Horseback riding escape in the mountains of Barles
In summary
-
Sports
-
Duration7 days
-
LevelAll levels
-
DestinationFrance / French Alps
-
AgeFrom 6 - 90 years
-
CO₂-Emissions166.67 kg CO2
-
Type of stayIn a group
-
Languages
French
English
In a few words
Experience total immersion in the heart of a wild and unspoiled territory. In Barles , where nature unfolds between spectacular gorges and crystal-clear rivers, this timeless week invites you to slow down to the pace of the horses .
This stay is a true ode to the great outdoors , ideal for families or groups of friends seeking an authentic experience. Each day offers an enchanting interlude where the bond with the animals becomes the guiding thread of your adventure. Between horseback riding , multi-day hikes, and convivial carriage rides, the activities are tailored to everyone to guarantee an accessible change of scenery.
You will explore a unique geological heritage , nestled in a verdant setting where calm and serenity reign. More than just a trip, it's an invitation to share convivial moments and unforgettable memories in close contact with nature. Between relaxation and discovery, let yourself be carried away by the magic of these breathtaking landscapes for a profound reconnection with what truly matters.
The highlights
-
Total immersion on horseback in the heart of the wild landscapes and gorges of Barles
-
A varied adventure including multi-day hikes, walks and friendly carriage rides
-
Discover a unique geological heritage between crystal-clear rivers and verdant landscapes
Photos
Sport
Level
Horseback riding
In figures
Horseback riding
- Average duration/day: 4h30
Management
French
English
Supervision by Marine HERBOMEZ, riding instructor specializing in outdoor activities, also holding the title of equestrian tourism guide.
Program
-
Getting in the saddle at the Clues de Barles
- Activity Horseback riding
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation Cottage
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
You arrive on Sunday morning to settle into the heart of this wild and unspoiled territory. After getting your bearings, your immersion begins on Sunday afternoon with an initial introduction to your horse. This half-day ride is ideal for getting acquainted with the animal and gently getting into the saddle. You'll explore the surrounding trails, between crystal-clear rivers and sculpted landscapes, for a first glimpse of the local geological heritage . It's a calm and gradual introduction, perfect for soaking up the serene atmosphere of the region before the next part of your adventure.
Day 1 -
Exploring the wild trails
- Activity Horseback riding
- Duration of the activity 3h30
- Accommodation Cottage
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
You begin your Monday at the pace of the Provençal countryside. This new half-day horseback ride allows you to deepen your connection with your horse while exploring the typical landscapes of the Barles region. You'll ride along rolling trails, offering unobstructed views of the surrounding peaks and unspoiled vegetation.
Day 2 -
Departure on a trek towards the peaks
- Activity Horseback riding
- Duration of the activity 6h30
- Accommodation Cottage
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
On Tuesday , your adventure takes on a wilder dimension with the start of a two-day trek . You leave your base camp and venture into remote areas where nature sets its own pace. In the saddle for the day, you traverse diverse landscapes, alternating between dense forests and high plateaus offering 360° panoramic views. In the evening, you enjoy a unique experience of total disconnection, according to your preference: the cozy comfort of a mountain lodge or the authenticity of a bivouac under the stars. This shared moment with the horses, once the saddles are removed, strengthens the bonds with the group and the animals.
Day 3 -
Crossing the ridges and returning to the village
- Activity Horseback riding
- Duration of the activity 6h30
- Accommodation Cottage
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
You wake up in the heart of the mountains for the second leg of your equestrian journey . After grooming and preparing your horse, you set off again along ridge trails offering breathtaking views of the Alpes de Haute-Provence . This Wednesday is dedicated to navigating this rugged terrain, where the bond with your horse becomes truly essential during the technical sections. You gradually descend towards the Barles valley, soothed by the gentle click of hooves on stone. Returning to the starting point marks the end of this loop, rich in emotion and spectacular scenery.
Day 4 -
A relaxing break and free time
- Accommodation Cottage
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
After your two days of hiking, Thursday is dedicated to rest and relaxation . This day off allows you to recover physically while enjoying the serenity of the Alpes de Haute-Provence . You are free to choose your activities as you wish: a nap in the shade of the trees, a refreshing swim in the nearby crystal-clear rivers , or a quiet read with a view of the mountains. For the more adventurous, this independent exploration is the perfect opportunity to discover the village of Barles at your own pace or meet local artisans. It's a moment of respite, ideal for recharging your batteries before the final activities of your trip.
Day 5 -
Enjoy a friendly horse-drawn carriage ride and relax by the water
- Activity Horseback riding
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Accommodation Cottage
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
For your final full day on Friday , you'll experience a change of pace with a leisurely horse-drawn carriage ride . This slower mode of transport allows you to appreciate the landscape from a different perspective, comfortably seated, while observing the work of the draft horses. The afternoon continues with a refreshing swim in the river's natural pools, a moment of pure relaxation to end your week on a high note. This outing, focused on sharing, is the perfect opportunity to savor the magic of this unspoiled region one last time.
Day 6 -
End of the adventure and departure
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Saturday morning marks the end of your immersion in the Alpes de Haute-Provence . After a final breakfast overlooking the mountains, you'll enjoy your last moments of peace before leaving the wild landscape of Barles . It's time to bid a final farewell to your horse and the local team who accompanied you during this week of reconnection . You'll depart with unforgettable memories of rugged scenery and the bond you shared with your horse, your mind refreshed by this stay in the great outdoors. Your departure is scheduled for the morning, allowing you a relaxed journey to your next destination.
Day 7
Note
The program can be modified depending on the weather or the level of the riders.
Accommodation
This peaceful accommodation offers a relaxing stay for the whole family. It was self-built using ecological and local materials, is self-sufficient in electricity and is heated by wood.
It is located near the Barles gorges, where it is possible to swim and learn about the geology and formation of the Alps.
This is a semi-detached house attached to the farm with independent access, very bright, made of wood and stone, made of only ecological materials, with dry toilets.
Beautiful mountain views, at the end of a road, in a wild valley and with an LPO (League for the Protection of Birds) refuge. The cottage is on a horse farm with free-roaming cats, a dog, chickens and goats.
Access
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- The stay will be supervised by a riding instructor.
- Accommodation in a self-catering cottage with a fully equipped kitchen
- Horse riding activities
- The equipment
The price does not include
- Transportation to the meeting point
- All meals (fully equipped kitchen in the cottage)
- Anything not listed under "Price includes"
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
The Marine & Antoine team
Join Marine and Antoine as they discover a mountain equestrian farm boasting 15 years of expertise. Our local expert raises Franches-Montagnes horses and Welsh ponies in a herd, within vast 70-hectare paddocks. Trained using ethological methods and without bits, their horses will lead you along wild trails. Multilingual (French, English, Spanish), the duo also shares their organic goat cheese and pear juice, offering a truly immersive and respectful rural experience.
