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Auvergne Chateau Equestrian Escape
Auvergne
France
Happily secluded in the bucolic countryside of Auvergne and a scenic three hours outside of Paris, you will find a charming French chateau peacefully waiting for you nearby the lush green forests of Tronçais. A most dignified mansion, its history dates back to 1836 when it was built by Count Eugène de la Roche amidst the 100 acres of enviable parkland and adjacent to the ancient ruins of the original castle, Château du Mont. After fulfilling lifestyles elsewhere, Monsieur and Madame Tissier wish to achieve their dreams of creating idyllic perfection for international guests and offer the best in sublime rural tranquility and curious discovery. They welcome you to accompany them at the handsome 19th century chateau, and stay as their guest in one of the tastefully decorated, clean and comfortable 19 guestrooms equipped with modern bathroom facilities and antique furnishing, with glorious views of the noble countryside you will soon explore by horseback, where history and stunning landscapes are plentiful.
A delightful country experience, riding holidays at the chateau are highlighted by gourmet fine dining, generous hospitality and the recently renovated and modernized 30 horse equestrian center. When not in the saddle, visitors can also enjoy mountain biking the many lush nature paths of the tranquil property or rest and play in the quiet ambiance of the library and billiards room in an elegant atmosphere of relaxation and culture.
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Riding Clinic
Short Getaway
Family Vacation
Riding and Cooking Classes
Center-based ride
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Meeting:
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Ygrande
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Airport:
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Clermont-Ferrand
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Transfer:
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by taxi from train station
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
Max
6 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF) 
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2024
Rates include*:
Accommodations in superior rooms, All meals & 4 riding days
Non Riding Activities: Biking & Hiking
| A | 2024 | 6 days - High | 6d / 5n | €1575 | $1730 |
| Single supplement | €760 | $835 |
| B | 2024 | 6 days - Mid | 6d / 5n | €1510 | $1660 |
| Single supplement | €700 | $770 |
| C | 2024 | 6 days - Low | 6d / 5n | €1450 | $1595 |
| Single supplement | €635 | $700 |
* prices are per person based on double/twin occupancy
Rates Note:
** Shorter package available -- please inquire for daily rates
Transfer and Other Charges:
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2024
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Discount for Classic Room, dbl, pp
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€
-210
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$-230
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2024
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Upgrade to Deluxe Room, dbl, pp
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€
105
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$115
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2024
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Non-rider discount - please inquire
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€
0
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$0
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2024
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Discount for bookings made more than 60 days in advance - inquire
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€
0
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$0
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2024
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Transfers can be arranged from Moulins train station on request (extra fee - paid locally)
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€
0
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$0
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Best to arrive by rental car. Otherwise take train to Moulins s/Allier (about 2 hrs south of paris by train) and transfer can be arranged from there at an extra cost.
Check-in from 3 to 8pm / Check-out by 11am
Tour Dates for 2024
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| C |
2024
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02/09
- 04/04
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6d / 5n
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6 days - Low
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2
/6
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Reserve
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| B |
2024
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04/05
- 06/27
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6d / 5n
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6 days - Mid
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2
/6
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Reserve
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| A |
2024
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06/28
- 09/18
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6d / 5n
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6 days - High
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2
/6
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Reserve
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| B |
2024
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09/19
- 09/30
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6d / 5n
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6 days - Mid
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2
/6
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Reserve
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| C |
2024
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10/01
- 10/18
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6d / 5n
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6 days - Low
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2
/6
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Reserve
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| B |
2024
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10/19
- 11/03
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6d / 5n
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6 days - Mid
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2
/6
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Reserve
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| C |
2024
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11/04
- 12/26
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6d / 5n
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6 days - Low
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2
/6
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Reserve
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| B |
2024
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12/27
- 12/31
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6d / 5n
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6 days - Mid
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2
/6
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Reserve
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** Flexible tour dates -- any day of the week
Sold Out Dates (as of 3/21/23): April 17-23, May 8-14 and May 22-28
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Rates do not include:
Beverages, Steam room (20€ for 20-minute), Beauty treatments (99 €), Cooking Classes (from 45 €), Transfers & Gratuities
The equestrian center is well known for breeding and training high quality Thoroughbred racehorses, but of course there are many excellent school or trail horses for the riding clientele. Riding groups are kept small to a maximum of 6 riders. The rides explore the beautiful countryside surrounding the estate or you can opt for riding instructions in the arena in the disciplines of dressage, cross country or stadium jumping. Explore the endless diverse landscapes and watch the chain of volcanic hills rise in front of you with its 80 volcanoes.
The trainers speak limited English, so they are supported by an English lady (a rider as well), who provides the translation, which works quite well.
