Ask a Question

Check Availability

Sierra Nevada Trails

Overview

These rides are based in the Sierra Nevada national park, which is home to some of the most impressive terrain in Andalucia. With landscapes ranging from high mountains to deep river valleys and gorges and out to the stark wilderness of desert and farmland beyond, you will experience a land almost …

Highlights

  • Ride with experienced local guides
  • Comfortable hotel accommodation of 3* & 4* level
  • Ride in breathtaking mountains in the Sierra Nevada
  • Delicious Andalucian cuisine served for each meal
  • Amazing and unique rural setting

Essential Facts

  • 2 itineraries available
  • Max 8 riders per group
  • Average of 4 - 5 hours riding per day
  • Weight limit: 90 kg / 198 lbs / 14 stone 2 lbs

Description

These rides are based in the Sierra Nevada national park, which is home to some of the most impressive terrain in Andalucia. With landscapes ranging from high mountains to deep river valleys and gorges and out to the stark wilderness of desert and farmland beyond, you will experience a land almost designed for discovery and adventure. These impenetrable mountainous barriers have for centuries played major roles in the historic battles and conquests of these lands; abetting and impeding military advances in equal measure

Offering absolutely amazing riding opportunities, guests can enjoy an exciting, diverse and unforgettable experience here. Your guide Antonio is a skilled horseman whilst remaining a kind, caring and attentive host. His love of his horses and nature is evident in the holidays that he leads. Come and immerse yourself in Spanish culture, ride a beautiful Spanish horse and most importantly, enjoy yourself.

The Sierra mountain ranges of Andalucia are of volcanic origin and offer some wonderful climates for riding in, with dry, arid summers turning into cold snowy winters. The extremes of weather and temperature have really helped to shape this region, including its cuisine. For example, the Jáen region surrounding the Sierra Cazorla is well known as one of the best olive growing areas in Southern Spain, producing fruit for the vast majority of Spanish olive oil.

Horses & Riding

Tack

Trekking and English style saddles, saddles bags provided.

Horses

The horses are Spanish, Hispano-Arab and pure Arabian. They live out in herds all year round and have been chosen for their great characters and strength, as well as being sure-footed, brave, respectful and sensitive mounts. The horses are trained using natural horsemanship techniques and most live their full lives with the team.

Riding

There are 2 itineraries:

  • Sierra Nevada Trail is a trail ride
  • Star Trails - Sierra Nevada is a based ride

Ages

14+ years for the trails.

Health

Riders should be comfortable at walk, trot and canter and able to ride for long hours each day. The terrain is mountainous so a good head for heights is essential.

Weight

90 kg / 198 lbs / 14 stone 2 lbs

Food & Accommodation

Food

All food along this trail will be influenced by the fabulous region you are riding in. Even lunches will be cooked in the traditional Andalucian style - no packed lunch sandwiches here! - with dishes centred around pork, fish and vegetables. You will be able to sample the flavours and delicacies of Andalucia, with warming, hearty meals designed to tantalise your interests and satisfy your hunger. The wines of this Spanish region are also fantastic and those who wish will be able to sample and enjoy the local offerings.

Vegetarian and speciality diets can certainly be catered for with prior warning.

Accommodation

Accommodations for these trails will be in a range of traditional Moorish and Andalucian hotels and guesthouses. All have been selected for their character, comfort and suitability in regards to the trail. These can range from charming rural guesthouses to 4* hotels.

Itineraries

Sierra Nevada Trail Standard accommodation.

Star Trails - Sierra Nevada Standard accommodation.

Other Activities

The natural parks of Andalucia are the perfect location for any adventure holiday, with trails suited to mountain biking, hiking, kayaking and all manner of thrill seeking activities. A great way to discover the beautiful and dramatic outdoors!

For those wishing to take things a little slower, these reserves are also wonderful places to spot a great number of diverse and interesting wildlife, including 36 species of mammal, 125 separate bird species, as well as many amphibians, reptiles and fish. Really, there is something here for everyone.

