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Andalucia Trails

Overview

This unique trekking centre is based in the heart of Andalucia, made famous by its Moorish influences and impressive horses, and it enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year. The centre offers both based stays and trail rides with accommodation and all meals included. Your main riding guide is an exp…

Highlights

  • Flexible arrival and departure dates
  • Riding through the mountains
  • Can be tailored to suit all levels of rider
  • Family friendly destination
  • Choice of accommodation options available

Essential Facts

  • 4 itineraries available
  • Max 10 riders per group
  • Average of 4 - 5 hours riding per day
  • Weight limit: 90 kgs/ 198 lbs/ 14st 2lbs, Heavier riders may be accepted if they are experienced only - please enquire

Description

This unique trekking centre is based in the heart of Andalucia, made famous by its Moorish influences and impressive horses, and it enjoys over 300 days of sunshine a year. The centre offers both based stays and trail rides with accommodation and all meals included. Your main riding guide is an experienced English horsewoman with a stable of well-kept horses and a spirit of adventure.

From the base you will explore a beautiful part of Spain, riding free from traffic and walkers, following secret trails in the wonderful countryside. Horses and riding routes are available to suit both complete beginners and those very experienced in the saddle - your hosts will ensure that you are placed on treks with riders of similar ability. Single travellers are always welcome! Children may join family treks, or ride with other children of similar ages, from the age of 5.

Although set in a remote location, the centre has easy access to Lanjaron, Orgiva and even Granada to visit the Alhambra Palace and other places of interest. Lanjaron is a spa town, famous for its water springs which are dotted all over the hills - many Spanish people go there to drink the water which is said to contain minerals for eternal youth! Orgiva is a busy little market town containing a myriad of small streets and great tapas bars to explore and discover. A visit to this town is in itself an adventure!

The local towns are heavily influenced by Gothic and Moorish architecture. Whilst out on the hills you will be surrounded by almond, olive and citrus groves still tended to by "man and his mule". This area of Spain really is steeped in history and rich in culture and the trails will take you out into remote areas where you can truly appreciate the countryside and the companionship of a fabulous horse.

This destination was visited by Natalie from Far and Ride in spring 2017. It has also been checked out by the comedian John Bishop who wrote an article about his wonderful experience for The Guardian newspaper. John seems to have hit the nail on the head: "Riding for the first time is like falling in love for the first time: when it's happening, it's the best thing in the world; the day after it's over, you hurt like hell. But you count the days till it happens again."

NB. Please note that although the programmes listed below include point to point trail riding (with some nights in a remote mountain cottage), this riding centre can offer based stays all year long allowing you to keep the same room the whole time. This is a very flexible set-up so please contact us if the programmes below aren't quite what you are looking for!

Horses & Riding

Tack

The tack used is a mixture of trekking, English and Western styles, with some synthetic and some leather saddles. The saddles are fitted for the horses with their particular needs in mind. Simple leather and synthetic bridles are used and bits ranging from snaffles to pelhams and gags, depending on the individual horse.

Horses

Horses are primarily of Spanish origin - Andalusian and Andalusian Crosses - with a mix of some other breeds as well, including some draft type weight carriers. All of the horses at the stables live on the mountains and so are ideally suited to tackling the often difficult terrain found here. They have a wide variety of temperaments and characters and so it is usually pretty easy to find a horse to suit any level or preference of the rider as well.

Riding

There are 4 itineraries:

  • The Mountain Ride: Three Day Programme is a trail ride
  • Alpujarra White Village Ride: Four Day Programme combines a based stay and point to point trail
  • The Alpujarra Ride combines a based stay and point to point trail
  • Farmhouse Based Stay is a based ride

Ages

5+ years for riding.

Health

None .

Weight

90 kgs/ 198 lbs/ 14st 2lbs, Heavier riders may be accepted if they are experienced only - please enquire

Food & Accommodation

Food

Lunch is usually a picnic which you will carry in your saddle bag. These are freshly made and usually consist of rolls, fruit, cereal bars and drinks. You will stop in remote areas of the countryside to enjoy a relaxed carefree picnic - fun but not fancy - straight from the saddlebag.

