Portugal is an excellent riding destination that has so much to offer. With a long riding season and a warm, sunny climate, you can enjoy exploring the diverse terrain on horseback at almost any time of year. Blessed with 850km of beaches and an exceptional range of different landscapes in a short distance, hospitable people, excellent cuisine and fine wines, Portugal truly has something for everyone. And let's not forget the main attraction - the stunning Lusitano horses. Native to Portugal, theses beautiful creatures are a must-see for any horse lover. With their elegant movements and kind nature, riding a Lusitano in their home country is an experience like no other. Whether you're looking for dressage training, show jumping tuition, a leisurely ride along the beach, a relaxing trail through the countryside, or a challenging adventure, Portugal has it all. And with its excellent value for money, it's no wonder that this country is quickly becoming one of the top horseback riding destinations in the world.
Portuguese Equestrian History and the Famous Lusitano Breed
The Portuguese have a fascinating equestrian history, with a connection to horses dating back to 20,000 BC. The Lusitano horse breed plays a key role, celebrated for its beauty and grace. Developed by crossing Barb horses brought by Muslim invaders in 711 AD with native war horses, the Lusitano breed has a rich lineage rooted in Portuguese culture. Admired for their compact physique, curved neck, and expressive eyes, these horses have become iconic symbols of Portugal's equestrian traditions. Originally bred for war and bullfighting, their athleticism and gentle nature now make them popular in various disciplines. They excel in dressage with their natural collection, balance, and agility, and also shine in jumping, driving, and working equitation. Lusitanos regularly perform at the highest levels, representing Portuguese and Spanish dressage teams in international competitions, including the Olympics and World Equestrian Games.
Today, there are approximately 10,000 Lusitano horses, with the majority still found in Portugal. This breed captures the essence and heritage of Portugal's equestrian traditions, making it a must-ride for any horse enthusiast visiting the country.
We offer Horseback Riding Vacations in Portugal for Riders of all Abilities
At Unicorn Trails, we offer an impressive selection of horseback riding vacations in Portugal. Whether you're a beginner building confidence or an advanced rider pushing your limits, Portugal offers something for everyone. Our tours cater to various interests, from natural horsemanship to western riding and dressage. Choose from trail or based holidays, luxury or basic accommodations, and even beach rides. Families are welcome too, with vacations suitable for children to ignite a passion for riding. Our expert guides will help group riders by ability, ensuring everyone has a perfect trip.
Dressage Holidays in Portugal
For those interested in dressage, or classical equitation, riding a well-schooled Lusitano is a must. We offer an excellent classical equitation experience in Lisbon, offering week long programmes and weekend breaks for all abilities. The instructor is a Master Rider and teacher of Classical Equitation with the famous Portuguese School of Equestrian Art (EPAE), so you can be confident that the lessons are of the highest standard.
At our superb equestrian center near Pego, you'll have the opportunity to try dressage, show jumping, and trails-based riding. Our expert instructors will guide you on Lusitano and warmblood horses up to intermediate level, and you'll have the chance to mix things up with other disciplines if you're feeling adventurous. When the lessons are done, take a relaxing ride through the impressive landscapes of olive trees, cork forests, and green pastures along the Tagus River. For intermediate riders aged 12 and up with a passion for dressage, our Alcainca dressage ride is the perfect choice. You'll receive expert tuition on expertly raised Lusitano schoolmaster horses, ensuring a truly exceptional experience that you won't forget.
Horseback Riding Trails in Portugal
Horseback riding trails in Portugal can be based in one place or 'point-to-point' rides. On trails you ride from one location to another, ending at a different place where you’ll spend the night, perhaps in a guesthouse or under canvas. Trail rides cover ground and let you explore various areas, ecosystems, and cultures. Based rides are a bit more leisurely, no need to pack every day and it is easy to have a day off and explore nearby cultural attractions. Trails often involve 4-6 hours in the saddle daily whereas based rides allow for flexibility. Some trails are circular, bringing you back to your starting point, while others are linear and end in a different area.
Our Northern Wilderness Trail will take you through the magnificent Peneda Geres Park - where the last remaining breed of wild horses in Europe, the Garrano, roam free. This week-long trail weaves through the National Park, taking you into the heart of the Mihno region's incredible scenery and abundant wildlife. As you journey through this beautiful park, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time as you pass charming small towns and villages. You'll also have the opportunity to explore the smaller Corno de Bico natural park - with its towering mountains and panoramic views.
