Catalonia Beach & Coast - Dalí Trail

Exciting horse riding by the sea

1.380 € pp
8 Days / 6 Riding Days

Overview

Short Trail Description

Exciting horse riding by the sea, from the Gulf of Roses to the Cap de Creus. Following the tracks of the artist Salvador Dalí along the Mediterranean coast.

The Dalí Beach and Coast Trail is based on the so-called Dalí triangle that consists of the villages Pubol, Figueres and Cadaques. The Dalí Beach and Coast Trail connects the charm of the Empordanet region with the long sandy beaches of the Bay of Roses and the wild coast of the Cap de Creus. The life of the famous artist Salvador Dalí will be brought closer to you by this wonderful ride through diverse countryside.

Duration

8 Days / 7 Nights / 6 Riding Days

Participants

4 - 12 Riders

Scenery

Coast
Mediterranean Coastal Area

Highlights & Facts

Visiting the castle of Púbol
Riding along the sea
Fantastic beach canter
Visiting the "Theatre Museu Dalí" in Figueres
Accommodation in Cadaques
Ride through the natural preserve of Cap de Creus

Riding Level

3 horseshoes or more (Intermediate)

Trail Route

Day
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Day 1: Catalonia

Arrival at Barcelona or Girona and transfer to a beautifully situated country hotel, a typical Catalonian house built of natural stone. It dates back to the 17th century, and it is surrounded by woods as well as walnut tree and olive groves. The location in this idyllic area where silence and tranquility prevail makes this guest house the ideal place to enjoy nature and to relax. The lovingly designed garden, the pool, the meadows, and forests provide a wonderful atmosphere. What a place to start your horse riding holiday!

Day 2: Pure nature

Past peaceful rural villages, our path winds through the hilly landscape of Empordà.

The sandy bottom and the shading crowns of the Mediterranean pine forest invite long gallops.

On the edge of the River Ter we strengthen ourselves with a picnic. A soothing calm surrounds us. Later in the afternoon you will be in a fast pace to a pretty village at the foot of the Gavarra Mountains. We stay in a lovely restored guest house.

Day 3: Culture - Castle Pubol

We ride through the magical old villages of the Empordanet. With echoes of the horses' hooves on the old paving stones, you will be taken back in time in this hidden area of Catalonia.

When we reach the village of Pubol you can visit the 14th Century castle of Gala, which Dalí gave to his wife, Gala, as a gift.

We have lunch at a restaurant in the village before continuing our horse riding experience to the beautiful village of Peratallada.

Day 4: Dalí's Coast

This morning we will canter across the plain of Ullastret, which was a big lake in the Iberian times. A smooth trail leads us through mellow sand dunes and Mediterranean pine forests, up to the rough looking coastal mountain of Montgri.

On top of the cliffs there is a magnificent view overlooking the endless sea. Sea birds glide with thermal winds over the coast and the lovely fragrances of rosemary, thyme and lavender surround us as we sit down to have Tapas and Vino tinto in the open air 'restaurante Buffalo'.

Later on, we follow the paths that lead us through sand dunes to the sea. We stay overnight in a hotel directly at the "Playa Grande".

Galopp sunrise Mediterranean Sea Catalonia

Day 5: Vamos a la playa (*)

As the day breaks you can smell the sea and taste the salty air. You are right by the sea with your horse and in front of you are miles of sandy beaches.

With the sunrise, we will canter through the breakwater and your horse will play with the waves - they love the refreshing water.

Through the rice fields of the natural park near the coast we arrive at our accommodation for this night: the oldest Andalusian P.R.E. Stud of Catalonia (P.R.E. = Pura Raza Española).

But here, not only wonderful horses and their history await us, but also charmingly furnished rooms. We can look around in peace and simply relax. And who knows: Perhaps you find here your dream horse here!

We will have lunch in Figueres and have the opportunity to visit the "Teatre Museo Dalí" and to stroll through the streets of the city in the afternoon.

In the evening, we will surprise you with a delightful paella of seafood and fresh vegetables.