Evening meals are freshly prepared, plentiful and tasty using homegrown and local produce. Wine is provided with your dinner and other alcoholic drinks may be purchased at each venue/night stop. Dinner is usually served around 8pm. Vegetarian and other diets can be catered for. You can expect healthy, hearty food in all venues.

Accommodation

For the trails and based programmes, accommodation will be at a rural Spanish farmhouse, a hotel in the village or in eco-friendly glamping yurts.

All the accommodation options offer a comfortable stay and are well located, offering excellent views of the Alpujarras mountain range and the coast of southern Spain. There are rooms to suit all needs and we can happily check availability of your preferred option on enquiry. There is no difference in costs dependent on where you choose to stay.

On the trail rides, you'll spend some nights out at a mountain lodge on the other side of the valley. This offers self-contained villa-style accommodation set in a beautiful and remote area. Due to the off-grid nature of the place, amenities on offer here are basic, so don't expect modern high powered facilities. The lodge is self-sufficient and eco friendly, running predominantly from solar-powered energy. This is a place to visit if you wish to totally relax, forget about day-to-day stresses and enjoy the stunning tranquil views.

Itineraries

The Mountain Ride: Three Day Programme Standard accommodation.

Alpujarra White Village Ride: Four Day Programme Standard accommodation.

The Alpujarra Ride Standard accommodation.

Farmhouse Based Stay Standard accommodation.

Other Activities

The farmhouse is ideally located to enable guests to relax or explore as they please. Apart from enjoying the wonderful local countryside, the local towns are steeped in history and rich in culture. Lanjaron is a local spa town worth visiting with its water springs containing minerals for eternal youth, whilst Orgiva has great tapas bars to explore and discover. You may wish to travel to Granada to visit the Alhambra Palace and other places of interest. You can walk to Lanjaron from the farmhouse following steep mountain paths, this takes around twenty minutes.

Travel

Granada airport is only 45 minutes away from the centre. Flights are available with Ryanair or Monarch airlines.

Malaga is about 90 minutes away from the centre and is the most convenient airport for most travellers.

Another alternate airport is Almeria.

Transfer costs are paid locally on arrival and are based on a car for up to four people. Please check individual itineraries for prices.

There is a fantastic bus service connecting the local villages and cities. A train service is only available from Granada. Hiring a car is also easy and cheap.

Testimonials

Amy E., Oct. 18, 2023

Amazing experience with a great pairing of horse and rider. Food and accommodation was amazing and both so unique. Horse and gear was really well suited for me and my riding ability. Guide was great they answered many question I had about the region.


Virpi H., Oct. 17, 2023

I looked webpages of different organizations, sent some email and chose you because of espesialle friendly service and a lot of knowledge. I was prepared and got the information needed. The scenery was much more than expected. Riding in the mountain area was new for me, but learned fast with a good quide.


Salit T., Oct. 17, 2023

The holiday was excellent, well planned and executed. Finn, our guide, knew a lot about the horses and their treatment. He knew the ways and was very cooperative with our needs.


Lottie L., Oct. 17, 2023

It was wonderful - great horses, amazing riding across exciting and stunning terrain. Warm welcoming hosts that took us for our stays in the mountains.


Ji Y., Oct. 17, 2023

It was fantastic and packed with diverse, enriching experiences! Everyone was so hospitable, and the treks through the Spanish landscape were gorgeous. All our accommodations were unique and comfortable - perfect for settling in after a long ride.


Kim S., Sept. 28, 2023

Excellent, well cared for horses and a stunning landscape. We had two fantastic guides and were able to enjoy the fresh air and the breathtaking views. Due to the rocky and steep paths there are not so many possibilities to canter and on some ways you have to ride on concrete. The food was amazing and the accommodation part basic but absolutely quiet and lovely! The whole organisation was perfect.


