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This beach horseback riding holiday in Portugal is located on the Costa Azul, also know as the Blue Coast, and it encompasses the southern stretch of Portugal's west coast. It is as long and beautiful as the Algarve (Portugal's south coast), but while the Algarve is overcrowded with tourists, here one finds deserted beaches and pristine countryside all along the west coast, even during the summer months.

The area around the mouth of the river Rio Sado is a sanctuary of 57,500 acres. Dolphins play in the mouth of the river. From here on south there is 36 miles of deserted beaches only interrupted by lagoons and little fishing villages. Discover this jewel on the back of a first class Lusitano. Enjoy horseback riding from the lush and green coastal mountains of Grandola, overgrown with pine and cork-oak forests, to the inviting beaches of turquoise waters.

Accommodation for three nights is in a historic Puosada, 2 nights in the heart of the country, and a further 2 nights near the coastline by the Lagoon of Santo Andre. Unicorn Trails is delighted to offer this excellent equestrian vacation in Portugal.

Please Note: The opinions expressed in these reviews are the author's and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unicorn Trails Ltd. These reviews are "directly from the horses mouth" and unedited. Unicorn Trails may make additional comments for clarification clearly identified in red.

Review received from KA of Leesburg on 22/11/2024

Ride Summary
It was an excellent riding trip!
What was your overall impression of the holiday
Overall impression
Unicorn Trails sales staff

Riding tour leader

Additional Comments
Miguel was a wonderful tour leader. I've been on 12 riding trips, and Miguel was one of the best tour leaders I've seen. Great command of the English language. Despite this being the last trip of the year, he was upbeat and interested in all the riders. Great host who cared for his staff, horses and riders.
Horses and Tack

Additional Comments
The horses were great - well trained. They knew their job. The tack was pretty good - I've bee on multiple trips, and often the tack is pretty worn. Overall it is not as well maintained as your saddle at home, but still quite good.
Meals

Accommodation

Miscellaneous

Was this trip accurately described to you beforehand?
YES
Please give more details to explain your response:
Nice amount of walk, trot and canter.
Was there anything you should have known and were not told? NO
Please give more details to explain your response:
What could we do to improve this ride?
Not much. I heard one rider complain about the picnics, but I thought they were great. We had bread, olives and cheese as a starter, salad, chips, and either grilled on the spot fresh fish or pork. And of course wine, soda and water. I think some people were squeamish about eating a whole grilled fish with a head. But it was fresh and tasty.
How would you rate the difficulty of this ride out of 10 where 1 is very easy and 10 is very advanced?
7
Please explain why you scored it as you did:
I thought it pretty easy. But the first day was 6 hours in the saddle, and some riders were sore after the first day. But the other days were shorter. Beach riding was fast but not crazy. If you are a good fit rider you will have no problem.
Would you recommend Unicorn Trails to your friends?
YES
Please give more details to explain your response:
May we use you as a reference for other people wishing to go on this ride?
YES
Any other comments:
The dinners were outstanding. One night we had suckling pig, and another night lamb. And lots of seafood. If you do not enjoy seafood they can fix you something else, but we ate a lot of fresh seafood.
Unicorn comments: Thank you for your feedback. Glad you had a great time! :)

Day 1
Sunday: Arrive in Lisbon and transfer at 17:30 to Monte das Faias (100 km). Accommodation is in a rural house with typical "Alentejana' architecture, and equipped with all the comforts of a modern hotel. Settle in and relax by the pool before dinner. Dinner and overnight Monte das Faias (or similar).

Day 2
Monday: Ride through hilly landscapes to the first destination in Santiago do Cacém. After the first few canters, riders will notice the ‘Lusitanos’ wonderful character and how sure footed they are. Enjoy a tasty picnic lunch followed by a short rest before heading through the Pine and Cork Oak forests. Reach Quinta da Ortiga where the horses are stabled for the night. Riders are transferred to Quinta se Malmerda (or similar) for dinner and overnight.

