This relaxing horseback riding vacation in Portugal is based on an equestrian ranch situated in 12 hectares of rugged horseback riding country in the beautiful Algarve. The horseback trails pass through scented macchia, trees and shrub-land, over hills and dales, and along paths that are only accessible on horseback, by mountain bike, or walking. Riders might not see another soul, meaning you are free to enjoy the magnificent views and the peace of the countryside around you, just horse and rider.
All the horses are schooled in western style using natural horsemanship, where a closeness and trust is developed between horse and rider. They are kept in a large paddock which runs in front of the accommodation, so the day will begin with a view of grazing horses whilst you enjoy your morning coffee.
Many other interesting activities are available, including trips to the nearby beach. The ranch is situated in ideal countryside for Western horseback riding trails, which is the specialty of the hosts. The Wild-West is at the back door and waiting to be explored on horseback. Discuss the days ride while sitting around a campfire with a drink under the beautiful Algarve night skies.
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 NM of Minehead on 26/07/2024
Day 1
Arrive at Faro Airport and transfer to the ranch (about an hours drive). As there is no riding on the first day, riders can arrive any time during the day. Please keep in mind that the rooms are not usually ready before mid-afternoon.
Days 2-7
See below for a typical day.
Rides leave either morning only, with the afternoon free to enjoy local visits or twice a day and and lead through the beautiful surrounding countryside. For advanced riders staying for 7-nights only there is one full day ride, following trails for 3 hours through forests and scented Macchia trees to a large, impressive dam. Here riders will enjoy a well deserved BBQ at a small Portuguese restaurant for lunch. Please note - there is no afternoon riding the day before the full day ride.
The 3 hour ride back to the ranch follows a different route with the impressive coastline always in view. The afternoon before the full day ride there is no riding and riders are free to do what they want on that afternoon, be it swim in the pool, relax in the sun. The hosts will happily to take riders to the beach or nearest town and pick them up again for no extra charge.
Day 8
Departure. After a sad goodbye to the hosts and of course your trusty steed, riders will be transferred back to Faro for the departure flight.
A Typical Day;
8am-9am
Breakfast - a hearty breakfast including breads, cheeses, a selection of meat, yoghurt, fruit and fresh soft boiled eggs. A feast to start the day!
9:30am
Meet at the stables, to meet the horses and tack up, ready for the start the trail by 10am. On the first riding day, the group will be introduced to western tack and shown how to tack up. There is plenty of guidance for those new to western riding and all riders are encouraged to take the natural horsemanship approach when around the horse. There is always help available every day and horses are carefully checked prior to mounting.
10am - 12:30pm
Riders will explore the wonderful countryside heading out in a different direction every day. Encounter large lakes which are the home to water turtles, while roaming through wild lavender and under imposing Eucalyptus trees. The pace is gentle and relaxing. Every now and then, riders can experience a 'jog' or a rhythmical 'lope' along the tracks.
1pm - 2:30pm
Lunchtime - the lunches are also relaxed and riders can help themselves to whatever can be found in the kitchen. This could be leftovers form the previous night's delicious meal or bread, cheeses, meats and fruit. And of course, a cooling can of something from the fridge!
Next it is siesta time... either have a snooze or have a dip in the pool, a walk around the grounds, or simply relax in the sun with a good book.
2:30pm - 4:30pm
If there is an afternoon ride on this day, head back to the stables. Riders will prepare for the afternoon ride - again exploring the countryside and taking in the wonderful views to the coast and out to sea. See the bustling town of Portimao in the distance while sat on a horse at perfect peace, far away in the hills above.
If there is no riding on this afternoon then you will offered a chance to visit the local towns of Lagos or Portimao.
5pm
Back at the stables to untack and groom the horses while slipping them a few tasty treats to say thank you. Now there is free time to freshen up and relax with fellow riders while sitting around the large outside dining table, drink in hand, talking about the days events.
7:30pm
Dinner is served! Expect typical German dishes such as Schnitzel, stews and roast meats followed by fruit or yoghurt for dessert. Drinks like wine, beer, cider and soft drinks are on tap.
In the summertime the lunch break runs from 1pm-3:30pm and in the wintertime it runs from 1pm-2:30pm due to the weather and daylight hours. Please note that there is NO riding on arrival and departure days.