Andalucia is also a great food region of Spain, with influences from Mediterranean as well as middle eastern dishes. The ancient regional capital of Granada is also worth taking some time to visit, with its ancient hilltop fortifications and stunning views to the snow topped mountains beyond.

Travel

A set time group transfer is included in the cost of the trips and arranged from Granada airport at 19h00 on the day of arrival. It is approx. 2.5 hours to the Hotel. Departure from the hotel will drop you off at the airport at 11.00.

Please let us know if you require a private transfer.

Testimonials

Madeleine A., Oct. 11, 2016

We had an enjoyable week with charming hosts and an interesting group of international co-riders. (Favourite memory?) Visiting the valley known as "the End of the World". The scenery is amazing.


James H., May 19, 2016

To be able to personally develop within a week from a trot, to hold my own while galloping alongside seasoned Spanish riders was a feat only made achievable thanks to the joyful & resolute nature of trainer/owner Manolo Ruiz and his delightful family.


Itinerary & Pricing

Day 1

Riding: No riding.

You will arrive at Cogolles de Guadix at the Reina Axa hotel where you will meet everyone at the end of the afternoon. After a short briefing by the team, you will all enjoy a select variety of local tapas.
.

Day 2 - Lugros-Sandero de los Pastores-La Pantaneta

Riding: 5 - 6 hours

After a good breakfast, you will make your way by car to the Cabacci farm to meet the horses (15 minutes drive). On this first day you will become familiar with your horse, You will ride along an easy trail with wonderful views of the highlands (1200 metres above sea level). You will ride the 'shepherds path' that runs through thick pine forests. The dense forest, the silence and tranquility allows you to immerse yourself in the almost magical nature of the surroundings.

You will arrive at La Pantaneta, a small lake surrounded by mountains that were formed due to the melting waters of the Sierra Nevada. Here you will enjoy a traditional picnic. If you are brave you can bathe in the cool water. In the afternoon you will return to the Reina Aixa Hotel to have a delicious dinner and rest.

Day 3 - Lugros-Camarate-Jerez del Marquesado

Riding: 5 - 6 hours

The easy paths on the mountains have made it possible for locals to lead their cows and bulls to the green high mountain meadows know as El Camarate and this is where you will ride today.. It is a very special place with large meadows and Atlantic trees. It is known as the 'enchanted forest' - where you think dwarves and fairies must live. You ride to an altitude of 2000 metres and around noon you will enjoy a picnic lunch that you have packed in your saddle bags. Then you will descend to the small town of Jerez del Marquesado where you will spend the night.

Day 4 - Jerez del Marquesado-Plane Path

Riding: 5 - 6 hours

You will cross the white streets of Jerez del Marquesado to head to Picón, one of the hightest mountains in the Sierra Nevada (3090 m). You will continue to ride at an altitude of 2000m and will find small streams and waterfalls where the water descends from the mountains which are covered in perpetual snow. You will follow the same path as a group of young people from Jerez who in 1960 travelled to rescue American soldiers who had crashed their plane on the peaks of Picón. You will enjoy a picnic next to the "La Tizná' stream.

Day 5 - Jerez del Marquesado-Alquife Mines-La Calahorra

Riding: 5 - 6 hours

Today you will head East crossing the immense plain known as the Altiplano de Sierra Nevada where you will have possibly the best, longest and most relaxed canters of the week as its wide clay paths make it very comfortable for the horses. In the middle of the plateau you will find a red mountain that surrounds the Alquife iron mines which have been in operation since the Bronze Age. You will enjoy a picnic next to the La Rosandrá stream and you will head to La Calahorra where you visit the last medieval castle build in Spain before the Renaissance. You will spend the night in La Calahorra at the Hospedería del Zenete, a beautiful 4 star hotel.

