If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing Versailles beyond the usual tourist crowds, this might just be the tour for you. We’re looking at a 3-hour adventure that combines a guided horseback ride through the sprawling gardens, a delicious French lunch, and a private tour of the palace. It’s designed for those who want a taste of royal life with a dash of adventure and history in one seamless package.

What’s especially appealing is how this experience offers a more intimate, relaxed pace compared to standard guided tours. You get to explore hidden trails and scenic paths, riding past fountains and grand avenues, with expert guides sharing stories along the way. Plus, the lunch overlooking the Cour Royale adds a touch of elegance you won’t find in typical day trips.

Of course, this isn’t a fit for everyone. The price point of $2,340 per person reflects a certain level of exclusivity, but it’s worth considering if you value personalized experiences. One thing to keep in mind is that children under 12 and pregnant women aren’t suited for this activity, and you’ll need to be comfortable with basic horseback riding. Still, if you’re after something unique that marries history, nature, and gastronomy, this could be a memorable choice.

Key Points

Exclusive experience with horseback riding through Versailles gardens.
Includes a gourmet French lunch with scenic views.
Private guided tour of the Versailles Palace, avoiding crowds.
No riding experience needed; suitable for all skill levels.
Ideal for those seeking a mix of adventure, culture, and luxury.
Duration of 3 hours makes it a manageable day trip from Paris.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: A Day in Versailles Like No Other

Starting just a quick half-hour train ride from Paris, this tour feels like slipping away into a different world—one of kings, queens, and sprawling grounds. The first part, the horseback ride, is an unexpectedly charming way to see the 2,000-acre Versailles estate. You’ll be introduced to gentle, well-trained horses, and no prior riding experience is necessary, which is a relief. The guides are knowledgeable and helpful, making sure everyone feels comfortable, whether you’re a complete beginner or more experienced.

Riding past iconic sights like the Grand Canal and the ornamental groves, you’ll get a different perspective on the vast landscape that’s usually only visible from the ground. You might find yourself trotting along scenic paths that are rarely part of standard tours, and the views of Marie-Antoinette’s estate are a real highlight. What we loved about the ride was how it combined scenic beauty with a relaxed, unhurried pace—it’s not about speed but about soaking in the surroundings and listening to stories from your guide.

After the ride, it’s time for a delicious French lunch with views of the Cour Royale. The meal includes salads, savory tarts or quiche, a cheese board, and dessert, complemented by wine, water, or sodas, and coffee to finish. The food is described as “excellent,” and the setting is undoubtedly charming—imagine enjoying a meal with the gardens as your backdrop. It’s a great way to pause and recharge before heading inside the palace.

The guided tour of the Versailles palace is another highlight. Led by a professional historian, you’ll explore the Hall of Mirrors, the King’s Apartments, and other remarkable rooms. The tour is tailored to give you insights into the architecture and history, making it more than just a cursory glance. The fact that it’s private means fewer crowds and a more personalized experience, although not all optional extras—like skip-the-line tickets—are included unless you opt for those upgrades.

Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Paris

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Start in Versailles: The day begins with pickup in Paris—this logistical detail makes it easy to enjoy the experience without worrying about transport. Once there, you’ll meet your guides and horses, and be fitted with helmets and half-chaps, ensuring safety and comfort.

Horseback riding: Over the course of about 1.5 hours, you’ll explore the gardens, trotting and walking along scenic routes. The guides do a great job of balancing sightseeing with safety, and the scenery is definitely a standout. Riding past fountains, tree-lined avenues, and the Grand Canal provides a sense of stepping into a royal estate.

Lunch with a view: Afterward, you’ll settle in for a full, leisurely lunch that’s described as both delicious and elegant. The meal is well-reviewed for its quality, and the setting overlooking the gardens adds a special touch.

Palace tour: Post-lunch, you’ll head inside for a private tour of Versailles. Highlights include the Hall of Mirrors and King Louis XIV’s apartments, where the guide will share stories and insights. Depending on your package, you might also have options for skip-the-line tickets or additional guided experiences like the Royal Equestrian Academy.

