Haute Provence & Luberon: Horseback Ride Forcalquier Views

Horseback riding in Forcalquier’s hills with local horses

You’ll ride gentle local horses through Haute Provence’s hills near Forcalquier, guided by someone who knows every path by heart. Expect quiet moments above the Luberon valleys, casual stories from your guide, and time to breathe deep country air — all with safety gear provided.

What’s included

Your day includes careful matching with local horses raised for riding here in Haute Provence, full guidance throughout the route over Forcalquier’s heights and Luberon vistas, plus EU-standard helmets for everyone’s safety before heading back down together.

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Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horse ride with scenic views

• Receive riding instructions
• Start horse ride near Forcalquier
• Enjoy views of Haute Provence and Luberon

The Experience

I didn’t know what to expect when we pulled up outside Forcalquier — just that I’d always wanted to see the Luberon from somewhere other than a car window. The owner, who greeted us with this kind of calm you only get from people who spend their lives around animals, matched us each to a horse (mine was called Plume, which made me laugh because he was anything but light). He explained everything in French first — but switched to English when he saw my face go blank. The saddles were worn in that soft way that feels like old leather jackets, and there was this faint smell of hay and something herbal I couldn’t place.

We started slow, winding out past olive trees and low stone walls. The path climbed gently at first, enough that you could feel your legs working but not so much it got uncomfortable. Our guide pointed out the Durance valley below and some distant peaks I’d never heard of — he had names for every little fold in the land. At one point, he stopped us so we could listen: just wind and the occasional bird. I remember thinking how rare it is to hear actual silence like that. The views over Haute Provence and the Luberon kept opening up as we went higher; honestly, photos don’t do it justice (I tried anyway).

I did manage to butcher a few words in French trying to thank our guide — he laughed and corrected me gently. There’s something about seeing a place from horseback that makes you notice small things: the crunch of dry grass under hooves, or how the light shifts over lavender fields even when they’re not in bloom. We looped back after a couple hours; my knees were stiff but I felt oddly peaceful. I still think about that view sometimes when city life gets loud.

Top questions

Is this horseback ride suitable for beginners?

Yes, but travelers should have at least moderate physical fitness.

Where does the horse ride start?

The ride begins near Forcalquier in Haute Provence.

Are helmets provided for participants?

Yes, EU-standard helmets are included for everyone.

How long does the horseback ride last?

The duration isn’t specified exactly but expect a couple of hours including instructions.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No lunch is included; only helmets are provided.

Can pregnant travelers join this horse ride?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Will there be an English-speaking guide?

The owner/guide can speak both French and English as needed.