Day 6 - La Calahora-Zalabí Valley-Lugros

Riding: 5 - 6 hours

Today you will descend from the altiplano (1200m) towards the the Zalabí Valley riding through a green landscape, surrounded by cultivated fields. In another time in history (Andalusí), these fields were used to grow mulberry trees to feed the worms needed for the manufacture of silk. The silk was specifically used to dress the Muslim Sultans who inhabited Andalusia. You will enjoy your picnic at La Tehea, a natural water source of Arab origin that emerges directly from the ground. Your day will end with a move to Guadix (15 minutes) where you will enjoy the delicious local cuisine and wines at the Hotel Palacio de Oñate, our base for the final two nights of the trail.

Day 7 - Lugros-End of the World-Lugros

Riding: 5 - 6 hours

After breakfast, you will head to the farm where the horses are waiting for you. On the last day of your trail you are going to visit, what is, without a doubt, one of the most spectacular areas in the Sierra Nevada - "El Fin del Mundo". This valley of red clay, similar to the Grand Canyon was formed in the Quaternary by the melting waters of the Sierra Nevada and houses in its walls, the largest inhabited nucleus of caves in the world. Over 4000 people still live in the caves!

You will enjoy your last picnic in the Marchal, surrounded by this spectacular landscape. You will return in the afternoon to the farm in Lugros where you will say goodbye to your horse and return by car to Guadix. In this monumental city you will visit the neighbourhood of the caves and have dinner in the evening with the option of going to an authentic flamenco show.

Day 8 - Transfer

Riding: No riding.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Granada airport for your departure.

Accommodation

Accommodation will be provided in a range of traditional Moorish and Andalucian hotels and guesthouses

Experience Intermediate / Experienced

Intermediate and above. All riders must be physically fit and happy at walk, trot and canter.

Minimum group size 4
Maximum group size 8
Departure windows

May 1, 2024 - May 8, 2024

May 25, 2024 - June 1, 2024

June 30, 2024 - July 7, 2024

Aug. 25, 2024 - Sept. 1, 2024

Pricing

2024
Sharing
£1360 $1715 €1595
Included 7 nights accommodation in shared rooms, all meals served with water and one drink (beer or wine), 6 days riding as per itinerary, luggage transport between overnight stops and set-time Almeria airport or bus station transfers.
Not included Flights, personal travel insurance, additional drinks, tips and personal expenses.

Extras

2024 - Single Supplement £30 $38 €35 per night
Paid to Far and Ride
Cost is per night and payable by anyone requiring a single room unless a room share is found.
2024 - Single Supplement - July & August £43 $54 €50 per night
Paid to Far and Ride
Single supplement payable by anyone in a single room in July and August.
2024 - Small Group Supplement (2 riders) £235 $300 €280
Paid to Far and Ride
Supplement payable to confirm any date for a minimum of 2 riders. *Will be removed, adjusted or refunded once more riders book.
2024 - Small Group Supplement (3 riders) £128 $162 €150
Paid to Far and Ride
Supplement payable to confirm any date for a minimum of 3 riders. *Will be removed or refunded once more riders book.
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 - Sunday

Riding: No riding.

Today this is arrival day and you will transfer to Cogollos de Guadix at the hotel Palacio de Oñate (****) where you will meet your guides at the end of the afternoon.

Day 2 - Monday

Riding: 3 - 4 hours

After a good breakfast, you will be taken by car to the Cabacci farm in Sierra Nevada (15 minutes) to get to know your horses. On this first day you will ride along an easy trail with wonderful view of the highlands (1200m above sea level). You will take the "Shepherds Path" (El Sendero de los pastores) that runs through the thick pine forests. The silent and tranquil environment of the dense forest leads you to believe it is a magical place.

You arrive at "La Pantaneta", a small lake surrounded by mountains that was formed by the melting of the Sierra Nevada frosts.
Then you descend to Lugros and drive back to the hotel in Guadix.