Jeff H., Sept. 19, 2023

The ride was excellent. The horses and riding were stunningly beautiful especially when we could look down on the clouds and fogged formed in the valleys. Favourite memory? Figs were ripe on the tree in September and we loved riding up to a branch for a lovely taste of sunshine.


Claire W, April 27, 2023

We had a fantastic holiday. We were both very happy with the horses we were matched with and enjoyed the riding in a beautiful setting. Favourite memory? Some lovely canters and marvelling at the skill and endurance of the horses on challenging terrain.


Mel L., Oct. 19, 2022

A simple but lovely trip. The views from the top of the mountains out across the entire valley are spectacular. Much of it (accommodation) was basic but the hosts were delightful with great breakfasts and dinners at the place we stayed at above the horse farm. We loved Coco and Harry (the horses) - even their quirks.


Stela T., July 25, 2022

It was awesome. During the ride I felt like I am acting in 'Spaghetti Western' movie. And the views were also stunning. We were riding through the national park of Sierra Nevada where the nature is beautiful. Favourite memory? Cantering up in the mountain on sure footed horses.


Judy D., June 8, 2022

This trip met and exceeded my expectations. The scenery was spectacular. The guides were knowledgable, helpful and fun. The horses were wonderful! Our accommodations were comfortable, clean and beautiful with gracious hosts and fantastic food. Even the weather was perfect!


Lora H., June 6, 2022

Wonderful! Emily at the guesthouse and Nathan/Lally and family at the other guesthouse were wonderful. We were matched well with good horses. Our guide (Demi) and guide-in-training (Tracey) were well qualified, patient, engaging and all around good instructors in places we needed a little instruction. So many good memories - riding up high into the Alpujarras above the timberline and then down through pine forests on the fourth day - that was a really beautiful ride. Summing up? Wonderful, engaging, connecting (with nature, people, the land of the Alpujarras).


Glenda & Wyn J., June 7, 2021

The holiday was excellent, the horses were good, our guide was v. good and the views spectacular. Our riding guide Danielle was excellent, being cool, calm, and collected at all times, and also very knowledgeable & kind. The food and accommodation were very good on all occasions, especially Ann's home cooking. The horses we rode were very suitable for us and the equipment was good.


Emmy & Elliott, Feb. 18, 2020

A fantastic holiday, we really enjoyed ourselves, it was such a unique way to explore a beautiful country, incredible views. The accommodation was good and the food delicious!


Tanya C., Feb. 14, 2020

A fantastic break - super horses and interesting quirky places to stay. Riding was individually tailored so we had a lovely & at times challenging route with cantering and climbing. Amazing to be able to ride through a herd of wild Andalusian horses including mares and foals.


Cat, Oct. 30, 2019

It was fab to get away, a beautiful mountain retreat, with cosy apartments, including a kitchen and living room.


Clare, Oct. 18, 2019

Love it, an all round great trip. Felt we got a good taste of Andalucia - away from highly populated tourist areas. Favorite Memory - Trail riding through the woods to Solerjo, cantering up an olive field at full pelt!


Claire, Sept. 25, 2019

It was Excellent! Everybody involved in the holiday was very friendly and made you feel welcome and nothing was too much trouble - the scenery was fantastic and the horses lovely to ride.


Katherine K., Sept. 18, 2019

A fantastic introduction to horse riding in the most beautiful surroundings. Our lead rider, Linda was experienced, patient and friendly. The horses were calm & responsive. Our favourite memory was riding along the mountain trails in glorious sunshine looking down the valley and across to the distant sea. Tranquility!


Dani M., May 10, 2019

Friendly, willing, rested, well cared for horses happy to go out on the rides and enjoying them too. Nice to know that some are rescues. An excellent guide in Linda who was also fun to be with. Fabulous countryside to ride through, ever changing geology and vegetation, olive farms, oak, pine and moorland. Orchids, parasitic plants, golden eagles, falcon, buzzard, kestrel and bee eaters. Trail was good with a lovely fun gallop up a hill at an olive farm - horses knew it was coming, were on their toes and keen to go. I enjoyed being able to groom the horses after the ride and to tack them up before it when time permitted.