Day 6: Coastal Mountains

We ride through sunflower and corn fields over the plains of the Alt Empordan. In long canters, we cross the marshlands of Aiguamolls.

This protected land is surrounded by the coastal mountain range of Rodas. At the foot of the mountain Joan serves a delicious picnic in the open air 'restaurante Buffalo'.

We continue our journey, and in the evening, we reach our accommodation, a restored mansion dating back to 1582. Surrounded by picturesque nature and a wide view of Alt Empordà and the Bay of Roses. Until dinner we refresh ourselves in the pool or let us spoil with a massage.

Day 7: Wild Coast

An old trade route winds through rocky terrain into the natural park of Cap de Creus.

Home of Salvador Dali, the third and final highlight of our Dali Trail. Here the last foothills of the Pyrenees sink into the electric blue sea.

Our four-legged friends climb over a pass to Cadaques, the pearl of the Empordà. The whitewashed fishing village with its old winding streets is rightly considered the most beautiful village on the Costa Brava.

The clear colours of the sky and sea, the excavated rock formations, the luminous bays and deep ravines inspired Dali for his works of art.

The typical dinner in the restaurant of the fishing village rounds off the trail.

8th Day: Adios Amigos

After breakfast, transfer to the airports or continue to the Catalan Coastal Trail.

> Important notice to all customers!

Information & Services

Character

The Dali Trail is a long tour with varying terrain. We ride over rolling farmland to the sea which ends at Cap de Creus, a very rocky and unspoilt peninsula of the Mediterranean Sea. The terrain also changes the character of the trail. Lively riding days dominate the beginning of the route. The beach ride is a special experience for both horse and rider and good control of your horse is required. Towards the end of the tour some steep climbs over the rugged coastal mountains determine the trail course.

Every day you will spend 3-6 hours riding and therefore the trail requires fitness and security in the saddle. Following Dali's traces on horseback will be fascinating for experienced riders.

Included services

Riding program as described
8 days with 7 nights in a double room with shower and toilet, of which 1-2 nights' accommodation may be with a shared shower and toilet, 6 riding days
Arrival day dinner included/departure day breakfast included
3 Riding days full board including wine (lunch picnic)
2 Riding day half board (lunch or dinner at restaurant not included)
Tax on stays in tourist establishments
Transportation of luggage
Local transfers during the trail

Not included services

Flight or public transport (on arrival and on departure), taxi
Collective airport transfer from/to Girona 30,- Euro/one way; from/to Barcelona 45,- Euro/one way
Entrance fees to Museums and Monuments
Drinks/food in bars
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
Coffee at dinner
4 lunch or dinners (at restaurant approx. 15,- Euro/ 25,- Euro)
Tips for the team and other services

Notice

First day: on arrival dinner is at approx. 9 p.m.
Last day: before departure breakfast is at approx. 9 a.m.
Due to local conditions, a route change or amendment may be necessary.
The Dalí Trail can be ridden in both directions.
The tour operator reserves the right to substitute the described accommodations by equivalent if necessary.

Accommodation

Single Room / Double Room / "Half Double Room"

Single rooms cannot always be guaranteed though booked. If a previously confirmed single room is not available, the guest is entitled to a refund of the price paid for those nights surcharge.

Single travellers have the option to book a "Half Double Room".

Half double rooms for bookings 60 days prior to departure can only be booked, if at that time a same-gender customer is also waiting for a roommate. If this is not the case, we will book a single room with the regular, advertised surcharge.

Single room supplement + 30,- Euro/night

Transfer

Airport Barcelona

Collective group transfer at 5:30 p.m., meeting point at the airport is in Terminal T1 in front of the Café LIZZARAN at the Group Meeting Point North located opposite from the "Oficina de Turisme" (after customs on the right).
Notice! If you arrive at Terminal T2 all five minutes a free shuttle bus brings you to Terminal T1!
Flight on departure from 2:30 p.m. onwards!!

Airport Girona

Collective group transfer at 6:30 p.m. The meeting point at the airport is in front of Café CAFFRICCIO in the arrivals hall.
Flight on departure from 1:00 p.m. onwards!!

