Truffles & Tasting in Malbec

Bergerac arrival

Guests are met at Bergerac train station or Airport around 3:30 pm. You will be driven to your cozy, countryside Bed and Breakfast (appr. 1 hour 15 minutes). This newly renovated “Chambres d’hôtes” “Aux Truffes de Combecave” is in the heart of the Malbec region near the village of Mauroux. The area is known for its medieval villages, slow-moving rivers and rolling hills covered with vineyards and orchards. Take the time to enjoy the outdoor pool and terrace or maybe take a stroll through the “Truffiere” (Truffle Orchard) on the property. Enjoy a relaxing dinner with your host on-site.

Ride in the Lot Valley

After a lovely continental breakfast at the B&B, you will head to the ranch and meet your trusty mount for the week. This morning’s ride offers opportunities for trots and canters, winding through the woods and hilly farmland of the Lot Valley. You will stop for lunch at a charming local restaurant surrounded by vineyards. After the afternoon ride, you should have time to relax around the pool. Tonight, you will dine at a nearby restaurant where you can try some of the region’s culinary specialties.

Ride time: Morning 2 h – Afternoon 2 h

Royal Bastide of Tournon d'Angenais

Today, you ride south through the quiet woodlands and countryside on your way to the Royal Bastide of Tournon d’Agenais for lunch. After eating in the quaint village square, you can meander through this lovely little French village, built in the 13th century by Philippe III, son of King Saint Louis. After your visit, riders will loop back through the forest to the ranch. Then head back to the B&B for dinner with the host.

Ride time: Morning 1h30 – Afternoon 1h30

Cahors

Today the horses get left behind, as you take an exciting excursion into the small town of Cahors. Your first stop will be at the 14th century Pont Valentré. This incredibly well-preserved bridge is emblematic of medieval construction and is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Historical Monument. From Le Pont, you can wander into old town and experience local market day. You will not want to miss a visit to the 12th century Saint Etienne Cathedral, a glorious example of Romanesque and gothic architecture. This site is also a classified Historical Monument and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And you won’t want to miss the adjacent cloister, which was added to the Cathedral in the 14th and 15th centuries. Then, enjoy lunch at the Michelin restaurant located inside the exquisite 13th century Chateau de Mercuès. Following lunch, there’s an option to enjoy a tasting of the Chateau’s award winning wines. After this gastronomic experience, you can return to the B&B to relax for the remainder of the afternoon. That evening, dinner will be onsite with your host.

Chateau de Chambert

Heading east from the ranch, today’s ride crosses hill and dale to reach the Chateau de Chambert, home to an award-winning vineyard, producing Malbec and other wines since the 12th century. You will enjoy lunch on the hillside terrace at the Chateau’s Tapas-style Café served with a sampling of the Chateau’s famous Malbec region wines. The afternoon ride heads back to the ranch via another scenic route. The afternoon ride is optional if you prefer a little extra time on your own back at the B&B. This evening, you return to Chateau de Chambert for a formal dining experience at their gastronomic restaurant.

Ride time: Morning: 3 hours – Afternoon: 3 hours or optional transfer back to the B&B by van

Bonaguil Castle

You will ride north, crossing the Lot River en route to Bonaguil Castle–a medieval fortress built on a rock face during the 13th, 14th and 15th centuries. Bonaguil was classified as an historical monument in the 19th century and to this day remains a premier example of classic medieval architecture. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in a café-restaurant. After lunch and a self-guided tour of the castle, you will be driven back to the B&B for the last farewell dinner at your accommodation.

Ride time: Morning: 3.5 hours. Afternoon: No ride.

Departure from Bergerac

After breakfast, transfer to Bergerac train station arriving by 12 noon, or airport–plan a departure flight around 1:00 pm or later.