picnic lunch
hacienda and pool
Returning ride
returning from hack
BBQ at poolside
salon
Appartment dining and kitchenette
bedroom double
bedroom twin
Lunch in the courtyard
children's lesson in covered school

This centre based equestrian vacation is at a beautifully restored hacienda in the heart of Andalusia, and a holiday that& all levels of horseback rider can enjoy both equestrian lessons and riding out. During holiday time the hacienda offers horseback riding for children from 6 years onward, and there are many activities for non-riders including swimming, hiking, cycling and Spanish cooking lessons. With car rental the historical cities of Seville, Cordoba and Granada are less than an hour away, and fascinating Antequera is 20 min.

The Hacienda has an indoor/outdoor swimming pool, secluded courtyards and an extensive stable of 30 well-loved and beautifully cared for horses. The horse care and riding is to English standards and style with instruction available from qualified instructors. There are opportunities for long trots and canters for better horseback riders, on good ground through acres of olive groves, vineyards and Pine forests with spectacular views.

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 NB of London on 23/12/2024

Ride Summary
Relaxed and great value
What was your overall impression of the holiday
Overall impression
Unicorn Trails sales staff

Riding tour leader

Additional Comments
Had a few lessons and a fun faster hack with Pedro who was excellent, otherwise went out with the owner and a guide whose horses needed a steady companion. All enjoyable.
Horses and Tack

Additional Comments
Reliable horses, they seem to cope well with a mix of abilities.
Meals

Accommodation

Miscellaneous

Was this trip accurately described to you beforehand?
YES
Please give more details to explain your response:
What could we do to improve this ride?
Nothing really, it is a good choice for an easy break.
How would you rate the difficulty of this ride out of 10 where 1 is very easy and 10 is very advanced?
1
Please explain why you scored it as you did:
Rides suited to ability.
Would you recommend Unicorn Trails to your friends?
Please give more details to explain your response:
May we use you as a reference for other people wishing to go on this ride?
Any other comments:
Unicorn comments: Thank you for your feedback. Glad you had a great time! :)

Sample Itinerary:

Arrival day - Rooms will be available from 14:00. Guided tour and riding assessment after 16:30. Those who arrive after dinner will have their riding assessment the following morning.

Morning - Morning rides usually go out from 9am. Ride out through beautiful scenery at one's own pace (1-3 hours). There are plenty of opportunities to canter through the vines and olive groves, returning to the hacienda for lunch. Relax and enjoy the pool, the gardens, and the views.

Afternoon - lessons for around 1hr (according to the rider's goals) in large sand school arena.

On a Friday the group enjoy an extended hack to a local hotel for breakfast and back again. Please note that there are no lessons on this day. Unfortunately for riders on lead rein or beginners it is not always possible for them to ride the distance. When this is the case alternative riding will be arranged and transport to the hotel will be provided to join the other guests for breakfast.

The rest of the week will be riding among the vines, olives and Pines in the area, with magnificent views and lots of photo opportunities.

In the hotter months there is a change to the riding schedule: Ride at 8.00am in the cool breeze and return to the hacienda for breakfast. Another evening ride to take advantage of the cool breeze. There are more riding options in summer to enjoy long canters in ploughed fields for experienced riders.

Things to note during the stay:
Lunches: (if required) are to order the night before.
Breakfast: Guests can choose 4 items from the breakfast list, this will be prepared the night before and given to the guest after dinner. The guest can then decide if they wish to eat before or after their ride, in their room or on the patio. Washing up can be placed in the empty hamper.

Non-rider and other activities:
On site play area, gym, reading room, games room and infinity pool (not heated in colder months). Indoor garden and several lounge and reading areas for places of privacy. The following activities can be provided locally for an additional cost but may not always be available: cookery, bicycle hire, cultural visits etc

The hacienda is set in the heart of Andalucía; perfect for absorbing the mountains, hills, vineyards and olive groves of the area. In spring, the local natural park is full of lilies, orchids and intoxicating smells of wild herbs and flowers. In the summer, ride across the crop-free fields in the cool of the early morning or calm of moonlight during the night. Amble along sandy pathways and meandering tracks to breathtaking mountain views of the Antequera plain and Malaga Mountains. Enjoy tapas bars and eating al fresco. Excellent location for those who want to experience the cities, towns and villages of the Andalucían region and the real Spain.  There are three stunning, historic, and very different cities of Seville, Cordoba, and Malaga, and Granada a little over an hour away. Closer still, within a 20 minute car journey, is the beautiful medieval town of Antequera, the cross roads of Andalusia.

