Following the Steps of Francois I in Loire

Difficulty

Moderate

Comfort

Premium

Our short horse riding holiday takes you from the expansive paths of Chambord Forest to the charming trails and vineyards of the Val de Loire, tracing the footsteps of historical figures such as François I and Catherine de' Medici.

You'll explore iconic destinations like Chambord, Cheverny, and Chenonceau. These two magnificent short trail rides immerse you in the heart of French history, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Sophie G. is the provider of this trip

5.0 10 reviews

The provider speaks: English

Sophie always loved education and horse behavior. She has graduated in La Cense horsemanship teaching program in 2014. She found her passion in TREC and even won the silver medal in European Championship. From 2012 to 2014 she followed special formation in Animal Communication that she uses everyday with our horses. She is in charge of the technic and pedagogic content in our guides teaching program, along with our breeding activities. Rigorous, friendly and organized, she will do everything to make your trip unforgettable.

View Sophie`s tours

Tour highlights

Enjoy the Scenic Wonders of the Loire Valley

Picturesque vineyards, verdant forests, winding rivers, and blossoming orchards create a breathtaking journey.

Experience the Grandeur of Château de Chambord

The largest and most magnificent of all Loire Valley castles this masterpiece stands as a testament to the splendor of the French Renaissance.

Have a Royal Level of Services

Experience the epitome of luxury and tranquility at La Borde en Sologne Châteaux, where elegant accommodations and world-class services await.

Route details

Free arrival to Chateau de La Borde.

Briefing is followed by a gourmet dinner and night at Chateau de La Borde.

Difficulty

Moderate

Tour provider's comments

You ride different types of horses, in all gaits. You can manage yourself and your horse ethically and safely, you are comfortable with riding outdoors and you enjoy cantering or galloping. You may not be used to spend long days riding.

Accommodation

Comfort

Premium

Hotel

3 nights

La Borde en Sologne – château & spa invites you to reconnect with the art of living and knowing how to receive. Inscribed in its environment, without ever distorting it, the estate offers a unique, authentic experience, in an 17th century castle, in the middle of the woods, with high-end hotel services.

Tickets to group meeting place

Group meeting place

Pays de la Loire, Maine-et-Loire, Arrondissement de Saumur, Saumur

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Partnered with

Weather during the tour

Weather conditions along the route

You will get a weather forecast for this tour’s route based on

the forecasts for this season
the statistics from previous years’ trips

Tour conditions

Included

accommodation;
meals.

Extras

airfare;
transfer;
personal expenses.

Group size

up to 10 tourists

Duration

4 days

3 nights

It's important to know

60 days before the departure : 30% of total cost (deposit lost)
From 60 to 30 days before the departure : 50% of total cost
Less than 30 days before the departure : 100% of total cost

If, on the first day of the ride, the guide does not feel the riders have adequately met the guidelines, they will not be able to continue by horseback and have to follow the tour by their own means (taxis or private car) to reach every step. No refund will be issued in the event they are not able to ride to these guidelines.

Tour reviews

5.0

Based on 10 reviews

A
Anne-Sophie

14 Nov, 2023

about provider

An absolutely fantastic camping trip. Sophie and Ken pay attention to the smallest details both in the organization and in the comfort of the riders and their horses. The latter are very kind and reliable, comfortable in the hooves and attentive to their rider. The route is varied; from the banks of the Loire to the forest, passing through fields, charming villages or royal entrances to castles on horseback! Ken, positive, patient and caring, is passionate about history and happy to share his knowledge and love of the region. As for Sophie, she greets us morning and evening with a big smile and tells us what we need to do for "our" horses. This trek is the perfect balance between the number of hours spent on horseback, exploring the castles and returning to the magnificent Domaine des Thomeaux where muscle recovery is fast thanks to the spa and massage! Moreover, I was very lucky to have a group of endless kindness and togetherness. I will never forget this week! Thank you so much 🌿

14 Nov, 2023
M
Mala

10 Oct, 2023

about provider

Where do I start? This was my dream adventure - my number one spot on my wish list, and it did not disappoint! I could write a book about how amazing this trip was and how wonderful Ken and Sophie were! EVERYTHING was perfect. Guys run an amazing operation with the utmost attention to every detail. The incredible logistics in creating this adventure are mind boggling, but Ken and Sophie pull it off perfectly. The hotels, dinners, picnics and itineraries were flawless! Our hosts were kind, friendly and professional. And then there were the horses. Absolutely AMAZING creatures..... and 100% credit to Ken and Sophie! Not only do they raise these horses, but they train them to be incredible partners. They are in perfect condition, plus responsive and intelligent. If I could bring home sweet Danenerys, I would in a heartbeat. Ken and Sophie take great care of their riders and horses. Their bond is evident. I highly recommend this adventure to experienced riders. We traveled almost 100 miles in 6 days and every step was a dream come true! Thank you Ken and Sophie and their beautiful horses. I will be back.

10 Oct, 2023
S
Sonia

5 Sep, 2023

about provider

Great camping trip! Ken and Sophie exemplify kindness and generosity. The horses are wonderful, in good spirits, and the hike was marked by memorable moments. I highly recommend it!

5 Sep, 2023