Geres Wolf and Wild Horse Trails, Portugal

Overview

• Food & Accommodation

• Activities

• Travel Information

• Further Details

• Photo Gallery

• Printable Version

• Check Availability

Programmes

• Geres Wolf and Wild Horse Programme

• Riding Clinic

• Yoga and Riding Retreat

Reviews

“Three afternoons and one full day of excellent riding on the most willing, well-trained, brave and sure-footed horses I think I've come across (and I've done a round up in Iceland and ridden up/down Mount Bogong in Australia!). Pedro was a fountain of knowledge - a fascinating guy! The house I shared was warm, clean and very modern. Anabela supplied all we needed for a good, healthy breakfast and the evening meals we ate at the local restaurant were tasty and excellent value for money. The horses were well-schooled and brave, perfect for the job they were doing. The tack was clean and sounds and the saddles very comfortable. Pedro looked after us - and his horses - well. He was very knowledgeable about the wildlife. What more can you ask? ”

Jean M.

“We had a great time. Pedro was an inspiring character and very patient. We would definitely do a trip with you again. ”

John

“Accommodation was fab, food was excellent! Horses beautiful, well suited to riders, well looked after. Tack clean and well-fitted. Guides were outstanding. (Favourite memory?) Riding back up from the plateau, stopping and looking over the fantastic views of wild ponies on a fantastic horse and with "like minded" people! ”

Penny M.

“My mother and I both enjoyed our time so much. The holiday was a good balance of riding and learning about the area. A visit to the Roman baths was also very special, as was time spent with the other guests during the week. My favourite memory is of the Garrano horses I rode, how sure-footed and willing to show me the country they were. ”

Michelle G.

“We enjoyed the trip very much. The horses were lovely and very well behaved. It was nice because we were the only two people there that week as well and so things could be tailored to our different levels of ability. Pedro was very interesting and we learnt a lot about the area and the horses.”

Helen T.

“Enjoyable, relaxing, friendly and beautiful scenery. ”

Helen C.

“I absolutely loved it. Really can't recommend it highly enough. The horses were excellent, Pedro is a wonderful guide who really knows what he's doing and is very entertaining to be around, and the landscape is simply gorgeous. Really had a great, relaxing time and learned a lot too. ”

Nicole K.

“The views were magnificent and we were well looked after. We liked Pedro's ethos about his animals (who always come first) and of course the safety of his clients. The horses were great and Pedro made a good job of matching our personalities and ability to the horses. The accommodation was fantastic and warm - well located in the centre of the village. Cannot recommend the holiday enough as between them they are a great team offering a unique holiday. They are very good at looking after their clients. Thanks again for all your help, we had a great time. ”

Caron B.

“Three afternoons and one full day of excellent riding on the most willing, well-trained, brave and sure-footed horses I think I've come across (and I've done a round up in Iceland and ridden up/down Mount Bogong in Australia!). Pedro was a fountain of knowledge - a fascinating guy! The house I shared was warm, clean and very modern. Anabela supplied all we needed for a good, healthy breakfast and the evening meals we ate at the local restaurant were tasty and excellent value for money. The horses were well-schooled and brave, perfect for the job they were doing. The tack was clean and sound and the saddles very comfortable. Pedro looked after us - and his horses - well. He was very knowledgeable about the wildlife. What more can you ask? ”

Jean M.

“A great holiday, fantastic scenery, friendly people and excellent, responsive horses of very good quality with comfortable, well-fitting tack. Pedro is an extremely experience horseman with a great love for the environment. ”

Frances & Winifred P.

“It was so nice to escape the hustle and bustle of city life to the most untouched wilderness of Peneda Geres National Park. Pedro and Anabel are excellent hosts and their guesthouse is lovely, it's quiet and away from everything. This trip was a perfect way to unwind - riding in the wilderness by day and relaxing in the guesthouse in the evening... Pedro is an excellent guide. He is extremely knowledgable about both the national park and horsemanship... The horses are part of Pedro's family, so they are very well cared for. They are well trained and each has its own quirky personality, which Pedro matches to his riders... I can't fault this holiday - only that I could have stayed longer!”

