The Dordogne is a wonderful region in which to go riding in southwest France, known for its history, charming small villages, bastides, caves and regional foods.
The beauty of its picturesque landscape of overhanging cliffs, cultivated plains and rivers, of the dense and mysterious forests, verdant farmland and pastures, make the area an unforgettable and little-known destination for travelers. You will ride good horses through this beautiful and varied region with the opportunity to see many of the sites while taking the path less traveled.
Enjoy not only the history and people of the region, but its unique and beautiful accommodations, and in particular – the food. Magret, confit, cheese, warm fresh breads, wine, foie gras, fresh fruits and vegetables are just some of the area’s specialties to savour and enjoy throughout the week.
Guests are greeted upon arrival at Bergerac railway station or airport at 3:30pm and accompanied (a 1h20 drive) to the first night’s accommodations in the lovely Lot Valley. Relax at a cozy, countryside Bed and Breakfast (with pool) located near the village of Mauroux. Dine with your host on-site when you will receive detailed tour notes on the exciting week to come.
Begin with breakfast at the B&B, followed by the allocation of the horses. Today’s morning ride will give you a taste of local villages, vineyards, and agricultural fields on your way to Bonaguil Castle – a medieval fortress built on a rock face during the 13th, 14th and 15th centuries. Bonaguil was classified as an historical monument in the 19th century and to this day remains a premier example of classic medieval architecture. After exploring the chateau, enjoy a delicious picnic lunch onsite. Afterwards, the afternoon ride will take you north, passing through some of the area’s famous chestnut forests. Once arrived at the horses’ resting spot (a local breeder’s stable), you will be accompanied back to the B&B in time to prepare for a delightful diner and overnight.
Riding time: 3 hrs in the morning, 2.5 hrs in the afternoon.
Heading further northward, riders will encounter the medieval village of Villefranche du Périgord, a 13th century bastide built by Alphonse de Poitiers, brother of King St Louis. Traversing the Dordogne Forest, stop for another picnic lunch at a quaint family run duck farm where guests can partake in a special tasting of the farm’s products, including the region’s “foie gras” and local sweet white wine from Monbazillac. After lunch, enjoy an afternoon trotting under the forest canopy as you make your way to the beautiful bastide of Belvès. This village has been classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Guests will dine and spend the evening within the walls of this 11th century fortified village.
Riding time: 2.5 hrs in the morning and 2.5 hrs in the afternoon
Explore the Bessède Forest, which offers some perfect opportunities to canter along the trails leading to Cadouin. This lovely village is home to the Abbey of Cadouin and is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here the horses will graze, while guests lunch then have a visit to this 12th century Romanesque church and Gothic cloister. In the afternoon, there will be an opportunity to tour the Cavern of Proumeyssac (Gouffre de Proumeyssac) AKA The Crystal Cathedral. It’s the largest developed abyss in the Dordogne, housing a beautiful underground vault filled with natural crystallization. The guided tour is available in English and includes a dazzling light show. Afterwards, guests will return to the hotel in Belvès and may explore the village or relax at the hotel before dining at a nearby restaurant, offering many of the region’s specialties.
Riding time: 3 hrs in the morning, sightseeing by vehicle in the afternoon
This morning, ride to the medieval village of Saint Avit Senieur located on a plateau, with a massive abbey dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries. The abbey, which is part of the Pilgrimage of Santiago de Compostella Trail (AKA The St. James’ Way), is a classified historical monument as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a delightful walk through the abbey before a nearby picnic lunch. In the afternoon, traverse the picturesque forests on your way to the village of Monpazier. This bastide, famous for its superb architecture, was founded by Edward the 1st, King of England in 1284. Here you will have time to explore the charming historic village, swim at the hotel pool, or relax before dinner. Then, experience a wonderful meal served at your 4-star hotel restaurant, listed in the prestigious Michelin Guide.
Riding time: 1.5 hrs in the morning and and 3.5 hrs in the afternoon
The last day’s ride crosses over the famous Santiago de Compostela Pilgrimage Trail many times on the way to Chateau Biron. This chateau’s architecture spans eight centuries and is one of the best-preserved castles in all of Europe. Lunch is followed by a visit to the castle. Then follow new set of varied trails on the return to your Chateau Hotel at Monpazier. End your fabulous week with another gourmet dining experience at this beautiful hotel.
Riding time: 2 hrs in the morning and 2 hrs in the afternoon
After breakfast at the hotel, guests are accompanied back to Bergerac railway station or airport, arriving by 12 noon.
This itinerary is flexible and may be adjusted at the outfitter's discretion to to weather or other unforeseeable circumstance. Riding times are estimations only. Hotel accommodations may vary according to seasonal availability.
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This was just as described; everything about it was first rate. Each day was varied and pleasurable.
Richard and Virginia Beards
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