Adventure brief
Randonnée à cheval guidée - Le Plateau
Discover a unique horseback experience at Chalets Villégiature & Pourvoirie Daaquam where small groups build real bonds with their horses through guided care and trail rides in Québec’s boreal forest.
Located in the heart of Québec’s boreal forest near Saint-Just-de-Bretenières, Chalets Villégiature & Pourvoirie Daaquam offers a horseback adventure that goes beyond a typical trail ride. The Randonnée à cheval guidée - Le Plateau invites riders aged five and up to connect deeply with their horses in a small, personalized group capped at four participants. This isn’t about speed or distance; it’s a deliberate, immersive experience designed around building trust and communication with your mount.
Your visit begins off the saddle, learning the essentials of horse care and body language that set the foundation for a true partnership. Skilled guides lead you through the process of grooming and harnessing your horse, providing insights drawn from modern equine science. Once ready, the gentle ride unfolds across forest trails framed by towering conifers, with a chance to follow the winding Daaquam River if conditions permit.
The calm pace—strictly walking only, no trotting or galloping—encourages mindfulness, letting you absorb the quiet majesty of the boreal interior. This experience stands apart in the region thanks to its intimate scale and holistic approach, certified by Aventure Écotourisme Québec for quality and sustainability. Beyond the ride, visitors can extend their stay in on-site chalets, suites, or camping spots, creating a full immersion in this wild corner of Québec.
The area’s crisp air and mixed woodland ecosystems offer a backdrop rich in wildlife and natural beauty, making the horseback journey feel like a rare window into a quieter, enduring wilderness. For those seeking a meaningful horseback trip that emphasizes connection, respect, and nature’s rhythms, Chalets Villégiature & Pourvoirie Daaquam’s Randonnée à cheval guidée is a standout option—welcoming beginners and nature lovers alike to a distinct Québec adventure.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Wear long pants and closed-toe shoesessential
Protect yourself from brush and ensure safety during riding by dressing appropriately.
- 02Arrive 15 minutes earlyinfo
You'll need time for orientation and horse care instruction before the ride begins.
- 03Maximize connection with your horseinfo
Engage fully in grooming and harnessing — it enhances trust and makes the ride smoother.
- 04No trotting or cantering allowedwarning
The ride is strictly at a walking pace, suitable for beginners and families.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Long pants
Protects legs against brush and saddle friction.
EssentialClosed-toe shoes or boots
Ensures proper foot protection and stability while riding.
EssentialInsect repellent
Keeps mosquitoes and biting insects at bay during warmer months.
summerWarm layers
Provides insulation in cooler temperatures common in Quebec’s boreal zone.
fall|winter|springLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
The serene banks of the Daaquam River accessible during rides, Quiet forest paths with frequent wildlife sightings
Local fauna
White-tailed deer, Boreal songbirds
Historic heritage
The Pourvoirie Daaquam area has served as a traditional hunting and fishing ground for Indigenous peoples and settlers since the 19th century.
Mindful exploration
Chalets Villégiature & Pourvoirie Daaquam holds Aventure Écotourisme Québec certification, emphasizing eco-friendly practices that protect the boreal landscape and local fauna.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Alongside the Daaquam River, forest trail clearings, near the stable area during groom time
- Subjects
- Horses and riders interacting, boreal forest panoramas, wildlife glimpses
- Best times
- Golden hour, early morning, late afternoon
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Is previous horseback riding experience required?
No, the ride is designed for beginners and families, with walking pace only and thorough guidance.
Are children allowed on the ride?
Yes, riders aged five and up can participate, but children 12 and under must be accompanied by a ground guide.
What is the group size for the ride?
Groups are capped at four participants for personalized attention, with options for five in family groups with children.
What should I wear?
Long pants and closed-toe shoes or boots are mandatory for safety and comfort.
Can I ride at a faster pace like trot or canter?
No, the ride is exclusively at a walking pace to maintain safety and connection with your horse.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours may be canceled or rescheduled for severe weather, with full refunds or credits offered for cancellations 72 hours in advance.