|
|
|
|
|
Provence Hills & Wine
Provence
France
Ride across the heart of Provence, through the Luberon natural regional park up to the Rhone valley, at the foot of the Mont Ventoux. This is an area basked in sunshine and a famous wine region.
During this tour, you can discover the “Cotes de Luberon”, the “Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence, the “Cotes du Ventoux, as well as the famous “Cotes du Rhone” such as the Beaumes-de-Venise and Gigondas, where the trail ride ends.
|
Progressive Ride (no camping)
Family Vacation
|
|
Meeting:
|
Lauris
|
|
Airport:
|
Marseille
|
|
Transfer:
|
Marseille Airport or Aix-en-Provence Train Station
|
|
Riders:
|
Min
4 riders
Max
8 riders
|
|
Trip Brochure (PDF) 
Trip Rating
|
|
|
|
Rates include*:
Accommodation, All meals with wine for lunch and dinner, Transfer from/to Marseille Airport or Aix-en-Provence Train Station at set times & 5 riding days
* prices are per person based on double/twin occupancy
Rates Note:
Pick-up / drop-off for this trip is available from Aix-en-Provence TGV train station, Aix-en-Provence central train station or Marseille airport.
Rates do not include:
Beverages outside of mealtimes & Gratuities
Sample Itinerary - subject to changes
Day 1 (Sunday): Arrival
Meeting in Lauris at 7 p.m. Free transfer possible from Marseille airport (5 pm), Aix en Provence tgv train station (5:30 pm) or Aix en Provence center train station (5:45 pm).
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at Guesthouse in Lauris
Day 2 (Monday): Lauris to Merindol
You will follow the vines, sheltered by the southern side of the Luberon. On the way, we might stop for wine tasting visit in a “Cave de Vins”.
Picnic in a pine grove: a copious buffet prepared by our assistant. In the evening, horses stay in Merindol and riders are transfered to the accommodation in Lauris.
For dinner, a pleasant meal accompanied by a “Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence”.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Guesthouse in Lauris
Day 3 (Tuesday): Merindol to Oppède
After breakfast, transfer back to the horses in Merindol. Ride through pine forests with wonderful views of the Durance valley with orchards, whose fruits you will taste during the picnic.
In the afternoon, landscapes of cliffs where eagles and other birds of prey nest. We then arrive in Oppède, where the horses will stay for the night.
For the riders transfer to Coustellet. Dinner at the restaurant and night at the hotel.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight in Coustellet
Day 4 (Wednesday): Oppède to Venasque
Today, we enter the “Côtes de Ventoux” producing area, via the Vaucluse mounts. We will reach the “mur du peste” a wall constructed in 1720 to protect the populations from the great epidemic that spread from Marseille.
Night near Venasque, a historical village.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight in Venasque
Day 5 (Thursday): Venasque to Crillon le Brave
Countryside of rolling hills, through pine forests and cherry trees, facing the “Mont Ventoux” called the "Giant of Provence". Before lunch, wine taste at the Domaine des Anges.
In the late afternoon, you will arrive at the Moulin d'Antelon or other guesthouse near the village of Crillon le Brave. The village takes its full name of Crillon-le-Brave from the most legendary of its dukes: Louis des Balbes de Berton de Crillon or "Le Brave Crillon" (1541–1615). He was one of Henri IV's fiercest and most valiant generals during the French Wars of Religion in the late 16th century. The same Crillon family also gave its name to the famous Hôtel de Crillon in Paris. Before dinner you can enjoy the swimming-pool.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight in Crillon le Brave
Day 6 (Friday): Crillon le Brave to Gigondas
You will ride through villages, with the “Mont Ventoux” in the background. Picnic near the Barroux village and chateau.
In the afternoon you will discover the “Dentelles de Montmirail”, needle thin spikes and ridges (“dentelle” means lace). Wine tasting at Domaine de Cassan, in the heart of this beautiful range.
End of the ride at Gigondas and transfer to Lauris.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Guesthouse in Lauris
Day 7 (Saturday): Departure
End of the trail after breakfast. Free transfer to Aix en Provence train stations or Marseille airport (departure at 9:30 am).
