants or Jodhpurs
Riding boots (short) + Minichaps
Riding helmet (recommended for all trips)
Riding gloves
Hat (with chin strip) for sun protection
Lightweight Rain coat
A riding helmet is not provided by us, but is is recommended for adults and mandatory for minors during the horse ride.
PERSONAL CLOTHING
Jacket or sweater for cool evenings
Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts
Jeans
Shorts
Underwear and socks
Pyjamas
Bag for dirty clothes
Trekking boots/ comfortable shoes
Swimsuit
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING
Personal Toiletries
Insect protection - mosquitos may be around in the evenings and early mornings.
Personal medications
Sore cream (for an emergency)
Sewing kit
Torch/ Flashlight
Adapter for electric appliances
Camera and extra film or batteries
Belt pack
Address book and pen (for postcards!)
Sun glasses with strap
Sun protection 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.
..view other reports for different trips
Accommodations
This is a progressive ride, so nights are spent in different locations.
Description
Accommodation is in B&B or hotels. Double or Twin room, possibility of single but with supplement.
Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Day 1: Gite in Lougratte
Day 2: Au bon Accueilat Limeuil
Day 3: Hôtel le Périgord in Domme
Day 4: L'étape des Peupliers or L'hôtel des Remparts in Sarlat
Day 5: L'étape des Peupliers or L'hôtel des Remparts in Sarlat
Day 6: Au bon Accueil in Limeuil
Day 7: Gite in Lougratte
Gite in Lougratte
This beautiful gite offers comfortable and nicely decorated accommodation. The rooms are divided between 3 cottages and most rooms have their own bathroom. There is free Wi-Fi access on the property and guest can choose to cool off in the pool during the summer months.
Au bon Accueil in Limeuil
This lovely guests house provides visitors with modern ensuite bedrooms including a TV, free Wi-Fi access and a view over the surrounding landscape.
Hôtel le Périgord in Domme
Set amidst a 5 acre park, the Hotel Le Périgord offers you comfortable accommodations. All air-conditioned rooms feature a private bathroom as well as a beautiful view of the surrounding area. Relax by the splendid outdoor swimming pool and enjoy the tennis court. Free Wi-Fi is available at this property.
L'étape des Peupliers in Sarlat
Your hosts welcome you in their beautifully decorated rooms, only a few minutes away from the medieval city of Sarlat. There are 4 bedrooms on the ground floor, plus a room upstairs for 2 to 4 people. Each room comes with its own bathroom and there is free Wi-Fi access. Guests are also welcome to relax in the garden and the outdoor swimming pool.
L'hôtel des Remparts in Sarlat
This small picturesque hotel offers 25 bedrooms, all fitted with air-conditioning, flat-screen TV and private bathroom. Free Wi-Fi access is available in the entire Hotel.
Room Occupancy
We try our best to match you with a roommate, but if this is not possible you may be placed in single room with a supplement to be paid.
Meals
All meals are included.
Continental breakfasts served at your accommodation.
The lunches are buffets with a wide choice (adapted to particular diets) with wine.
Dinner in the bed and breakfast, restaurant or hotel (wine not included for dinner, and other extras).
Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to most dietary restrictions with prior notice.
This trip includes
and can accommodate special dietary requests.
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Tack:
|
|
Trail saddles custom-made for each horse and "Myler" bridle
|
|
Horses:
|
|
Arabian, Paint horses, and Arabian/Paint crossbreds.
|
|
Pace:
|
|
Riders should be at ease at 4 paces (walk, rising trot, canter/gallop in a forward seat), on varied terrain. Can gallop several minutes. We ride moderate to fast paced around 5-6 hours riding each day
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
|
|
Level:
|
|
(3.5
to
4
out of 5) Strong Intermediate
|
|
Age:
|
|
Min
16
|
|
|
Weight:
|
|
Max
220 lbs
|
|
Riders:
|
|
Min
5 riders
|
Max
10 riders
|
|
Riding Ability
This ride is open to riders who are comfortable and in control at all 4 paces (walk, rising trot, canter and gallop in a forward seat) on varied terrain, in open spaces and practice a regular habit of riding. There are certain sections of the trail where we need to lead the horses. It is recommended that you be in good physical condition in order to participate. Previous experience of trail rides over a number of days would be beneficial but is not required.
Pace
The pace is varied depending on the terrain, with long periods of walk and plenty of opportunities to canter and gallop. We ride around 5-6 hours riding each day. We cover about 150km in total.
Horses
Most of our horses were born on the farm. They live in herds in a 70 acre field and this is what makes them strong. This social lifestyle is very close to their ideal living conditions, which is a natural environment.
Every horse has its own character, but all are gentle, balanced, and multi-talented.
The horses are a mixture of purebred Arabian and Paint horses as well as Arabian/Paint crossbreds and Thoroughbreds.
The relationship with the riders and our horses is crucial. Above all, we place attention on the welfare and education of our horses.
Tack
Our saddles are a French trail saddle (JMS brands), which blend the best of English and western styles to make the perfect trail saddle. Horses will work in bridles with Myler bits. Helmets are not mandatory but are strongly recommended.
Our team will take care of tacking up the horses during this ride.
Equipment
Saddlebags, ponchos and water are provided during this trip.
Logistics
There is a support van for the transport of luggage and riders. It is possible for a rider or a non-riding companion to follow along the horse riders in the van.
We ask the riders to have only one suitcase (size 69x47x27) and one handbag.
Group Size & Staff
Riding groups have a minimum of 5 and maximum of 10 riders, plus the Guide and the Translator.
David (GTE/ BPJEPS TE) is a certified Equestrian Tour Guide. He creates the routes and leads all the riding tours. He is also a trainer of apprentice instructors in Equestrian Tourism.
Britta is your riding companion and translator (English, Dutch, German, and Spanish). She is always available to facilitate any language concerns.
Passports
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart above except:
(a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.
Passport Note
France is a signatory to the 1995 Schengen Agreement.
Visas
Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above for the following durations:
(a) nationals of EU countries for an unlimited period;
(b) nationals of Australia, Canada and the USA for stays of up to 90 days.
| Passport Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
1 |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
No |
| Canadian |
No |
| USA |
No |
| Other EU |
No |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| 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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Perigord Noir Trails
Tour Code:
IT-FRABR04
8 days /
7 nights
~$2,100.00
Dates :
April
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. |
Lodging:
Introduction
Day to Day Itinerary
Rates | Dates
Accommodation
Tack:
Trail saddles custom-made for each hor...
Horses:
Arabian, Paint horses, and Arabian/Pai...
Pace:
Riders should be at ease at 4 paces (w...
Walk,
Trot,
Canter,
Gallop,
Airport:
Bordeaux
Location on Google Map
Image Gallery
Image Slide Show
Customer Trip Rating
Climate
What To Bring
Download tour PDF
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