Pascal Gaudebert, 58, has built an equestrian farm on the limestone plateau of Cabrerets in Lot, where he breeds Arabian horses near Pech Merle cave. He is the grandson of the discoverer of the prehistoric site and guides visiting riders along local trails.
Gaudebert was born in the Paris region but has family roots in the Lot department through his mother. He knew at ten years old that he would own horses, having started riding at a young age near his childhood home. He began working in the horse industry at age 16 as an apprentice instructor in Yonne.
Equestrian farm on family land
His property dominates a natural landscape at an altitude of about 300 meters, surrounded by limestone cliffs and low pastures. Gaudebert registered on the local electoral rolls in 1993 and moved to the site permanently in 1996 to restore a ruined family house. Having no background in agriculture, he earned a professional certificate, trained with a neighboring breeder, and worked with a craftsperson to learn building skills.
Gaudebert officially established the business in 2001 on the land located less than a kilometer from Pech Merle cave. His operation sits directly on the geological path of the cave and near a prehistoric settlement that was excavated for years. He stated that his trail rides have no direct link to the cave, although most of his visitors choose to visit both locations.
Horse breeding and trail rides
The operation now covers 180 hectares across two sites, consisting largely of unmechanizable scrubland. Gaudebert manages a herd of fifty horses, specializing in Arabian and half-blood Arabian breeds. His herd also includes a Norman Cob capable of carrying heavier weight on its back.
Gaudebert organizes trail rides ranging from one to six days for visiting riders. His two signature routes include loops toward Rocamadour and along the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage paths through the Célé valley. He selects calm, generous horses that maintain effort without becoming worked up, unlike traditional sport horses.
Throughout the rest of the year, Gaudebert offers short rides and lessons, trains horses for carriage driving, and provides lodging for pilgrims and riders in a gîte. He noted that working with horses requires daily commitment without weekends or holidays. He added that success in the business requires a genuine interest in meeting members of the public.
Daily operations and future plans
Gaudebert works alone following the departure of his former business partner. He hires seasonal staff during the summer months and is currently searching for someone to help take over part of the daily workload. During summer heatwaves, his workday begins as early as 3:00 a.m. to care for the animals.
Gaudebert draws encouragement from several colleagues between 75 and 78 years old who continue to ride active horses. He reflected that 25 years after beginning his project, his passion has evolved and developed while remaining fully intact.
