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Mont Blanc Ride
Savoy
France
Long before welcoming skiers from all over the world to its resorts, the Tarentaise valley and its alpine passes were frequented by men from the Neolothic, and perhaps even by Hannibal during his crossing of the Alps with his elephants in 218 AD.
This region was strategic for the Roman Empire and it was also the birthplace of the illustrious Savoy house, which gave its first king to Italy. We will walk in the footsteps of the Celts who, from the Neolithic exploited the precious minerals of the mountains, as well as the illustrious Romans, who built and designed beautiful baroque chapels in this region.
The Tarentaise valley is also the setting of the Vanoise National Park, and numerous peaks over 3000 m. Nature lovers will particularly enjoy this ride as we will delight in the sight of vibrant living mountains, covered by rocks, ice, forests and plants and inhabited by a rich wildlife, including: eagles, gyapetes, ibex, marmots...and many more!
Progressive Ride (no camping)
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Meeting:
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Peisey Nancroix
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Airport:
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Geneva
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Transfer:
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Geneva airport or Landry train station
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Riders:
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Min
4 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 with 2 glasses of wine for dinner, 5 guided horse riding days, 1 sightseeing day (inc. entrance fees) & Transfers
A | 2021 | 7 day trip, AP | 8d / 7n | €2640 | $3145 |
* prices are per person based on double/twin occupancy
Transfer and Other Charges:
2021
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Transfers from/to Geneva airport, per minibus (8 pax)
- to be paid locally
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€
320
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$385
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2021
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Single supplement
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€
875
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$1,045
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2021
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Non-rider, pp (double occupancy)
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€
2,280
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$2,715
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2021
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Small group supplement (4 riders), pp
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€
175
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$210
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2021
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Small group supplement (3 riders), pp
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€
355
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$425
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2021
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Small group supplement (2 riders), pp
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€
825
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$985
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Rates do not include:
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 Mont Blanc Ride (IT-FRSA01):
Masks are requested in certains visits of chateaux, please bring your own mask.
For more information please visit our COVID-19 Updates page at https://www.hiddentrails.com/article/covid19update.aspx
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Sample Itinerary - s ubject to changes
Day 1 (Sunday): Arrival
After arriving at Geneva airport or at the Landry train station, we will transfer you to your accommodation.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at Hotel de la Vanoise in Peisey Nancroix
Day 2 (Monday): Ride to Rossaix
Start of the ride from La Chenarie. We take the Carroz Blanc forest path, from where we have a sublime view of the Bellecôte massif. Then we discover the beautiful open landscape of the Rossaix pastures. There, we will see lovely little Tarine cows and we will visit alpine pastures where the Beaufort cheese is produce.
After enjoying lunch on site, return to La Chenarie by the Carroz Blanc forest path.
Riding approx. 4 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel de la Vanoise in Peisey Nancroix
Day 3 (Tuesday): Ride to Silver Mines of Peisey & Rosuel
The silver veins of Peisey, renamed the "Silver Mount", were discovered in 1644, but mining did not really begin until the early 18th century. The Ecole Pratique des Mines, was first established in Peisey, before being transferred to Paris, in 1815 at the fall of Napoleon and the Sardinian restoration in Savoy.
We visit the site on horseback then ride in the Rosuel valley.
We will stop for a traditional lunch at "Chez Felix".
In the afternoon, enchanting ride in the Vanoise National Park, discovering its high peaks, waterfalls, forests and wildlife: marmots, vultures including the very rare Gyapète, eagles, chamois, ibex ...
Visit with a naturalist guide from the Vanoise National Park. Dinner at the Rosuel refuge in the heart of the Park and overnight at the Vanoise hotel.
Riding approx. 4 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel de la Vanoise in Peisey Nancroix
Day 4 (Wednesday): Baroques churches on the way to Landry
Savoy baroque art is at the heart of the reconquest of souls during the counter reform. A true social project, the church reflects life in the mountains; it honors the saints invoked against the disease of men and cattle, accidents, avalanches, climatic hazards. Visiting these sites then becomes an exciting story, suitable for both amateurs and laymen. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the faith of the inhabitants and the talent of local, Piedmontese and/or French artists populated the valleys with masterpieces.
From La Chenarie we will ride to Parcompuet, to see the Baroque chapel of Vernettes.
We will visit the Chapel and then descend into the valley to Nancroix, where we enjoy lunch in a typical restaurant "Ancolie".