Kelly W.

“After our second day riding in the mountains, we have concluded that Pedro, our host, is perhaps the wisest, most interesting man we have ever met. Pedro originally worked as a photojournalist until he pursued his passion for nature conservation and horses in the mountains of one of the most ecologically balanced and protected natural parks in the world. He now owns a large portion of land within Peneda Geres; a region full of wildlife, wildflowers, rivers, and seemingly endless mountains and valleys. Pedro is also famous for his conservation efforts and documentary of the Iberian wolf, as well as his conservation and love for the native Portuguese wild horse, known as the Garrano. Pedro understands the role of each and every organism in the park, as is demonstrated by the way he runs his beautiful ranch. His pack of dogs guide his brave horses through the mountains during our ride and to their lovely pastures at the end of the day, where they are free to roam and graze. He truly understands the spirit of the horse, and it is easy to see that his animals are well looked after, healthy, and happy. Pedro has been showing us little by little how to trust in nature, and how in doing so we can find peace, harmony and joy.”

Natalie E. (2016)

“Very Interesting. Pedro is a very good host, the scenery is beautiful and fascinating. The horses very well cared for and suitable for the task. I was lucky enough to ride a very good Lusitano stallion for the whole trip. But I wouldn't have minded riding any of Pedro's horses. (Favourite memory?) Meeting the very inquisitive herd of wild Garrano ponies.”

Carey C.

“The Holiday was fabulous. Beautiful country, amazing scenery, everyone we met was so kind. (Guide?) Truly cannot say enough positive thoughts. Very impressed with the level of care and commitment to the horses as they should be first. Attentive to all questions and safety of the riders was a prime importance. Also was very concerned that we enjoyed all aspects of the ride. The tour was beautiful and varied. (Accommodation?) Very quaint and comfortable; really added to the ambience of the entire trip; food was outstanding; felt much effort was put into it; made me feel quite welcome. (Favourite memory?) It�s difficult to sum it up. Everything was a memory, from the wonderful hosts to the relationship with the horses and the gorgeous views. ”

Debbie R (Eagle Eye Trail, Aug 2018)

“Relaxing, perfectly paced, exceptional scenery and wild horses!! Very happy with the horses and equipment, in particular how the horses' comfort was important as well as the riders'. We had fly spray, brushing boots etc... Pedro was so kind and knowledgeable. I wish he had shared and talked a little more. The accommodations were clean, modern and well appointed. (Favourite memory?) Riding near to the wild horses and observing their behaviour. Also loved the pilates and massages!”

Leslie B. (Eagle Eye Trail, Aug 2018)

“Great location, super -comfy guesthouse, spectacular views, lovely and responsive horses and ponies who are well-cared for, kind, knowledgeable and very personal hosts, good food (Anabella is a very gifted cook) good weather and as a bonus a lovely group of co-riders!”

Eva S

“A very laid back riding holiday with fairly short riding days in a beautiful and remote corner of Portugal. a chance to get away from the tourists and be at one with nature and clean mountain air.”

Zoe

Horses

Type of horses:

Lusitanos and Garranos (both Portuguese breeds).

Nature of horses:

Fit, healthy and happy.

Height of horses:

13.2 - 16.2hh (the Garranos are at the smaller end and the Lusitanos at the bigger end).

Weight limit:

90kg / 198lbs

Tack type:

English.

Travel Advice

Please ensure you read the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) advice before you travel.

Ride Description

Geres Wolf and Wild Horse Trails Photos

Close to the northern border between Portugal and Spain lies the Peneda-Geres National Park, a region of varied habitats which range from the high granite mountain landscapes to dense oak forests. Not only is this a beautiful, natural landscape but it is also the territory of a large predator, the magical Iberian Wolf, a species which the hosts here have studied closely for several years. In your exploration of this peaceful region you will explore the signs of the wolves' passage, visit fojos (ancient stone traps to catch the wolf) and will talk about the history and legends surrounding the species. You may be treated to one of the most enchanting sounds in nature - the howl of the wolf.

