Drag hunting provides the opportunity to experience hunting without chasing a live quarry.

A couple of hours before the hunt starts, two “draggers” lay a scent trail designed to offer riders the best and most interesting route possible over a wide range of natural obstacles. The field is made up of no more than 20 followers, together with the huntsmen and master, and a couple and a half (11) hounds, enabling the best riders to enjoy the riding and the less experienced to learn.

Our drag hunting days start from the home of the historic Pau Hunt—the only place in France where drag hunting takes place. After being founded by Lord Oxendon in 1840, foxes were hunted for a hundred years before the hunt was reborn in 1946 as a drag hunt. The English hunting style, traditions and dress are maintained to this day. On arrival you will meet the hounds and members of the hunt and enjoy a glass of wine or champagne. We will then move to a nearby village for the start of the meet where you will be welcomed by an aperitif and local cold meats to sample before your ride.

The drag hunt lasts around two hours and takes place within an 18km by 40km area of hunting terrain with breathtaking views of the French countryside. The pace of the hunt can be tailored to your ability, but for those that want to have a blast there are ample opportunities for fast canters and gallops; there is little stand-ing around in a drag hunt. The natural obstacles are all within the capabilities of our horses but for non-jumpers a way round can always be found. Our drag hunting days give you the perfect opportunity to experience the exhilaration of the hunt under expert supervision.

Once the hunt is over and the horses tended to and boxed, it is off to a nearby restaurant to enjoy the hunting tradition of a late lunch of local cuisine and wine. Expect to be welcomed by everyone you meet— not only the hunting fraternity but also friendly local villagers, foot followers and gentry.