If the arranged transfer times do not fit with your arrival and departure times, we would be happy to organize a taxi for you (about €80-€120 from Girona, €240-€280 from Barcelona, depending on the trail start/end points). Other arrival and departure destinations provided on request.

Notice: The transfer times can vary depending on flight arrival times/delays from other guests/traffic etc. Please be patient in these cases!

Guaranteed departure

With a small group surcharge in case the minimum number of participants is not reached. (only on demand)

Important notice

Important notice to all customers!

All trail itineraries are general guidelines and in order to offer our customers the best riding holiday experience we make occasional changes.

Depending on the number of concurrent trails, the season, the weather and national holidays, we may make alterations to itineraries at short-notice, which could affect the number of riding hours per day, the route we take to any given destination or the use of alternative accommodation. Trails can also be ridden in both directions. All changes are at our discretion but when changes are made, we endeavour to ensure that our high standards of quality are maintained and reflected in the alternatives we choose.

(*) It is specified in the Coastal Law (Law 22/1988, of 28 July) and the regulations surrounding it (Royal Decree 1471/1989, of 1 December), that excursions operated in places of maritime public domain should not be for profit. We would like to advise that we do not charge for riding on any beach and therefore that part of any ride is free of charge.

Presentation, organization, photos and information by Rudi Stolz

Booking

Rideable Months

Event-Dates

From:	to:	Price	Booking
1526162400 Sun, 13.05.2018	1526767200 Sun, 20.05.2018	1.380 €
1537048800 Sun, 16.09.2018	1537653600 Sun, 23.09.2018	1.380 €
1538863200 Sun, 07.10.2018	1539468000 Sun, 14.10.2018	1.380 €
1542495600 Sun, 18.11.2018	1543100400 Sun, 25.11.2018	1.380 €

Guest opinions

Catalonia Beach & Coast - Dali Trail
April 2017

It was a perfect experience! Great horses, diverse landscape that we experienced at all paces. Amazing people who took care of us! My horse Fito did a great job and accompanied me safely! The trail was very pleasant! Nacho and Dani made this week special. Thank you to the people and horses for this experience! A super super week.

Ira Pape

Catalonia Beach & Coast - Dali Trail
April 2015

Thank you for an incredible experience and lifetime memories. Per my Trip Advisor review it was pretty close to perfect. I wanted to send a special unpublished note about how great a guide Nacho was. We had one rider who was older and experienced on gaited horses but had never ridden a hand gallop. Nacho was able to expertly adjust the ride to allow her to gain confidence in her horse and complete a challenging ride. He was also able to help gently push her in a safe and controlled manner so the rest of the group didn't feel cheated on the ride's pace. All of this was done so subtly I doubt anyone noticed except me, and only because we discussed it. His sense of humor added so much to the trip; our days were filled with laughter and tall tails. So fun our group is going thru a bit of withdrawal. Donny was our rock; his great smile and attentiveness made us feel so special, as well as his ever present help with tacking and the horses. I appreciated the amazing food since I have severe food allergies - despite not being able to eat gluten, eggs or dairy you managed to keep me full of great tasting food (we'd love the asparagus and cognac recipe from David!)

It was perfect and I hope to do other rides with Panaroma Trails in the future. Maybe you could plan one that would allow non-horse riding husbands to sightsee in the day while we ride?

Thanks again and congratulations on an amazing business you've created.

Your web site is very impressive as are your photos.

Denise Farris

Catalonia Beach & Coast - Dali Trail
March 2015

We have made the Barbarossa Pirates Trail in May. It was great!! Beautiful and joyful going horses, wonderful scenery and a great trail course. Charming villages, forests, mountains, the beach, the trip was very varied. We stayed in cozy friendly hotels.The meals were very good and my special diet was attended without any problems!!! Super! At lunchtime, a cowboy picnic or even a three-plate menu. The horses are very well cared and they also get at lunchtime their ration feed. That was really a great trip! For each rider a must do! We definitely come back again!! Greetings,

