Horse Riding Holidays

lusitano_portugal
Mr. Talent
Edge 27/11/2016 0

Source: http://www.farandride.com

Portugal is the ideal setting for horse riding with its varied terrain and wonderful climate enabling you to enjoy year round holidays. It is a beautiful country full of forests, rivers and lush valleys in the center and the north, whilst in the south you will find a splendid coastline of beaches, cliffs and coves. In the Alentejo region you will find vast groves of olive, oranges, cork and vines. Spring is a particularly scenic time of year to visit when flowers come into bloom and cover the hillsides. You will find no shortage of traditional villages throughout the country as well as vibrant cities, historical treasures and World Heritage sites.

Portugal has a special link with horses as it is considered by many to be the home of the wonderful Lusitano – a horse bred for its gentle nature and for being trained in classical dressage. The Lusitano has been bred and developed for hundreds of years and is a mixture of Arab and the English Thoroughbred. Its graceful agile movements make it perfect for international competition in equestrian events.

All Portuguese towns have their own fiestas throughout the year celebrating ancient traditions, some of which have been in existence for many centuries. Some of the wonders you may come across include lavish costumes, parades, fun fairs, street theaters, music and dancing, delicious cuisine and drinks, flower festivals, street parades and even motor racing. There is something for everyone!

We have several options available to suit every rider from trekking in wolf and wild horse territory in the North of the country, expert tuition on highly schooled Lusitanos, trails crossing the Spanish border, to trails and tuition in the warm Algarve in the very South of the country.

Alentejo Coastal Trails, Portugal

Ride into the hills above Grandola, passing cork trees which have grown for centuries as well as eucalyptus and pine forests. In the opposite direction lie the beaches, sand dunes and lagoons of the coast. This riding holiday combines both landscapes, as you spend the first half of the week riding in the hills, and the second half riding along the coast. There are plenty of opportunities for long loping canters or occasional gallops as well as relaxing and watching the landscape unfold around you.

Algarve Coast and Tuition, Portugal

This equestrian center, one of the Algarve’s most well-known and prestigious, is situated in an upmarket holiday area. It is an ideal location for enjoyable riding, with an abundance of sandy tracks, open land full of wild flowers and herbs as well close to golden beaches and a nature reserve. The prefect destination for both single travelers, as there is no additional supplement for single room use, as well as families, as it offers the unique chance to meet and interact with other children.

It is in a region where riding is possible throughout the year as, even in winter, the sun is virtually always shining. Warm evenings provide the opportunity for enjoying wonderful sunsets from horseback and the unique experience of riding under a full moon.

Algarve Trails, Portugal

 

This fantastic, English-owned riding center is set in the warmth and beauty of the rolling Algarve hills of southern Portugal and is approved by the ABRS as well as the Portuguese Equestrian Federation. All levels of rider are catered for (including disabled riders) from beginners wishing to learn basic riding and horse care to the more experienced riders who want to appreciate and explore the area outside of the center or take their riding to a new level. There are a range of trails available allowing you to witness unspoiled landscapes and breathtaking mountain views, whilst those wanting an intensive tuition program will come away feeling they have made great progress. Whatever your preferences we can work with the center staff to create a program to suit your needs, combining lessons and rides out for you. There is also the fabulous ‘Four Day West Coast Ride’ which is a four day trail including riding on 2km of beautiful beach!

Gerês Wolf and Wild Horse Trails, Portugal

This fantastic, English-owned riding center is set in the warmth and beauty of the rolling Algarve hills of southern Portugal and is approved by the ABRS as well as the Portuguese Equestrian Federation. All levels of rider are catered for (including disabled riders) from beginners wishing to learn basic riding and horse care to the more experienced riders who want to appreciate and explore the area outside of the center or take their riding to a new level. There are a range of trails available allowing you to witness unspoiled landscapes and breathtaking mountain views, whilst those wanting an intensive tuition program will come away feeling they have made great progress. Whatever your preferences we can work with the center staff to create a program to suit your needs, combining lessons and rides out for you. There is also the fabulous ‘Four Day West Coast Ride’ which is a four day trail including riding on 2km of beautiful beach!

Lisbon Classical Equitation, Portugal

This riding center near Lisbon offers dressage lessons on their Lusitano schoolmasters, under the tutelage of one of the Masters of the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art – Antonio Borba Monteiro. Although Antonio is not available for all the teaching he has two very able students to assist him: Francisco Correa Henriques has been a disciple of Antonio’s since 1998 and has been competing since 2002 whilst Martim Ferreira da Cunha has been at the center since 2014 – he was previously at a different center in Alter do Chao (central Portugal) and at the Cadre Noir in France.

 

Lusitano Trails, Portugal

Beautiful trail rides exploring the Ribatejo region of Portugal. The horses are native Lusitanos, famed for being noble, willing and handsome, and these rides are only suitable for small groups to ensure that everyone has a top class experience on a quality horse. The countryside and culture of this area is wonderful with everything from open meadows, forests and rivers to a day trip at the beach!

Monte Velho Equo Resort, Portugal

A Lusitano stud farm offering luxurious accommodation and wonderful riding opportunities in the Alentejo region of Portugal. Guests can enjoy top class dressage tuition or rides out into the countryside, enjoying the charming grounds of the farm, before relaxing by the pool or just enjoying the sunshine. Bikes and canoes are also available for those who like to explore!

Portugal Showjumping & Dressage, Portugal

This is a small family owned equestrian center with horses and instructors of the highest class. Having been a venue for national and international competition for the last few years, It has now opened its doors to riders from all over the world.

 

 

 

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