In addition to the wolf, the wild Garrano horse also roams this area freely. The rides often pass herds of these horses which is a wonderful sight to behold. Some of the riding horses used are also from the Garrano breed (the others used being Lusitanos, another Portuguese breed). The riding takes you through the oak woods and groves of birch, natural shelter for roe deer and wild boar, as well as patches of chestnut and holly trees which are inhabited by squirrels. Jays and orioles rest along the cliffs where you might also catch a glimpse of an eagle and some rare species of crow.

These riding holidays are designed for true nature enthusiasts who wish to enjoy the calm, contemplate the natural jewels of the Iberian peninsula and observe the landscapes in the company of a good horse. The landscapes feature the natural pools of the Laboreiro river, hot water thermal baths, ancient paths and of course one of the main peaks in the park, the Peneda Mountain. Guests stay in a beautiful guesthouse, ideally located in a wonderfully peaceful spot. The stables are a very simple affair but ideally located for easy access to a range of beautiful trails in the mountains. The horses are definitely the stars of the show, beautifully schooled and well loved. You should be prepared to meet many dogs at the stables too!

Your hosts here are both journalists with a passion for the environment and nature conservation. In 1999 they decided to broaden their horizons and began a long-term project to study a family of Iberian Wolves, eventually producing a documentary on the species for Portuguese television. They provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere and look forward to sharing their passion for this magnificent region with their guests.

Holly from Far and Ride visited this destination in 2017 and would love to tell you more about it!

See Programmes.

Food & Accommodation

Accommodation is provided in a private country guesthouse in the valley just below the historic village of Castro Laboreiro, surrounded by beautiful countryside. Built in the early 20th century and recently restored, the house maintains many of its original features. The house is also equipped with all the modern comforts required for a pleasant stay, such as central heating, wood burning fireplace, Wi-Fi, cable television and a fully equipped kitchen.

These holidays include full board, primarily with typical Portuguese cuisine. Guests receive a breakfast basket which has bread, croissants, ham, cheese, jams, biscuits, yoghurt, granola and fruit. There is also milk and juice and tea and coffee are readily available in the house kitchen.

Lunches are either a picnic eaten in the mountains or are served in a local restaurant. Dinners are served in your guesthouse with everybody eating together.

Your hosts try to use a lot of local produce and make their own jams and honey as well as growing some of their own vegetables. Vegetarian, vegan, lactose-free and gluten-free diets are easily accommodated for with prior notice.

Snacks and additional drinks (including wine) are available via an honesty bar system.

Activities

Walking, cycling and swimming can all be arranged. A therapist is also available on hand and can offer meditation sessions, pilates, different kinds of massages and workshops for 'facial rejuvenation'.

Further Details

Languages: Portuguese, English.

Health requirements: No special requirements but fit and in good general health is recommended.

Age limit: None within reason.

Tuition: Yes, on the riding clinic.

Included: Porto airport transfers, accommodation, meals, riding and activies/excursions as detailed in the itineraries.

Not included: Flights, travel insurance, tips, extra drinks or snacks, transfers from the city.

Travel Information

Porto airport transfers are included in the package prices (approx 2 - 3 hours each way). It is recommended that you try to land in Porto by 3pm on arrival day. On departure day, it is best to book a flight departing after midday.

Transport is only provided from and to the airport (not the main city).

