It is no secret that France has historically been the birthplace of chivalry and knightly escapades, and foreigners who have visited this beautiful country have been enthralled by the rolling landscapes, picturesque castles, and bustling metropolitan cities. Although the principle methods of travelling today are quite different than they had been in centuries past, taking a horseback journey across this country is still an incredibly exciting and rewarding adventure. So, how long will it take to cross from one end of France to the other?
The answer to this question will depend on several factors. First and foremost, one must consider the initial departure point –– someone travelling from the northern coast to the southern coast of the country will have a longer journey than someone starting from the other side. Furthermore, one must take into account the duration of as well as the frequency of breaks and stops along the route.
At the very minimum, travelling from the north of France to the south by horseback would take approximately two weeks. This is a stretch of time that can, of course, be shortened or lengthened, depending on the level of preparation one puts into the journey. For instance, an experienced rider, who has taken the necessary precautions to be adequately prepared, can expect to traverse the entire country in less than two weeks. On the other hand, first-time riders may be more prudent to allow three weeks.
In addition to preparing for the horseback journey in advance, it is important to plan an appropriate route. Those who are inclined to experience various areas of the French countryside may be interested in taking more circuitous paths, which will extend the duration of the journey significantly. Conversely, those who wish to make the trek as quickly as possible will likely need to traverse motorways and highways, although this comes with other drawbacks, such as a decrease in the time one can take and appreciate the surrounding scenery.
It is also possible to combine multiple forms of transportation into one, thereby enabling travelers to cover more ground in a shorter time. For instance, combining horse riding with taking the train may be a wise decision, depending on the end destination and the surrounding terrain. This method, while it may be complex to plan and executing, can ultimately shave off substantial time from one’s journey.
However, the idea of completing a journey quickly should take a back seat to the concept of savoring the travel experience. Taking a horseback ride across France is far from a chore but rather an opportunity to reconnect with nature, learn the beauty of the country’s countryside, and perhaps even meet new people. Therefore, while acceleration is an option, graceful strolling should, nevertheless, be the primary focus.
In all, the length of a horseback journey across France depends on a variety of factors, and will most likely range from two weeks at the least to four weeks or more depending on the individual’s travel preferences and frequency of stops. Regardless of the length chosen, the journey itself is a unique opportunity to explore the landscapes of France, disconnect from technology, and revel in the wonders of nature.
