Overview

• Food & Accommodation

• Activities

• Travel Information

• Further Details

• Photo Gallery

• Printable Version

• Check Availability

Programmes

• Regular Dressage Programme

• Intensive Dressage Programme

• Country Riding Programme

• Dressage and Countryside Riding Combination

• Intensive Country Riding Programme

• Short Break

Reviews

“The holiday was very nice, the horses are well behaved and the surroundings are beautiful. The accommodation was also very good, The dinners included in the price are beyond exceptions. (Favourite memory) Hack to a beautiful lake, it was so relaxing. I ride two horses, both very well behaved. I tried the Portuguese saddle one day. I rode with the owner and his son... they were both friendly and helpful. They told me about the place and the nature, it was very interesting. I will probably go back to Monte Velho again!”

“One of the best experiences ever. The staff from management to instructors were exceptional. A challenge for the girls which resulted in real improvement in their dressage riding and personal confidence. Underpinned by a team that are really committed to making the experience a pleasure - I could witter on - but best summarised as "thank you" - so good. ”

“This holiday was beyond our expectations. Our dressage lessons with João Torrão were outstanding, he truly helped us improve our riding. The service was also spotless. Everyone at Monte Velho is friendly and accommodating. Both the accommodation and food are superb! Rooms are spacious, beds are comfortable, the food was all home-cooked and was healthy and gourmet-quality. (Far and Ride) you were very detailed, thorough and helpful with every aspect of the trip. Natalie was lovely to work with!”

“The only word to sum up Monte Vehlo is 'paradise'. This place is true luxury; the perfect place to escape the real world. The instruction is first class, the accommodation was stunning (I stayed in a 'standard' room, but there wasn't anything standard about it) and the food was homely and hearty. The horses were also lovely: polite, well-schooled and responsive. ”

“Amazing facility, so kind and helpful. the horses were wonderful and the quality of the instruction was great. I loved that no matter what level of rider you are everyone gets the same level of attention. I never once felt that I was less interesting than other, better riders. The accommodation was fabulous and the food was great. I particularly loved the outdoor shower!! Especially after a lesson in 38 degrees! The horses were so well trained and kind.It was wonderful to get to ride true schoolmasters. The tack was perfect and very comfortable. All the instructors were fabulous. They were very patient and clear in their instructions and really gave us all individual attention. While I was there, there was a real spread of riding abilities and I think each one of us got very individualised instruction. The ride was very much as described and met all our expectations. My husband was a non-rider but he really enjoyed the location and the facilities. There are lovely walks and lots of wildlife, the pond is nice for canoeing too. I was very impressed with the level of service we received from Far and Ride especially how well you stayed in touch before the holiday.”

“The trip was absolutely wonderful. Great accommodation. Well-trained horses. Great service. The American teacher (Annie) was quite good. Very honest with her feedback, so that we could actually learn something. We reserved Monte Velho already for next October!”

“The holiday was absolutely perfect. Loved the architecture and landscape of the resort. Very friendly staff. Well cared for horses. The rooms are just wonderful. Very modern and clean. The staff made sure to choose the right horses for each guest. It was great to get to try different horses though. Very careful and involved trainers. Liked Rita (trail rides) and Annie (dressage) very much. (Favourite memory?) Early morning rides exploring the estate. Sitting in the beautiful bar/pool area with a cool drink.”

“Excellent - fabulous hotel in a gorgeous setting, riding amazing horses. Very friendly helpful staff. Peaceful tranquil setting - heaven on horseback!! Great food. Room and hotel spotlessly clean, comfortable and welcoming. Horses were well looked after and a pleasure to ride. I rode different horses which added to the experience. All tack was of a high standard. All instructors were extremely friendly, encouraging and patient. Rita who led the trail rides was lovely. (Favourite memory?) Wonderful canter on the last trail ride. Beautifully collected canter in the sunshine in wonderful scenery.”

“We had a really enjoyable time. Food, room and location were exceptional. Very relaxing, we enjoyed walks around the property which was beautiful. Horses in fabulous condition and the instructors were all very good.”

Horses

Type of horses:

Lusitano.

Nature of horses:

Well-schooled, sensible.

Height of horses:

15 - 16.2hh

Weight limit:

90kg / 198lbs

Tack type:

English and dressage saddles.