After the break, we ride along the Ponthurin to the village of Moulin then Peisey Nancroix, which we cross on horseback, before descending into the Tarentaise valley to visit the Baroque church of Landry, located at the foot of the Roman road.
Transfer to Angèle's farm, a charming Savoyard chalet in Seez. Visit of the baroque church of Montrigeon.
Riding approx. 4 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Angele's farm
Day 5 (Thursday): St Germain & Petit Saint Bernard Mountain Pass
From Seez, we will take the Roman road to Saint Germain, until we reach the Petit Saint Bernard mountain pass. The pass marks the border between the "Cromlech" and the Colonne Joux (Columna Jovis). The construction of the road that passes through the mountain pass (In Alpe Graia) probably dates back to the period of Julius Caesar around 45 BC. It was completed around the year 2 or 3 AD. It was the main road that linked Milan to Vienna, in the Rhône valley.
We will stop for lunch at the mountain pass and visit the Petit Saint Bernard hospice museum.
Once back in the saddle, we will go for a loop ride to discover the Roman ruins.
Transfer by minibus to the Pré Saint Didier thermal baths from where we have a sublime view of the Mont Blanc chain.
Riding approx. 5 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Pré Saint Didier
Day 6 (Friday): Sightseeing Day (no riding)
This morning, we go on a sightseeing tour to Aosta, in Italy, by minibus.
The new colony of Augusta Praetoria Salassorum (Aosta) was founded in 25 BC. J.-C, at the very place of the headquarters (praetorium) of the old fortified camp, at the crossroads between the road of Grand-Saint-Bernard (Mons Jovis or Mont Joux), and that of Petit-Saint-Bernard (Columna Jovis or "Colonne de Joux", or Alpis Graia). We visit the Arc de Triomphe, the numerous Roman remains of Aosta, as well as its medieval buildings.
We stop for lunch in Aosta.
This afternoon, we visit the medieval and renaissance castles of Fénis and Issogne, and discover their magnificent frescoes.
Then transfer to the Chambres du Soleil guest house, in the Chapieux valley, at the foot of the Aiguille des glaciers, peek from Mont Blanc chain.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Chambres du Soleil, in the Chapieux Valley
Day 7 (Saturday): Ride to Col de la Seigne
We start our ride in the Chapieux Valley and then climb toward the Seigne mountain pass, at the border with Italy. From the pass, we have an astonishing view on Mont Blanc itself.
In the afternoon, descent by the same path, but with a totally different point of view on the wonderful Chapieux valley: Mont Tondu, pointe de la Terrasse, pointe du Terrassin, pointe de Pralognan ...
Riding approx. 6 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Chambres du Soleil, in the Chapieux Valley
Day 8 (Sunday): Departure
Breakfast and transfers to Geneva airport or Bourg Saint Maurice train station.
Meals included: Breakfast
Please note this itinerary may be changed in small amounts due to weather and seasonal conditions.
Meeting:
Peisey Nancroix
Airport:
Geneva
Train station:
Landry / Bourg Saint
Maurice
Transfer:
Geneva airport or Landry train station
Tack:
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English
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Horses:
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Henson breed
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Pace:
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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
210 lbs
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Riders:
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Min
4 riders
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Max
10 riders
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Horses
The choice of our horses has been motivated above all, by the strong desire to make you enjoy your trip in total safety. Our horses are quiet and generous. Your trail companion is chosen for you according your level, height and weight. For this ride, horses are Henson breed, experienced and trained for the trail riding in mountains.
Some advice:
Before you leave: If possible, prior to your trip try to ride a horse 3 or 4 times to train your muscles for a long time on horseback. Review your knowledge (tying knot, groom, saddle, adjust and put the bridle...)
During the ride: Pay attention to the given instructions, respect the schedule and keep reasonable distances from other riding, and enjoy yourself !
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
Seez area
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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41
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45
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54
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59
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68
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75
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79
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78
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71
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62
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49
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42
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Average Low Temperature (°F)
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25
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27
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32
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38
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45
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51
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54
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53
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48
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41
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32
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27
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Average High Temperature (°C)
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5
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7
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12
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15
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20
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24
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26
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26
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22
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16
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10
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5
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Average Low Temperature (°C)
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-4
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-3
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0
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3
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7
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10
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12
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12
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9
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5
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0
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-3
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Source: NOAA
Seasons
This ride only takes place during the summer. The mountains are still covered with snow at high altitude, but we only cover trails where the snow is completely gone.