Airport: Porto

Programmes

Geres Wolf and Wild Horse Programme

This ride is ideal for those who love nature and the environment but who can still appreciate a well-schooled horse. You ride in the mountains, exploring the territory of the Iberian Wolf and Garrano Horse who live wild here, before returning to the peaceful guesthouse each evening. This is a beautiful part of Portugal and your hosts, Pedro and Anabela, are extremely knowledgeable about the region and the habitats of the wildlife here as they have been studying them for a long time. You will ride a native horse of either the Lusitano or Garrano breed. There is the opportunity for dips in the natural pools of the Laboreiro river or hot water thermal baths and there are ancient paths of great beauty and ecological value that will lead you to discover the little treasures of the Peneda mountains. The itinerary can be adapted in accordance with weather or other local conditions but this particular programme is generally a mix of half day and full day rides. It is possible to have additional riding, riding lessons or hoof-trimming lessons (extra cost, payable locally) in place of the non-riding excursions. The following example itinerary is not exhaustive. A meditation class and a yoga class will also be included during the week. Day by day itinerary: Day 1 (Saturday): Transfer from Porto airport to the village of Castro Laboreiro. A welcome dinner is served in the country house. Day 2 (Sunday): Today you will meet the horses and one will be allocated to you before your first ride on the beautiful paths of the Peneda Mountain. Lunch today is in a local restaurant, followed by a visit to the National Park's reception centre to learn more about the region and it's wonderful biodiversity. There will be a sunset ride this evening with the aim of tracking a wild Garrano Horse herd! Dinner and overnight in the house. Day 3 (Monday): Today you will ride for the border in the east of Portugal, looking for the Garrano horses and the amazing megalithic monuments there - these represent the largest megalithic necropolis in the Iberian Peninsula. Lunch today is a picnic eaten in the mountains. The ride continues with the possibility of some long canters. Dinner and overnight in the house. Day 4 (Tuesday): This morning's ride offers some gallops in the mountains and is followed by lunch in a local restaurant. This afternoon you will visit the old part of the historical village of Melga�o with its castle and old churches. You will stop at a centre for Alvarinho wine where you can sample this fresh, local white wine which has a richness of extreme rarity. This is a typical Portuguese wine, one of the most important varieties in the Tart Wine Region and also internationally prized, truly a wine of top quality. Dinner and overnight in the house. Day 5 (Wednesday): Today you leave behind the top of the mountain and will ride in the hills of the Monteiro area in the direction of the winter valley. The dramatic landscape with granite rocks will mark this day of incredible sightseeing. You will ride across beautiful old hamlets full of history and traditions before a picnic lunch in the mountains. On the ride home you will follow ancient transhumance trails (seasonal movement of livestock) and these were also used as a connection to Spain in old times. Dinner and overnight in the house. Day 6 (Thursday): During the morning you will visit the medieval castle of Castro Laboreiro and the Peneda Pilgrimage Sanctuary and village. This enormous, beautiful sanctuary lies in the middle of the mountain and was built during the 18th century. Lunch today will be by the Laboreiro River, near to a natural pool with an extraordinary Roman bridge. It's possible to swim here in the pool too. This is followed by an afternoon ride. Dinner and overnight in the house. Day 7 (Friday): This last ride takes you towards the fabulous Valley of the Wolves, one of the most beautiful valleys of the mountain. Full of biodiversity, the area is rich in rare sightings of wild animals. Last but no less important, you can spot the best Garrano herds of all the region here in the valley. Picnic lunch in the mountains. Farewell dinner and overnight in the house. Day 8 (Saturday): Transfer to Porto airport.
Minimum group size:	2
Maximum group size:	5
Ability description:	Intermediate and above. The ride is generally based around riders' ability to ride at all paces but please contact us if unsure. Good fitness is recommended as there are some long hours and you should be willing to dismount and walk and lead your horse on occasion.
Type of ride:	Based stay.
Total riding time:	As per itinerary (riding on 6 days if staying 7 nights, or 3 days if staying 4 nights).
Departure dates:	2020: Saturday to Saturday from 4th April - 28th November. 2021: Saturday to Saturday from 3rd April - 27th November. If you choose to do the 5-day tour then it is simply the first 5 days of the 8 day tour.

Pricing:	2020 and 2021: 8 Days (6 Days Riding): �1432 per person. Single Supplement: �160* INCLUDED: Porto airport transfers, 7 nights of shared room accommodation, all meals from dinner on arrival day to breakfast on departure day, riding as per the itinerary, a meditation class and a yoga class. The 'Butterfly Room' is available without payment of a single supplement on a first come, first served basis. 5 Days (3 Days Riding): �1049 per person. Single Supplement: �91 INCLUDED: Porto airport transfers, 4 nights of shared room accommodation, all meals from dinner on arrival day to breakfast on departure day, riding as per the itinerary and a yoga class. *The 'Butterfly Room' is available without payment of a single supplement on a first come, first served basis. 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.

