As my taxi draws up to Le Bourdil Blanc, I draw a breath...
the 18th century farmhouse is stunning. From the moment I arrive, the open-house atmosphere
and tranquil surroundings puts me at ease. My host, Jane
Hanslip of Dordogne Riding has put together an excellent riding holiday package.
Days full of long, exciting rides are followed
by evenings in entertaining company feasting on home-cooked food.
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| Le Bourdil Blanc; our group leaving the grounds of a chateau; La Gaubertie.
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Bright and early Sunday morning we are carefully matched to our
horses and by the afternoon, we are already experiencing the peaceful atmosphere of off-road rural Dordogne. The area is enchanting with its ancient chateaux tantalisingly half-hidden by trees, its forests
and meadows, picturesque sleepy villages and quiet, rolling farmland.
A Private View
Jane has negotiated riding routes with chateau owners so we are honoured
with a private view of this idyllic part of France. Throughout the next week we cover between 15 and 25km a day. The
horses are forward going, responsive and clearly happy in their work. There is none of the nose-to-tail trekking I have experienced before.
Lunch
has become the highlight of the day. Twice we arrive in the stunning grounds
of a chateau and I feel almost regal enjoying a gourmet picnic
in such elegant surroundings. Considering the distance travelled and the often fast pace, we all cope admirably. Chef Bernadette keeps our energy levels up with mouth-watering three-course meals every evening.
On our midweek non-riding day I team up with some other guests who have hired a car. After a bargain-hunt in the market at Bergerac, we visit Beynac with its cliff-top chateau and beautiful river views. Then it’s on to medieval Sarlat.
When the end of the week comes it’s hard to leave the house that has become home and Genese, the pretty chestnut mare who feels like my own. But, Jane’s true secret to success is realising that the key to the English heart is providing top tucker... Bernadette will be missed most of all!
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