A Testimonial from - Hugo Harris - England

Caro and I had an unforgettable week of riding. From the moment we spoke to them on the phone we knew this tour operator was for us. Ranch de Baralus is a small family-run business offering western-style riding in southwest France. Our requirements were given a level of individual attention that you just wouldn't get with a bigger outfitter, and we really felt welcomed into the family by our hosts Colleen and Michel.

Michel is cheerful, humourous and very Gallic cowboy! He is a first class guide and has great trail horses and good quality tack. We spent many happy hours riding through the beautiful wooded back country of the Dordogne, coming upon medieval villages and castles now and then, just as travellers must have for centuries. The pace was steady - mainly walking with the
occasional trot and canter, and this was appropriate for a group of varied ability. This kind of trip would not be the first choice for those wanting long canters through open country, but it was ideal for us. We stayed at B&Bs and small hotels, the standard of which was generally very high.

A word about the food: we chose the "Medievel Dordogne: Fortresses and Gastronomy" tour. We didn't take the "gastronomy" side of things too seriously, until the first meal that is. Even though we are frequent visitors to France and well know it's impossible to have a bad meal in France, we were overwhelmed by the quality and variety of the meals and our eyes were opened to Perigord cuisine. Michel loves his food almost as much as his horses and took his duties as gastronomic guide seriously, taking great delight in introducing his guests to the wines and delicacies of the region. This added a dimension to the trip which must surely be rare amongst horse trip operators.

I am sure we be back for another ride at Baralus before long!