Travel Advice

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

Ride Description

This family run Lusitano stud farm is located in the beautifully preserved region of Alentejo in Portugal. A traditional farmhouse lies at the heart of the estate and has been carefully restored and extended so as to offer luxurious accommodation to riders. The family hope to share their love of horses with guests who are looking for classical dressage tuition or rides out into the surrounding countryside - all levels of rider can be catered for at this sunny getaway. Free time can be spent in the pool overlooking the magnificent grounds, enjoying the spa facilities, cycling through the countryside or perhaps canoeing on the estate's lake.

The natural landscapes of Alentejo offer delightful riding country and the property itself lies inside an ecological reserve, a haven both for riders and the broodmares and foals roaming the meadows. If you choose to take advantage of the dressage tuition available you will be attended to by an experienced instructor who has competed at a national level. The horses are well schooled Lusitanos, primarily homebred, which are the most famous of the Portuguese breeds and well suited to dressage due to their agile and elevated movement.

In addition to the modern, upscale accommodation and the wonderful riding opportunities the farm also provides typical Portuguese cuisine. Riders choose to stay on either a bed and breakfast or a full board basis and those on the latter receive a bottle of wine each day as an added bonus. This is a holiday destination to suit those looking to experience some of the Portuguese equestrian culture and relax in sumptuous surroundings.

Please note that there is usually no riding on Sundays so that the instructors and horses can rest - your programme may be adjusted to facilitate this.

Cathy from Far and Ride has been lucky enough to ride here and will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

See Programmes.

Food & Accommodation

This beautiful estate offers two different accommodation options:

1) Premium rooms (7) - these modern, sophisticated rooms offer incredible views over the valley. They are 25m2 and including a king-size bed, bathroom, open balcony with outdoor shower, air-conditioning, TV, iPod dock, free wireless and a Nespresso machine. There are three in the main building and four in a new block which appears to float on the hillside.

2) Standard rooms (2) - these standard rooms are located in the original building but have been renovated to offer a modern, minimalistic feel. They are 20m2 with two single beds, bathroom, air-conditioning, TV, iPod dock, Nespresso machine and free wireless.

Extra beds can be added to rooms on request.

There is also a newly built spa with sauna and jacuzzi, and a gym, which are situated close to the swimming pool with great views over the valley.

Stays here including full board. Dinner is a three course meal (starter, main and desert) comprising of typical Alentejo ingredients. Some wine is included with lunch and dinner and tea and coffee is included with all meals. Additional drinks cost extra.

Activities

There are free bikes and canoes available at the property for guests to use. You can use the canoes on the property's own lake. Arraiolos is just 7km away and features an impressive medieval castle as well as many examples of traditional architecture and a variety of restaurants serving local cuisine. Evora is just 20km away and is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to the excellent preservation of its old town.

Guided tours of the surrounding area can be organised on request together with friendly, bilingual, qualified guides covering specific areas of interest including history, archaeology, literature and foreign languages. There are 6 new cultural walking/sightseeing tours available, with prices ranging from 100€ (EUR) to 150€ (EUR) per person for small groups of 1-4 people. Please do contact the office for more information if you are interested in receiving more information or in booking one of these.

Examples of some of the tours on offer include an Evora city walking tour, cork forests & industry, Arraiolos city & its handmade rugs, as well as a Vidigueira tour with a visit of a clay winery and tasting.

Further Details

Languages: Portuguese, English.

Health requirements: General good health recommended.

Age limit: No age limit for riders.

Tuition: Yes, depending on the programme.

Included: Accommodation, full board meals, wine with meals (approximately 2 glasses per person), horse riding according to your chosen programme and use of the pool, bikes and canoes on the property.

Not included: Flights, travel insurance, airport transfers, tips, other drinks or services not mentioned.

Travel Information

We recommend that guests fly into and out of Lisbon airport. A hire car is recommended as it gives you the flexibility to explore the region more fully during your stay. You will need to plan your arrival to Monte Velho before 6 pm in this case. Arrivals after 6pm must use the airport transfer as the reception desk is closed.

Airport transfers are available for 1-4 people, at a price of €110 per car, each way (€220 round trip price) and are payable locally.

If you are planning to spend a few days in Lisbon before or after your visit, then city transfers are also available for a supplementary cost of €20 (EUR) each way, above the standard transfer costs. So €130 (EUR) each way instead, again payable locally.

Airport (or city) transfers are required if you are arriving in Lisbon in the evening (after 6 pm).

Riding is not usually possible on the arrival day. If you specifically request riding on your arrival day, then you MUST arrive before 2pm. If you are late and miss your lesson, then it may not be possible to reschedule it.