Annette M, Jan. 30, 2019

It was the ride of a lifetime! An incredible experience. I loved the horses, they were well trained and so strong over the rough hilly terrain. The views were amazing and the hospitality was great. Daniella was excellent. My daughter was a bit nervous and she ended up swapping her onto a smaller, quieter horse. I would love to do this one again some day.


Heather T., Oct. 20, 2018

Relaxing, very well organised and coordinated. Favourite memory was being able to take the lead in some canters. Wonderful host and fabulous food, absolutely brilliant accommodation. Rode two horses - both chosen well for my abilities - fun!


Sheena M., May 16, 2018

Fabulous, stunning, much more rugged and spectacular than expected. Horse was lovely, good pace, very smooth but came back to you when asked. Favourite memory difficult to choose - the river ride from Orgiva and the mule track up the Lanjaron Gorge. Danielle, our guide, was excellent - very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. Food was plain but tasty and plenty of it.


Janet A. (farmhouse stay), Nov. 2, 2017

Super holiday. Great place to stay - the hospitality and food were outstanding. We were transferred up to the stables every day and the riding was amazing. We were perfectly matched with the horses and the guides were absolutely super and tailored each day's riding to our ability. Ann and her team are fantastically welcoming and accommodating. It was like being at home - if home included fab food and good company. I really can't fault this holidays - it was everything we could have wanted.


Lindsey C., June 2, 2017

Absolutely fantastic. It was tough but what an achievement. The scenery was out of this world and quite often felt on top of the world. It is just the best way to explore a different country.On day two we rode up to 2600m. It was so peaceful and the smell from the alpine flowers was amazing. We sat eating lunch watching the golden eagles flying in the valley.


Angela G., Dec. 6, 2016

Very good. Extremely warm welcome from all people we met. (Favourite memory?) No one individual thing stood out - the whole package was excellent!. (Accommodation & food?) Good food and friendly hosts. Accommodation very good - always a warm fire to sit in front of! My horse, Ciel, was a gentleman - very honest and easy to ride. Amy the guide was very friendly and knowledgeable. I honestly can't think of anything that needs addressing!


Clifford C., Aug. 23, 2016

Really good holiday. Good, tough treks. Beautiful scenery. Excellent guides. accommodation lovely and owners couldn't do enough for you, to make you feel welcome.


Julie S., June 29, 2016

My room was very nice and the food was great. Nothing was too much trouble! I would definitely stay there again. I loved riding the horses and I can't decide which horse was my favourite! They were all lovely and very fit. Amy (the guide) was great, very friendly and helpful. So to sum it up, it was a fabulous holiday!


Steph M., Sept. 22, 2011

It was sensational - spectacular scenery, gorgeous forward going horses, fabulous weather, great company, accommodation and food. I loved it. A fabulous experience and adventure, a must for horse lovers. The guide was excellent - friendly, fun, relaxed and informative.


Steve C., July 13, 2009

We had a brilliant time, everyone made us feel welcome and at home. The horses were lovely, the scenery was beautiful. Overall we loved it and the horses were excellent. I cannot pinpoint anything specific as a favourite memory, but Irene's was cantering round the hairpin bends for the first time. Excellent accommodation, much more relaxing than hotels and Ann particularly was an excellent cook. Sarah was a very experienced host and guide, always making sure we were informed and OK with everything without overly fussing, very easy to get along with.


Jane & Paul C., June 29, 2009

We had a thoroughly wonderful time with Sarah. The weather was perfect and the horses a delight and there is no doubt that we would love to return probably sooner rather than later. Chris and Dave were very friendly and catered for our every needs and Ann surpassed our expectations, we look forward to stopping with her again. I can recommend our holiday to anyone. Thanks ever so much!


Lisa H., Oct. 29, 2008

I cried when I had to leave and can't wait to return - would recommend this to anyone with a love of horses and a sense of adventure.