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

There are 30 forward-going, responsive and well mannered horses to suit every rider, from beginner to advanced. There are also horses suitable for riders with learning or physical disabilities. Most of the horses are Andalusian and X but there are also some Breton X and more substantial horses. The tack and riding style is English as is the tuition. The horses are accommodated in spacious stables in an extensive and immaculately maintained stable area adjacent to the hacienda.



Children from 6 years upward can ride, either in the school, or on hacks as is appropriate to their riding ability which will be assessed onsite. Groups are split into similar riding abilities (unless a family wishes to ride together). Lessons are tailored to individual needs and in small groups. Basic riding tuition, dressage and show jumping are all taught here, as is the Jane Savoie method of riding. Additional riding and tuition can be booked on site at extra charge.


Rider requirements

This ride is for any level of rider from beginner upwards, the minimum riding age is 6 years. The instructors will establish what the rider's goals for the holiday and help work towards helping achieve them.

There are opportunities for riding through beautiful scenery at one's own pace. There is help available to mount/dismount and disabled riders can be catered for. The terrain is gentle with lots of great ground for trotting and cantering.

Please make sure you have insurance that covers you for riding, you will need to have proof of this insurance to hand on arrival.

Weight Limit

The weight limit for this ride is 198 lb/90 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.

The spacious accommodation is a mixture of apartments & bedrooms. All rooms are en-suite and most have their own kitchenette facilities. Every room is unique, and individually decorated with local artifacts and antiques in keeping with the building. There is a honeymoon tower suite with extensive views over the surrounding countryside in all directions; 2 double apartments (attracts a surcharge per night), 2 x 2 bedroom apartments, 1 x 3 bedroom apartment. All bedrooms are en-suite and there are two apartments for disabled and less-abled guests. There are hairdryers and amenities in each room. Those booking as singles have their own room with bathroom, so sharing not necessary. There is Wi-Fi in the rooms and the public areas of the Hacienda.



The menu changes daily, using locally sourced ingredients and fruit and vegetables from the garden. There is a small selection of food and toiletry items for sale in the 'honesty' shop. Massages are available and bookable on site. Vegetarian and vegan diets can be catered for with advanced notice. There is a café in the nearest village (a bit of a walk). The hacienda can take cash or card payments.



Breakfast - this is in the form of a breakfast basket, given to guests the evening before, and consists of items chosen from an extensive list. This can then be eaten at any point.

Lunch - served at 13:00 - this is optional and is ordered on the breakfast sheet. It is cooked fresh every day from local produce. 10euros is chargeable, for lunch and a non-alcoholic drink, with oil and bread included.

Dinner - 20:00 - this is a 3 course meal with 2 glasses of wine included. In cold weather, this is served in the dining room with a log fire. In warmer weather, it is served on the patio.


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/spain In the US: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Spain.html In Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/spain

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

Andalusia has a warm climate all year round and many warm, sunny days right through winter. Meals can be eaten outside for 9 – 11 months of the year.
There are pleasant temperatures from April to early November. In the hottest months of July and August the riding schedule is changed to hack in the early morning breeze and the gentle wind of the late afternoon.

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.

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

Electricity



In Spain 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

Cameras can be charged at the hacienda. If you want to bring a GoPro please be advised that you will have to have permission from all other guests and guides that they are willing to be filmed.

Packing List

Please make sure you have insurance that covers you for riding, you will need to have proof of this insurance to hand in on arrival.