Day 3
Tuesday: After breakfast, the route heads through Eucalyptus forests where only the sound of the horses footfalls can be heard. Stop near the Morgavel's Water Reservoir for a picnic and siesta. There is an opportunity for some fast canters on the sandy tracks that cross the countryside in the afternoon on the way back to Quinta de Malmedra (or similar) for dinner and overnight.

Day 4
Wednesday: Either in the morning or afternoon, riders are transferred to the Sado River (30 min) for a 2-hour boat ride to see the dolphins at play in the estuary. Although sightings are not guaranteed, they are normal. Boat trips are dependent on weather conditions. The ride section of the day explores sandy trails through fields and forests with the chance of some good canters. Keep an eye open for flamingos and storks when passing the Santo Andre Lagoon. Ride past rice fields on the way to Hotel Vila Park (or similar) for dinner and overnight.

Day 5
Thursday: Between 1st June and 15th September, the morning ride leaves at dawn to avoid the holiday makers on the beach. To watch the sunrise from horseback on a beach ride is an unforgettable experience. Head for a picnic spot in the forest. While the horses rest, riders can enjoy a dip in the sea. Head back to Hotel Vila Park (or similar) for dinner and overnight.

Day 6
Friday: Today the group ride from Melides towards Grândola with opportunities for faster riding throughout the day. The trusty Lusitanos lead the way through the Pine forests. Red earth paths alternate with those of sand and the area is dotted with roaming herds of cows and sheep. Take a dip in the Barradas da Serra before dinner and overnight at Monte das Faias (or similar).

Day 7
Saturday: Today the group rides by the Sierra of Grândola, through rolling landscapes and picturesque villages. Stop for the last picnic of the trail. After a siesta, head back through the Cork forests to the lodge. Say goodbye to the horses before heading to a local restaurant for dinner. Dinner and overnight as on the previous night.

Day 8
Sunday: Transfer back to Lisbon after breakfast. Departure flights must be booked no earlier than 12:00.

Non-rider and other activities:
If you have the chance to explore Lisbon before setting off on your ride, make sure to visit the prestigious Portuguese School of Equestrian Arts—a true gem for horse enthusiasts and history buffs alike! This renowned institution offers fascinating weekday tours (available for an additional fee) that delve into the rich history of the school, provide a behind-the-scenes look at the stables, and showcase the exceptional care and training of their magnificent horses. It's an experience that beautifully blends tradition, artistry, and a deep passion for equestrian excellence.
 

Please note: All itineraries are given for your guidance only and it may be altered on the ground and in accordance with the prevailing conditions by the organising team.

Horses & Riding

The horses are all pure bred Lusitanos. These horses are about 16hh, light boned, warm blooded and responsive. They have a naturally proud head carriage and are well schooled. They are easy to ride and very responsive. Military saddles well covered with seat savers and sheepskin are utilised on this ride and make for a comfortable ride. The bridles are English. Riders cover 200km during the ride along hills, easy going tracks and beaches.


Rider requirements

• Comfortable spending up to six hours a day in the saddle.
• The riding is at all paces depending on riding ability. There are many opportunities to trot, canter and also to gallop.
• Must be over 12 years of age and be capable of controlling a horse at a walk, trot and canter.
• Riders are expected to look after their horse but help is on hand for those who need it.

Weight limit: 188lb (85 kg).

Weight Limit

The weight limit for this ride is 188 lb/85 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.

There are a wonderful variety of accommodations and meals on this ride. Your accommodation includes one night in a historic pousada. The rest of the trip is in excellent hotels in the heart of the country and near the coastline by the Lagoon of Santo Andre. Each lodging has a different character.



The pousadas are Portugal’s traditional manor houses and as well as offering very comfortable, even luxurious, accommodation, give an insight into the history of Portugal. Here your hosts can provide an introduction to Portuguese life and have many interesting tales of the culture and history of the Pousada and region.

The hotels are very comfortable and well located. All have en-suite bathrooms and on nights 2,3,4 and 5 there is a swimming pool available.



