CHATEAU IN MAUBOURGUET - FRANCE

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This Chateau is situated in perfect riding country in the Hautes-Pyrenees not far from the main road linking Bordeaux with Tarbes. The Chateau was built in the 17th century and has been tastefully renovated by the present owners. It is situated at the end of a long drive of linden trees and is a perfect retreat for those wishing to enjoy horse riding and other activities. The accommodation is top quality with antique furnished bedrooms all with ensuite facilities. Here you can ride as much or as little as wanted through the rolling countryside or relax by the swimming pool in the extensive grounds of the Chateau.  Tennis, badminton, boulle or bicycle rental are also available. This is a destination which can be enjoyed all year round by riders of all levels as well as non riding companions and with the low cost airlines is now easily accessible.

Trip length Short break 3 nights/ 4 days, extra nights available on request - see below for 6 night price. Ride only price 2008: From £319 Departure dates All year around, dates to suit. Approximate riding time per day Approximately 2 hours in the saddle daily - more available on request or bookable locally if wanted Riding ability required From beginners onwards Group size 1 - 6 Meeting point (getting there) The chateau Transfer Approx €80 from Pau each way Flight guide London - Pau from £80 return with Ryanair. See below for flight info. Single supplement See below for single room occupancy

SAMPLE ITINERARY - CHATEAU IN MAUBOURGUET

Day 1
Arrive after lunch and settle into your room. Optional ride if you arrive early enough (not included, payable on site).

Day 2
2 hours riding – a hack out in the countryside taking in a few jumps along the way if you wish, or try a gentler pace to take in the scenery.

Day 3
2 hours riding – again it’s your choice: perhaps a lesson in the school today along with another hack out. 

Day 4
Departure after breakfast and an optional ride if you have time (not included, payable on site).

NOTES - CHATEAU IN MAUBOURGUET

Itinarary
The itinerary on this horse riding holiday is extrememly flexible. You can rides out, or you might prefer some tuition in the school, or jumping.

Horses and Riding
There are ten horses to chose from - Irish Hunters, Irish Sport and pure bloods - and also 2 ponies - a Shetland and a Connemara - all in first class condition. These horses are well behaved and well schooled. There is very little road work and you can take a gentle hack through the wonderful countryside or for experienced riders enjoy fast and exciting riding. There are plenty of natural obstacles to jump as you ride through, meadows, woodland and vineyards. There is also a cross country course and a sand arena.
Lessons are available for the beginner or novice rider. You will ride for two hours a day leaving plenty of time to spend with non riding companions. However, more riding is easily arranged on request in advance or locally (around €27 per hour). The riding can be tailor made to suit your requirements. In season there is hunting with the Pau hunt. *On any weekend from October through to March 31st 07, there is Drag Hunting (following a scent, without Mr Fox!)*

Accommodation
The accommodation is top quality with stylishly furnished spacious bedrooms all with ensuite facilities. Two of these are family rooms. All the rooms have tea and coffee making facilities and overlook the beautiful grounds of the Chateau and some with a view of the Pyrenees. The dining room is beautifully decorated and has a open fireplace and the kitchen is the heart of the Chateau with a large open fire. There is also a snooker room and a separate games room with table tennis. For further indoor entertainment there is a piano, guitar, board games and satellite TV.

Food
Full board with wine and aperitif in the evening is included. There is a substantial breakfast and light sandwiches for lunch. Your hosts are skillful in the kitchen and on selected evenings will prepare gastronomic five course dinners which everyone eats together around the large dining table. You will be served with fresh local produce and excellent wines. The terrace is wonderful for breakfast 'al fresco' on sunny mornings and is ideal to enjoy your aperitif on the long warm summer evenings.

Other Activities
The Chateau is ideal to enjoy all other activities. There is a swimming pool in the beautiful grounds of the Chateau. There are also tennis courts and a boulle/petanc pitch situated near the pool. All the equipment will be supplied. Both badminton and volleyball can be played on the lawns of the Chateau. There are various bicycles you may use for those who prefer two legs to four - a great way to explore the countryside and the local villages. The countryside is ideal for walking and hiking. Tours of the local vineyards can also be arranged. The Chateau is about 3 kilometers from Maubourguet.

Getting There
The chatuea is within a short drive from Pau Pyrenees, Tarbes, Biarritz, Toulouse and Bordeaux airports. Pau is the closest. With advance notice we can arrange a transfer for 80 Euros each way or a taxi from Pau is approximately 100 euros each way. We can arrange car rental which may be invaluable for visiting the local vineyards or taking a trip to the Pyrenees.

GETTING TO Pau

As a fully ATOL bonded and registered agency we would be delighted to book your flights for you. Should you wish to book your own flights please see our flights page for some options.

Prices 2008

The weight limit for this ride is 16st /224 lb/102 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.

WHAT IS INCLUDED
Accommodation, meals with aperitif and wine with dinner, 2 hours of riding daily (on full days only) , guiding or lessons as appropriate.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED
Transport to and from the Chateau, items of a personal nature, any other drinks.

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