French riding and wine

Saddle up and head out into an ancient land of forest, meadows and valleys, following trails through spectacular countryside during a centre-based holiday in the Dordogne. Alternatively, ride through the vineyards of Bordeaux, sampling the finest regional wines and savouring local gourmet meals en route. Equine Adventure’s offers two unique French riding holidays combining a love of wine and all things equine in equal measure.

The Dordogne Ride - 7-days, centre-based, next departing Bergerac 31st May and 14th June 08.

From the recently restored 18th century Le Bourdil Blanc manor house, spend 5-days riding through thousands of hectares of the region's most beautiful private estates, meeting no other riders, and encountering hardly a gate to open all day long. A different ride is offered each day to ensure that riders have the freedom to enjoy long energetic trots, exciting canters, and lazy relaxing walks. For time out of the saddle, visit local sites including Sarlat - the best preserved medieval village in France, or remain at the chateau, where a swimming pool, tennis court, Carp lake, designated trout stream, and croquet lawn, all lie within the grounds.

The holiday costs £950 p/p (accompanying non-riders £600 p/p) including transfers from Bergerac, accommodation at Le Bourdil Blanc, most meals, wine with dinner and all riding.

Riding & Wine in Bordeaux - 8-days, next departure Bordeaux 7th June and 17th August 08.

Riders visit many of the Bordeaux region’s finest vineyards and picturesque villages, tasting fine wines, enjoying local speciality dishes served by gourmet chefs and staying in comfortable hotels along the way. Ride through Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards, visit the majestic Citadelle of Blaye and taste the fine Côte de Blaye wine. Continue through the Côte de Bourg, Bordeaux Superieur and Fronsac vineyards to the charming town of Libourne.

Experience the region’s rich culture in the medieval town of Saint Emilion and explore the 13th century castle of Rauzan, before resting a while in the traditional village of Cadillac and partaking in a tipple of Premieres Côtes de Bordeaux. After riding through the vineyards of Graves and Sauternes, spend a final night in the town of Sauternes itself before transferring to Bordeaux for the conclusion of the holiday.

The holiday costs £1,080 p/p including transfers from Bordeaux, guesthouse and hotel accommodation, all meals, wine tastings, wine with lunch and dinner and all riding.

For more information, visit Equineadventures.co.uk.