Petra

Catalonia Beach & Coast - Dali Trail
March 2015

Perfect blend of land and sea, peaceful and fast, villages and nature, people and Andalusians. Our guide Nacho said the horses were rock stars, and they were. By Day 5 I was ready for the surf, an exhilarating, full immersion experience. And by Day 7, I trusted my horse for the soaring heights. We had 8 riders who traveled together, and while many were new friends,we forged strong bonds in the ride. The food, cava, and wine were impeccable, Accommodations were nearly all good, one selected primarily for the location by the beach. All others were amazing - in farm houses, in a stone village, at a horse farm. Simply beautiful. Every day was a different landscape. Nacho gave us the best stories to keep us laughing and clear instructions to keep us safe. Dani slugged our mountain of luggage, served us lovely lunches, and was ever generous and smiling, for which I am grateful. I'll forever remember these two Catalans fondly, and wish I could take them on all my future rides. My recommendations - take the Panorama Trails tour that suits your needs, take a friend or two with you, divide your bags and leave half at home. Be ready for a life changing adventure.

Cindy F.

Catalonia Beach & Coast - Dali Trail
March 2015

This may be the most difficult review I have written because I cannot do justice to the immeasurable pleasure I received from doing the Dali Trail with Nacho and Dani. It began in the planning stages as a trip of a lifetime with 7 friends. It became a lifetime expertience that has changed us forever - for each of us in a different but very meaningful way. The scenery, leadership, quality and quantity of food and cava was unsurpassed. Safety for all was paramount. The variety of riding experiences was amazing, maybe even more so for our group as in the States we don't have that kind of history behind our culture, buildings and landscapes. Our guide Nacho was so much more than a guide - he was first and foremost concerned for safety, went out of his way to assist everyone in the way they needed it most, and helped every rider become a better horseman -not to mention he kept us laughing with his fun nature and great stories. His assistant, Dani was very gracious, kind and helpful too. They were an amazing pair that made you feel well taken care of. The accomodations were charming and more than adequate and the food and wine were plentiful. The ride surpassed my expectations in every way -and my expectations were very high. The price was very reasonable for all the value recieved. The logistics of this operation require many details and they got them all right -incredible! It was the most amazing riding experience I have ever had and I have had many.The only question I am asking myself as I prepare to depart Barcelona is how soon can I come back?

a guest

Catalonia Beach & Coast - Dali Trail
October 2014

I just wanted to say a huge thank you for an amazing holiday, it surpassed my expectations on every level. The accommodation, dinners and lunches were amazing as was the scenery and terrain (and weather even though you can't control it haha).

Your horses are simply a joy and were a pleasure to be around, never have I come across such kind, willing and sensible horses happy to please many types of riders. Furiol was a dream and I loved riding him and wish I could take him home with me!

Jose was such a sweet man and made every picnic perfection with his hard work, friendly nature and smiling face waving us in as we arrived at every lunch. Our leader Nacho provided us with local knowledge, fun, safety and a fabulous trip. He not only was always willing to help and explain further to anyone that needed it, but his patience and sense of fun was always welcomed. It was lovely to have a guide who is not only a wonderful horseman but who also truly loves and respects the animals and people he works with.

I can definitely say that I will be back again and am hoping to join along with Barbara and the crew and make it an annual trip.

I can't say thank-you enough.

Kirsty Pasto

Catalonia Beach & Coast - Dali Trail
September 2014

If you like adventure, nature and horses, this type of holiday is a must! Sitting on your horse riding through unspoiled nature, through mountains on steep and narrow trails, enjoying the breathtaking panoramas, it's such a beautiful environment it will make you start day dreaming....and then to be rewarded with a sumptuous lunch on a pre-set picnic table at a picturesque spot on the river...deliiiiiicious siesta. Such a wonderful life! Crossing the Riviera, the long and delightful gallop through the surf on the Costa Brava at sunrise, were incredible experiences; as were riding through narrow alleys in charming villages and having a short visit to the Dali castle. Relaxation at the Studfarm "Yeguada Senillosa" of the dark Andalusian horses. Also our horses enjoyed spending some time there, and the "natives" love to be cuddled.
They saved the best for last... riding over the cliffs at the coast... climbing with our horse through a wonderful nature reserve with beautiful views on the Mediterranean to say "ooohhh how beautiful" in sheer admiration, and to end at a bay where the prepared lunch was waiting for us on the beach next to Dali's former home.
....it has truly been a memorable adventure on horseback...

