Saumur to Villandry Trail Ride

Difficulty

Moderate

Comfort

Premium

On this Loire Valley horseback riding tour, we will immerse ourselves in the history of the Plantagenets, Richard the Lionheart, Eleanor of Aquitaine, and Joan of Arc. Our journey begins by exploring the rich heritage and historical landmarks associated with these iconic figures.

As we ride, we'll traverse through stunning and diverse landscapes. We'll meander through picturesque vineyards that produce some of the region's famous wines. We'll continue through serene forests, providing a tranquil and refreshing atmosphere.

Our path will take us alongside the majestic rivers Loire, Vienne, and Indre, each offering unique scenic views and a glimpse into the region's natural beauty. We'll also pass by charming orchards, where the fragrance of blooming fruit trees fills the air.

The highlight of our tour is a magnificent trail ride to the Château de Villandry. Here, we will have the opportunity to explore its renowned Renaissance gardens, famous for their intricate designs and stunning beauty.

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

Discover Royal Abbeys and Chateau

Historic sites steeped in the legacy of royalty - immerse yourself in the grandeur of their stunning architecture and picturesque gardens.

Explore the Legacy of the Plantagenet Dynasty

Get to know the dynasty, which ruled over vast regions of France and England and its notable figures such as: Richard the Lionheart, Alienor of Aquitaine, Joan of Arc.

Enjoy the Scenic Wonders of the Loire Valley

A journey takes you through the picturesque vineyards, lush forests, meandering rivers, and blooming orchards of the Loire Valley.

Route details

Unwind at Hotel Anne d’Anjou**** by the Banks of the Loire.

Dinner and rest at the enchanting Hotel de Charme La Croix Blanche with Fontevraud Abbey as your backdrop.

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

6 nights

Close to Saumur, in the heart of the Loire Valley vineyards, Loire Valley castle region this historic Hotel La Croix Blanche Fontevraud will delight you!

It has 24 rooms and mini suites of a former coaching inn, a historic building dating back to 1696.

Enjoy our outdoor pool with small garden in summer.

Tickets to group meeting place

Group meeting place

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

Calculate tour price with tickets from your city

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

7 days

6 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