Gallop away!
From the Serra del Cadí in the Pre-Pyrenees to the Mediterranean coast, you’ll find a wide variety of impressive landscapes in the natural areas of the regions of Barcelona. The pine forests of Maresme, the wetlands of Baix Llobregat, the cliffs of Garraf, the vineyards of Penedès or the rugged mountains of Berguedà are all magnificent settings that you can explore on foot, by bicycle or —why not?— on horseback. In an area with plenty of waymarked trails and a superb range of equestrian tourism options, what’s stopping you from going for a gallop?
Whether you’re an expert rider or you have no horse-riding experience whatsoever, exploring natural areas on horseback is an amazing sensory experience. And not just because of the elevated view! Whatever pace you ride at —walking, trotting or galloping— this activity imbues you with a special euphoria, enhancing your perception of the aroma of meadows, the air temperature and the sounds of the forest.
There are plenty of options for experiencing these sensations, both in the morning and the afternoon, thanks to the guided excursions along riding trails offered by several horse riding centres. These excursions are a great way to discover the magical places and heritage treasures that await you around every bend.
There are all sorts of options in the Osona region for enjoying the Paisatges Barcelona (Landscapes of Barcelona) on horseback. You can go on half-day excursions with family or friends or even enjoy a full weekend of horse riding. Closer to Barcelona, several riding centres in the Baix Llobregat region organise routes on horseback. You can enjoy the mountain setting of Collserola Park or even explore the option of equine-assisted therapy.
Last but not least, if you fancy heading into the Pyrenees on horseback, check out the companies in the Berguedà region that offer this possibility. Here’s an idea: in Castellar de n’Hug, you can complete the Chapel Route on foot, by bike or on horseback.
- If you like horses, make a note of this event in your diary: the Lluçanès Horse Festival is held every year on the last weekend of January. If you’d like to find out more about this traditional fair dedicated to the world of muleteers, visit the website of Perafita Town Council.
More information:
Natural Parks Network of Barcelona Provincial Council Lluçanès Horse Festival in Perafita