Riding Clinic

This is a seven-night beginners programme for those who want to learn quickly but with sensitivity. Your host, Pedro, is an experienced horseman who loves to teach people the joys of riding in a fun, fast and secure way. A wonderful introduction to the world of horses as well as a chance to explore this beautiful area! Guest will learn correct riding principles through a mixture of classic tuition, learning about horse behaviour, observing wild horses and enjoying relaxing rides amongst the nature of the Peneda-Geres National Park. This is very different to the strict methods used on some beginner courses - Pedro aims to introduce you to the lovely world of horses with careful and thoughtful steps. Pedro was born in the Lusitano horse region in 1966 and entered the horse world at the age of three, encouraged by his father. He learned to ride from Portuguese riding masters and so his riding ability flourished as he and his horses grew up. As a horse lover Pedro wanted to see horses treated with respect and so he always tried to change the traditional methods which were often aggressive, causing the horses to become stressed. Pedro teaches his guests to ride with consideration, mixing the old knowledge of riding alongside the observation and handling of horses to learn respect for the animal. In 2004 he and his wife, Anabela, created their horse riding company which keeps ten horses primarily for riding into the Peneda Mountains. Pedro says: "In the last ten years I needed to find the best way of teaching my guests who, sometimes despite not knowing anything about riding or horses, wanted to explore the region on horseback. My primary goal has always been to take them out on the trails feeling happy and secure and with this in mind, I created a teaching method that allows everyone to learn how to ride (on a basic level) in a fun, fast and secure way. In the last years, I have taught hundreds of riders and all of them left with the horse spirit forever in their hearts, returning every year to ride in the mountains." In the colder months, Pedro will have the use of an indoor arena for teaching purposes. Itinerary Day 1: Transfer from the airport with the evening to settle into your accommodation and find a nice place in town for dinner. Day 2: Morning - learning how the horses think and how you should behave around them (body language) to ensure safety. Viewing the horses as companions instead of slaves! You will start to learn about handling horses from the ground and about the tack (saddles and bridles) and how all the equipment works *Afternoon* - your first riding experience. You will learn the importance of balance, body position and your hands, as well as how to use your legs and hands to drive the horses. Day 3: Today you will ride outside at a walk to practice your learning from the first day and to become more comfortable in the saddle. Day 4: *Morning* - you will start learning to trot. *Afternoon* - a trail (at walk) to find and observe the behaviour of wild horses. Day 5: Riding outside at walk and trot to practice what you have learnt so far. Day 6: *Morning* - learning to canter. *Afternoon* - a free afternoon which can be spent in a hot Roman bath to relax and ease any sore muscles. Day 7: A trail ride to the 'Wolf Valley' to practice and enjoy all the knowledge you have gained during the riding clinic. Day 8: Transfer to the airport for departure.
Minimum group size:	1
Maximum group size:	5
Ability description:	This programme is for beginners and novice riders who would like to improve their riding and horse management.
Type of ride:	A based stay with tuition and rides out for beginners or novice riders.
Total riding time:	6 days as per itinerary.
Departure dates:	2020: Saturday to Saturday from 4th April - 28th November. 2021: Saturday to Saturday from 3rd April - 27th November.

Pricing:	2020 and 2021: 8 Days (6 Days Riding): �1432 per person. Single Supplement: �160* INCLUDED: Porto airport transfers, 7 nights of shared room accommodation, all meals from dinner on arrival day to breakfast on departure day, riding as per the itinerary, a meditation class and a yoga class. The 'Butterfly Room' is available without payment of a single supplement on a first come, first served basis. 5 Days (3 Days Riding): �1049 per person. Single Supplement: �91 INCLUDED: Porto airport transfers, 4 nights of shared room accommodation, all meals from dinner on arrival day to breakfast on departure day, riding as per the itinerary and a yoga class. *The 'Butterfly Room' is available without payment of a single supplement on a first come, first served basis. 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.