Meals included: 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:
Lauris
Airport:
Marseille
Train station:
Aix-en-Provence
Transfer:
Marseille Airport or Aix-en-Provence Train Station
Distance:
45 miles
Pick-up / drop-off for this trip is available from Aix-en-Provence TGV train station, Aix-en-Provence central train station or Marseille airport.
|
Tack:
|
|
Trail Saddles
|
|
Horses:
|
|
Spanish or barb mix
|
|
Pace:
|
|
Moderate - with walk, trot, canter and gallop
5 hours a day on horseback on average
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
|
|
Level:
|
|
(3.5
to
4
out of 5) Good Intermediate
|
|
Age:
|
|
Min
12
|
Max
80
|
|
Weight:
|
|
Max
200 lbs / 90 kg
|
|
Riders:
|
|
Min
4 riders
|
Max
8 riders
|
|
Riding Level
In order to make the most of the ride, we require riders to be comfortable at all 3 gaits (with walk, trot and canter) in an outdoor setting.
Pace
You will ride an average of 5 hours every day (about 2-3 hours in the morning and again 2-3 hours in the afternoon). The pace will vary according to the terrain.
Horses
Most of our horses are Barb and Spanish crosses. They have been trained for trail riding and are sure-footed. They live together as a herd, all year long.
During the ride, we advise you to take care of your horse, in order to get to know him better, and to create a special relationship with him.
Riding Group
Groups are made out of 4 to 8 riders (plus the guide). This limited amount of riders, often including several nationalities, allows each person to make the most of the trip.
Staff
Two members of staff will accompany you on your trip: 1 guide on horseback who speaks English and French and 1 person in charge of transporting luggage and setting up the lunch buffets.
Guides are certified, and friendly. They made a job out of their passion and enjoy sharing their passion with guests. Whether on the Alpes or on the beaches of Camargue, amongst odorant thym, rosmary and lavander, our guides are here to keep riders safe. All guides speak English.
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
Merindol area
|
Month
|
Jan
|
Feb
|
Mar
|
Apr
|
May
|
Jun
|
Jul
|
Aug
|
Sep
|
Oct
|
Nov
|
Dec
|
|
Average High Temperature (°F)
|
51
|
53
|
61
|
66
|
73
|
81
|
86
|
84
|
77
|
69
|
58
|
52
|
|
Average Low Temperature (°F)
|
33
|
34
|
39
|
43
|
50
|
57
|
62
|
61
|
55
|
49
|
40
|
34
|
|
Average High Temperature (°C)
|
11
|
12
|
16
|
19
|
23
|
27
|
30
|
29
|
25
|
20
|
14
|
11
|
|
Average Low Temperature (°C)
|
0
|
1
|
4
|
6
|
10
|
14
|
17
|
16
|
13
|
9
|
4
|
1
|
|
Average Precipitation (days of rain)
|
5
|
4
|
4
|
5
|
4
|
3
|
1
|
2
|
4
|
5
|
5
|
4
|
Source: NOAA
Seasons
Thanks to its position in the South of France, the Provence region enjoys a warm Mediterranean climate with an average of 300 days of sunshine a year. The region benefits from warm summers and mild winters.
Summer
The hot summer days are broken up by the evening sea breezes which provide a cooling break from heat and create an ideal atmosphere to enjoy what this alluring picturesque area has to offer. Along the coast, summers are hot, with scarce rain for a 3 month period in the midst of summer. However, when it rains – it pours and often the rain is associated with thunder. Sunshine is plentiful - up to 11/12 hours a day in summer and around 5 in midwinter.
Winter
Winters in the region are generally mild and sunny but this pleasant weather is often interrupted by very unsettled cold and squally weather brought in by the famous northerly ‘mistral’ wind. The mistral blows with particular strength through around Marseille and through the Rhône Valley.
| This list is only a guideline for you |
|
|
| Travel documents and Voucher |
| Flight tickets |
| Passport |
| Visa (check with your consulate) |
|
|
| RIDING GEAR |
| Jodhpurs or comfortable jeans (used if possible!) |
| Riding boots and mini chaps |
| Riding helmet |
| Riding gloves |
| Hat (with chin strap) for sun protection |
| Lightweight Waterproof |
|
|
| PERSONAL CLOTHING |
| Jacket or sweater for cool evenings |
| Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts |
| Jeans |
| Shorts |
| Underwear and socks |
| Pyjamas |
| Bag for dirty clothes |
| Jacket |
| Trekking boots/ comfortable shoes |
| |
| ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING |
| Personal Toiletries |
| Insect protection |
| Personal medications |
| Sore cream (for an emergency) |
| Sewing kit |
| Handkerchiefs |
| Adapter for electric appliances |
| Camera and extra batteries |
| Sun glasses with strap |
| Sun tan lotion and lip balm |
Luggage is limited to 1 piece per person. It can be a regular suitcase or a bag but dimensions should not exceed 90cm x 65cm x 35cm and 15kg!