Day 3 - Tuesday

Riding: 3 - 4 hours

After a good breakfast, you will be driven by car to the Cabacci facilities in Sierra Nevada (15 minutes). The gentleness of these mountains with easy paths for the movement of cattle allowed the inhabitants of this region to drive their cows and their “toros bravos” to the green high mountain meadows, known as “El Camarate”. It is a special place that mixes vast meadows with trees of Atlantic origin. It is known as “the enchanted forest”, since it seems that you can feel the presence of gnomes or fairies! Then you will ride back to Lugros and be driven back to the hotel in Guadix.

Day 4 - Wednesday

Riding: 3 - 4 hours

After a good breakfast, you will be taken by car to the Cabacci stables in Sierra Nevada where your horse will be waiting for you. You will cross the white streets of Jerez del Marquesado to head towards the Picón, one of the highest mountains in Sierra Nevada (3090m) although you will remain at 2000m above sea level. You will find small streams and waterfalls that come from the from the perpetual snow melting on the mountains. You will take the same paths that the miners of Santa Constanza have taken for many years. Then you will descend to Lugros and drive back to the hotel in Guadix.

Day 5 - Thursday

Riding: 3 - 4 hours

After a good breakfast, you return to the Cabacci stables in Sierra Nevada where your horse is waiting for you. You descend from the plateau (1200m) towards the Zalabí valley, crossing a green landscape, surrounded by cultivated fields. In another era (Andalousí), they were occupied by mulberry trees that were used to feed the silkworms needed to make silk for the robes of the Muslim Sultans who inhabited Andalucia. Then you descend to Lugros and head to Guadix (15 minutes ) back to the hotel.

Day 6 - Friday

Riding: 3 - 4 hours

After breakfast you will go to the Cabacci stables in Sierra Nevada where your horse is waiting for you. On this last day of the itinerary, you are going to visit, without a doubt, one of the most spectacular space in Sierra Nevada - the 'End of the World'. This valley of red clay, similar to the Grand Canyon was formed in the Quaternary by the melting waters of the Sierra Nevada and sheltered in its walls are the largest concentration of inhabited caves in the world. More than 4000 people still live there. You will return to the facilities of Cabacci in Lugros where you will say goodbye to the horses and head to Guadix by car.

Day 7 - Saturday

Riding: No riding.

After breakfast you will transfer back to the airport.

Accommodation

Accommodation is in the centre of Guadix in a 4-star Hotel Palacio de Oñate. If this hotel is unavailable, then a hotel of a similar standard will be included.

Experience Intermediate / Experienced

Riders should be comfortable over mountainous terrain and in walk, trot and canter.

Minimum group size 2
Maximum group size 8
Departure windows

Jan. 28, 2024 - Feb. 3, 2024

Feb. 25, 2024 - March 2, 2024

March 10, 2024 - March 16, 2024

July 7, 2024 - July 13, 2024

July 14, 2024 - July 20, 2024

July 28, 2024 - Aug. 3, 2024

Aug. 11, 2024 - Aug. 17, 2024

Aug. 18, 2024 - Aug. 24, 2024

Sept. 29, 2024 - Oct. 5, 2024

Dec. 1, 2024 - Dec. 7, 2024

Pricing

2024
High Season (July & August dates)
£1105 $1395 €1300
2024
Low Season (rest of the year)
£895 $1130 €1050
Included 6 nights accommodation in twin/double rooms in a Guadix hotel with breakfast and 5 days of riding. For 2024, set-time Almeria airport or bus station transfers will be included.
Not included Flights, personal travel insurance, transfers, additional drinks, tips and personal expenses.

Extras

2024 - Single Supplement (High Season) £43 $54 €50 per night
Paid to Far and Ride
Applicable to bookings during Easter Week, July, August & New Year. The supplement is payable by anyone booking this ride alone. If you are happy to share, and we can find someone else to share a room with, then no supplement will be charged.
2024 - Single Supplement (Low Season) £30 $38 €35 per night
Paid to Far and Ride
Supplement is payable by anyone booking this ride alone. If you are happy to share, and we can find someone else to share a room with, then no supplement will be charged.
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.