- Riding Helmet - we strongly recommend that you wear a properly fitted riding helmet of the current standard which is PAS015 or BSEN1384. Helmets are available at the stables if you do not have your own
- 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 light waterproof/ windproof jacket and also light waterproof trousers in the winter!
- 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 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
- A copy of your passport

Provided by hosts
Riding hats
Seat savers
Chaps
Riding boots (limited availability)

Programmes

This programme is available from January to December and there is a minimum of 3 nights. A supplement applies for stays during Christmas and New Year period, see 'Pricing' for more details.

Departure Dates

Year round, minimum stay of 3 nights.
Mid season: Dec; A supplement applies for stays during Christmas and New Year period.
2025 Low season: Feb
2025 Mid season: Mar, Nov
2025 High season: Apr to Oct

Pricing
A single room can be booked for no extra supplement when available.
No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description £
2025 4d/3n Low Season4d/3n4double pp599
2025 8d/7n Low Season8d/7n8double pp1,285
2025 4d/3n Mid Season4d/3n4double pp665
2025 8d/7n Mid Season4d/3n8double pp1,409
2025 4d/3n High Season4d/3n4double pp789
2025 8d/7n High Season8d/7n8double pp1,689
No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description
2025 4d/3n Low Season4d/3n4double pp705
2025 8d/7n Low Season8d/7n8double pp1,515
2025 8d/7n Mid Season4d/3n8double pp1,659
2025 4d/3n Mid Season4d/3n4double pp779
2025 4d/3n High Season4d/3n4double pp929
2025 8d/7n High Season8d/7n8double pp1,989
No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description US $
2025 8d/7n Low Season8d/7n8double pp1,659
2025 4d/3n Low Season4d/3n4double pp769
2025 4d/3n Mid Season4d/3n4double pp855
2025 8d/7n Mid Season4d/3n8double pp1,815
2025 4d/3n High Season4d/3n4double pp1,015
2025 8d/7n High Season8d/7n8double pp2,179
No of   
days/nights
Riding days Product item description SEK
2025 8d/7n Low Season8d/7n8double pp18,079
2025 4d/3n Low Season4d/3n4double pp8,385
2025 8d/7n Mid Season4d/3n8double pp19,785
2025 4d/3n Mid Season4d/3n4double pp9,305
2025 4d/3n High Season4d/3n4double pp11,059
2025 8d/7n High Season8d/7n8double pp23,759
Recommended Reading


Wildlife

There is an abundance of wild life, birds and flowers in La Camorra which is a designated natural area for wild life protection to ride through, staying to the paths to prevent any intrusion to the eco system. There is the scent of pine, sage, thyme and rosemary. Hoopoes, Cuckoos, Buzzards, Kites can be spotted and possibly even one of European Eagle Owls that nest near the Cortijo each year. Beekeepers make a special honey here which has a hint of rosemary as this seems to be a favourite of the bees in this area.

Other Information

More riding can be booked and paid for on site if desired, but requires one day advanced notice. All extras such as laundry and shop purchases can be paid for on site. Major credit cards and cash are accepted.

Other Country Information

Spain is a beautiful and diverse country, the second largest in Europe. The official language is Castilian Spanish but Catalan, Galician and Basque are also spoken. Territory includes two island archipelagos – the Balearics and the Canaries – and two enclaves on the North African coast, bordering Morocco – Ceuta and Melilla. The African influence can be found throughout Spain but especially in the south, for example the guitar was invented by the Spanish when they added a sixth string to the Arab lute. Music and art permeates Spanish culture, most obviously displayed in the fire and passion of the Flamenco and the stunning modern architecture found in the cities.

The famous siesta is still enjoyed by the majority of Spaniards, most shops close at lunchtime for two or three hours so everyone can escape the often scorching afternoon sun. Evening meals are served late into the evening with plenty of wine or sangria. Often meals can last two or three hours, especially if your host is serving Tapas, small and varied dishes of meats, bread, vegetables. Paella is also a delight and very popular across the country.

Spain is one hour ahead of GMT 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 for Spain is +34.

Travel Summary

Meeting-point (getting there):
Malaga Airport (AGP)
Transfer:
2025: €180 return, and the price is per booking, per car. T
Flight Guide:
2025: London to Malaga (AGP) return from £100pp (season dependent)
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