Sample Itinerary - subject to changes
Day 1: Arrival
Arrival to the chateau, check-in, explore the grounds and relax. No riding today.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at the Chateau
Day 2: Introductory Ride
After breakfast, choose to do a riding lessons or trail ride.
Riding approx. 2 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Chateau
Day 3: Lesson or Trail Ride
After breakfast, choose to do a riding lessons or trail ride.
Riding approx. 2 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Chateau
Day 4: Relax (no riding)
Free day to sight-see and explore the area.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Chateau
Day 5: Lesson or Trail Ride
After breakfast, choose to do a riding lessons or trail ride.
Riding approx. 2 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at the Chateau
Day 6: Last Ride & Departure
After breakfast, choose to do a riding lessons or trail ride before your departure.
Riding approx. 1 hour
Meals included: Breakfast & Lunch
*Additional riding hours can be paid for locally.
Non-Riding Activities
The Château provides for an array of activities from (of course) exploring the beautiful surroundings on horseback, mountain biking through the many nature paths, cooking classes, as well as indoor entertainment from the French Billards room to the quiet luminous ambiance of the library room.
Meeting:
Ygrande
Airport:
Clermont-Ferrand
Train station:
Moulins s/Allier (32 km / 20 miles)
Transfer:
by taxi from train station
Distance:
100 km / 64 miles
Best to arrive by rental car. Otherwise take train to Moulins s/Allier (about 2 hrs south of paris by train) and transfer can be arranged from there at an extra cost.
Check-in from 3 to 8pm / Check-out by 11am
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Tack:
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French trekking, English
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Horses:
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English Thoroughbred, French Saddle Horse or Selle Francais
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Pace:
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All paces according to riding level
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Level:
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(2
to
3
out of 5) Novice to Intermediate
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Age:
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Min
6
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Weight:
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Max
198 lbs (90 kg)
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
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Max
6 riders
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Amenities
Covered arena (20m x 40m)
Two outdoor arenas (30m x 60m and 20m x 40m)
Panel walker (for 4 horses)
Lunging ring
23 stalls (3m x 3m)
Gallop track (800m)
64 acres of fields
Paddocks (300m² à 800m²)
Numerous trails on and outside of the property
Staff
Annabelle Freby manages the business but focuses on the race horse activity.
Julien and Alix (professional instructors) share their time to provide instruction from Tuesday to Sunday morning.
When necessary, Suzan Roberts, English native and non-professional rider, provides assistance for English translation.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart above except: (a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card. Passport NoteFranc. more
Clermont-Ferrand area
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Month
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Jan
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Feb
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Mar
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Apr
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May
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Jun
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Jul
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Aug
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Sep
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Oct
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Nov
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Dec
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Average High Temperature (°F)
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45
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48
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55
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60
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67
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74
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79
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78
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72
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63
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52
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46
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Average Low Temperature (°F)
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30
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31
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35
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39
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46
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52
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55
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55
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49
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44
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36
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32
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Average High Temperature (°C)
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7
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9
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13
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15
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20
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23
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26
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26
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22
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17
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11
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8
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Average Low Temperature (°C)
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-1
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0
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2
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4
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8
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11
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13
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13
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10
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7
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2
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0
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Average Precipitation (days of rain)
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5
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4
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5
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7
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9
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7
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6
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6
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6
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6
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6
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5
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Source: NOAA
Seasons
The region benefits from a mild and somewhat humid climate, dominated by the influence of westerly Atlantic winds.
In the mountains of Auvergne, the climate is characteristic of a mountainous region: long cold winters oppose short and warm summers.
During Spring, late frosts are frequent and can compromise the harvests.
Clermont-Ferrand is one of the driest cities of France, just behind Marseille. It is also one of the warmest cities in summer.
Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
..view other reports for different trips
Accommodation
This is a stationary ride so you will be staying at the same accommodation each night.
Description
The handsome chateau dates back to 1836 and has glorious views over its 100-acre estate from a position of sublime rural tranquility. Its hilltop position offers wonderful views of the estate's 100 acres including the lake, forests and fields. From its southern exposure, the terrace provides views of the estate and farmlands, church towers and the traditional bocage.
Large, flower-filled terracotta pots along the terrace enhance the area, making it the perfect place for enjoying a refreshing drink or meal.
There are common areas if you need to unwind including, a lounge, a billiard room if you feel in the mood, a hammam and a heated pool (open from June to September) over by the orchard and kitchen garden. The swimming pool is open from June to September.
Wi-Fi is available at the property. There is no laundry service.
Room Options
The Chateau offers 5 room categories: Pavilion, Standard, Comfort, Superior and Deluxe.
The regular package includes the Superior room category, which we are happy to upgrade to a deluxe category or downgrade to a "Standard" or "Comfort" level.
There are a total of 19 rooms, of which there are 16 in the Chateaux and 3 in the Pavilion.
