Paris: Aumont-en-Halatte Horseback Riding Tour

A Guided Horseback Ride in the Forests Near Paris: What You Need to Know

This horseback riding tour in Aumont-en-Halatte offers an enchanting escape just outside Paris. For about two hours, you’ll be guided through the scenic woods of Chantilly and Senlis, connecting with nature without needing to venture too far from the city. It’s a gentle, family-friendly experience that promises a peaceful trek, wildlife sightings, and a chance to feel the wind in your hair amid lush greenery.

What I find particularly appealing about this experience are two things. First, the guides—they’re praised for being knowledgeable, caring, and attentive, making even beginners feel comfortable. Second, the setting—riding on well-behaved, calm horses in a forest teeming with wildlife like deer and wild boars offers a rare, authentic outdoor adventure. However, a consideration to keep in mind is that the tour has some restrictions, such as weight limits and age requirements, so it’s not suited for everyone.

One small drawback is that transportation is not included, so if you’re coming from Paris, you’ll need to plan ahead—most find taking the train to Chantilly-Gouvieux and then arranging a taxi or Uber works best. Still, for those looking for a tranquil, scenic ride with the chance to see local animals, this tour offers solid value and a memorable outdoor experience.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Accessible for All Levels: Whether you’re a novice or an experienced rider, the tour is adapted to your skill level.
• Wildlife Watching: Spot deer, wild boars, and possibly stags—an added thrill for nature lovers.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Alexis receive praise for their caring attitude and helpfulness, especially with guests needing extra assistance.
• Beautiful Forest Setting: The ride takes place in the lush forests of Chantilly and Senlis, known for their tranquility and natural beauty.
• Convenient Location: Just a short drive or train ride from Paris, making it an easy day trip.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for children over 2, but not recommended for pregnant women, those with back problems, or over 220 lbs/100 kg.

Exploring the Forests of Chantilly and Senlis

The main draw of this experience is the opportunity to feel like you’re far from the hustle and bustle of Paris, yet only a short drive or train ride away. The forests of Chantilly and Senlis are excellent for a relaxed ride, with well-maintained paths that wind through tall trees and open clearings. As you settle into your saddle, the gentle pace allows you to soak in the sights and sounds—the rustling leaves, distant birdcalls, and the occasional sighting of deer or wild boars crossing your path.

The guides at La Horse Club are experienced and personable. A common theme from reviews is their attentiveness—one guest mentioned Alexis kindly helped her on and off her horse, and even took photos to preserve the memory. These small acts of kindness add to the overall positive vibe, making the ride approachable even for total beginners. The horses are described as calm and gentle, which is reassuring if you’re new to riding or concerned about comfort.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour begins at 67 Rue Louis Blanchet at the La Horse Club, where you’ll check in and meet your guide. After fitting on your helmet and protective gear, you’ll be introduced to your horse—most are described as friendly and well-cared-for. The guide leads you into the forest, where the pace is relaxed and suitable for all experience levels.

The ride lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with ample time to enjoy the scenery and possibly spot wildlife. The environment is peaceful, with tall trees providing dappled sunlight and a soothing atmosphere. The route is designed to be scenic yet manageable, so you won’t find yourself lost or overwhelmed.

Many reviews mention how enjoyable the ride is—Savannah noted, “We had a great time riding River and Browny, seeing deer was such a highlight.” Meanwhile, Ellen appreciated the staff’s kindness, especially helping her with mobility issues. The experience ends back at the starting point, making it straightforward and stress-free.

The Practicalities: Timing, Cost, and Accessibility

At $85 per person, this tour strikes a good balance between affordability and memorable outdoor activity. For the price, you’re getting a guided ride, helmet, and protective gear—no hidden charges. The duration is flexible depending on availability, so checking the schedule in advance is wise.

Timing-wise, the tour typically lasts about two hours, with start times available throughout the day. Since transportation isn’t included, travelers coming from Paris should plan to take the train to Chantilly-Gouvieux, which is well-connected. Many reviewers recommend arranging a taxi or Uber from the station in advance, especially to streamline the return journey.

This experience is best suited for those over age 2, with restrictions for pregnant women, people with back issues, or over 220 lbs. It’s a family-friendly outing, but not ideal for very small children or individuals requiring special accommodations.

Who Will Love This?

If you enjoy outdoor activities that are gentle and scenic, this tour will appeal. It’s especially well-suited for beginners wanting their first horse riding experience, families looking for a memorable nature outing, or anyone craving a quick escape from Paris for some fresh air and wildlife sightings. The guides’ friendly approach makes it accessible without feeling intimidating.

However, if you’re after a high-adrenaline ride or have specific mobility concerns, this may not be the right fit. Also, since transportation isn’t included, those with tight schedules might prefer more integrated options.

Why This Experience Is Worth Considering

This horseback riding tour offers much more than just a short ride—it’s a chance to slow down, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the forests of Chantilly and Senlis in a relaxed setting. The scenery is beautiful, the horses are gentle, and the guides are praised for their knowledge and caring attitude. For around $85, you get a well-organized, authentic outdoor adventure that’s suitable for a broad range of riders.

The fact that wildlife sightings are part of the package adds a touch of magic to the experience. As several reviews describe, seeing deer or wild boars crossing your path can be a highlight that sticks with you long after the ride ends.

If you’re visiting Paris and craving a peaceful outdoor activity that’s both fun and calming, this tour is a solid choice. Just plan your transport in advance, come prepared with comfortable clothes and shoes, and get ready for a memorable journey into the woods.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, transportation isn’t included. You’ll need to arrange your own travel, with many guests opting to take the train to Chantilly-Gouvieux and then a taxi or Uber to the La Horse Club.

Can I participate if I’ve never ridden a horse before?
Absolutely. The tour is suitable for all levels, and your guide will adapt the pace to your experience and comfort.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for outdoor activity. Helmets and protective gear are provided, so you only need to focus on being comfortable.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, children over 2 years old are welcomed. But keep in mind that there are restrictions for pregnant women, people with back problems, or over 220 lbs.

How long is the ride?
The actual horseback riding duration is around 1.5 hours, within a total experience time of about 2 hours including preparation and briefing.

What wildlife might I see?
Wild boars, deer, and possibly stags are common sightings, making the ride not just scenic but also exciting for wildlife enthusiasts.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts

This horseback riding experience offers a wonderful blend of outdoor tranquility, wildlife encounters, and gentle riding suited for all levels. It’s a perfect quick escape for those visiting Paris who want to enjoy landscapes, horses, and nature without committing to a full-day outing. The guides’ warmth and expertise, paired with the scenic forests of Chantilly and Senlis, make this a memorable activity worth considering. Just remember to plan your logistics ahead of time, and you’ll find this tour offers genuine value and authentic charm—an ideal combination for your French adventure.