Itinerary & Pricing

Day 1

Riding: No riding.

You will transfer from Malaga or Granada airport (cost not included) to the tiny spa town of Lanjaron, 'the gateway' to Alpujarras. Dinner will be prepared for you at the simple and beautiful Spanish Farmhouse. Your first night will be spent on the Farm.

Day 2

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

You will go up to the ranch to meet your horse & guide, then begin by heading north up above the Lanjaron River gorge. You will then ride through the ancient oak forests towards the summit of the Pico del Caballo, reaching over 2000 metres of altitude, before dropping through the logging trails of the pine forests to Puente Palo. A picnic lunch will then be enjoyed in the pine forest, before riding east to an idyllic location high on the slopes of the Poqueria valley, where you will spend a relaxing night in the beautiful mountain cottages. Views extend across the Poqueria valley to the white washed mountain villages of Capileira, Bubion and Pampaniera.

Day 3

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

Today you will head north following the Poqueria valley with the picturesque town of Capilera to your east. This is one of the highest towns in Spain. You will trek towards Mulhacen which has the loftiest and most majestic peak on the mainland. With the snowy backdrop, this valley is truly stunning. Crossing mountain pasture land on a little known old Moorish bridlepath, you will head up through the pine trees to Refugio Piuca. Trekking west along mountain logging tracks with a stop for a picnic lunch on the hillside. After lunch you reach the Mirador de Cañar view point before passing down through the Prado de las Liebres (meadow of the hares) to the Ranch below. Time for some relaxation and maybe a dip in the pool before dinner.

Day 4

Riding: 4 - 6 hours

This is a lovely long trail ride as you head up cobbled mule paths through an ancient chestnut forest to the waterfalls of the Rio de Lanjaron. High into the mountains following the river gorge towards the snowline with stunning views of the mountains as you sit under a landmark aged chestnut tree to enjoy a relaxing picnic. After lunch you will follow the old Moorish water channels, before heading down to the Ranch & to the farmhouse.

You will be wished a fond farewell and transferred to either Malaga or Granada airport (not included)

Please note the itinerary may vary and be altered according to the abilities of the group or the discretion of the guide.

Accommodation

2 nights are spent at the farmhouse and 1 night in the mountain cottages.

Experience Beginner / Intermediate / Experienced

Suitable for novice to experienced rider. Trail route can be altered to accommodate the least experienced rider in the group.

Minimum group size 2
Maximum group size 10
Departure windows

At any time during: Jan. 3, 2024 - Dec. 22, 2024  (Dates available on request, with flexible arrival and departure days)

Pricing

2024
Per person, sharing
£675 $855 €790
Included 3 nights accommodation (based on double/twin accommodation), full board meals from dinner on arrival day to lunch on departure day, one drink with each evening meal, 3 days of riding with an experienced guide.
Not included Flights, travel insurance, transfers, drinks, tips & other personal expenses.

Extras

2024 - Additional Night, Full Board & Morning Departure £78 $98 €91 per night
Paid to Far and Ride
Includes dinner & breakfast in the morning.
2024 - Granada Airport Transfer €60
Paid locally
Each way, for a car up to 4 persons
2024 - Malaga Airport Transfer €120
Paid locally
Each way, for a car up to 4 persons
2024 - Single Supplement £25 $32 €29 per night
Paid to Far and Ride
Subject to availability
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.

Day 1

Riding: No riding.

You will be transferred from Malaga or Granada airport (not included)  to the tiny spa town of Lanjaron, the 'gateway" to the Alpujarras.  A delicious dinner will be prepared using fresh local ingredients at the farmhouse.

Day 2

Riding: 5 hours

You will go up to the ranch to meet your horse and guide  then begin by heading north up above the Lanjaron River gorge. You will ride through the ancient oak forests towards the summit of the Pico del Caballo, reaching over 2000 meters of altitude, before descending through the logging trails of the pine forests to Puente Palo. You will enjoy a picnic lunch in the pine forest, before riding east to an idyllic location high on the slopes of the Poqueria valley, where you will spend a relaxing night in the beautiful mountain cottages. Views extend across the Poqueria valley to the white washed mountain villages of Capileira, Bubion and Pampaniera.