Wrap-up and return: After the palace visit, you’ll be transported back to Paris, leaving you with plenty of time to relax or explore more of the city.

What Travelers Say About This Tour

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, emphasizing how they bring the stories of Versailles to life. One user noted, “The guides’ expertise made the experience more engaging,” which is comforting when visiting a site as grand as Versailles.

The horseback ride gets glowing feedback for being a unique way to explore the gardens. Several mention that the scenery is breathtaking, especially at the Grand Canal and Marie-Antoinette’s estate. Others appreciate that the ride is accessible even for those without riding experience.

Food quality also earns high marks—”excellent” and “delicious” are common words used to describe the lunch. The careful organization and the peaceful setting make it a relaxing break from sightseeing.

However, some mention that at $2,340 per person, the price is quite steep, though most agree that the experience’s exclusivity and personalized nature justify the cost. A few reviews point out that children under 12 aren’t allowed, so it’s not ideal for families with young kids.

Practical Details & Considerations

Duration: A total of 3 hours makes this a manageable half-day activity, perfect if you’re looking to add something special without committing an entire day.

Price: The cost hovers around $2,340 per person, which reflects the exclusive nature of the experience, including private guides, gourmet lunch, and horseback riding. It’s a premium option, but considering the personalized experience, it might be worth it for those wanting something truly memorable.

Transport: The tour begins and ends in Versailles, with transport arranged by the provider. If you’re staying in Paris, you might need to organize your own transfer or request assistance.

Accessibility: The activity is wheelchair accessible, and helmets and half-chaps are available to borrow. However, it’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with mobility impairments.

What’s not included: Extra activities like skip-the-line tickets, additional tours, or transportation from Paris are optional extras and need to be arranged separately.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who are comfortable with a moderate level of physical activity and are looking for a luxurious, personalized glimpse into Versailles. If you love history but want a more active and exclusive approach, this is a compelling choice. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate good food, scenic landscapes, and a touch of adventure.

If you’re traveling with young children or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit. Likewise, if you’re on a tight budget, the high cost may be a hurdle. But for those wanting a special, immersive day that combines nature, culture, and gastronomy, this experience stands out.

While in Paris, here are other experiences we've covered

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a very bespoke experience of Versailles—combining the elegance of a palace visit, the scenic beauty of the gardens, and the fun of horseback riding. It’s a great pick for travelers who want to step outside typical sightseeing and indulge in something more intimate and active.

The knowledgeable guides, excellent food, and scenic rides make it a memorable day, but the price tag does reflect its exclusivity. If you’re after a luxury experience with a personal touch, you’ll find this tour well worth the splurge. If you prefer a more budget-friendly or family-oriented adventure, you might want to consider other options.

In the end, it’s a lovely way to feel like royalty for a day—without the crowds—and to really soak in the beauty of Versailles at a relaxed pace.

✨ Book This Experience

Versailles: 1.5 Private Horseback Garden Ride + Lunch

Frequently Asked Questions

Is horseback riding suitable for beginners? Yes, no riding experience is required. The horses are well-trained, and guides ensure everyone feels comfortable.

How long does the horseback ride last? The guided horseback ride is approximately 1.5 hours, allowing enough time to enjoy the scenery without rushing.

What should I wear for the ride? Wear comfortable, flat shoes—high heels, sandals, and flip-flops are not allowed. Helmets and half-chaps are provided.

Can I join if I have mobility issues? The activity is wheelchair accessible, but people with mobility impairments should confirm with the provider beforehand.

Is this experience suitable for children? It’s not recommended for children under 12 years old.

What’s included in the lunch? The lunch features salads, savory tarts or quiche, cheese, dessert, drinks (wine, water, sodas), and coffee.

Do I need to arrange transportation? Pickup in Paris is available, but you may need to organize your own transfer unless specified otherwise.

Are tips or gratuities expected? Tipping isn’t mentioned, but it’s always appreciated if you feel the guides have provided excellent service.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility for your travel plans.

This experience stands out as a special way to explore Versailles for those looking for something beyond the usual. Whether you’re a fan of history, nature, or simply seeking a unique adventure, it’s worth considering if it fits your travel style.