Provence: 2-hour Western-style horseback riding tour, refreshing break in the river

Var region, Marseille



2-hour Western-style horseback riding tour in the Sainte-Baume, to meet Marie, the fairy of the Huveaune. Break with your feet in the water, guided by Sylvia, who is passionate about unusual horseback rides.

Highlights

  • Enjoy 2 hours of unusual horseback riding on a Western-style tour led by Sylvia
  • Cool your feet in the water by the river
  • Ride through the wild pine forest of the Sainte-Baume massif
  • For the most adventurous, a gallop, depending on the level and safety
  • Discover the legendary stop at the sanctuary of Mary, the fairy of the Huveaune

Description

Meet us at our Western-style stables in Saint-Zacharie, on the edge of the Var department, for the start of your 2-hour horseback riding tour. Your guide, Sylvia, is used to offering unusual horseback rides.

You will be welcomed, and your steed will then be introduced to you. You will be able to get to know your horse and discover the beauty of Western tack, full of details and attractive patterns engraved directly into the leather. Once the introductions are over, the long-awaited moment arrives: saddle up, cowboy! You'll be given a short introduction to learn how to ride cowboy-style, with loose reins...

You will then head towards the Sainte-Baume Massif, one of the largest forested massifs in Provence. The trail quickly enters a pine forest typical of the Provençal landscape, where the shade of the pines protects you from the sun while the scent of the garrigue accompanies your ride. You will ride through an area surrounded by legendary mountain ranges, between the Sainte-Baume Massif and the Garlaban Massif.

Halfway through the ride, you will reach a secret location: the sanctuary of Marie, the fairy of the Huveaune River, according to local legend. This is where you will take a well-deserved break, with your feet in the cool water of the river, in the shade of the deciduous trees. A moment of respite, away from the hustle and bustle, to catch your breath and enjoy the lapping of the water.

The ride continues in a loop, without retracing the same trail: you will pass through the center of the village of Saint-Zacharie, offering a striking contrast between typical Provençal life and the wild nature of the natural park. Depending on the group's level and the day's conditions, Sylvia may suggest that the most adventurous riders finish with a few faster gaits, or even a gallop! This will always be at her discretion, depending on the safety and experience of the riders, before returning to the stables.

Includes

  • 2-hour horseback riding tour
  • Horse adapted to your level
  • Quality Western equipment
  • Supervision by a qualified riding guide
  • Helmet
  • Insurance
  • Safety briefing and introduction to the horse
  • Small group (5 people maximum)
  • HD photo and video footage of your ride

Excludes

  • Closed-toe shoes (required; no sandals allowed)
  • Long, fitted trousers

Important Information

  • No previous experience is required; beginners are welcome, provided they are not afraid of horses
  • Please wear long, fitted pants and closed-toe shoes (sandals are not permitted)
  • Detailed instructions and the exact meeting point will be sent to you via text message before your ride
  • Should the weather not permit, we will offer to postpone or modify the ride. If neither of these options is suitable for you, you will receive a full refund, in order to ensure the safety of the riders and the well-being of the horses.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour begins at Western-style stables located in Saint-Zacharie, near the Var department on the outskirts of Marseille.
The horseback riding tour lasts approximately 2 hours.
The tour is guided by Sylvia, an experienced leader known for offering unusual horseback rides.
The ride covers the wild pine forest of the Sainte-Baume massif and includes a river stop where you can cool your feet.
Yes, riders can gallop during the tour depending on their skill level and safety conditions.
No prior experience is necessary, but riders should be comfortable on horseback and discuss their skill level beforehand.
It is a legendary stop on the route dedicated to the fairy of the Huveaune, located within the Sainte-Baume area.
Yes, the tour includes a refreshing break where you can cool your feet in the river.
Booking availability and hours vary; check the official website for current schedules.
The tour’s suitability for children depends on their riding ability and age; confirm details with the provider before booking.

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