Airport: Lisbon

Regular Dressage Programme

This is a six night programme featuring a one hour dressage lesson each morning for five days (you do not ride on arrival or departure day). The lessons take place between 9am and 1pm each day and may include two pupils. They are given by experienced instructors using the farm's Lusitano horses.  All levels of rider can be catered for but we would recommend some prior riding experience to make the most of this programme.   When not riding you can explore the region, relax by the pool or make use one of the estate's bikes or canoes.
Minimum group size:	1
Maximum group size:	5
Ability description:	All levels are catered for.
Type of ride:	Based stay with dressage lessons.
Total riding time:	1 hour lesson per day for 5 riding days.
Departure dates:	Dates to suit all year.
Pricing:	2020/21: High Season (30 August - 31 October 2020, 20-31 December 2020, 28 March-3 July 2021, 29 August-30 October 2021, 19-31 December 2021): Premium room: Single occupancy £1539 per person Double occupancy £1212 per person Non rider £826 per person Standard room: Single occupancy £1294 per person Double occupancy £1076 per person Non rider £690 per person Mid Season (1-28 November 2020, 28 February-27 March 2021, 4 July-28 August 2021, 31 October-27 November 2021): Premium room: Single occupancy £1262 per person Double occupancy £1044 per person Non rider £749 per person Standard room: Single occupancy £935 per person Double occupancy £935 per person Non rider £640 per person Low Season (29 Nov - 19 December 2020, 1 January-27 February 2021, 28 November-18 December 2021): Premium room: Single occupancy £1071 per person Double occupancy £935 per person Non rider £640 per person Standard room: Single occupancy £826 per person Double occupancy £826 per person Non rider £531 per person Included: 6 nights full-board accommodation, riding as described. 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.

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Intensive Dressage Programme

This is a six night programme featuring two lessons per day on four days, plus one day with a lesson and a trail ride (a total of nine lessons over the five days, plus one trail ride).  You do not ride on arrival or departure day. and there is generally no riding on Sundays so that instructors and horses can rest. Each lesson is one hour long and may include two pupils. They are given by experienced instructors using the farm's Lusitano horses.  All levels of rider can be catered for but we would recommend some prior riding experience to make the most of this programme.   When not riding you can explore the region, relax by the pool or make use one of the estate's bikes or canoes.
Minimum group size:	1
Maximum group size:	5
Ability description:	All levels are catered for.
Type of ride:	Based stay with dressage lessons.
Total riding time:	Two lessons (1 hour per lessons) on 4 days and one lesson plus one trail ride on one day.
Departure dates:	Dates to suit all year.
Pricing:	2020/21: High Season (30 Aug - 31 October 2020, 20-31 December 2020, 28 March-3 July 2021, 29 August-30 October 2021, 19-31 December 2021): Premium room Single occupancy: £1884 per person Double occupancy £1557 per person Non rider £826 per person Standard room: Single occupancy £1639 per person Double occupancy £1421 per person Non rider £690 per person Mid Season (1-28 November 2020, 28 February-27 March 2021, 4 July-28 August 2021, 31 October-27 November 2021): Premium room: Single occupancy £1525 per person Double occupancy £1307 per person Non rider £749 per person Standard room: Single occupancy £1198 per person Double occupancy £1198 per person Non rider £640 per person Low Season (29 November - 19 December 2020, 1 January-27 February 2021, 28 November-18 December 2021): Premium room: Single occupancy £1335 per person Double occupancy £1198 per person Non rider £640 per person Standard room: Single occupancy £1089 per person Double occupancy £1089 per person Non rider £531 per person Included: 6 nights full-board accommodation, riding as described. 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.

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Country Riding Programme

This is a six night stay with a one and a half hour ride into the countryside each day (for five riding days). Riding out across the estate is a lovely way to experience the Alentejo countryside and enjoy the willing and sure-footed nature of the horses. Spend the rest of your day relaxing, swimming, cycling, canoeing, walking or exploring!
Minimum group size:	1
Maximum group size:	8
Ability description:	All levels are catered for.
Type of ride:	Based stay with rides in the surrounding countryside.
Total riding time:	1.5 hour ride in the countryside each day for 5 riding days.
Departure dates:	Dates to suit all year.
Pricing:	2020/21: High Season (30 Aug - 31 October 2020, 20-31 December 2020, 28 March-3 July 2021, 29 August-30 October 2021, 19-31 December 2021): Premium room Single occupancy: £1335 per person Double occupancy £1008 per person Non rider £826 per person Standard room: Single occupancy £1089 per person Double occupancy £872 per person Non rider £690 per person Mid Season (1-28 November 2020, 28 February-27 March 2021, 4 July-28 August 2021, 31 October-27 November 2021): Premium room: Single occupancy £1103 per person Double occupancy £885 per person Non rider £749 per person Standard room: Single occupancy £776 per person Double occupancy £776 per person Non rider £640 per person Low Season (29 November - 19 December 2020, 1 January-27 February 2021, 28 November-18 December 2021): Premium room: Single occupancy £912 per person Double occupancy £776 per person Non rider £640 per person Standard room: Single occupancy £667 per person Double occupancy £667 per person Non rider £531 per person Included: 6 nights full-board accommodation, riding as described. 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.

