Rides in Portugal
Portugal lends itself to horse riding with its varied terrain and wonderful climate enabling you to enjoy horse riding all the year around. 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 Engish Thoroughbred. Its graceful agile movements make it perfect for international competition in equestrian events.Portugal has so much to offer for the horse rider - riding in the Algarve is a wonderful experience as the coastal plain varies considerably. Around Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago area the soft sandy soil through endless pinewoods makes for very comfortable riding. In the inland region of Silves the valleys and tracks can take you into scenic countryside or up into the dense eucalyptus forests. West of Portimão there are endless rides into virtually uninhabited areas with rolling open hills. A trip into the Alentejo region around Évora will offer a visitor the freedom of riding in open unspoilt countryside.
Rides
Alentejo Dressage, Portugal
Experience Portugal at this top equestrian centre offering traditional equitation, classical dressage and carriage driving programmes. The centre is situated in the south of Portugal, in the heart of southern Alentejo. Here you can experience hot, dry summers and cool winters. The centre is surrounded by centenary trees, stunning fragrances, olive groves, cork trees, fabulous colours and calming sounds. Their aim is to provide a relaxed atmosphere in close proximity to the Lusitano horse, country lifestyle, local traditions and the best of the Alentejo's gastronomy.
Algarve Beach & Forest, Portugal
This ride truly does have something for everyone. Every level of rider is catered for from complete beginners who wish to learn to ride in the warmth and beauty of the Algarve, to those who are looking to explore this beautiful countryside on horseback. Riding is also offered to disabled riders.
For those wanting to appreciate and explore the area outside of the centre, long and varied trails are available allowing you to witness unspoilt landscapes and breathtaking mountain views. This makes a perfect option also for experienced riders looking for hours of endless trails amongst dramatic scenery.
These well run stables are approved by the ABRS and the Portugese Equestrian Federation.
For those wanting to appreciate and explore the area outside of the centre, long and varied trails are available allowing you to witness unspoilt landscapes and breathtaking mountain views. This makes a perfect option also for experienced riders looking for hours of endless trails amongst dramatic scenery.
These well run stables are approved by the ABRS and the Portugese Equestrian Federation.
Almancil, Portugal
This equestrian centre, 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.
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.
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.
Alto Minho Adventures and TREC, Portugal
Situated in the Alto Minho, Paredes de Coura district, this ride offers more than just equestrian tourism. The site provides guests with the opportunity to experience Therapeutic horseback riding as well as classes in a more natural environment. For the sporty type there are chances to try TREC (techniques of Equestrian Randonée for sports competition) and the centre has a large riding area with wild trails suitable for the handicapped. Certain programmes give guests the option to learn more about horses, trail riding (with classes available in cartography and orientation) as well as the possibility of learning some basic first aid and horseshoeing knowledge.
Extremadura (Spain) and Portuguese Trails, Portugal
These trails rides are a wonderful way to see magnificent landscapes and unspoilt areas of Portugal and Spain. Horses are homebred on a farm in Extremadura, Spain, and are well-trained and enjoyable mounts. There are several trails with the majority of time spent across the Portuguese border but some with a few nights spent in Spain. Riding is Doma Vaquera style (a traditional Spanish method).