PROVENCE – Western riding in Alpilles Hills

For each ride, the itinerary varies depending on the season, the duration and the guide’s mood! We therefore offer star-shaped trips to discover Lake Bauxites, the Crêtes des Alpilles, the Château des Baux de Provence, Maussane, Aureille and the Plaines de Marguerite.

You are expected to arrive at the stables at 9.30am.

During your 3 days stay, you will complete 3 of the typical riding days described below.

Our different days on horseback

• In the footsteps of the Romans

Hidden between the limestone cliffs, the Caisses de Jean-Jean offer one of the most remarkable landscapes in the Alpilles. Between nature and heritage, the trail reveals this gem of the Alpilles, whose geology, flora, fauna, agricultural and natural landscapes and, above all, the remains of a Gallic oppidum, make it a must-see site. At midday, we stop in the shade of the pine trees for a delicious meal cooked with olive oil from the family estate. Back in the saddle, we cross the ‘Plaines de Marguerite’ and their silvery sea of olive trees. There, depending on the season, we meet olive growers busy with the traditional olive harvest or pruning the trees. Meal and night at the gîte.

• Le Pas de Loup

We take the path that leads to the ridges overlooking the entire Baux de Provence valley. This highest point offers a breathtaking 360° view of the entire region! Depending on the weather, we may spot Bonelli’s eagles. We ride towards the famous castle of Les Baux de Provence. There, we dismount to enjoy a meal before setting off again and riding alongside a refreshing stream in the foothills of the Alpilles.

• Maussane-les-Alpilles

Today, we head towards the ‘capital’ of the olive! Nestled on the southern side of the Alpilles, where the sun shines brightly and warmly more than 300 days a year, Maussane is bathed in the tranquillity and gentle lifestyle of Provence. Olive groves stretch as far as the eye can see, dotted here and there with cypress-lined avenues leading to beautiful farmhouses and traditional oil mills. Along the way, I invite you to compete in the Oliviades and try to beat the current record! I won’t say any more… it’s a surprise! At midday, enjoy a country lunch or a meal at the saloon.

• Aureille

This morning, our clogs take us to the heart of the Alpilles mountains. Enchanting landscapes, vibrant colours and intoxicating scents. At midday, we stop in Aureille, a small, peaceful and charming village, and have lunch at the foot of its Castellas (a small medieval fortified castle). A siesta basking in the sun before setting off again for a ride to the rhythms of the Midi. Meal and night at the lodge.

• Le lac des Baux

The scent of broom and the majestic flight of Bonelli’s eagles accompany us this morning to a magical place. The entire landscape is coloured red, it’s like being in Colorado! Suddenly, at a bend in the path, a turquoise blue lake appears, the contrast is striking! It is in this spectacular setting that we share a delicious and hearty snack. Back in the saddle, pleasant shaded paths in the heart of the Alpilles Natural Park punctuate our ride and offer beautiful panoramic views. Meal and overnight stay at the lodge.

• Lake Peïroou

Today, our hooves take us to the heart of the cauldron! Riding along the magnificent white rock cliffs, we ride between scrubland and pine forests to reach Lake Peïroou. Peïroou is the Provençal name for the cauldron and the natural cavities carved into the rocky ground by erosion. At midday, we’ll have a picnic in the shade of the pine trees. Back in the saddle, pleasant shaded paths punctuate our ride and offer beautiful panoramic views.

Second day on horseback.

Third day on horseback.

End of the riding trip at the end of this riding day (no dinner included).