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Dressage and Countryside Riding Combination

A six night stay combining dressage lessons with guided rides into the surrounding countryside. Each day there is a one and a half hour ride out in the morning and then a one hour dressage lesson in the afternoon (no riding on arrival or departure day). This is the ideal combination - ride to learn and ride for fun!
Minimum group size:	1
Maximum group size:	5
Ability description:	All levels are catered for.
Type of ride:	Based stay with dressage tuition and rides in the countryside.
Total riding time:	One hour dressage lesson and a one and a half hour ride in the countryside each day for five riding days.
Departure dates:	Dates to suit all year.
Pricing:	2020/21: High Season (30 August - 31 October 2020, 20-31 December 2020, 28 March-3 July 2021, 29 August-30 October 2021, 19-31 December 2021): Premium room Single occupancy: £1720 per person Double occupancy £1394 per person Non rider £826 per person Standard room: Single occupancy £1475 per person Double occupancy £1257 per person Non rider £690 per person Mid Season (1-28 November 2020, 28 February-27 March 2021, 4 July-28 August 2021, 31 October-27 November 2021): Premium room: Single occupancy £1398 per person Double occupancy £1180 per person Non rider £749 per person Standard room: Single occupancy £1071 per person Double occupancy £1071 per person Non rider £640 per person Low Season (29 November - 19 December 2020, 1 January - 27 February 2021, 28 November-18 December 2021): Premium room: Single occupancy £1207 per person Double occupancy £1071 per person Non rider £640 per person Standard room: Single occupancy £962 per person Double occupancy £962 per person Non rider £531 per person Included: 6 nights full-board accommodation, riding as described. 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.

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Intensive Country Riding Programme

This is a six night stay with two separate one and a half hour rides into the countryside each day (for five riding days). Riding out across the estate is a lovely way to experience the Alentejo countryside and enjoy the willing and sure-footed nature of the horses. Spend the rest of your day relaxing, swimming, cycling, canoeing, walking or exploring!
Minimum group size:	1
Maximum group size:	8
Ability description:	All levels are catered for.
Type of ride:	Based stay with rides in the surrounding countryside.
Total riding time:	Two 1.5 hour rides in the countryside each day for 5 riding days.
Departure dates:	Dates to suit all year.
Pricing:	2020/21: High Season (30 August - 31 October 2020, 20-31 December 2020, 28 March-3 July 2021, 29 August-30 October 2021, 19-31 December 2021): Premium room Single occupancy: £1516 per person Double occupancy £1189 per person Non rider £826 per person Standard room: Single occupancy £1271 per person Double occupancy £1053 per person Non rider £690 per person Mid Season (1-28 November 2020, 28 February-27 March 2021, 4 July-28 August 2021, 31 October-27 November 2021): Premium room: Single occupancy £1239 per person Double occupancy £1021 per person Non rider £749 per person Standard room: Single occupancy £912 per person Double occupancy £912 per person Non rider £640 per person Low Season (29 November - 19 December 2020, 1 January-27 February 2021, 28 November-18 December 2021): Premium room: Single occupancy £1049 per person Double occupancy £912 per person Non rider £640 per person Standard room: Single occupancy £803 per person Double occupancy £803 per person Non rider £531 per person Included: 6 nights full-board accommodation, riding as described. 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.

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Short Break

This destination offers three night short breaks with three riding days. You can choose one of the following riding options during your short stay: - 3 lessons - 5 lessons - 3 lessons and 2 hacks - 3 hacks - 5 hacks Please contact us for detailed pricing for these programmes.
Minimum group size:	1
Maximum group size:	5
Ability description:	All levels welcome.
Type of ride:	Based stay with dressage tuition or hacking.
Total riding time:	Depends on chosen programme.
Departure dates:	Dates to suit all year.
Pricing:	2020: All of our week long programmes can also be tailored to accommodate a short duration of stay. Please contact us for detailed pricing and to discuss your riding preferences. 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.

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