WESTERN RANCH - FRANCE
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This is a cattle ranch situated in the beautiful unspoilt countryside of the Haut Languedoc Natural Park. The varied terrain of pine forests, heather moorland and steep, craggy hillsides makes for exciting riding country. The ranch is 3,200 ft above sea level with views to the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean Sea on a clear day, making it a pleasant temperature even in the heat of summer. The working cattle horses, although of a steady nature, are not suitable for complete beginners. There is a mix of trail riding and 2 days of optional team penning and cattle work. Accommodation is in comfortable en suite rooms on site, with a western bar and dining room in the lodge and a swimming pool.
SAMPLE ITINERARY - WESTERN RANCH
Day 1
Saturday
Arrival, you are welcome to arrive anytime after 4pm.
Day 2
Sunday
After breakfast we have a detailed briefing about saddling with western tack, seat, style and general western riding tips. After that we head out on our first ride out in the beautiful area surrounding the ranch.
Day 3
Monday
After breakfast we go for a beautiful all day ride passing lakes, plains and thickly forested areas.
We stop en route for a picnic lunch which we take along in saddle bags.
Day 4
Tuesday
After breakfast we do the morning ride in groups of 2, in Le Trec style, over a natural obstacle course (bridges, gates, water crossings etc). This is followed by an extensive lunch on the ranch.
In the afternoon we organise an unguided treasure hunt on the 120 acre ranch property which gives you the opportunity to get to know your horse even better.
Day 5
Wednesday
Today is a rest day for you and your horse. You are free to spend this day as you wish. For example if you do not have your own transport we can take you to the local market in nearby St Pons.
Guests with their own transport can explore the many possibilities of the Haute Languedoc area. Or you might choose to spend the day on the ranch, relaxing, reading and walking in nature on self guided trails.
Day 6
Thursday
After breakfast there is a detailed explanation of the principles of working cattle from on horseback. Next we put the principles into practice by trying our hand at driving cattle, cutting and team penning. Guests who do not want to participate in the cattle work can depart on an outride or have the opportunity to drive the horse team. There is a a cart available for this purpose - you can feel like a real pioneer heading out into the fields holding the reins!
After our hot lunch we have a free afternoon and then saddle up in the evening for an adventurous ride extending into the night and returning by moonlight.
Day 7
Friday
After breakfast we work the cattle on the ranch culminating in a team penning competition. Those who do not wish to take part in the cattle work can go on an outride where once again we are accompanied by the wagon.
After that we ride to the lake for lunch and, weather permitting, we swim with the horses. This is a truly fantastic experience!
Day 8
Saturday
Your riding holiday comes to a close as you depart after breakfast.
NOTES - WESTERN RANCH
GETTING TO Carcassonne Airport
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.
The weight limit for this ride is 14 st/198 lb/90 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.
WHAT IS INCLUDED
All accommodation in a double room with shower, toilet and small living area, meals, commencing Saturday night with dinner and concluding the following Saturday with breakfast, 5 full days of riding, approximately 4-5 hours per day, English speaking guide, all tack is provided, including slickers/ponchos if it should rain.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED
Travel to and from Carcassonne in France and return transfers from Carcassonne to the ranch - these are €75 payable on site, or €50 if 2 or more people. Drinks are not included and will be billed at the end of your stay.
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