Yoga and Riding Retreat

This retreat comprises riding, yoga, meditation, walking and healthy meals for a peaceful, restorative week. This is a chance to strengthen your partnership with horses and reconnect with nature. The retreat takes place in the heart of the Peneda-Geres National Park, the ideal setting in which to find tranquility and to focus your body and mind. There are two yoga classes each day. In the morning there is yoga to improve your riding, focusing on building core strength, balance and flexibility. Late in the afternoons there is yoga to relax and restore - this focuses on areas of stiffness or weakness and on building balance and self-carriage as well as feeling centred. Day to Day Itinerary *Day 1 - Saturday:* Transfer from the airport to the village of Castro Laboreiro. Welcome dinner in the guesthouse. *Day 2 - Sunday:* 07:45: Optional pranayama (breathing exercises) and meditation. 08:15: Yoga to awaken the body and improve your riding. 09:00: Breakfast. 10:15: Yoga with horses, focusing on building trust between the horse and the rider. This includes pranayama exercises to achieve union with the horses as well as horseback yoga. 13:00: Picnic lunch. 14:15: Visit to the reception centre of the national park to better understand the region and biodiversity of the area. 17:00: Yoga class. 18:15: Free time. 20:00 Dinner in the guesthouse. *Days 3 & 4 - Monday and Tuesday:* 07:45: Optional pranayama (breathing exercises) and meditation. 08:15: Yoga to awaken the body and improve your riding. 09:00: Breakfast. 10:15: Yoga with horses, focusing on building trust between the horse and the rider. This includes pranayama exercises to achieve union with the horses as well as horseback yoga. 13:00: Picnic lunch. 14:15: Afternoon ride. 17:00: Yoga class. 18:15: Free time. 20:00 Dinner in the guesthouse. *Day 5 - Wednesday:* 07:45: Optional pranayama (breathing exercises) and meditation. 08:15: Yoga to awaken the body and improve your riding. 09:00: Breakfast. 10:15: Nature walk with meditation. 13:00: Picnic lunch by the river. 14:15: Free afternoon. 17:00: Yoga class. 18:15: Free time. 20:00 Dinner in the guesthouse. *Day 6 - Thursday:* 07:45: Optional pranayama (breathing exercises) and meditation. 08:15: Yoga to awaken the body and improve your riding. 09:00: Breakfast. 10:15: Yoga with horses, focusing on building trust between the horse and the rider. This includes pranayama exercises to achieve union with the horses as well as horseback yoga. 13:00: Picnic lunch. 14:15: Afternoon ride for tracking and following a wild Garrano Horse herd. 17:00: Yoga class. 18:15: Free time. 20:00 Dinner in the guesthouse. *Day 7 - Friday:* 08:15: Optional pranayama (breathing exercises) and meditation. 09:00: Breakfast. 10:15: Ride towards the fabulous Valley of the Wolves. This last ride of the week takes you in the direction of one of the most beautiful valleys of the mountain - full of biodiversity, the area brings the chance of rare sightings of wild animals. Here you can also spot the best wild herds of Garranos Horses in the region. Lunch is eaten on the mountain. 17:30: Restorative yoga class. 18:30: Free time. 20:00 Dinner in the guesthouse. *Day 8 - Saturday:* Transfer to the airport after breakfast.
Minimum group size:	2
Maximum group size:	5
Ability description:	Intermediate and above. The ride is generally based around riders' ability to ride at all paces but please contact us if unsure. You should be willing to dismount and walk and lead your horse on occasion.
Type of ride:	Based stay.
Total riding time:	2 afternoon rides, 1 day ride and several sessions of yoga with horses.
Departure dates:	2020: Saturday to Saturday from 4th April - 28th November. 2021: Saturday to Saturday from 3rd April - 27th November.

Pricing:	2020 and 2021: 8 Days (6 Days Riding): �1432 per person. Single Supplement: �160* INCLUDED: Porto airport transfers, 7 nights of shared room accommodation, all meals from dinner on arrival day to breakfast on departure day, activities as per the itinerary (riding, yoga and meditation). *The 'Butterfly Room' is available without payment of a single supplement on a first come, first served basis. 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.