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Normandy Adventure

Overview

Wherever you are in the Normandy region of France you are never far from horses. The culture, history and landscape of Normandy make it perfect as an area of equine excellence. The region’s temperate climate and lush landscapes make it a fabulous destination for horse lovers. The French equestrian …

Highlights

  • Ride through stunning landscapes of Andaine Forest
  • Immerse yourself in Normandy's equine traditions
  • Luxury accommodation
  • Discover traditional cheesemaking
  • Delicious local homecooked food & locally produced wine

Essential Facts

  • 1 itinerary available
  • Max 4 riders per group
  • Average of 4 - 5 hours riding per day
  • Weight limit: 80kg / 176 lbs / 12 stone 8lbs

Description

Wherever you are in the Normandy region of France you are never far from horses. The culture, history and landscape of Normandy make it perfect as an area of equine excellence. The region’s temperate climate and lush landscapes make it a fabulous destination for horse lovers. The French equestrian traditions in Normandy have received official classification as part of UNESCO’s list of intangible heritage.

Some of the highlights of this holiday have to be riding through the scenic countryside of the Lower Normandy Geo Park landscapes with it's lush vegetation. You can venture into the magnificent Andaine Forest that stretches across the horizon from east to west.

You will also have the opportunity to discover the artisanal cheesemaking at the Champsecret Farm in the heart of the
Domfront bocage with its typical hilly landscape and apple & pear trees. You will see the famous Normandy Cows grazing in the meadows - these cows are milked to produce the famous Camembert!

Explore the medieval town of Domfront en Poiraie with it's cobbled streets and soak up the authentic French atmosphere and history.

Horses & Riding

Tack

The horses are ridden in good quality saddles and saddle bags are provided.

Horses

The horses are a mixture of breeds, with some Spanish and French trotter horses. All the horses are well-mannered, well-trained and responsible making them perfect for the trails.

Riding

There is 1 itinerary:

  • Medieval Normandy & Adaine Forest is a based ride

Ages

16 years and over

Health

We recommend riders for these trails ensure they have general good physical fitness and health. There are some sections of the ride where it will be necessary to dismount and lead your horse over difficult terrain.

Weight

80kg / 176 lbs / 12 stone 8lbs

Food & Accommodation

Food

Breakfast is generous and served continental style with plenty of coffee and tea, orange juice, fresh bread, croissants, fruits, yogurt, nuts and toast.

Lunch is sometimes a picnic and will include fresh cheeses, pate, cold meats, breads and salads, or grazing boards with charcuterie meats and local cheeses. On one of the days, you will visit a local restaurant for your lunch.

Dinner is a set menu consisting of 4 courses of French, Mediterranean and Spanish influenced dishes and is taken in the guest dining room or on the terrace at the B&B. Wine with dinner is included (half a bottle per person).

Accommodation

Your accommodation is a charming B&B in Le Jardin hamlet, close to the village of Champsecret. All ensuite bathrooms have generous walk-in showers with complimentary bath robes and toiletries. The bedrooms are elegantly decorated and the beds dressed with cool, crisp linens and duck down quilts and pillows. The B&B is a gentle stroll away from the stables.

Itineraries

Medieval Normandy & Adaine Forest accommodation.

Other Activities

The accommodation is perfectly situated in the magnificent Andaine Forest and close to many charming Normandy villages.

A local yoga instructor is available and would be delighted to lead outdoor sessions as often as required. Please advise at time of booking.

Travel

Champsecret is approx. 2 hours 20 minutes by train (Nomad Line) from Paris Montparnasse railway station on the west side of the city with metro and train links from Paris airports.

Transfers from the nearest local station at Flers are available at extra cost. The drive time from the station to the B&B is 20
minutes.

If you are travelling by car there is ample free parking on site at the B&B.

Itinerary & Pricing

Day 1 - Thursday

Riding: No riding.

Arrive at your accommodation from 4pm onwards, enjoy a welcome drink and some homemade chocolate brownies and settle into your sumptuous room.

Explore the gardens and orchard and take in the views and birdsong in the beautiful rural location before enjoying a classic French dinner with wine.

Day 2 - Friday

Riding: 3 - 4 hours

After breakfast join your guide Lila who will take you to meet the horses at the stables which has a magnificent view of the Andaine Forest! You will be matched with a horse that suits you then you will spend a couple of hours riding in the outdoor arena to get to know each other.

You will return to your accommodation for lunch then your will wander back to the stables for a full afternoon ride in the forest before returning enjoying a delicious evening meal with wine at your accommodation.

Day 3 - Saturday

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

After an early breakfast, you will set off on your ride through the Normandy countryside of valleys and rolling hills, following the line of the landmark forest to reach the 12th century medieval town of Domfront en Poiraie. Perched on an outcrop of Armorican Sandstone and once a defensive site that offers spectacular 360 views and Domfront castle ruins. If you wish you wish you can explore the cobbled streets on foot and meander through the ancient town before your picnic lunch.

In the afternoon ride through the countryside and sleepy French villages to the lovely organic Camembert producing Champsecret Farm for cheese tasting and an opportunity to purchase artisanal creams, butter and cheese that the Normandy
region is famous for.

Return to your accommodation to relax and enjoy your evening meal.

Day 4 - Sunday

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Today riders have two options or a combination.

Option A: Ride through the bocage style country lanes to the north of Champsecret. Enjoy traversing the stunning landscape and meandering your way to La Petite Chauvier tavern style restaurant where you’ll enjoy lunch in a rustic setting at the lower end of the farm. The organic restaurant specialises in wood-fired cooking, Pork and Lamb, cold cuts, cured meats and preserves as well as vegetarian dishes, all perfectly presented and a delight for foodies.

Option B: After breakfast, prepare your horse for a whole day out. Today you ride deeper into the spectacular Andaine Forest to reach the ancient Sainte Genevieve chapel set in a peaceful glade with mysterious charm. The perfect spot to have a picnic lunch! Meander through the extraordinary forest landscape for an exhilarating afternoon immersed in the ancient woodland. The horses are very used to being in this environment and have sure feet to go everywhere!

Return to your accommodation for a relaxing evening meal and a well-earned rest.

Day 5 - Monday

Riding: No riding.

Enjoy your breakfast then depart.

Accommodation

Your accommodation is a charming B&B in Le Jardin hamlet, close to the village of Champsecret. All ensuite bathrooms have generous walk-in showers with complimentary bath robes and toiletries. The bedrooms are elegantly decorated and the beds dressed with cool, crisp linens and duck down quilts and pillows. The B&B is a gentle stroll away from the stables.

One bedroom has a large emperor size bed and the other a superking size bed so please be aware that if sharing, twin beds are not available. You may request a single room with no supplement subject to availability.
Experience Intermediate / Experienced

This ride is suitable for intermediate and advance rider who are happy in all paces in open countryside.
Minimum group size 2
Maximum group size 4
Departure windows

May 1, 2025 - May 5, 2025

May 22, 2025 - May 26, 2025

June 5, 2025 - June 9, 2025

June 26, 2025 - June 30, 2025

July 31, 2025 - Aug. 4, 2025

Aug. 28, 2025 - Sept. 1, 2025

Sept. 11, 2025 - Sept. 15, 2025

Pricing

2025
Rider, Sharing		 £2020 $2615 €2400
Included 4 nights accommodation in double rooms, all meals from dinner on arrival day until breakfast on departure day, some wine with dinners, 3 days of riding, cheese tastings and entrance fees.
Not included Flights, train tickets, travel insurance, transfers, additional drinks, tips and other personal expenses. Transfers from and to the nearby Flers Train station are available on request and are payable locally.
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.