Horse Riding Holidays in France
From sun-drenched vineyards offering the world’s most well-respected wine to ancient castles and medieval cities, a horse-riding holiday in France offers the full package; excellent, well-schooled horses, delicious food and wine, hot, sunny weather and diverse scenery. Horse riding in France is the perfect mode of transport to discover the huge diversity of landscapes in the country. Take in rolling hills, pine forests and the rich and varied cultural heritage of this landscape on one of our week-long horse riding holidays.
Bay of Somme Trail
Discover northern France on horseback with this four-day adventure through the underrated landscapes of Picardie. Riding Henson horses, a hardy, responsive and willing local breed, you’ll explore forests, sand dunes, and open countryside, finishing with exhilarating beach gallops along the Bay of Somme.
Each day brings a new perspective on this remarkable region, from peaceful woodland paths to sweeping coastal views. The route also includes cultural visits to historic castles and elegant gardens, offering a glimpse into Picardie’s rich heritage. Meals are taken in local restaurants – your horses tied up outside as you enjoy traditional French cuisine.
All horses are ridden bitless, and a horse-drawn carriage accompanies the trail to carry luggage and offer a welcome rest for any rider who wishes to take a break. This is a relaxed, scenic journey combining nature, culture, and the unique rhythm of travelling on horseback through one of France’s most unspoiled coastal regions.
Taste of Corsica on Horseback
During this stay, enjoy the unspoiled nature shaped by the maritime and mountainous influences of Corsica. The Corsican horse, small, determined, and sure-footed, will be your ideal companion to explore transhumance paths, climb to mountain passes, discover historic monuments, and reach the beaches (with the possibility of galloping and swimming with the horses).
You will appreciate the friendly atmosphere of the group, the conviviality of the aperitif, and the delicious hot meals prepared with healthy, natural products from L’ALBADU farm. During your stay with local producers, you will discover the flavors of the region while delving into Corsica’s history, especially that of Corte.
Meetings, exchanges, and sharing will be at the heart of this Corsican experience. You will live through strong emotions, in the company of your horse, your guide, and your group. A 100% immersion in the Island of Beauty, unforgettable!
Corsica: Mountain and Beach Trail
Embark on a riding adventure through Corsica’s mountain landscapes during this immersive 8-day experience. Starting from the charming village of Corte, you will ride through rugged mountains, pristine rivers, and spectacular coastal cliffs, stopping for picnics at picturesque spots like Col d’Ominanda and the Tartagine River. Camp by wild rivers, gallop on deserted beaches at Saleccia, and share memorable moments with your horses on pristine shores. The journey continues beyond the Col de Tenda, with the possibility of spotting wild horses, culminating in a rich experience of Corsican nature, culture, and conviviality. Perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike, this expedition offers a unique blend of exploration, relaxation, and discovery on one of France’s most beautiful islands.
Pyrenees Mountain Trail
A trail for riders in search of adventure in the heart of the Pyrenees. Discover the Pic du Midi from its summer pastures to small lakes on paths steeped in history. An itinerary full of delightful surprises and enchanting landscapes.
Sancerre Wine Trail
Ride through rolling hills, with endless vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see. In and around Sancerre, you’ll explore charming villages, historic streets, and ancient landmarks, all while immersing yourself in the beauty of this renowned wine region. Sancerre, one of France’s oldest wine-producing areas, is a medieval town steeped in history, home to the world-famous Sancerre wine and the local treasure of “Crottin de Chavignol,” a delicious goat cheese that pairs perfectly with a glass of Sancerre Blanc. Join this unforgettable heritage and gastronomy trail, where you’ll experience the best of French history, culture, and horse riding.
Camargue Mountains and Beach Trail
Discover the beauty of the south of France with this expedition through the natural parks of the Luberon, the Alpilles and Camargue. Start your trip in the heart of the aromatic region of Provence and ride through the most beautiful lavender fields of France before reaching the marshes and beaches of Camargue.
Champagne Trail
For lovers of horses and wine, visit the region of Champagne where you can canter across scenic vineyards, through rural French villages and sip champagne in after a day’s riding. This trail is a fascinating exploration of rural France coupled with excellent riding terrain.
Chateaux of the Loire
The great castles of the Loire Valley are an incredible example of French legacies. Chenonceau, Cheverny, and Chaumont offer examples of the tremendous flowering of French culture during the Renaissance period and can be visited on this seven night trail ride offering fast riding through the royal hunting forests. You will journey across the Loire Valley, stopping at its majestic castles en route. Beautiful scenery, responsive horses and great food and wine, this is the ideal trail for lovers of French history, culture and architecture (not to mention food!).
Bordeaux Wine Trail
Ride through the vineyards of Bordeaux, tasting some of the world-famous wines produced in the region: Médoc, Côte de Blaye, Côte de Bourg, Bordeaux Supérieur, Lalande-Pomerol, St Emilion and Sauternes to name a few. Wash these down with plenty of local cheeses, meats and potato dauphinoise for a truly indulgent experience combined with fast-paced riding through the quintessentially french countryside.
A culture of gastronomy
You’ll certainly eat well on a horse riding holiday in France, good food remains a national obsession. From buttery croissants with steaming coffee for breakfast to extensive, buffet-style picnic lunches and four-course dinners, French food is considered peerless by the locals with great importance placed on fresh ingredients. Combine the cuisine with arguably some of the best wines in the world and you’ll be enjoying the meal times as much as the horse-riding. Nothing rounds off a day’s riding better than a delicious French meal and a glass or two of local wine.
A long tradition of riding
Trail riding in France follows a long tradition and is perhaps one of the world’s greatest equestrian nations with high levels of participation, a renowned breeding sector and some of competitive sport’s biggest names. The French are proud of their horses and any horse you ride will be in excellent condition, well-schooled and responsive. Unlike many other countries horse-riding guides have to be qualified to lead trails in France so you are guaranteed to be led by an experienced and knowledgeable guide who has passed many exams and completed long courses to be an equestrian guide. France is a real treat for horse riders and our hand-picked selection of french horse-riding holidays offer something for everyone.