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.
All the horses on the Ranch are schooled in western riding, where closeness and trust is developed between horse and rider. Safety is of utmost importance and this can only be offered if we can trust our horses. The ranch has developed their own method through years of experience based on Natural Horsemanship.
The horses are first trained to recognise body language and are then walked (without rider) behind the more experienced horses, this ensures that they are never pressured or made nervous. After this process, the horse is introduced to a saddle first, and then rider. It is necessary to accustom the horses to everyday noises and distractions e.g. barking dogs, traffic noise and sudden unexpected movements. The horses are schooled daily with regular treks through mountainous countryside and across riverbeds etc. to maintain their sure footedness and excellent condition.
There are a total of 23 horses, and 14-16 horses are available for the guests to ride at any time.
The Western style saddle gives the utmost comfort and safety to horse and rider alike on long day treks. Depending on the condition of the ground, riders will walk, jog (which is a very slow seated trot) and canter, and will always be accompanied by an experienced guides on all trails.
For the beginners programme you do not have to have any riding ability. You learn by handling the horse on-site. According to the principle ‘Learning by Doing’ you are soon able to go for your first rides in the countryside. There is a minimum age limit of 18 for this ranch.
Guests who book the programme for advanced riders (longer hours, faster pace) must be confident in walk, trot, and canter and open to Western style riding. Your guide will give you directions in western style: neck reining, jogging and seated canter. All the horses are trained in real western style and ridden this way. Your guide is passionate about Western Horsemanship and likes things done according to ranch protocol. He has a strong personality and is lots of fun.
Riders for the advanced programme should be used to riding in the countryside and must be fit enough to ride between 2 and 6 hours a day. There are lots of hills and rough terrain in the Algarve, some of the very steep hills you have to lead your horses down. So riders should be able to mount and dismount by themselves and should be sure footed. Riders who are less experienced can ride in a separate group, so all abilities can be catered for.
Guests are encouraged to catch, groom and tack up their horse by themselves however there is always someone who can lend a hand. Either a keen interest in Western riding and natural horsemanship or a willingness to learn is preferable for this ranch.
Please note that there is NO riding on arrival and departure days.
Weight limit: A strict 13.3st/85kg applies and riders may be asked to step on a weighing scales wearing their riding gear.
The weight limit for this ride is 187 lb/85 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.
The Ranch is situated in 12 hectares of rugged riding country, 3 km north of the little village of Mexilhoeira Grande (near Portimão) in the beautiful Algarve. This quiet village is an ideal destination for a relaxing holiday.
The accommodation consists of 4 basic apartments, each with 2 beds, a shower and toilet. They were built in 2000 and are comfortably, but simply furnished and decorated to offer a private seating area to relax in. The beds come equipped with heated under blankets for the cold/damp winter mornings and evenings you may experience in the winter.
A plentiful breakfast is served in the separate kitchen or covered area with coffee, tea and a choice of fruit juices. Lunch is either taken al-fresco on the trails, or at the ranch you were you can help yourself to whatever takes your fancy. There are usually leftovers from dinner the evening before or you can help yourself to bread, cheese, cold meats, yoghurts from the fridge. Dinner is a freshly cooked hot meal or BBQ, sometimes with invited guests and friends. The evening meal is just one main course followed by coffee or tea. Guests can help themselves to fruit or yoghurt from the fridge for dessert. The kitchen is always open and is for the use of guests to help themselves whenever they need. The fridges are always fully stocked!
Between the paddocks is the sun-heated above ground pool, ideal for a refreshing dip in summertime between the rides, while watching the horses.
Vegetarian or other dietary requirements within reason can be accommodated with advance notice. Please contact Unicorn Trails with requests before booking.
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
The pronounced Atlantic climate brings at the Algarve coast not to hot temperatures in the summer and moderates winters, never under the freezing point. Most precipitation we have from November to February. The water temperature of the Atlantic is in the midsummer about 21 degrees. The most beautiful travel months are April/May or September/October, if the temperatures are not too high and in April/May the Cistus and wild Lavender bloomall over the hills. In addition, in the summer it is always relatively green in the countryside. The average temperature amounts to 17°C, the average air humidity is between 50% and 75%. In the winter (December, January, February) the temperature can drop below 10°C, and in the dry and hot summers the high temperatures (the hottest month is August reaching over 30 degrees during the day) are made comfortable by a constant light wind off the sea.
