Path of the Herdsmen

Arrive in Barcelona or Girona and transfer to Mas Roca where Bogi welcomes you into his home, an old mill from the 16th century which enchants with its unique character. What a beautiful place to start your adventure into the Pyrenees mountains! The welcome dinner is served at 9PM.

Camino Real/Besalu

Saddle up this morning and pass through the hilly countryside of the pre-Pyrenees and follow the river Fluvia in the direction of the mountains, a route taken by old herdsmen like Juan the Shepherd. The village of Alt Emporda are impressive witnesses of an amazing past. In the shade near the river lunch is provided a la fresca by “Catalan Buffalo” who will meet you with a glass of Cava and a beautifully set table. After the siesta, ride quickly to the medieval town of Besalu. Accommodations for the night are in a hotel right next to the romantic bridge with a view over the river and the town. Before dinner in the enchanting garden of the restaurant, enjoy a stroll through the streets of Besalu.

Mountains and swimming

Ride into the wild and hilly countryside of the Garrotxa, passing through Besalu and crossing the romantic bridge of Llierca. The sparkling turquoise rock pools invite for a refreshing swim. Your agile horses carry you safely over the pass of Santa Barbara. From the top enjoy a fantastic view of the bizarre rock formations. Dinner and overnight in a small mountain village.

Rocky hills of the Garrotxa

The valley of the Llierca lies in front of you with its strong lime rocks. Only the clapping of the hooves, splashing of the stream and the calm sounds of the cow bells interrupt the deep quietness of this secluded area. Birds of prey, reptiles and butterflies accompany you and with a bit of luck you may spot a wild boar or a badger. Stop for a picnic lunch under two-thousand-year-old oak trees where the turquoise water of the stream invites for a refreshing dip. In the afternoon reach the picturesque mountain village of Beget where you spend the night.

Ride into the high mountains

Today continue deeper into the Pyrenees mountains and an ancient medieval merchant’s pass takes you over the border into France. Ride through beech, oak and chestnut forests that cover the hills. The view of the surrounding 9000 feet of high mountains is breathtaking. Dinner and overnight in the small town of Camprodon on the river Ter. Enjoy an evening stroll if you have energy left, before dinner at your accommodations.

Pyrenees - the realm of the herdsmen

Have an early start this morning to ascend to the high region of the mountains. Along the way ride through fields with cattle, sheep, goats and the occasional wild Pyrenean horse. This region has an alpine character with wild flowers blooming galore which transform the hilly meadows into carpets of blooms. Reach a high mountain pass – an infinite steppe of grass and stone at 6000ft and marvel at the magnificent views. To the west the highest peak of Catalonia towers and to the east the Mediterranean sea glistens in a deep blue. Take a siesta and observe vultures rising high into the sky, then ride on a secluded path through the mountain paradise on route to the town of St Joan de les Abadesses. Spend the night in an authentic hotel where you can discuss the weeks events at the last dinner together.

Hasta la vista, amigos!

After breakfast say farewell and transfer to either Girona or Barcelona for you onward travel.