Day 3

Riding: 6 hours

Today you will head north following the Poqueria valley with the picturesque  town of Capilera to your east. This is one of the highest towns in Spain. You will trek towards Mulhacen which has the loftiest and most majestic peak on the mainland. With the snowy backdrop, this valley is truly stunning.  Crossing mountain pasture land on a little known old Moorish bridlepath, you will head up through the pine trees to Refugio Piuca.  You will follow the wide forest logging track that takes you to the mountain cottages and a good night's rest.

Day 4

Riding: 5 hours

Today there is plenty of chance for canters as you trek north-west along mountain logging tracks with a  stop for a picnic lunch high the hillside. After lunch you reach the Mirador de Canar viewpoint before passing down the Prado de las Liebres (meadow of the hares) to the ranch below. There will be time for relaxation and a dip in the pool before dinner.

Day 5

Riding: 5 hours

This is a lovely long trail ride as you head up cobbled mule paths through an ancient chestnut forest to the waterfalls of the Rio de Lanjaron. High into the mountains following the river gorge towards the snowline with stunning views of the mountains as you sit under a landmark aged chestnut tree to enjoy a relaxing picnic. After lunch you will follow the old Moorish water channels before heading down to the ranch and to your accommodation.

You will be wished a fond farewell before being transferred to either Malaga or Granada airport (not included).

Accommodation

First and last nights in shared room accommodation near the ranch and middle 2 nights spent in simple mountain cottages.

Experience Beginner / Intermediate / Experienced

Suitable for novice to experienced rider. Trail route can be altered to accommodate the least experienced rider in the group.

Minimum group size 2
Maximum group size 10
Departure windows

At any time during: Jan. 3, 2024 - Dec. 22, 2024  (Dates available on request, with flexible arrival and departure days)

Pricing

2024
Per person, sharing
£880 $1110 €1030
Included 4 nights accommodation (based on double/twin accommodation), full board meals from dinner on arrival day to lunch on departure day, one drink with each evening meal, 4 days of riding with an experienced guide.
Not included Flights, transfers, personal travel insurance, extra drinks, tips & other personal expenses.

Extras

2024 - Additional Night, Full Board & Morning Departure £78 $98 €91 per night
Paid to Far and Ride
Includes dinner & breakfast in the morning.
2024 - Granada Airport Transfers €60
Paid locally
Each way, for a car up to 4 persons
2024 - Malaga Airport Transfer €120
Paid locally
Each way, for car up to 4 persons
2024 - Single Supplement £25 $32 €29 per night
Paid to Far and Ride
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.

Day 1

Riding: No riding.

You will transfer from Malaga or Granada airport (cost not included) to the tiny spa town of Lanjaron, 'the gateway' to Alpujarras. Your accommodation will be at a guesthouse high in the mountains and close to the ranch - these small mountain cottages have a swimming pool for use during the summer months. Dinner will be prepared by your hosts and cook Emily.

Day 2

Riding: 4 - 5 hours

You will be driven up to the ranch, with your luggage, to meet your horse and guide.

Your trail today will take you to the impressive Rio del Guadalfeo. This river is born in the Sierra Nevada mountains from rain and snow melt above the town of Bercules and heads out to the Mediterranean sea at Salobreña. The 71 km river can be torrential and fast flowing, but in the summer months the flow is slow and the horses enjoy a dip in the river. Trekking out from the ranch you will pass down through the tiny hippie village of Beneficio. This ´village´ is a sustainable, ecological and self-managed village that was created back in 1992 on small private land between the towns of Órgiva and Cáñar, which have also been impregnated by the hippie movement! You will ride on ancient mule paths following barrancos and the Rio Chico to the main Rio del Guadalfeo for a splash with the horses. 

