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Morvan Ride
Burgundy
France
Adventure, relaxation, strong emotions, sensations and gastronomy will make this week an unforgettable trip. This is a very fast-paced ride, quite different from the other riding tours in France.
The "Morvan" - an island in the heart of Burgundy - became a natural reserve thanks to the efforts of the community. The Morvan is a green area in the center of the Burgundy region that will astonish you due to the diversity of landscapes and the uncountable miles of unpaved country roads, perfectly suited for a riding tour. Known for its rolling hills, large forests, rivers, lakes and characteristic villages. Uncountable trails lead through this lovely landscape, revealing new views after every turn. The warm-hearted inhabitants of the villages, whose hospitality is almost indescribable, make the Morvan a unique place to rest body and soul.
Daily 30 to 40 mile journeys with long and frequent canters, abrupt down hill passages and lakes will be the joy of sporty outdoors riders. Lovers of history will not be disappointed either. This region is a green desert, far away from busy highways and, a long time ago, crossed by migrating helvets. Julius Cesar and Vercingétorix fought their war in this region. Bibracte witnessed the times of the Celt civilization in Europe. Bernard de Clervaux preached at Vézelay during his second crusade. We honor the memory of Vauban when we cross his tomb and we will remember the times when wood used to float down the rivers Cure and Yonne towards Paris.
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Progressive Ride (no camping)
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Meeting:
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Sommant
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Airport:
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Dijon
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Transfer:
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Autun train station
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Riders:
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Min
6 riders
Max
12 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF) 
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2025
Rates include*:
Accommodation, All meals, 7 riding days, Luggage transfers, Transfer from Autun & French and English speaking guide
| A | 2025 | 9 day trip | 9d / 8n | €1900 | $2090 |
| Single supplement | €400 | $440 |
| B | 2025 | 7 day trip | 7d / 6n | €1800 | $1980 |
| Single supplement | €200 | $220 |
* prices are per person based on double/twin occupancy
Rates Note:
Non-rider rates incl. lodging, breakfast and dinner
Transfer and Other Charges:
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2025
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Transfer from Autun train station is included on Day 1
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Transfers are included from the Autun train station. The closest airport is Dijon, from where you take the train to Autun OR take the fast speed train from Paris to Dijon and change to the local train to Autun.
Rates do not include:
Alcoholic drinks & Gratuities
Sample Itinerary: 9-day tour - subject to changes
Day 1 (Saturday): Arrival
Arrival at the train station in Autun in the afternoon and transfer to Sommant.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight in Sommant
Day 2 (Sunday): Ride to Lac des Settons
We ride in the direction of "Lac des Settons" passing through the woods of Anost. We stop deep inside the forest for a romantic picnic and then continue our ride. We follow the lake until we reach our lodging for tonight.
Dinner and overnight at a interesting hotel overlooking the lake.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel in Lac des Settons
Day 3 (Monday): Lac des Settons to Brassy en Morvan
Today our horses turn into fish while we will cross numerous creeks and rivers. In the middle of a thick forest we reach the Waterfall of Gouloux and then follow mountain creeks and wild streams to reach Dun les Places. Then our horses transform into mountain goats while we climb the mountain of Pérouse only to be welcomed with a spectacular view form the top.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Auberge in Brassy en Morvan
Day 4 (Tuesday): Brassy en Morvan to Vézelay
Today we face the longest day in the saddle - almost 50km (40 miles) are to be covered. Of course by now you are comfortable and have bonded with your horse and we will all enjoy fast to very fast canters and gallops along the Cure River, the wildest and most important river in the region. We reach the northern border of the nature park where the scenery opens up considerably with meadows and fields. The goal for to today is Vézelay, which is located alonf the Jacob's Pilgrim Trail to Santiago the Compostella. It was here that the "Holy Bernard of Clairvaux " challenged his followers to the second crusade in the 12th century.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Relais du Morvan in Vézelay
Day 5 (Wednesday): Vézelay to Castle of Lantilly
In the morning we visit Vézelay and then continue our ride to Pierre Perthuis with its world famous two stone bridges, where we enjoy our picnic. Today's shorter ride of 40km (25 miles) will be covered on a quick and fast 3 hour ride until we reack the Castle of Lantilly. Possible free time to visit Vauban's Castle Bazoches.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Castle of Lantilly
Day 6 (Thursday): Castle of Lantilly to Château Chinon
This morning we follow the Yvonne River in the direction of Château Chinon. Around lunch time we reach a lake where riders and horses can go for a swim. Finally we reach Château Chinon, a medieval small town. The town is worth an evening stroll before or after dinner.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel in Château Chinon
Day 7 (Friday): Château Chinon to Saint Léger sous Beuvray
We ride in direction of Bibracte following ancient forest trails that have not changed for centuries. Then we ascend to to highest point of the riding your - the 800 meter Beuvray Mountain. Here we rendezvous with the "Galls" looking at one of the most important archaeological diggs in France regarding the Galls and Romans occupations. After lunch we reach our destination of the day - Saint Léger sous Beuvray.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel in Saint Léger sous Beuvray
