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Ile-de-France Ride to Versailles
Il-de-France
France
Surprising horseback trips to the south of Paris, through the story of Louis XIV know as "Le Roi Soleil" and Nicolas Fouquet his superintendent. This horseback ride takes us from the Château de Versailles to Vaux-le-Vicomte via Courances, Chamarande and Breteuil. This region, right in the regional park of the Haute Vallée de Chevreuse, offers horseback rides in beautiful and unexpected landscapes, immense forests, magnificent castles surrounded by their gardens. We forget the tumultuous life of Paris a few kilometers away. The terrain and space are conducive to long gallops.
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Progressive Ride (no camping)
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Meeting:
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Saint Rémy-les-Chevreuses or Melun train station
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Airport:
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Paris
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Transfer:
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Saint Rémy-les-Chevreuses train station or Melun 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 2019
Rates include*:
7 nights accommodations, all meals, wine with lunch, 6 riding days
| A | 2019 | 8 day trip, AP | 8d / 7n | €1895 | $2275 |
* 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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2019
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Transfer from Saint Rémy les Chevreuse - drop off Melun train station on last day (or reverse) - roundtrip, pp
- to be paid locally
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€
20
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$25
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2019
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Single supplement
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€
425
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$510
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2019
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Non-rider rate
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€
1,295
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$1,555
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Pick-up is from Saint Rémy-les-Chevreuses train station for 6:30pm on Day 1. Drop-off at Melun train station.
Rates do not include:
Wines and other extras of evening meals, transfers, visits or tastings, entrance fees, gratuities
Sample itinerary - Versailles to Vaux le Vicomte- Subject to changes.
Day 1: Pick-up from Saint Rémy-les-Chevreuses train station for 6:30pm. Dinner and overnight at Magny-les-Hameaux.
Day 2: Breakfast at 8 am. Departure on horseback at about 9:30 am. It is difficult to conceive that we are so close to Paris. Today, we are riding only a couple of kilometres away from the turbulences of the huge cities. We leave Magny les hameaux towards the forest of the Versailles domain, then to the Queenportal of the Versailles Castle - majestic, impressive, huge; we enter the park of the castle of the greatest king ever. We follow the Grand Canal and pass near the Grand Trianon. Picnic at the Saint Antoine garden center. Afternoon: return to our bed and breakfast at Magny les Hameaux. We ride over the parade grounds (place d’arme), the pièce d’eau des suisses water basin, as well as the Versailles domain forest. Dinner and night at Magny les Hameaux.
Day 3: Breakfast at 8 am. Departure on horseback at about 10 am.
In the Chevreuse valley, we circumvent the city and its 11th century castle. Picnic and visit Breteuil Castle. Built in the 16th century in Louis XII style, the castle features marvellous furniture. The visit is led by 50 wax figures from the Grévin Museum. Exposition of the Counts of Perrault. Afternoon: riding through fields and forest, passage next to the Vaux de Cernay abbey, which was founded in the 12th century by Cistercian monks. Nowadays, the ancient abbey hosts a luxury hotel. In the evening, arrival at the Tour Pond, one of the huge water reserves conceived to supply the Versailles Castle with water. Dinner and night in Rambouillet .
Day 4: Breakfast at 8 am, transfer to the horses at 9 am. Departure on horseback at about 10 am. Crossing the Rambouillet Forest, we admire this royal hunting domain with its hundred-year-old oak trees. We will pass near Marais castle, which was the joy of a society of writers and important politicians hosted d by Mme Labriche in the 19th century. Picnic at the Rochefort Castle. Afternoon: slightly hilly region features beautiful forests here and there, as well as great plains with far horizons. The day ends at Courson where we spend the night at Château de Fontenay les Briis hotel or another hotel.
Day 5: Breakfast at 8 am, riders meet at the horses at 9 am. Departure on horseback at about 10 am. Passing through a hilly region, we pass near the church Saint Sulpice de Favière. This sanctuary is known as the most beautiful of its kind in the entire region. The church was built in 1245 in gothic style. Picnic and visit of Chamarande Castle, built in the 17th century in Louis XIII style. This domain is known for supporting modern art. In the afternoon, beautiful trails lead us through beautiful forests here and there, up to Itteville. We leave the horses in a nice meadow surrounded by water, near the hotel Ile de Saussay.