Horse Riding Holidays Trails in Costa Azul, The Blue Coast
The Costa Azul is a beautiful area on the southern stretch of Portugal's west coast extending 180 kilometres south of Troia. This region remains largely undiscovered by tourists. Even in summer, the beaches are virtually deserted, and further inland, visitors typically just pass through on their way to the Algarve. This region is perfect for riders who want to see an unknown area of traditional Portugal. Here we offer many different point to point trails.
An excellent option for those seeking adventure in Costa Azul is our Dolphin Coast trail With over 36 miles to explore, this area is filled with deserted beaches, lagoons, and traditional fishing villages. And the true highlight? The playful dolphins that can be found in the sanctuary of the Rio Sado river. You'll experience it all on horseback, riding first class Lusitanos through the verdant coastal mountains of Grandola- complete with pine and cork-oak forests. Another exceptional holiday we offer in Costa Azul is the Blue Coast Trail. Here, you’ll ride purebred Lusitanos through a region largely unexplored by tourists. Traverse the mountains of Cercal, canter through eucalyptus and pine forests, ride through picturesque rice fields, and even swim in the open ocean. You'll spend your nights in three different locations and enjoy a variety of accommodations and meals.
Horse Riding Holidays in Alentejo
Stretching south of Lisbon, the vast plains of the Alentejo region unfold, bordered by a range of mountains separating it from the Algarve. Renowned for breeding fighting bulls, this is the greenest area in Portugal. Our Alentejo Estate Ride offers a first-class riding experience on Lusitano horses. Traversing ancient Roman bridges, we journey to Alter do Chão, with a visit to one of the two famed National Stud Farms—a true highlight for fans of Portuguese horse breeds. This 8-day holiday features rides of up to 6 hours daily. Riders should be confident in walking, trotting, and cantering on horseback. Our groups typically comprise 5-10 riders, guided by knowledgeable local guides. The ride ends at a private hunting reserve.
Horse Riding Holidays in the Algarve
The Algarve is a popular tourist destination in Portugal, known for its beaches, charming towns, and warm climate. But it is also offers an equestrian experience that combines western riding with natural horsemanship techniques. Our Western Style Algarve ride allows you to immerse yourself in nature, enjoying daily rides along countryside trails without encountering any crowds. And after a long day of riding, gather around the campfire with your fellow riders for drinks and stories under the stars. This holiday is suitable for all levels of adult riders.
If you're searching for a centre-based riding holiday in Portugal, then look no further than our Panoramic Plateau. Located in a beautiful mountainous park north of Lisbon, our riding centre offers varied daily trails, tuition, and jumping. Enjoy scenic landscapes of volcanic craters, caves, springs, and limestone formations as you ride through traditional villages. Stay in a nearby 4* rural hotel surrounded by nature. But this holiday isn't just about riding – there are many historical visits to enjoy too, including merging with the original Roman roads.
The Best Time of Year to Book a Horseback Vacation in Portugal
Portugal is perfect for horseback riding vacations all year round, thanks to its warm climate and low rainfall. While February may be the least popular month to travel due to poorer weather conditions, the rest of the year offers plenty of opportunities for sunny riding. If you're unsure about the best time of year to book your horseback vacation in Portugal, our friendly team is always on hand to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed choice.
Getting to Portugal
Portugal is very easy to travel to from the UK, and it's affordable too, with plenty of budget airlines travelling from various regional UK airports. It's also very easy to travel to Portugal from the US. We can offer you advice on travel so that you make the most of your options, and then we can help you organise your transfer to the start of the ride from the airport or nearest train station, depending on how you prefer to get to your destination.
Book your Equestrian Vacation in Portugal with Unicorn Trails
So, if you're looking to book an equestrian vacation in Portugal, our team of experienced travel experts is here to help you! We are committed to finding the perfect horse riding holiday package that suits your needs, including creating bespoke trips designed just for you. Portugal riding holidays offer exceptional value for money, a warm sunny climate, and the chance to ride Lusitano horses, making them an excellent choice for riders of all levels. We can also help you extend your stay with a city break in Lisbon, giving you the opportunity to experience even more of Portugal's rich culture and history.
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