Horseback riding in Loire, France

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Loire Castles Escape Ride


Itinerary for Loire Castles Escape Ride




Sample Itinerary: Saumur to Villandry (iti. 6) -
subject to changes

Day 1 (Sunday): Arrival
Arrival at Saumur train station and transfer from there to your accommodation near the Abbaye de Fontevraud. Dinner and briefing at the accommodation.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at Domaine de Mestré


Day 2 (Monday): Ride to Chateau de Montsoreau 
This morning we set off riding in the direction of the Champigny troglodyte (cave) cellar where we partake in an unforgettable wine tasting (according to the season). Represented are some of the most illustrious labels from this great wine producing region. Following the wine tasting we gather for a gourmet lunch in a nearby restaurant.
In the afternoon we ride another two hours along the Champigny vineyards and along the Loire river to chateau de Montsoreau, which inspired well known French writer Alexandre Dumas for his book "la dame de Montsoreau".
Riding approx. 4 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Domaine de Mestré


Day 3 (Tuesday): Chateau de Brézé & Abbaye de Fontevraud
We will ride through the vineyards and the countryside to the Chateau de Brézé, where we will stop for lunch in the old stables.
After the visit, we ride again through the vineyards, the gorgeous countryside and forests until we reach the Abbaye de Fontevraud. We enjoy a magical entrance on horseback to the abbey which was once, before the French Revolution, the richest and most important monastery in France. During the 12th century this abbey gained great prestige and was supported by the Plantagenet family, Counts of Anjou and Kings of England. The church here is as majestic as a cathedral and was edified at the start of the 12 century. Its Roman façade was renewed in 1504 in a more flamboyant style but converted back to its original state in 1901 under the guise of architect Lucien Magne. Dinner and overnight at Domaine de Mestre, which is the old farm of the abbey.
Riding approx. 4 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Domaine de Mestré


Day 4 (Wednesday): Abbaye de Fontevraud to Chateau de Ternay
This morning we ride in the traditional French countryside to the Chateau de la Roche Martel, a private and historical chateau where we are welcomed by the owners for a picnic and visit. This chateau has undergone a lot of construction throughout the years, but the main buildings of the 15th century remain: an entrance through fortified walls and a wooden gallery, inscribed to the Registrar of Historic Buildings.
In the afternoon, ride in the countryside and woods to private Chateau de Ternay. We receive a cordial welcome by the Count and Countess of Ternay. This castles was built in 1439 but became property of the Ternay family in the early 19th century. Important restoration work was completed from 1861 - 1884 and a renowned feature is the Gothic vault, known for its exceptional decorative carvings.
Riding approx. 4 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Chateau de Ternay




Day 5 (Thursday): Chinon to Azay le Rideau
Through the forest of Chinon, we ride on soft trails to the Chateau d'Ussé - the sleeping beauty castle, called so for its majestic towers. First fortified in the eleventh century, this castle was once the stronghold at the edge of the Chinon forest. It is a gem of Flamboyant Gothic style mixed with Renaissance motifs, with its completion taking over two hundred years and spanning the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries. Affects from all eras are evidenced in its completed state. It is in this greatly historical setting that we enjoy lunch.
In the afternoon, ride to Chateau de la Chatonnière in Azay le Rideau. Enjoy unforgettable long canters along the Indre river, forests and orchards. Then, transfer to Azay le Rideau for a free visit.
Riding approx. 4 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel Le Grand Monarque in Azay le Rideau


Day 6 (Friday): Azay le Rideau to Villandry
In the morning we ride to the Chateau de Villandry, known for the most infamous gardens of the Loire, where we will have an exquisite lunch. Completed in 1536, Chateau Villandry was the last of the large chateaus built in the Loire Valley during the Renaissance, so it is only fitting we spend our last day here.
We spend the afternoon visiting the wonderful garden and Chateau de Villandry before a transfer to the imposing but impressively private Chateau de Gizeux. where three generations of the Laffon family live. We are warmly welcomed while we explore this new castle before settling in for dinner an our overnight.
Riding approx. 2.5 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Chateau de Gizeux


Day 7 (Saturday): Breakfast and departure
Transfer (not included) to TGV Tours Saint Pierre des Corps station.
Meals included: Breakfast

Please note this itinerary is only suitable for riders able to do long canters and may be changed in small amounts due to weather and seasonal conditions.



Sample Itinerary: Chambord to Amboise (iti. 3) - subject to changes

Day 1 (Sunday): Arrival
Arrival to Relais de Chambord. Check-in after 4:00pm. Dinner and briefing at 7:00pm.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at Relais de Chambord


Day 2 (Monday): Ride around Chambord
Beginning of the ride from Chambord  along the "grand Canal" with spectacular views on the Château de Chambord. We then continue through the large alleys of Boulogne forest around Chambord, then back to Château de Chambord on horseback: Royal! Lunch in Chambord.
In the afternoon, visit Chateau de Chambord (horse show in Chambord not included). Gourmet dinner.
Riding approx. 3 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Relais de Chambord