Day 6: Breakfast at 8 am, riders meet at the horses at 9 am. Departure on horseback at about 10 am. Travel through farmland, great planes and forest, including a passage on an ancient Roman road. Picnic at Courrances Castle, visit of the 17th century gardens (one of the most beautiful examples of renaissance water gardens). In the afternoon, on a track suitable for galloping, we will discover varied and unique landscapes of the Fontainebleau forest. In the late afternoon, arrival at Franchard Canyon. Night at the Le Richelieu Hotel (near Fontainebleau Castle).
Day 7: Breakfast at 8 am, riders meet at the horses at 9 am. Departure on horseback at about 10 am through the Fontainebleau Castle Park, and the Fontainebleau Forest, following a varied track which allows you to discover the particularities of the forest (landscape, rocks, sand, birch, oak, beech…). Picnic spot on the beach of the river Seine at Fontaine le Port. In the afternoon: Ride through semi-wooded area and fields to arrive on horseback at Vaux le Vicomte Castle, riding in the park. This castle built by Nicolas Fouquet in 1615 was used by Louis XIV as a model for the Château de Versailles. Transfer to Le Grand Monarque hotel. Night and dinner at the hotel. Visit of the castle in the evening or the following morning.
Day 8: Transfer of riders to Melun station around 9 am or 12 noon.
Meeting:
Saint Rémy-les-Chevreuses or Melun train station
Airport:
Paris
Train station:
Saint Rémy-les-Chevreuses train station or Melun train station
Transfer:
Saint Rémy-les-Chevreuses train station or Melun train station
Distance:
Approx.40 miles
Pick-up is from Saint Rémy-les-Chevreuses train station for 6:30pm on Day 1. Drop-off at Melun 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
12
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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
Our rides are for the experienced rider who has mastered all 4 paces (walk, rising trot, canter/gallop in a forward seat) on a varied terrain, in open spaces. The experienced rider rides regularly, has good physical fitness, has good soft hands, a good attitude, and self-confidence. They control the speed and direction of the horse in all circumstances. They can ride long distances including gallops of several minutes in open terrain.
HORSEBACK RIDING
Riding groups have a minimum of 5 and maximum of 10 riders , plus the Guide and the Translator. The itinerary may be modified at any time for security reasons, meteorological or other events beyond our control such as blocked roads, rivers in flood, drought, strikes, and local holidays. We will always strive to find the best solution and will alter the itinerary as needed. The names of the hotels and accommodation are given for information only and depending on availability, they may be modified without notice and replaced by another of a similar standard.
HORSES
Our horses are pure- or cross-bred Paint, Arabian, or Thoroughbreds and warmbloods. They live in a 70 acre field with the herd all year long, and most of them were born at Cheval Voyages’ equestrian farm. They are well-behaved and suitable for all types of rider.
MINIMUM RIDING ABILITY
Riders must be at ease at all 4 paces across varied, uneven terrain and be in good physical condition. You must be secure in the saddle and be comfortable riding for long hours.
Rider weight limit: 220 lbs.
PACE
The pace is varied depending on the terrain, with long periods of walk and plenty of opportunities to canter and gallop.
TACKING ABILITY AND PARTICIPATION
The team prepares the horses.
TRIP CONDITIONS AND REQUESTED EXPERIENCE
Previous experience of trail rides over a number of days would be beneficial but is not required.
EQUESTRIAN EQUIPMENT
Comfortable trail riding saddles, saddlebags, poncho, and water are provided. Horses are ridden in “Myler” bits. Helmets are not mandatory but are strongly recommended.
LOGISTICS
The support van follows the horseback riding trail to prepare your arrival for lunch and dinner. The ride assistant prepares the lunch buffet and is at your service if you have a special need. The luggage is transported in the vehicle and transferred to each accommodation.