Lunch can be taken on the hillside on the southern slopes of Las Alpujarras with stunning views of Mount Lujar, part of the Contraviesa mountain range.  The afternoon will have you enjoying a valley ride through Orange and Almond groves to your night stop at Cortijo de la Cueva del Pescado above the Rules Lake and dam. An evening meal and night spent at the luxurious Cortijo de la Cueva.

Day 3

Riding: 4 - 5 hours

After breakfast, you tack up the horses and head out on a day trek to the town of Orgiva.  Órgiva is located in the southwestern part of the region of the Alpujarra Granadina and is the “capital town” of the Alpujarras with nearly 6,000 residents. It is a pretty town with its twin-towered Church and cobbled main street. You will have plenty of time to look around the town for souvenirs and artisan products. 

Following your visit to Orgiva you will ride back to the Cortijo de la Cueva del Pescado, past century-old olives groves and through younger olive plantations arriving late afternoon for a dip in the pool (when in season). You will receive an evening meal supplied by your host and hostess.

Day 4

Riding: 4 - 5 hours

Today you will head out on the Ruta del Pescado mule track towards  Lanjaron, after which you will follow the Rio Lanjaron river gorge climbing high into the mountains on a 600-year-old cobbled mule track through the Chestnut forests to the waterfalls of El Tello.  Lunch will be enjoyed at high altitudes amongst walnut orchards and alpine meadows.

A fast-paced ride after lunch takes you to the Tello ridge road mountain track, and from here you will drop back down to the Ranch in the afternoon. Your evening meal and night will be spent in mountain cottages close to the Ranch (at the Alpujarra Guest House)

Day 5

Riding: 4 - 5 hours

After breakfast, you transfer back to the ranch to collect your horses and trek high into the mountains with plenty of opportunities for canters on the pine forest logging tracks. Your trek will take you through scrubby oak forests to the high mountain pastures of the Sierra Nevada. Continue through the pine forests of Puente Palo (the bridge of the sticks) and then through El Prado de las Liebres (the meadow of the hares).

A picnic lunch can be enjoyed in the pine forest before returning to the Ranch via the Mirador de Cañar to the west. Again you will be transferred to the Alpujarra Guest House for another delicious meal and overnight.

Day 6

Riding: 6 - 7 hours

After breakfast, you pack your belongings again and head to the ranch. Today’s ride will be a longer trek with at least 6 hours in the saddle. You will first ride to the white-washed high village of Cañar to the East. With a population of fewer than 300 residents, this tiny town with its pretty church of Santa Ana has only one small supermarket and a few small bars. Stop at one of these bars for refreshments in the town before climbing high into the Sierra Nevada National Park where you will experience spectacular scenery and views southwards to the Mediterranean coast and (on a clear day) the Atlas mountains of Africa.

Upon returning to the ranch you will collect your belongings and be transferred to the local town of Lanjaron where you will have a chance to explore the town and find a restaurant for your evening meal (cost not included) in the local town.

Lanjaron translates as "place of springs"; in Arabic (Al-lancharon) It is a spa town famous for its natural abundance of springs. With its old Moorish castle, constructed on the site of a small medieval fortress originally constructed around the 12th-13th century it was dedicated mainly to surveillance, shelter and defence of the population. However, the current remains date back to the 14th century. The town is very lively with fiestas during the summer months and your hosts will keep you informed of any local fiestas that might be occurring during your visit.

There is also a chance to book in advance at the local spa for spa treatments and massages after your shorter riding day tomorrow.

Day 7

Riding: 3 - 4 hours

Breakfast at your hotel and then transfer to the ranch where you will have a shorter morning ride today. You initially head past goat farms and beehives, riding through the region known as El Pecho, towards the trail of the mud huts. Following this, you will make a steep climb on the ancient mule paths on the west side of the Lanjaron river valley before dropping down and back to the ranch. You are then transferred back to your hotel in the town of Lanjaron for your evening meal (price not included) for a swim in the pool and a chance to look around the local town of Lanjaron, and perhaps that spa and massage?!

