Horseback riding in Southern Burgundy, between charm and local produce
In summary
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Sports
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Duration3 days
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LevelConfirmed
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DestinationFrance / Burgundy-Franche-Comté
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AgeFrom 18 - 75 years
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CO₂-Emissions56.97 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
In a few words
Embark on an unforgettable equestrian escape in Southern Burgundy , where the pleasure of horseback riding blends seamlessly with the discovery of authentic rural heritage . Through hedged farmlands, shaded trails , and rolling hills , this adventure offers a true sense of freedom , punctuated by exhilarating gallops in the heart of nature . Each stage reveals typical architectural treasures: ancient wash houses, mills, chapels, and castles , living witnesses to a rich local history . Ideal for riders seeking a stay that combines nature and culture , this circuit also allows you to savor the soul of the Burgundy region in all its diversity. Thanks to the quality of the horses and the variety of landscapes, you'll enjoy an immersive experience, combining riding comfort with a complete change of scenery .
The highlights
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Horseback riding excursions in the heart of the hedgerows, forests and hills of Southern Burgundy
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Our picnics feature local produce, barbecues, and fresh food served at the table.
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Beautiful gallops in the heart of nature for a unique feeling of equestrian freedom
Photos
Sport
Level
Horseback riding
The expert's opinion
Our paths, although surrounded by beautiful, safe hedges, have varied terrain with elevation changes, grass, white or stony paths, and require mastery of the three gaits outdoors.
You will be required to manage the grooming and equipment of your horses and report any anomalies noticed.
Management
French
Cécile, a guide and master hiker for over 30 years, will lead you with confidence.
Axelle ATE can participate, and a trainee if the group is larger.
Program
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Horseback riding in the hedgerows of the Charolais
- Activity Horseback riding
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Meet at 9:00 AM at the equestrian center to get acquainted with the team and the group. Once in the saddle, you'll set off through the rolling countryside of the Charolais region, typical of the area with its well-kept hedgerows, small beech groves, and pastures grazed by the famous Charolais cattle. This first ride will be punctuated by a few pleasant canters on varied trails. Along the way, you'll see vineyards, three restored wash houses, and a mysterious bell tower known as "Les Blancs," whose history will be shared by your guide during the picnic lunch. This break takes place in a peaceful setting, perfect for sharing stories about Oye and its local legends. In the afternoon, you'll continue your journey towards Amanzé, a village steeped in history, whose origins date back to the 12th century. You'll discover its 19th-century church, built on the remains of a Romanesque building, as well as a former Renaissance manor house, once the Intendants' Hotel. The day ends at a farm inn located in the heart of a former castle, where you'll spend the night.
Day 1 -
From hedgerows to the heart of Douglas fir forests
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The morning begins with a horseback ride along winding paths through the Burgundy countryside. You'll discover a former Templar house, the Château de Vaux, and hop fields, all testaments to the region's rich terroir. The ride then takes you to the peaceful banks of the Étang de Chassagne, an ideal setting for a picnic by the water.
The afternoon resumes with a stop in front of a curious tower, half-round, half-square, topped with a conical roof, in the commune of Colombier-en-Brionnais. Here, the landscapes change, becoming more varied and dramatic. You then enter a completely different world: a Douglas fir forest, these large conifers from North America, recognizable by their straight, slender trunks, which give the forest an almost alpine feel.
At the end of the day, arrival in Montmelard. You settle into the Hotel Le St Cyr*, where you enjoy comfortable rooms with bathrooms and a pleasant swimming pool to relax in before a dinner prepared by the chef.
Day 2 -
Return to the bocage countryside and visit to an iconic castle
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
For this final day on horseback, you gradually leave the Douglas fir forests behind and return to the hedged farmland. The morning is punctuated by visits to several castles: the Château de Montrouan, now a campsite, the private Château de Rambuteau, and finally the Château de Drée, also known as the "Little Versailles".
It is in this remarkable setting that you can enjoy your lunch break, after a stroll through the formal gardens and the grounds of the estate. An opportunity to immerse yourself in the architecture and classic elegance of the region.
In the afternoon, you begin your return journey, crossing the Charolais countryside one last time. The soft ground is perfect for a few final trots and canters before arriving back at the equestrian center.
The adventure ends around 6pm, with the departure of the riders.
Day 3
Note
The program will be adapted to weather conditions, with the first day spent either more on the plains or closer to the forests in order to protect both horses and riders.
Accommodation
If the hotel is full, the establishment also has 2 cottages with several bedrooms.
Access
Go to the starting point
From Paris: TGV PARIS---Montchanin Le Creusot then SNCF shuttle bus to Paray Le Monial
or TGV to Lyon Part Dieu, then TER or bus to La Clayette
From Lyon or Geneva: from Lyon Part Dieu: TER train or bus to La Clayette
Price details
The price includes
- the equipped horse
- the guide and support staff including luggage transport
- meals, breakfast, lunch, dinner
The price does not include
- personal consumption
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 to bring
- chaps or riding boots
- walking shoes
- riding helmet
Clothing to bring
- Appropriate and comfortable clothing
- riding pants
- knee-high socks
- long-sleeved top