The whole year around the climate is perfect for horseback riding in the countryside.
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.
It is recommended that you bring anti-histamine cream/tablets in case of insect bites
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.
The closest town is about 20 minutes drive by car where you will be able to purchase batteries or film for those using 35mm SLR cameras
There is mobile phone reception and WiFi at the ranch
We have put together a suggested packing list for your trip. This should be used as a guideline as requirements may very according to your programme and preferences.
- Riding Helmet - we strongly recommend that you wear a properly fitted riding helmet of the current standard which is PAS015 or BSEN1384. Helmets are not available to borrow at the ranch.
- Gloves
- Jodhpurs - jodhpurs, breeches or other comfortable trousers.
- 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)
- 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 light waterproof/ windproof jacket and also light waterproof trousers in the winter!
- Sunhat
- Swimwear (warmer months)
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Personal Items - toiletries, any medicines you require and please be sure to take insect 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
Provided by hosts:
In the apartment you will find linen as well as a selection of towels.
Mosquito plugs and electric blankets for the beds are also provided.
There are two programmes offered at the ranch: A programme for beginners which includes 18 hours of horseback riding over a 6 days period. You learn to handle the horse informally. With the varied training “on” and “off” the horses you quickly obtain a ‘relationship’ together. According to the principle ‘Learning by Doing’ we are soon able to do our first rides in the countryside.
There is a minimum stay of 3 nights.
The programme for advanced riders includes 22 hours of horseback riding within 6 days. We ride through the Macchia, through trees and shrubland, over hills and dales on small paths. On our day ride we will go to the largest artificial lake in the Algarve called ‘Barragem de Bravura’, with beautiful views of the coastline.
2025: 1 Mar to 13 Aug; 23 Aug - 31 Oct (minimum 3 night stay - any day arrival)
No of days/nights |
Riding days | Product item description | £ | |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | double pp - advanced programme | 875 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | double pp - beginners programme | 819 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | single supplement | 109 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | non-rider | 435 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | 2nd week - advanced programme | 805 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | 2nd week - beginner programme | 745 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | El Rocio Supplement | 115 |
No of days/nights |
Riding days | Product item description | € | |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | double pp - advanced programme | 1,029 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | double pp - beginners programme | 969 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | single supplement | 129 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | non-rider | 509 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | 2nd week - advanced programme | 945 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | 2nd week - beginner programme | 875 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | El Rocio Supplement | 135 |
No of days/nights |
Riding days | Product item description | US $ | |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | double pp - advanced programme | 1,129 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | double pp - beginners programme | 1,059 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | single supplement | 145 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | non-rider | 559 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | 2nd week - advanced programme | 1,039 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | 2nd week - beginner programme | 959 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | El Rocio Supplement | 149 |
No of days/nights |
Riding days | Product item description | SEK | |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | double pp - advanced programme | 12,295 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | double pp - beginners programme | 11,549 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | single supplement | 1,555 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | non-rider | 6,085 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | 2nd week - advanced programme | 11,299 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | 2nd week - beginner programme | 10,429 |
2025 Weekly | 8d/7n | 6 | El Rocio Supplement | 1,615 |
Although the holiday is specifically tailored for horse riding there are many other activities available locally for non riders including golf, places of historical interest, waterparks, etc. Some of the most fantastic golden sandy beaches are close by offering various watersports, with beachbars and restaurants with mouthwatering local cuisine. Independent transport will be required by non-riders and the hire vehicles can be obtained at Faro airport through companies such as Avis and Europcar.
During our rides we occasionally see a shepherd with his flock of goats, sheep or cows wandering the hills. There is abundant wildlife in the Algarve and many different and unusual species can be seen on the rides such as water turtles, eagle eared owls and even golden eagles have been spotted!
On the ranch there are lemon, clementine, orange and sweet pepper trees and out on the rides you will discover cork, eucalyptus, Oak, Pine and Olive trees.
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