The food on the ride is above average. Dinners start with an aperitif, followed by at least a three course meal. The cuisine is selected to ensure an introduction to many Portuguese specialties. Your hosts usually join you round the table. Lunches are extensive picnics brought to the lunch area by vehicle and eaten at a table.


Vegetarian or other dietary requirements within reason can be accommodated with advance notice. Please contact Unicorn Trails with requests before booking.

Documents - Visa and Consulate Info

Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct documentation in place for your trip. NB: Be sure to check the COVID status of the country you plan to visit including entry procedures Passport and Visa requirements can change from year to year depending on diplomatic relations. Please request information from the appropriate Consulate in your home country. Unicorn Trails will assist with any questions you have or supply any necessary supporting documents as required by the consulate should you need a visa. In the UK the British Foreign Office gives advice: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/portugal In the US: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Portugal.html In Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/portugal

Another useful resource is Sherpa - this summarises any travel and vaccination requirements based on when you are travelling simply by entering your home country followed by your destination country: https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions


Climate Summary

The best time to take part in the trek is between March and October. The climate is temperate. The average temperatures and rainfall are indicated on the chart.

Climate Chart

Health

COVID: Be sure to check the latest COVID regulations for travelling in any country you visit.

You should always bring any regular prescription drugs you may need with you.

If you need to contact the emergency services in Portugal call 112.

Please refer to your country’s latest health guideline for travel in Portugal and contact your own GP for up to date advice on vaccinations and prophylaxis prior to travel.

Health (ride specific)

We do advise taking plenty of sunscreen!

Electricity

In Portugal the supply voltage is 230V. If the appliance is a single voltage rated appliance, it will need to operate at the same voltage as the supply voltage of the country i.e. 230V. If this is not the case it should be used alongside a voltage transformer or converter to allow the appliance to work safely and properly.

Mobile, WiFi and charging

There will be an opportunity to recharge digital cameras and video equipment in the evenings with appropriate adaptors.
Good quality film is widely available for purchase as well as batteries (normal, alkaline and lithium).

Packing List

- Riding Helmet - we strongly recommend that you wear a properly fitted riding helmet of the current standard which is PAS015 or BSEN1384.
- Jodhpurs - jodhpurs, breeches or other comfortable trousers (jeans may rub and can also be quite hot)
- Riding Boots - it is important to have correct shoes or boots for horse riding. Jodhpur or ankle boots with a rubber sole are recommended but sturdy shoes with a definite heel are acceptable (such as walking boots)
- Half Chaps - these are great when worn with ankle boots and help prevent the stirrup leathers rubbing against your legs
- T-shirts and long-sleeved shirts
- Fleece - Although the weather is generally very warm, the evenings can be a bit cooler
- Warm layers - At times the evening temperature drops significantly
- Casual Clothes - for when out of the saddle
- Raincoat - it is always a wise idea to pack a waterproof/ windproof jacket!
- Sunhat
- Swimwear
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Refillable Water Bottle - it's very important to drink a lot of water when it's hot, especially when doing physical activities
- Personal Items - toiletries, any medicines you require and please be sure to take inset repellent
- Camera and Spare Batteries/Charger - an absolute must! It is also a good idea to take a camera case you can strap around your waist or onto a belt for whilst you are riding
- A copy of your passport

Programmes

This is an 8 night/7 day programme with 6 days riding on set departures from March through to November. Please enquire for private group departures.

Departure Dates

2025: 9, 23 Feb; 2 (Full)Mar; 15*(Full), 29* (Full)June; 6*(Full) Jul; 17*(Full), 24* (Full)Aug; 19(Full), 26(Full) Oct; 9 Nov (* High Season)

Pricing
Single supplement must be paid if booking alone.