Day 3 (Tuesday): Ride to Beauregard & Cheverny
We start our ride from Chambord to Chateau de Beauregard by the Boulogne forest. We have the privilege to enter by the front path of the chateau: an unforgettable experience! Visit of Chateau de Beauregard, and discovering of his famous "gallerie des illustres", intact since XVII century. Picnic with foie gras in chateau de Beauregard.
In the afternoon, we head to Chateau of Cheverny on horseback, riding across the countryside and Cheverny vineyards. Visit of Château de Cheverny and overnight nearby. 
Riding approx. 3 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Relais des 3 chateaux




Day 4 (Wednesday): Cheverny to Chaumont sur Loire
This morning, we ride in the countryside of Sologne up to the medieval chateau of Fougères sur Bièvre, which we will visit. We will have our lunch break after the visit.
In the afternoon, we ride to Chaumont sur Loire, passing by Candé on Beuvron, then following the Loire river. Visit of renaissance château of Chaumont sur Loire or garden festival.
Riding approx. 5 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hostellerie du Chateau


Day 5 (Thursday): Chaumont sur Loire to Amboise
After breakfast, we make our way to Amboise, riding along the bank of the river Loire, and across the Touraine countryside. Lunch in a local restaurant in Mosnes, a charming village "toureangeau".
After lunch, we ride to chateau d'Amboise. It is a special feeling arriving to Chateau d'Amboise on horseback by "la porte des Lions", the mediaval king's door!
Then, we have a private guided visit of the Château d'Amboise where Leonardo da Vinci is buried.
Riding approx. 5 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel Le Choiseuil


Day 6 (Friday): Visit of Clos Lucé (no riding)
We start the day by a visit of Clos Lucé, the last home of Leonardo da Vinci. Then, we have some free time in the charming old center of Amboise, where we will have lunch.
This afternoon, we visit of the fantastic Château de Chenonceau and its gardens.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel Le Choiseuil


Day 7 (Saturday): Departure
Breakfast at Hotel Le Choiseuil and departure. Transfers (not included) for Amboise station or Saint Pierre des Corps.
Meals included: Breakfast

For Info on Shorter Trip Options - See Renaissance Castles Getaway (IT-LOESC-2) - not offered in 2022


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.
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Loire Castles Escape Ride
Tour Code: IT-LOESC
7 days / 6 nights
Dates : Jun to Oct

Trip Rating :
Difficulty : Riding Level
Riding Level Explained
ABeginner
Beginner A rider who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot and does not canter.
BNovice
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.
CIntermediate
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.
EAdvanced
All of the above, plus an independent seat, soft hands, and capable of handlinga spirited horse in open country.
Lodging: Standard
Lodging Level Explained
   
= Facilities in lodges, estancias, haciendas, resorts, etc.
   
Basic lodging - some with shared bathroom facilities, usually no AC or room service.
Regular standard room - usually with private bath.
 Accommodations with superior comforts.
   
 = Trips with nights in tent camps. Sometimes the first and last night are in hotels.
   
Basic tent camping - everyone helps out with camp chores.
Regular standard with some camp amenities and camp cook.
Camping facilities with superior comforts like camp shower, bathroom facility..
   
 = Trips that combine nights in hotels and camping.
   
Basic accommodation and basic camping facilities can be expected.
Regular standard with some nicer amenities.
Only assigned to hotel and camping facilities with superior comforts.

Online Reservation

Check here for details and availability
Season Tour Dates  Min / MaxReserve
A 2024 05/05 - 05/11 7d / 6n 7 day trip - Chambord to Amb... 5 /9 Sold Out
A 2024 05/12 - 05/18 7d / 6n 7 day trip - Chambord to Amb... 5 /9 Sold Out
B 2024 06/09 - 06/15 7d / 6n 7 day trip - Saumur to Villa... 5 /9 Sold Out
A 2024 06/16 - 06/22 7d / 6n 7 day trip - Chambord to Amb... 5 /9 Sold Out
A 2024 07/07 - 07/13 7d / 6n 7 day trip - Chambord to Amb... 5 /9 Reserve
A 2024 07/30 - 08/05 7d / 6n 7 day trip - Chambord to Amb... 5 /9 Sold Out
A 2024 08/04 - 08/10 7d / 6n 7 day trip - Chambord to Amb... 5 /9 Reserve
A 2024 08/17 - 08/23 7d / 6n 7 day trip - Chambord to Amb... 5 /9 Sold Out
A 2024 09/08 - 09/14 7d / 6n 7 day trip - Chambord to Amb... 5 /9 Sold Out
A 2024 09/15 - 09/21 7d / 6n 7 day trip - Chambord to Amb... 5 /9 Sold Out
A 2024 09/29 - 10/05 7d / 6n 7 day trip - Chambord to Amb... 5 /9 Reserve
A 2024 10/06 - 10/12 7d / 6n 7 day trip - Chambord to Amb... 5 /9 Sold Out
Introduction
Day to Day Itinerary
Rates | Dates
Accommodation
Tack: English
Horses: Mixed Selle Francais and Anglo Arabian...
Pace: iti 6: fast - 5 riding days from 4h to...

Airport: Paris
Location on Google Map
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What To Bring
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