Millbrook, NY—January 29, 2004—For anyone who has ever dreamed of galloping a beautiful horse along the beaches of France’s Coastline, your dream has come true.

Cross Country International has announced that they are now accepting reservations for exciting new vacations featuring trail rides along the Brittany Coastline in France. These new horseback riding vacations start on April 5, 2004.

The Brittany Sea Coast Trail Rides offer vacationers the chance to ride over some of the most beautiful scenery on earth. Riding along the coastline fringed with a succession of rocks, beaches, creeks, headlands and cliffs battered by the ocean’s swell exposes riders to some of nature’s most beautiful sights. Riders can immerse themselves in the rich French culture as they view architecture that is full of local Brittany heritage.

Located on the Northwest coast of France, Brittany is culturally and geographically very different from the rest of the country. Rugged, untamed and virtually self-reliant, Brittany is known for its distinct Brenton culture, lace, cider, seaside resorts and crepes. The secluded beaches, towering lighthouses lining the coast and the charismatic villages make Brittany one of the most popular vacation destinations in France.

The Brittany Sea Coast Trial Ride is the only ride Cross County International offers that is ridden entirely on the coastline of France. Other French rides offered only touch the coastline, then work inland, exploring the different climates and cultures. Cross Country International prides itself on the unique seaside itinerary of the Brittany Sea Coast Trail Ride that sets it apart from any other ride. Riders will learn much about the land, its people and its history as they ride near the beaches of the D-Day invasion and Le Mont-St-Michel.

On the vacations, kind experienced horses carry riders along the shore at paces ranging from a gentle walk to a sprinting gallop. Two guides—one English-speaking and one French-speaking—offer anecdotes, legends, and history lessons to vacationers as they ride over the magical land. The Brittany Coast Trail Ride is progressive, giving riders the chance to experience the many different accommodations that France has to offer including chateaux, villas and much more. The first two days of the ride will end at a spectacular castle where the riders will stay overnight. The large castle, full of character and charm is rich with history and is the perfect environment to let imaginations run wild. Other nights, riders will arrive at a new destination where they will be met with their luggage. Support vans follow the ride all day, equipped with a kitchen, shower, the riders’ luggage and first aid in case of an emergency.

Cross Country International’s Trail Ride along the Brittany Coastline includes a 6-night stay with 5 days of riding and is offered only 7 times this year. Riders should expect as many as 5 hours of riding per day with plenty of time to relax by taking a warm bath, strolling around the grounds of the hotel or eating a hearty French meal.

The delicious meals provided range from fresh mussels grown at a local mussel farm, to the local favorite Brenton gateaux (butter cake) and the fresh fish caught daily that are sure to please any seafood lover. The savory traditional meals are often accompanied by red or white French wine, which is also included in the package. When the day’s ride is over, guests can enjoy the non-riding activities including sightseeing, swimming, touring a mussel farm, health spa sessions, seafood sampling, and an optional visit to Mont Saint Michael. At the end of this incredible journey, riders reluctantly head home and although they are leaving beautiful France and their new four-legged friends behind, they are taking with them amazing friendships, unforgettable memories and the experience of a lifetime.

For more information, itineraries, or schedules of France’s Brittany Sea Coast Trail Ride, please contact Cross Country International at (800) 828-8769, www.equestrianvacations.com or info@xcintl.com.

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