The weather is usually quite sunny. However, as it is the case in mountainous areas, weather can change rapidly and temperatures can drop so it is best to come prepared and dress with layers.
The general atmosphere is relaxed during your ride. Please bring some smart casual clothes for dinner.
This list is only a guideline for you |
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Travel documents and Voucher |
Flight tickets |
Passport |
Visa (check with your consulate) |
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RIDING GEAR |
Riding pants or Jodhpurs (used if possible!) |
Riding boots (short) + Minichaps |
Riding helmet (recommended for all trips) |
Riding gloves |
Hat (with chin strip) for sun protection |
Lightweight Rain coat |
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PERSONAL CLOTHING |
Jacket or sweater for cool evenings |
Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts |
Jeans |
Shorts |
Underwear and socks |
Pyjama |
Bag for dirty clothes |
Trekking boots/ comfortable shoes |
Swimsuit |
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ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING |
Personal Toiletries |
Insect protection |
Personal medications |
Sore cream (for an emergency) |
Sewing kit |
Handkerchiefs |
Adapter for electric appliances |
Camera and enough extra film and batteries |
Belt pack |
Address book and pen (for pictures postcards!) |
Sun glasses with strap |
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.
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Accommodations
This is a progressive ride, so nights are spent in different locations.
Description
You will sleep in hotels and B&Bs along the way. Accommodations are located in the heart of the mountain.
Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Nights 1, 2 & 3: Hotel de la Vanoise in Peisey Nancroix
Night 4: Angele's Farm in Seez
Night 5: Hotel in Pré Saint Didier
Nights 6 & 7: Chambres du Soleil in the Chapieux Valley
Hotel de la Vanoise in Peisey Nancroix
This small mountain hotel offers ensuite accommodation and is decorated in typical Savoy style. There is free Wi-Fi available and guests can enjoy their relaxation area: sauna, hammam and pool. From the patio you have a great view on the surrounding peaks.
Angele's Farm in Seez
This charming farmhouse was originally built in 1830. Today, the chalet still displays beautiful stonewalls, a slate roof and wooden balconies. It has 6 beautifully decorated bedrooms, each equipped with private facilities and free Wi-Fi access. In the evening, you can relax in the hot tub or enjoy the view from the terrace.
Hotel in Pré Saint Didier
This modern hotel offers splendid views of the Mont Blanc. The rooms are comfortable and equipped with all necessary amenities: ensuite bathroom, free Wi-Fi and TV. Guests are also able to access the beautiful spa to relax after a long day's ride.
Chambres du Soleil in the Chapieux Valley
This family hotel first opened its doors in 1856 and remained in service for over 150 years before having to close down. The hotel opened its door again in 2009, and your hosts now welcome you in the renovated hotel for a comfortable stay in one of the 8 guestrooms. Each room has its own bathroom and features a simple and modern decor. There is no Wi-Fi access from this property.
Room Occupancy
Single supplement is mandatory if we are unable to find another rider to share.
Meals
All meals are included from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 8.
On this ride, you will have the opportunity to taste the local gastronomy, convivial dinner... We do our best to give you the best experience in our beautiful mountains.
You will taste and experience the French art de vivre. All gourmet meals with 2 glass of wine included.
Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to dietary restrictions given prior notice.
This trip includes
some wine with dinner
and can accommodate special dietary requests.
Tack:
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English
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Horses:
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Henson breed
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Pace:
|
|
|
Level:
|
|
(3
to
4
out of 5) Intermediate +
|
Weight:
|
|
Max
210 lbs
|
Riders:
|
|
Min
4 riders
|
Max
10 riders
|
|
Horses
The choice of our horses has been motivated above all, by the strong desire to make you enjoy your trip in total safety. Our horses are quiet and generous. Your trail companion is chosen for you according your level, height and weight. For this ride, horses are Henson breed, experienced and trained for the trail riding in mountains.
Some advice:
Before you leave: If possible, prior to your trip try to ride a horse 3 or 4 times to train your muscles for a long time on horseback. Review your knowledge (tying knot, groom, saddle, adjust and put the bridle...)
During the ride: Pay attention to the given instructions, respect the schedule and keep reasonable distances from other riding, and enjoy yourself !
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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Mont Blanc Ride
Tour Code:
IT-FRSA01
8 days /
7 nights
~$3,145.00
Dates :
June
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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