No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description £
2025 Low Season8d/7n6double pp1,515
2025 Low Season8d/7n6single supplement499
2025 Low Season8d/7n6non-rider sharing939
2025 Low Season8d/7n6Small group supplement for 4 riders pp155
2025 Low Season8d/7n6Small group supplement for 3 riders pp379
2025 High Season8d/7n6double pp1,679
2025 High Season8d/7n6single supplement525
2025 High Season8d/7n6non-rider sharing1,025
2025 High Season8d/7n6Small group supplement for 3 riders pp419
2025 High Season8d/7n6small group supplement 4 riders pp169
No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description
2025 Low Season8d/7n6double pp1,785
2025 Low Season8d/7n6single supplement589
2025 Low Season8d/7n6non-rider sharing1,105
2025 Low Season8d/7n6Small group supplement for 4 riders pp179
2025 Low Season8d/7n6Small group supplement for 3 riders pp445
2025 High Season8d/7n6double pp1,975
2025 High Season8d/7n6single supplement619
2025 High Season8d/7n6non-rider sharing1,205
2025 High Season8d/7n6Small group supplement for 3 riders pp495
2025 High Season8d/7n6small group supplement 4 riders pp199
No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description US $
2025 Low Season8d/7n6double pp1,955
2025 Low Season8d/7n6single supplement645
2025 Low Season8d/7n6non-rider sharing1,209
2025 Low Season8d/7n6Small group supplement for 4 riders pp195
2025 Low Season8d/7n6Small group supplement for 3 riders pp489
2025 High Season8d/7n6double pp2,165
2025 High Season8d/7n6single supplement679
2025 High Season8d/7n6non-rider sharing1,319
2025 High Season8d/7n6Small group supplement for 3 riders pp539
2025 High Season8d/7n6small group supplement 4 riders pp219
No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description SEK
2025 Low Season8d/7n6double pp21,289
2025 Low Season8d/7n6single supplement7,015
2025 Low Season8d/7n6non-rider sharing13,185
2025 Low Season8d/7n6Small group supplement for 4 riders pp2,129
2025 Low Season8d/7n6Small group supplement for 3 riders pp5,325
2025 High Season8d/7n6double pp23,585
2025 High Season8d/7n6single supplement7,379
2025 High Season8d/7n6non-rider sharing14,395
2025 High Season8d/7n6Small group supplement for 3 riders pp5,899
2025 High Season8d/7n6small group supplement 4 riders pp2,359
Recommended Reading


Other Activities

Cultural activities, walking and hiking.

Wildlife

It is possible to see wild pigs and foxes. Flora includes forests of Cork and Pine trees, eucalyptus and an abundance of wild flowers.

Other Country Information

Historically, the Portuguese have been the intrepid explorers of the world. In the 15th Century they discovered the sea route to India, via the Cape of Good Hope. Vasco da Gama reached India in 1498 and Pedro Cabral, trying to reach India, discovered Brazil two years later (1500). Other Portuguese explorers reached the Far East, China and Japan. The first circumnavigation of the globe was led by Portuguese navigator Ferdinand Magellan.

Portugal has a rich seafaring past, superb beach resorts, quaint towns and a landscape wreathed in olive groves, vineyards and wheat fields. Portugal is dotted with UNESCO World Heritage sites and graced by one of Europe's most relaxed and attractive capitals.

Savouring life slowly is a Portuguese passion, and much of the best is humble - traditional folk festivals; simple, honest food drowning in olive oil; music that pulls at the heart strings, recalling past love and glories; and markets overflowing with fish, fruit and flowers.

Portugal is in the GMT time zone and they use the metric weights and measures system, so kilometres and kilograms instead of miles and pounds. There is approximately 1.6 kilometres in a mile and 2.2 pounds in a kilogram.

The international dialling code is +351

If you are hiring a car, you will need to know about how to pay any toll fees as these are done automatically and not on the road. This is a new system from January 2012 and the method for how to pay this will change throughout the year. Please check this website for current information: http://www.amoita.com/node/1414

Travel Summary

Meeting-point (getting there):
Lisbon Airport (LIS)
Transfer:
2025: €100 return payable locally. (Subject to change)
Set transfer time on Day 1 is 17:30 (arrival up to 17:00) and flights must be booked to depart no earlier than 12:00 on Day 8. Transfer time is approximately 1 hour on day 1.
Flight Guide:
2025: London to Lisbon return from £175pp. (Season Dependent)
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