Day 8

Riding: No riding.

You will be wished a fond farewell from your team as you are transferred to either Malaga or Granada airport (cost not included).

Please note, the itinerary may vary and be altered according to the abilities of the group at the discretion of the guide.

Accommodation

Typically 3 nights at the Alpujarra, 2 nights spent at Cortijo de la Cueva del Pescado and 2 nights at a hotel in Lanjaron.

Experience Beginner / Intermediate / Experienced

Suitable for novice to experienced rider. Trail route can be altered to accommodate the least experienced rider in the group. Groups can be split according to ability.

Minimum group size 2
Maximum group size 10
Departure windows

At any time during: Jan. 3, 2024 - Dec. 22, 2024  (Dates available on request, with flexible arrival and departure days)

Pricing

2024
Per person, sharing
£1470 $1860 €1720
Included 7 nights accommodation in shared rooms, all meals from dinner on arrival day to breakfast on departure day except for dinners on nights 6 and 7 in Lanjaron, one alcoholic drink with included evening meals, 6 days of riding with an experienced guide.
Not included Flights, airport transfers, personal travel insurance, dinners on the two nights in Lanjaron, other drinks, tips and personal expenses

Extras

2024 - Additional Night, Full Board & Morning Departure £78 $98 €91 per night
Paid to Far and Ride
Includes dinner & breakfast in the morning.
2024 - Granada Airport Transfer €60
Paid locally
Each way, for a car up to 4 persons
2024 - Malaga Airport Transfer €120
Paid locally
Each way, for car up to 4 persons
2024 - Single Supplement £25 $32 €29 per night
Paid to Far and Ride
Single accommodation may not always be available
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.

Day 1 - Arrival Day

Riding: No riding.

Check-in at your accommodation in the afternoon or early evening, in time for dinner and overnight.

Days 2 to 7

Riding: 1 - 5 hours

Each day you will ride for as long as is possible on the trail routes, but return to the farmhouse accommodation each night.

The farmhouse is well located in the Alpujarra mountains of Andalucia and offers comfortable guest bedrooms, tasty meals and access to a fantastic swimming pool to help you cool off after a day in the saddle. For the beginners and novice riders, or those who would like to take advantage of a little practice, riding lessons can be arranged at the stables in order to help you improve and hone your riding skills.

The farmhouse stay can be booked alone, or as an extension to the trail riding itineraries. Should you feel confident toward the end of your stay, it may also be possible to join a trail group for one or two nights as well.

Day 8 - Departure Day

Riding: No riding.

Check-out after breakfast for travel home.

Accommodation

Each night will be spent in comfortable double or twin rooms at our preferred accommodation option near the ranch.

Experience Beginner / Intermediate / Experienced

Novice to experienced riders can be accommodated. Rides will be tailored to suit the least experienced rider in a group, or groups may be split.

Minimum group size 1
Maximum group size 10
Departure windows

At any time during: Jan. 3, 2024 - Dec. 22, 2024  (Dates available on request, with flexible arrival and departure days)

Pricing

2024
3 nights / 3 days riding, sharing
£675 $855 €790
2024
7 nights/6 days riding; Sharing
£1470 $1860 €1720
2024
4 nights/4 days riding; Sharing
£880 $1110 €1030
Included Accommodation based on double/twin accommodation, full board meals, a drink with dinners, tea and coffee with breakfast, daily riding with an experienced guide and transfers between your accommodation and the stables each day.
Not included Flights, personal travel insurance, airport transfers, other drinks, tips and personal expenses.

Extras

2024 - Additional Night, Full Board & Morning Departure £78 $98 €91
Paid to Far and Ride
Includes dinner & breakfast in the morning.
2024 - Granada Airport Transfer €60
Paid locally
Each way, for a car up to 4 persons
2024 - Malaga Airport Transfer €120
Paid locally
Each way, for car up to 4 persons.
2024 - Single Supplement £25 $32 €29 per night
Paid to Far and Ride
Single accommodation not always available
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.