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
Versailles 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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43
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46
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53
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59
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66
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72
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76
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76
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69
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60
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50
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44
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Average Low Temperature (°F)
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35
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35
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38
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42
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48
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54
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57
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56
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51
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46
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40
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36
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Average High Temperature (°C)
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6
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8
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12
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15
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19
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22
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25
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25
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21
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16
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10
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7
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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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5
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9
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12
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14
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14
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11
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8
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4
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2
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Average Precipitation (days of rain)
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9
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8
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9
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8
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9
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8
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7
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6
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7
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8
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8
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9
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Source: NOAA
Seasons
The Ile-de-France region has an oceanic climate characterized by warm summers and cold winters, but without extreme temperatures thanks to the North Atlantic current.
Spring (March to May)
The best time to visit is probably Spring. At this time, temperatures are getting warmer and the trees are blooming.
Summer (June to August)
This season offers lovely sunny weather but you can expect to see many tourists.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is also a good time to visit as there are fewer crowds and the trees all start changing colors.
Winter (December to February)
It can be cold at this time of the year but snow is a rarity.
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
Pajamas
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.
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with the tour ID you provided.
|
..view other reports for different trips
COMFORT
Accommodation is in B&B or hotels. Double or Twin room, possibility of single but with supplement. 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.
Lodgings at the following hotels, however changes are possible due to vacancy availability per group!
Day 1: Gîte Magny les Hameaux
Day 2: Gîte Magny les Hameaux
Day 3: Hôtel Saint Charles
Day 4: Château de Fontenay les Briis Or Hôtel Arpège
Day 5: Hôtel sur l’île de Saussay
Day 6: Hôtel de Charme in Fontainebleau
Day 7: Le Grand Monarque
Note: This trip also runs in reverse. Depending on the dates you choose, this sample list of hotels could be in reverse order.
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).
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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
12
|
|
|
Weight:
|
|
Max
220 lbs
|
|
Riders:
|
|
Min
5 riders
|
Max
10 riders
|
|
RIDING ABILITY
Our rides are for the experienced rider who has mastered all 4 paces (walk, rising trot, canter/gallop in a forward seat) on a varied terrain, in open spaces. The experienced rider rides regularly, has good physical fitness, has good soft hands, a good attitude, and self-confidence. They control the speed and direction of the horse in all circumstances. They can ride long distances including gallops of several minutes in open terrain.
HORSEBACK RIDING
Riding groups have a minimum of 5 and maximum of 10 riders , plus the Guide and the Translator. The itinerary may be modified at any time for security reasons, meteorological or other events beyond our control such as blocked roads, rivers in flood, drought, strikes, and local holidays. We will always strive to find the best solution and will alter the itinerary as needed. The names of the hotels and accommodation are given for information only and depending on availability, they may be modified without notice and replaced by another of a similar standard.
HORSES
Our horses are pure- or cross-bred Paint, Arabian, or Thoroughbreds and warmbloods. They live in a 70 acre field with the herd all year long, and most of them were born at Cheval Voyages’ equestrian farm. They are well-behaved and suitable for all types of rider.
MINIMUM RIDING ABILITY
Riders must be at ease at all 4 paces across varied, uneven terrain and be in good physical condition. You must be secure in the saddle and be comfortable riding for long hours.
Rider weight limit: 220 lbs.
PACE
The pace is varied depending on the terrain, with long periods of walk and plenty of opportunities to canter and gallop.
TACKING ABILITY AND PARTICIPATION
The team prepares the horses.
TRIP CONDITIONS AND REQUESTED EXPERIENCE
Previous experience of trail rides over a number of days would be beneficial but is not required.
EQUESTRIAN EQUIPMENT
Comfortable trail riding saddles, saddlebags, poncho, and water are provided. Horses are ridden in “Myler” bits. Helmets are not mandatory but are strongly recommended.
LOGISTICS
The support van follows the horseback riding trail to prepare your arrival for lunch and dinner. The ride assistant prepares the lunch buffet and is at your service if you have a special need. The luggage is transported in the vehicle and transferred to each accommodation.
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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Ile-de-France Ride to Versailles
Tour Code:
IT-FRABR03
8 days /
7 nights
~$2,275.00
Dates :
July
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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