And of course thank you to our very nice guide "Nacho" who always ensured a safe ride to our destinations.
You have to do this, to enjoy it to the max.
We come back next year!

Liliane

Catalonia Beach & Coast - Dali Trail
October 2013

Thanks for giving me a trip of a lifetime. The Dali Coast Ride was simply wonderful. The guides, horses, scenery... and picnics !!!!! Rudi has put together a great ride.. THANKS for all your efforts.. they paid off.... very organized trip thanks to you. Petra was great; an experienced rider with a fantastic sense of humor; watching over us and always being focused on safety. And Met put everything together at lunchtime and every evening... always great to see him... it meant food... :-) Again, a big THANK YOU to your whole group.

Gary Price Georgia, USA

Catalonia Beach & Coast - Dali Trail
October 2013

We have just finished the Dali Coast Trail ride and wanted to thank Rudi and his team for a fantastic trip. We had a spectacular time. Thank you for providing us with wonderful leadership, horses and locations. We wanted to also acknowledge Petra and Matt for their expertise and good friendship. Jose was also very helpful and accommodating. I don't know how to express enough gratitude for showing us such a wonderful holiday. It is our goal to see you all again.
Please stay in touch. We wish you continued success and happiness.

All the best! Your American friends,

Leslie and Mark Allen

Catalonia Beach & Coast - Dali Trail
November 2011

The perfect riding holiday! I feel compelled to tell every horse rider everywhere about this fantastic holiday! At the end of 6 days in the saddle I just wanted to do it all again. It's rare to find something which can't be improved upon but Rudi lives and breathes trail riding and his warmth and laid-back sense of fun make for the perfect holiday antidote - it's really only later on that it dawns on you, the sheer dedication which goes into producing this level of perfection. The Dali Trail they have created makes for varied riding (pine forest, beach, grass plateau, olive grove, tracks between fields, steep stony hills into a National Park, across stone bridges, through rivers and into pretty villages) the lovely horses are well trained and fit (lots of long trots, canters and gallops), the food is freshly prepared and delicious and, with 3 meals a day and plenty of local red wine or cava, there is very little need for spending money, the accommodation is all of a good standard, picturesque local guest houses or hotels (luggage efficiently transported to the next stop each day) and care is taken to ensure that everyone has a wonderful time.

Natalie B.

Catalonia Beach & Coast - Dali Trail
July 2008

Dear Rudi — Just wanted to let you know what a marvelous time I had last week on the Dalí Beach and Coast Trail . I travel a lot and this has to be my favorite holiday yet. Your organization was amazing and everything about the trip was 10 out of 10! I just fell in love with Cruzano and since I could not bring him home with me I guess I will just have to come back every year to ride the "little worm". My best to you and Buffalo and Charlotte. Have a great season and take care of my little guy for me.

Fondly, Becky

Catalonia Beach & Coast - Dali Trail
September 2006

WOW Can't say enough about how amazing our trip was.
The horses were the best treated I have ever seen, Rudi is an amazing guide, the accommodations were all perfect and the food was amazing.
Everyone went out of their way to make sure I had great vegetarian meals, even if they had to cook me my own food.
And Juanito, Rudi's assistant, was delightful.
The group was wonderful. All were competent riders so we could really move out, and not a complainer in the bunch. We did find out half way into the trip that one of the riders was a Catholic priest, but by then it was too late to take back all the swearing I had done... The more trips you can get in Spain with Rudi, the better. I know our group is planning to go back. Rudi mentioned that he sometimes tailors a ride for a specific group. So if we put togeather a group of 8-10 people, we could maybe design our own ride. Is that something you have done before?
Anyhow, Ireland was good, but Spain was great!
We are already planning for next year.
Thanks

Dian

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Catalonia Beach & Coast - Dalí Trail

Overview

Short Trail Description

Duration

Participants

Scenery

Highlights & Facts

Riding Level