Wild horseback riding between Vercors and the peaks of Dévoluy
In summary
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Sports
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Duration2 days
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LevelConfirmed
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DestinationFrance / Lus-la-Croix-Haute
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AgeFrom 12 - 70 years
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CO₂-Emissions57.2 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
English
In a few words
Two days of horseback riding , between alpine ridges , spectacular peaks , and flowery pastures : an intense adventure for riders seeking wide open spaces . This weekend on horseback, in the heart of the Southern Alps , offers an immersion between the Vercors and the Dévoluy , on trails with panoramic views that reveal the wild and unspoiled soul of the region.
As the hours pass, we gallop through pastures , cross centuries-old larch forests , and share refreshing moments with our mounts in a crystal-clear waterfall . The route, as varied as it is technical, is suitable for riders with a minimum level of Galop 2 , ready to embark on a trek where physical exertion is part of the experience .
The horses, perfectly suited to the mountain environment, are carefully prepared with high-quality equipment . Their well-being is central to this adventure, as is the attentive and caring guidance of the equestrian guides. An authentic escape for lovers of nature and freedom.
The highlights
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Horseback riding adventure in the heart of the Southern Alps between Vercors and Dévoluy
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Gallops along the ridges, refreshing waterfalls and centuries-old larch forests
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Horses suited to the mountains and kind, passionate guides
Photos
Sport
Level
Horseback riding
The expert's opinion
Riding ability is an important factor for this trek. The routes follow mountain trails with significant elevation changes, some technical sections, and varied terrain. Riders must therefore be comfortable at all three gaits and able to maintain good balance uphill, downhill, and on rough paths. Furthermore, approximately 20% of the trek is done on foot , primarily on the steepest ascents and descents, to protect the horses and ensure everyone's safety. It is therefore essential to be in good physical condition and accustomed to hiking in hilly terrain.
In figures
Horseback riding
- Average duration/day: 5h30
Management
French
English
Lisa, 30 years old, CQPORE graduate
Lisa is the founder of the farm, a project she began in 2020 after several years working in the French National Education system. She wanted to combine her various values in one place, and that's how the non-profit project was born: a structure that blends children's education and horses with a focus on genuine well-being. Lisa is the president of the association, where she dedicates herself year-round to making equestrian activities accessible to all types of disadvantaged communities.
In addition to the association's activities, Lisa offers high-quality equestrian leisure activities for riders of all levels from France and beyond. She has designed each ride as an authentic experience, carefully seeking out hidden routes, unique accommodations, and ensuring her horses are safe and well-behaved.
With us, there are no jaded horses or boring circuits! Accompanied by your mount and Lisa's expertise, discover the unspoiled diversity of the landscapes in our region, ideally located between the Vercors and Dévoluy mountain ranges, on the edge of the Southern Alps...
Marie, 29 years old, holds diplomas in ATE, BPJEPS, BFEE 1 and 2, and AE.
Marie is an employee of the association and manages the equestrian center year-round using gentle and caring teaching methods. She occasionally replaces Lisa for the multi-day riding trips.
Program
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Equestrian immersion and first mountain ride
- Activity Horseback riding
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
You'll be welcomed at 7:30 am with coffee to get acquainted and share your expectations. This friendly gathering allows Lisa, your guide, to assign you a horse suited to your skill level and preferences.
At 8 a.m., you prepare the horses and equipment together. Lisa guides you in adjusting the equipment, which is essential for everyone's comfort.
Between 9:00 and 9:30 AM, the horseback riding excursion begins. A short briefing on mountain riding introduces the day before setting off on beautiful wooded trails. Depending on the terrain, you'll enjoy some riding at a good pace and a refreshing break in the streams with your horses.
Around 12:30 pm, we'll stop by a river in a 3-hectare park where the horses can rest. Enjoy 2 to 3 hours of relaxation before continuing our journey through the gorges or alpine pastures, depending on the weather.
Arrival at the refuge around 5:30-6pm. After taking care of your mounts, Lisa will introduce you to horse massage and stretching, a lovely way to strengthen your bond with them before the quiet evening.
Day 1 -
Ridges, valleys and relaxation in the heart of nature
- Activity Horseback riding
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Breakfast is served between 7:00 and 7:30 am, carefully prepared by your hosts. After an initial day of familiarization, you will now prepare your horse independently, under the watchful eye of Lisa, who is always available should you need anything.
Head towards the Lus ridges, a horseback riding route with breathtaking panoramas. You will ride along the summit section, before descending on foot through two more technical sections of approximately 30 minutes each.
Lunch is at the Col de la Croix, in an open, shaded setting, ideal for resting and refreshing yourself. In the afternoon, you follow the Sentier du Fleyrard, a trail that descends along a balcony path with views of the valley floor. Marmots and chamois might be spotted.
Depending on your wishes, you can stop for a swim in a waterfall or for a relaxing moment with a coffee or ice cream at Enora's, in her cottage in the valley.
The return journey is via a shaded forest path, bordered by a stream. Back at camp, the horses are pampered: massage, stretching, and care.
Day 2
Note
The itinerary of our programs is provided for informational purposes only. It may be subject to modifications or adjustments based on technical criteria, safety requirements, or prevailing weather conditions. In such cases, only the program leaders are authorized to make the necessary decisions.
Accommodation
The cottage is ideally located at the foot of the Aiguilles de la Jarjatte , in the heart of a valley classified and renowned for the exceptional beauty of its landscapes. Between majestic cliffs, alpine pastures and forests, this unspoiled environment offers a unique natural setting, conducive to peace, relaxation and escape as soon as you step outside the accommodation.
Access
Meeting times and locations may be subject to change depending on the weather.
Go to the starting point
ski resort parking lot or equestrian center parking lot
Price details
The price includes
And understood:
- Horseback riding with accompaniment by one or two professionals
- Logistics with your belongings brought back to the stages
- The loan of security equipment
- The Restoration
- Accommodation
- Emergency equipment (pharmacy, safety equipment)
The price does not include
I don't understand:
- Your personal equipment (riding trousers, closed hiking shoes)
- Sleeping bag
- Your toiletry bag
- Your personal pharmacy
- It is advisable to bring your helmet
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.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
- Horse equipment
- Saddlebags for the horse in which we put the necessary equipment
- Helmets if needed
Equipment to bring
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Small first aid kit: all personal medications.
- Fanny pack to easily carry your phone or any other important item
- 2 1L water bottles (to place them evenly on the horse),
- It is possible to carry CamelBak packs on your back.
- Snacks: energy bars, dried fruit or nuts to maintain energy
- Mobile phone: charged with an external battery just in case
- Camera
- Multi-purpose knife
- Headlamp
- Flip-flops or sandals
- Summer or mid-season duvet
- Sports bag
Clothing to bring
- Riding helmet
- Comfortable riding pants
- Breathable shirt or blouse
- Jacket
- Warm sweater
- Warm jacket for winter
- Neck warmer in winter
- Under and over trousers in winter
- Hiking shoes: With a heel to prevent the foot from slipping in the stirrup.
- Raincoat or poncho: Useful in case of rain (It is provided by the farm if you do not have one).
They traveled with us