Each room features a bath or shower, free WiFi Internet access, a flat-screen TV, a mini-bar and a reversible air-conditioning system.
Pavilion Room (13-22 sq.m)
Our Garden Pavilion rooms (next to the Château) are furnished in typical country residence style. They are located on the ground floor and lead out directly onto the gardens. These rooms are ideal for guests with pets and are also popular for their accessibility and direct access to the grounds. These rooms are reserved for solo travelers.
Standard Room (13-22 sq.m)
Our Standard rooms are furnished in typical country residence style. They are north-facing and offer a view of the horse training tracks. Can fit up to 3 guests. Double bed (standard or king) or 2 twin beds.
Comfort Room (16-26 sq.m) - In 2024 rooms from this category will be sold at the same rate as Standard rooms!
Our Comfort rooms are south or north-facing and offer a panoramic view over either the Bourbonnais woodlands or the horse training tracks. Can fit up to 3 guests. King bed or 2 twin beds.
Superior Room (22-27 sq.m)
Our Superior rooms are south or north-facing and offer a panoramic view over either the Bourbonnais woodlands or the horse training tracks. Can fit up to 3 guests. King bed or 2 twin beds (1 single and 1 king-size double).
Deluxe Room (35 sq.m)
Our Luxury room is the Château's flagship room and is ideally situated at the end of the main building's west wing. It boasts views from three sides (south, west and north) and overlooks the magnificent Bourbonnais woodlands. It features a bath, free WiFi Internet access, a flat-screen TV, a mini-bar, a courtesy tray and a reversible air-conditioning system. Can fit up to 3 guests. King bed.
Meals
All meals are included in this trip. The regular package includes standard evening meals with some of the dinners being of the "gourmet" category with 5 courses.
Meals are served in the hunter's dining room, the more intimate Directoire Salon, or outside, on the inviting terrace.
A gourmet restaurant with roots deep in the Bourbonnaise tradition offers local cuisine with produce from the chateau's own vegetable gardens, neighboring farms, or local markets. The Chateau's Garden grows numerous plants and aromatic herbs, and those elements are at the heart of the cuisine offered. Meat, fish and vegetables are all enhanced by a clever association of herbs and plants. The chef, Cedric Denaux will ravish your senses with an inventive cooking. Priority is given to locally sourced and seasonal ingredients while making sure the resources remain available for future generations.
There is also an excellent wine cellar and wine menu (drinks not included).
Breakfast with homemade jams, pastries and bread, is served from 7.30 to 10.00 in the breakfast room. If you prefer more privacy, it can also be served in your room.
Lunch is served from 12.00 to 1.30 and dinner from 7.00 to 9.00.
This trip
can accommodate special dietary requests.
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Tack:
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French trekking, English
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Horses:
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English Thoroughbred, French Saddle Horse or Selle Francais
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Pace:
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All paces according to riding level
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|
Level:
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(2
to
3
out of 5) Novice to Intermediate
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Age:
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Min
6
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Weight:
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Max
198 lbs (90 kg)
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
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Max
6 riders
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Amenities
Covered arena (20m x 40m)
Two outdoor arenas (30m x 60m and 20m x 40m)
Panel walker (for 4 horses)
Lunging ring
23 stalls (3m x 3m)
Gallop track (800m)
64 acres of fields
Paddocks (300m² à 800m²)
Numerous trails on and outside of the property
Staff
Annabelle Freby manages the business but focuses on the race horse activity.
Julien and Alix (professional instructors) share their time to provide instruction from Tuesday to Sunday morning.
When necessary, Suzan Roberts, English native and non-professional rider, provides assistance for English translation.
Passports
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart above except:
(a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.
Passport Note
France is a signatory to the 1995 Schengen Agreement.
Visas
Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above for the following durations:
(a) nationals of EU countries for an unlimited period;
(b) nationals of Australia, Canada and the USA for stays of up to 90 days.
| Passport Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
1 |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
No |
| Canadian |
No |
| USA |
No |
| Other EU |
No |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
No |
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
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Auvergne Chateau Equestrian Escape
Tour Code:
IT-FRSRYG
6 days /
5 nights
Dates :
February to December
Trip Rating :
Difficulty :
Riding Level Explained | A | Beginner
 | Beginner A rider who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot and does not canter. | | B | Novice
 | Novice A rider who is capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, capable of
applying basic aids, comfortable and in control at the walk, moderate length posting
trots, and short canters. | | C | Intermediate
 | Intermediate A rider who has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces
(including posting trots, two point canters and gallops), but does not ride regularly. |
| D | Strong Intermediate
 | Strong Intermediate An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly and is comfortable in the saddle for at least 6 hours per day. | | E | Advanced
 | All of the above, plus an independent seat, soft hands, and capable of handlinga spirited horse in open country. |
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