France is ideally suited for a horseback riding vacation. It was here that the idea of equestrian travel was reborn and is most highly developed.

Ride leaders in France must take long courses and pass exams on leading riding tours and horsemanship. The countryside in many parts of France is unspoiled and beautiful with many rights-of-way kept open which makes riding through it on horseback a real pleasure. Riding trails in France usually avoid paved roads. Spectacular castles, walled towns and ancient monasteries are everywhere. It is a thrill to ride into a castle courtyard on horseback like a traveler of old.

Each region has a unique character with its own history, cuisine, wine, architecture and topography. French food and wine are justly famous and you will have every opportunity to savor them with an appetite made keener by an active day of horseback riding. Accommodations vary from small village hotels to châteaux, but are generally picturesque and comfortable. Some of our French riding vacations use Western saddles which is not so surprising since southern France borders Spain where our own Western riding traditions originated. France is still the most popular country in the world for vacations.

  Peak Season

May, June, September, October


  Quiet Season

April, July , August


  Timezone in France

Central European Standard Time (GMT+1)


  International Airports

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), also known as Roissy Airport. Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport (BOD)


 

Browse 12 Trips in the destination France

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Horses on Malbec trail

Castles and Caves in Malbec

The ride traverses a region of spectacular scenery considered by National Geographic to be one of the world’s last unspoiled and undiscovered earthly paradises. Experience the culture and history... Read more

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Château en Auvergne

This beautiful 4 star château near the center of France has been exquisitely restored and serves as a delightful base for your stay in the region. Ride for about... Read more

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Normandy Ride

This area on the Normandy coast is well suited for a riding tour with some fine opportunities for beach galloping and history galore. You will have a chance to... Read more

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Domaine Des Garennes Ride

The Domaine des Garennes makes a fine central location to explore a charming region on horseback in France. A wonderful family or individual riding holiday option with comfortable rooms,... Read more

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Secluded Manor Ride

Located in the heart of the Dordogne, Perigord and Quercy regions, the secluded manor house where you will spend the week is the perfect place to get away from... Read more

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Randonnée Liberté Ride

An unguided horseback riding trip in the rugged countryside of France near the Spanish border is the ultimate adventure for experienced riders who are prepared to take full responsibility... Read more

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The guide was an excellent leader and host. While our hotels and meals were excellent, he also prepared picnic lunches that were 4-Star! The venue for the trip was both exciting and interesting, stopping to visit castles, chateaus, caves and villages of great historical importance in French history. It was an unforgettable... Read more  

Pastore, 2019

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