Moving downhill again we enjoyed a snow free lunch before heading off to the Bas de Prals at 2300m above the Gordolasque valley. Here a dramatic line of clouds seemed to hover above the clear blue water of the Mediterranean in the distance. Our legs had a rest as we descended to the gite d’etape in the beautiful Gordolasque valley, where a roaring fire and a hearty meal awaited us.

A way in the distance the Mediterranean

Saturday morning dawned bright, clear and cold as we climbed once more accompanied by a pretty grey mare who obviously decided she would rather join us. A couple of walkers, surprised to see a group of muffled up riders in late September, gawped at us in some amazement.

Angela Horse Whispering

Lunch was in a sunny spot just before the snow line where Angela did her best “horse whispering” to an exhausted young dappled grey foal.  The mystery of the trip was Johnny, and did he really see a couple of wolves – sadly not captured on camera.  We climbed to the Granges du Colonel and eventually the gentler hills around Authion, and the military remains, vestiges of the final battle of the war. (The Maginot line runs down to Sainte-Agnès). The weather finally drew in over the Col de Turini and we cantered through forest paths to reach a charming gite in Peira Cava. Karine and Jean-Paul welcomed us all like old friends and tended to four legged and two legged guests alike.

Taking a rest after a gallop through the forest

On Sunday the promise of finer weather was in the air and we spent a fabulous day skirting round Luceram, enjoying the feeling of autumn sun on our backs and the thrill of galloping through forest glades.

Georges Tibert and his family in Sainte-Agnès, the highest hanging village in Europe, are used to the sight of hungry horsemen.  Ponies released for a well-deserved rest, the riders settled to relive their adventures with a glass of rosé.

For the diversity of scenery, flora and fauna the Alpes-Maritimes is difficult to beat, even without the unexpected snow.  Buy a Crumpler camera bag to secure your valued appareil – practical, well-designed and funky.  My dull bag got ripped to pieces. Prepare to have a sore behind!  But it’s certainly worth it……

An adventure to remember

Denis Longfellow is based in Sainte-Agnes from October to mid-June and in Le Boréon (just north of Saint Martin Vésubie) for the summer months. The bi-annual transhumance takes place at the end of September and mid June every year.  The trail ride can last for either 3 or 5 days depending on demand. Other trail rides can also be arranged.

During winter months tuition, for adults and children alike, is organised during the weekends.

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Contact Denis on 06 22 295 886 for details of hacks.

Gordolasque – Gite d’Etape – Relais de Merveilles – 04 93 03 43 55

Peira Cava Gite – Jean Paul and Karine Lebrun 04 93 91 57 97  This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Sainte Agnès - Hotel Saint Yves – Georges Tibert – 04 93 36 91 45

Crumpler camera bag Simmsia.co.uk 

Spacebetween – 04 93 03 48 57 – organise package holidays in the Mercantour with a variety of activities.

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Article and Images Copyright © 2007 Liz Lord. All Rights Reserved.