Horseback riding through vineyards and history, from Burgundy to Beaujolais
In summary
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Sports
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Duration4 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-Emissions109.5 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
In a few words
Between Burgundy and Beaujolais , this horseback riding tour follows the former demarcation line of World War II, traversing territories steeped in history and winemaking traditions. Each day, except for the last, a wine tasting punctuates the journey, offering a refined immersion into the world of grape varieties . The routes wind through unspoiled and wild landscapes, where you can ride for hours without encountering another soul. The rolling, varied terrain invites exhilarating gallops along the contours of the land. Between Douglas fir forests and vineyards clinging to the hillsides , the panoramas are breathtaking. This immersion in the heart of natural and cultural heritage also follows the Way of St. James (Camino de Santiago) at times, crossing paths with Alphonse de Lamartine, a native son. An authentic route, combining the richness of the local produce , the diversity of the landscapes and the freedom of horseback riding , for a sensory and historical discovery off the beaten track.
The highlights
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Straddling vineyards and forests, following the traces of the demarcation line
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Our picnics feature local produce, barbecues, and fresh food served at the table.
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Gallops on hilly terrain with spectacular views between hillsides and Douglas fir trees
Photos
Sport
Level
Horseback riding
The expert's opinion
The region has steep elevation changes, which also allows for magnificent views, but requires good physical condition in addition to being a rider.
Management
French
Cécile, a guide and master hiker for over 30 years, will lead you with confidence.
Axelle ATE at the center may be asked to assist me.
Program
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Heading south between Burgundy and Beaujolais
- Accommodation Cottage
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Participants are met in the Fast Hotel parking lot, located approximately 400 meters from the train station (turn left then right as you exit the parking lot). The route departs towards Beaujolais, on the border between two iconic regions. The Solutré and Vergisson rocks dominate the landscape and symbolically mark our entry into the adventure. We head south to Juliénas, where a wine tasting is planned for aperitif time. In the afternoon, the route climbs, offering beautiful views of the vineyards, historic houses bearing the influence of Lamartine, and the first Douglas fir forests. The day concludes at the Château du Gros Bois, a former hunting lodge nestled in the heart of nature, which will be our accommodation for the night.
Day 1 -
High-altitude vineyards and panoramic views of the Haut Beaujolais
- Activity Horseback riding
- Accommodation Cottage
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The day begins in the Beaujolais hills, with a gradual climb towards the Avenas winery, an iconic landmark. There, a temporary cooperative brings together wines from several villages, with tastings offered in turn by local producers. The Chiroubles, Avenas, Fleurie, Beaujeu, and Moulin-à-Vent appellations are featured. The picnic takes place on the terrace, a natural viewpoint offering panoramic views of the vineyards. The route, short but steep, alternates between ascents and descents through the hills before returning, at the end of the day, to the Château du Gros Bois for another peaceful night.
Day 2 -
Between forest ridges and a Burgundian cellar
- Activity Horseback riding
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
This morning, the day begins gently with a relaxing horseback ride through Douglas fir forests. A section of the GR46 long-distance hiking trail, along the ridge, offers ideal terrain for a few free canters. Lunch is planned near Tramayes. The afternoon becomes more strenuous, with a series of climbs to the Col de la Mère Boitier, the highest point in the area, before the descent towards Serrières and the Domaine de Monterrain. These Burgundy-based winemakers offer an evening in their cellar: a long, guided tasting accompanied by local products. From white to sparkling, rosé and red, there's something for everyone. The gîte (rural guesthouse) is nearby, creating a relaxed and convivial atmosphere.
Day 3 -
From the vineyards of Burgundy back to Beaujolais
- Activity Horseback riding
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
For this final day on horseback, the route crosses the vineyards of Burgundy, passing through Pierreclos and its castle. The picnic takes place amidst the vines, with a view of Solutré, while your guide shares stories and legends associated with this iconic site. The afternoon marks the return to Beaujolais, passing through the appellations of Fuissé, Chasselas, and Pouilly-Fuissé. At the end of the day, the group arrives at the Mâcon-Loché TGV station, marking the end of the horseback riding tour.
Day 4
Note
On request on the 1st day or better when booking, possibility of spa and sauna at the Monterrain stage before the evening in the cellar and the winemaker's meal with no less than 12 tastings served with local products from the territory.
Accommodation
The Château du Gros Bois is actually an old hunting lodge bought in the 80s by a group of friends. Years have passed and Jean-Robert is now alone on the estate: he does odd jobs, maintenance, cooks and above all welcomes with a big heart travelers on horseback or pilgrims of St. James of Compostela. If the cottages are a little in their "original state", the castle room where we eat reveals a magnificent room with a huge wide table, a suitable tablecloth and an excellent and copious meal.
Access
Parking will be free during the hike if you are staying at the hotel the night before. Otherwise, you can park in the train station parking lots. For those arriving by train, the meeting point is 400m from the station, to the left then right as you exit the station parking lot.
Go to the starting point
Free parking during the hike if you stayed at the hotel the night before
Price details
The price includes
- the guide
- the equipped horse
- logistics, baggage transport
- meals during the stay
- the tastings
The price does not include
- your wine purchases
Options
- Access to the spa and sauna : On request
- 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