If you wish to bring an extra luggage, please advise us, as we may need an extra vehicle, and a supplement may be asked.
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.
|
..view other reports for different trips
Accommodations
This is a progressive ride, so you will be staying in different locations during the trip.
Description
Accommodations during the trail will be in guesthouses and country inns. They are basic, but clean. We select our accommodation according to its beautiful setting and friendly atmosphere, for riders to enjoy a pleasant stay. There are no laundry facilities while on trail. Most accommodations have WIFI.
Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1-2: Les Gargoulettes in Lauris
Night 3: Hotel in Coustellet
Night 4: Guesthouse in Venasque
Night 5: Guesthouse in Crillon le Brave
Night 6: Les Gargoulettes in Lauris
Les Gargoulettes in Lauris
Your host welcome you in their lovely country house. Each room has its own theme and decor with air-conditioning, a TV, free Wi-Fi access and ensuite facilities. There is an outdoor swimming pool, a Jacuzzi and a sauna that guests are welcome to use.
Hotel in Coustellet
This eco-responsible 3-star hotel offers comfortable rooms equipped with private bathroom, air conditioning, a TV and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Guesthouse in Venasque
This charming guesthouse offers great views on the surrounding mountains. The rooms feature private facilities, central heating, fan and free Wi-Fi access.
In the evening, guest can relax in the small garden or go for a swim in the outdoor pool.
Guesthouse in Crillon le Brave
This former watermill has been completely refurbished in order to welcome overnight guests. The rooms all have a TV, ensuite bathrooms and internet access. There is a small pool where guests can cool off in the evening.
Room Occupancy
Triple occupancy is available at most accommodations.
If you book in shared bedrooms and if there is no other rider to share bedrooms with you, the single supplement will be applied.
Meals
All meals are included in your package and typical Provençal meals are on the menu.
Breakfast will be provided by the accommodations we stay in and feature bread, butter, jams, cereals and fruit juice.
At lunch, our assistant will prepare a substantial buffet. A “pastis”, a glass of red wine, a barbecue by a mountain stream, a refreshing salad, a nap before leaving again : many small pleasures which will add to the enjoyment of our rides.
In the evening everyone meets around the table, to discover local food - or should we say "cuisine" - don't count on losing any weight.
Wine is included at lunch and dinner.
Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to dietary restrictions with prior notice.
This trip
includes some wine with dinner
and
can accommodate special dietary requests.
|
Tack:
|
|
Trail Saddles
|
|
Horses:
|
|
Spanish or barb mix
|
|
Pace:
|
|
Moderate - with walk, trot, canter and gallop
5 hours a day on horseback on average
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
|
|
Level:
|
|
(3.5
to
4
out of 5) Good Intermediate
|
|
Age:
|
|
Min
12
|
Max
80
|
|
Weight:
|
|
Max
200 lbs / 90 kg
|
|
Riders:
|
|
Min
4 riders
|
Max
8 riders
|
|
Riding Level
In order to make the most of the ride, we require riders to be comfortable at all 3 gaits (with walk, trot and canter) in an outdoor setting.
Pace
You will ride an average of 5 hours every day (about 2-3 hours in the morning and again 2-3 hours in the afternoon). The pace will vary according to the terrain.
Horses
Most of our horses are Barb and Spanish crosses. They have been trained for trail riding and are sure-footed. They live together as a herd, all year long.
During the ride, we advise you to take care of your horse, in order to get to know him better, and to create a special relationship with him.
Riding Group
Groups are made out of 4 to 8 riders (plus the guide). This limited amount of riders, often including several nationalities, allows each person to make the most of the trip.
Staff
Two members of staff will accompany you on your trip: 1 guide on horseback who speaks English and French and 1 person in charge of transporting luggage and setting up the lunch buffets.
Guides are certified, and friendly. They made a job out of their passion and enjoy sharing their passion with guests. Whether on the Alpes or on the beaches of Camargue, amongst odorant thym, rosmary and lavander, our guides are here to keep riders safe. All guides speak English.
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.
|
|
|
|
Provence Hills & Wine
Tour Code:
IT-FRPV08
7 days /
6 nights
Dates :
Mar-Jun & Sep-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. |
|