What to do · Berga
Horse ride from Vilaformiu towards the Figuerassa
Information
- Duration
- 1 h 30
What it involves
It is a guided horse ride that leaves from the Hípica Vilaformiu, a federated equestrian centre based in the Vilaformiu farmhouse, on the outskirts of Berga. The farmhouse has its place in local history: according to the legend of Queralt, it was a shepherd from Vilaformiu who found the image of the Virgin on the crag of the sanctuary.
The short ride lasts an hour and a half and follows the paths around the area. The longer ones climb to the Sierra de la Figuerassa, from where you can see Montserrat, the Montseny, La Mola and the Sobrepunyà, or reach the abandoned village of Peguera. Others cross the cereal fields of L’Espunyola and stop for a rest under a centuries-old oak.
The rides
The centre publishes these outings:
- 1 h 30 ride: the simplest, good for a first time.
- Ride to Blancafort castle.
- Alpaca ride, seasonal.
- Full-moon night ride.
- Midday ride with a sit-down lunch and ride with a hot breakfast.
The themed rides change with the season. The website does not give details of routes, levels or times for each one: you work them out when you book.
Price
The riding centre does not publish prices on its website. Ask for the rate of the ride you are interested in when you write to book.
Requirements and age
The website sets no minimum age or level. As it is a federated, family-run centre that presents horse riding as something for everyone, the short ride is the option for anyone who has never ridden. If you are going with children, give their age and height when you book so they can suggest the right outing and horse.
When to go
Spring and autumn are the most pleasant times for riding in the Pre-Pyrenees: mild temperatures and the colours of the woods and fields. In summer, the early outings or the full-moon ride are better. In winter there can be days of intense cold and fog on the plain; ask which rides are running.
How to book
Booking is by WhatsApp or phone, on the number the riding centre publishes on its website. Tell them how many of you there are, which ride interests you, everyone’s experience and your dates.
Getting there
Vilaformiu is on the outskirts of Berga. The website has a “how to get there” section with the location: open it beforehand, because the farmhouse is outside the town centre.
Combine with a paragliding flight
The paragliding company Xtrem.cat offers a combined plan: you ride up from Vilaformiu to the Figuerassa and fly down in a tandem paraglider to Avià. It takes three to four hours. You book it with Xtrem.cat.
What to bring
Long, comfortable trousers, closed shoes with a bit of a heel or hiking boots, never sandals. A jacket if you are going up to the ridge. Water and sun cream in summer.
Round out the day
After the ride, drive up to the Queralt viewpoints, a few kilometres away, or eat in Berga at La Cabana.
Tips
- Start with the hour-and-a-half ride If it is your first time on horseback, it is just right for enjoying it without ending up sore.
- Check the lunar calendar The night ride is held at full moon: if it interests you, adjust your travel dates.
- Ask the price when you book The website does not publish rates; that way you avoid surprises.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need experience to ride at Vilaformiu?
The website does not require any level. The hour-and-a-half ride is the best one to start with; tell them your experience when you book.
How much does the horse ride cost?
The riding centre does not publish prices. Ask for them by WhatsApp or phone when you book.
Can it be combined with paragliding?
Yes. Xtrem.cat offers riding up from Vilaformiu to the Figuerassa and flying down in a tandem paraglider to Avià, in three or four hours.
Who runs it
- Hípica Vilaformiu1 h 30 rides and outings to La Figuerassa, Peguera, Blancafort or L'Espunyola Visit their website