Day 8 (Saturday): Saint Léger sous Beuvray to Sommant
You’ll come back into the higher mountains of the beginning of the trip. Past castles, through creeks and rivers - the horses know that it’s going homeward so the day will finish fast paced. Farewell dinner.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight in Sommant
Day 9 (Sunday): Departure
After breakfast departure.
Meeting:
Sommant
Airport:
Dijon
Train station:
Autun
Transfer:
Autun train station
Transfers are included from the Autun train station. The closest airport is Dijon, from where you take the train to Autun OR take the fast speed train from Paris to Dijon and change to the local train to Autun.
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Tack:
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English
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Horses:
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Anglo Arab
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Pace:
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Fast paced ride with occasional downhill canters. Fastest ride in Europe, must be advanced rider!
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
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Level:
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(5
to
5
out of 5) Advanced
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Weight:
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Max
195 lbs
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Riders:
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Min
6 riders
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Max
12 riders
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Riding helmets are mandatory for this ride.
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If you prefer not to wear a riding helmet, you can sign a waiver form.
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Horses
We know that the key to a horse trip is the horses. That is why we have chosen and breed our own. They are all born in the Morvan region and they have lived all their life in the same region. They are calm, well in their heads but when need be or when requested, they are fast and generous. They are capable of anything, they will surprise you and they will allow you to experience a unique riding trip.
Pace
We will cover about 30 to 40 mile journeys every day with long and frequent canters and, at times, abrupt downhill sections.
Riding Experience
This is one of the fastest paced rides in Europe - please only advanced riders should sign up!
Riders need to be confident and in control at all paces on varied terrains. They also need to be physically fit, as this is a demanding ride.
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
Château-Chinon 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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38
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40
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48
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52
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60
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66
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72
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71
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65
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57
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46
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42
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Average Low Temperature (°F)
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30
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31
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36
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38
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45
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51
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56
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56
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51
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45
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36
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33
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Average High Temperature (°C)
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4
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5
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9
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11
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15
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19
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22
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21
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18
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14
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8
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5
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Average Low Temperature (°C)
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-1
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-1
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2
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3
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7
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10
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13
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13
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11
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7
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2
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0
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Source: NOAA
Seasons
Burgundy is situated in the heart of France and usually has warm or hot summers with that continental feel to them. Generally the summer months are warm and dry, with rainfall averaging 6 cm per month in July and August. The climate in the Spring and Autumn is usually a mixture of sun and scattered showers with temperatures in the mid 20's (Celsius).
Wear layers of clothing so that you are ready for cooler mornings and hotter afternoons. Waterproof outer layers are wise on longer day trips if the weather forecast is changeable.
