One Week Riding in Saumur

The historic town of Saumur is located between the Loire and Thouet rivers. This stunning landscape is surrounded by the vineyards of Saumur itself, Chinon, Bourgueil, Coteaux du Layon are to name just a few which produce some of France's finest wines. Such was the success  of this wine production and appreciation over the decades, that wealth poured from all over France and the elegant Chateau de Saumur changed hands between kings on many occasions.

But not least of Saumur’s appeal is the long established and world renowned National School of Equitation which is prided for the quality and high standards of the horses. This prestigious academy has been passing on knowledge through its elite masters of riding for centuries, and it is this that you will be able to experience first hand. The Cadre Noir, currently numbering around forty three expert men and women, are the tutors who have dedicated their careers to horses, and mastering the art of riding, and their skill is world renowned.

Day One

Arrive into your prefered regional airport, Nantes or Poitiers both within an hour and a half drive of Saumur. You can also fly with Ryan Air into Tours  which is only a 20 minute transfer to Saumur. Alternatively you can fly into Paris and travel an hour by train on the TGV to Angers, then its just one easy change for Saumur. Once you arrive settle into your chosen accommodation. You can choose between a wonder B&B hotel built around a series of patios, an ideal option for couples or singles alike. Alternatively we have a larger hotel with a pool, great for families. There is also Chateau accommodation for that special occasion or a choice of traditional self catering Gites.

The Loire Valley is the newest destination for Equestrian Escapes and one of the most stunning. Amongst the most important monuments of Saumur are the great Château de Saumur itself which stands high above the town, and the nearby Château de Beaulieu which stands just 200 metres from the south bank of the Loire river, designed by the architect Jean Drapeau.

Day Two

After a good breakfast, begin your day with a trip to the National Riding School. The Cadre Noir is open all year round to the public and here you will witness the trainers riding and working with these marvellous horses. Their vast knowledge and carefully refined skills are world class. Afterwards you will have a guided tour of the excellent facilities which have long provided an integral base to these equestrian connoisseurs. This tour will also delve into the rich history belonging to both the Cadre Noir and their headquarters. The Cadre Noir also perform a spectacular show several times a month; these demonstrations include the famous aerial jumps, piaffe, passage and pirouettes. If you are lucky enough to be staying over this period then we can arrange for you to see this performance.

This afternoon you will be enjoying your first lesson with our great instructor who trained with the Cadre Noir prior to setting up her own stable close to Saumur. You will be matched with an appropriate horse whether its a  Lusitano, Thoroughbred, Hanoverian or Selle Francais. Beginners will be taught the basics whilst for more experience riders there is the option to work on some of the high school movements.

Day Three

After breakfast this morning you will have your first hack. You will be taken on a two hour ride with a knowledgeable guide who will take you along the forest paths and tracks that line the numerous vineyards of this region. 

Day Four

After breakfast this morning you will have the chance to enjoy more riding through the Loire Valley where the castle stands proud with the beautiful scenic backdrop of the Loire river. You will be taken on a three hour ride today, during which a picnic may be included to give both horse and rider a chance to relax and soak up the atmosphere of this unique setting. Later there will be the option to visit the Castle in Saumur which enjoys stunning views from its hill top perch.

Day Five

This morning after breakfast you will have your second lesson with our fantastic instructor. By now all beginner riders will be brimming with confidence as you perfect your rising trot technique and move on to canter. The intermediate/experienced riders should have soring self confidence as you continue to improve your advanced techniques on these superb horses.

This afternoon you will be enjoying a magical visit to one of the best vineyeard in Saumur. You will stroll through the endless vines, learn about the up-keep and the harvesting of the different grapes and finally the best part of all wine tours the tasting!

Day Six

Today is your final day of riding in the Loire Valley. You will be experiencing a three hour hack which will take you into the heart of the countryside, riding through the forests and vineyards that are home to an abundance of wild life. his area is designated by the French government as an area of outstanding natural beauty. The stables have a good variety of horses suitable for all ages, experiences and size, including Lusitano, Thoroughbred, Hanoverian and Selle Francais. Why not eat out tonight in town and enjoy the fine wine of the local area as your holiday closes slowly to an end.

Day Seven

Today you are free to explore this stunning region. You could sample some of the other activities available in Saumur; a boat ride along the river Loire, cycling, visiting wineries for tastings, a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the vast scenery, hot air balloon rides, golfing or even tour the other exquisite castles of the area. The choice is totally yours!

Day Eight

Sadly your holiday has closed to an end, but not to worry, there is always next year.....

Prices start at £575 per person for a family of four sharing gite accommodation.

On this horse riding holiday you will be enjoying great riding in nature amongst numerous species of wildlife. This riding holiday is suitable for beginners to intermediate/experienced riders who want to enjoy a cultural and unique horse riding experience.

The trainer that we use was trained by the Cadre Noir of Saumur and is a qualified teacher of the National School of Equitation. All lessons given at his riding school are tailor made to suit the individuals experience level. Whatever level of skills you are lessons will be valuable, whether its to improve your basic riding seat, or to learn some new high school movements - your lessons will be tailored to your specific requirements.

We use several different types of horse at our stables in Saumur suitable for all ages, experiences and size. These include Lusitano, Thoroughbred, Hanoverian, Selle Francais and there are ponies for the children.

For Friends of Equestrian Escapes please click here.

We inspect all the horses in our horse riding holidays to ensure the best quality holiday for you.