Preferably, you will carry several small bags, not exceeding 10 kg each. Please no large, hard shell suitcases. Saddlebags are provided.
| This list is only a guideline for you |
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| Hidden Trails Travel Documents and Trip Voucher (contains important local tour contact info.) |
| Flight tickets |
| Passport |
| Visa (check with your consulate) |
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| RIDING GEAR |
| Riding pants or Jodhpurs |
| Riding boots (short) + Minichaps |
| Riding helmet (recommended for all trips) |
| Riding gloves |
| Hat (with chin strip) for sun protection |
| Lightweight Rain coat |
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| PERSONAL CLOTHING |
| Jacket or sweater for cool evenings |
| Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts |
| Jeans |
| Shorts |
| Underwear and socks |
| Pyjamas |
| Bag for dirty clothes |
| Trekking boots/ comfortable shoes |
| Swimsuit |
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| ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING |
| Personal Toiletries |
| Insect protection |
| Personal medications |
| Sore cream (for an emergency) |
| Sewing kit |
| Torch/ Flashlight |
| Adapter for electric appliances |
| Camera and extra film or batteries |
| Belt pack |
| Address book and pen (for postcards!) |
| Sun glasses with strap |
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
Accommodations
This is a progressive ride, so you will be staying in different locations during the trip.
Description
You will sleep at typical regional small basic hotels (2*) and guesthouses where we will find a comfortable bed and a warm shower to rest after our active daily journey. Most accommodations offer private bathroom but in some accommodations, bathroom will be shared.
Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Day 1: B&B in Sommant
Day 2: Hôtel Les Grillons
Day 3: Hôtel du Nord
Day 4: Hôtel du Morvan
Day 5: Château de Lantilly
Day 6: Hôtel du Parc
Day 7: Hôtel du Morvan
Day 8: B&B in Sommant
B&B in Sommant
This farmhouse accommodation offers guests to stay in small houses able to accommodate up to 4/5 guests each. The buildings have a rustic charm with exposed stones and provide simple accommodations with shared bathrooms.
Hôtel Les Grillons in Les Settons
This charming country hotel offers 13 tastefully decorated rooms all fitted with a private bathroom and a peaceful view of the surrounding nature. Wi-Fi access is available in the common areas.
Hôtel du Nord in Brassy en Morvan
This hotel offers basic accommodations in 8 bedrooms with private bathrooms, a TV and free Wi-Fi access.
Hôtel du Morvan in Saint-Léger-sous-Beuvray
This accommodation provides guests with 7 simply decorated rooms all equipped with private bathroom and free Wi-Fi access.
Château de Lantilly in Cervon
The castle is located on the shore of the Anguison River in the foothills of the Morvan. It is on the list of Historical Monuments and offers 5 themed rooms, each with its own style and charm from a certain period in French history. All rooms have their own bathroom.
Hôtel du Parc in Château Chinon
This small hotel was recently refurbished and offers 23 guestrooms with air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi access.
Room Occupancy
Single rooms are available based on availability but a single supplement fee applies. The single supplement fee does not apply if we cannot find another rider to share a room with you.
Meals
All meals are included with this trip.
Evening meals and breakfasts will be taken at the hotel. Lunch will be generous, inspired by traditional country cooking, warm or cold according to the weather.
At noon, it is always a pleasure to see from far away a well-dressed table, in the middle of a field, waiting for us.
Alcoholic beverages are not included with this trip but you can purchase your own at the local restaurants.
Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to most dietary restrictions with prior notice.
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Tack:
|
|
English
|
|
Horses:
|
|
Anglo Arab
|
|
Pace:
|
|
Fast paced ride with occasional downhill canters. Fastest ride in Europe, must be advanced rider!
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Gallop |
|
|
Level:
|
|
(5
to
5
out of 5) Advanced
|
|
Weight:
|
|
Max
195 lbs
|
|
Riders:
|
|
Min
6 riders
|
Max
12 riders
|
|
Horses
We know that the key to a horse trip is the horses. That is why we have chosen and breed our own. They are all born in the Morvan region and they have lived all their life in the same region. They are calm, well in their heads but when need be or when requested, they are fast and generous. They are capable of anything, they will surprise you and they will allow you to experience a unique riding trip.
Pace
We will cover about 30 to 40 mile journeys every day with long and frequent canters and, at times, abrupt downhill sections.
Riding Experience
This is one of the fastest paced rides in Europe - please only advanced riders should sign up!
Riders need to be confident and in control at all paces on varied terrains. They also need to be physically fit, as this is a demanding ride.
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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Morvan Ride
Tour Code:
PG-MVT9
9 days /
8 nights
Dates :
June to September
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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