Equine adventures in Portugal

Portugal has a strong equestrian tradition dating back to pre-Roman times and has produced many fine international riders. With a temperate climate, stunning landscapes of olive groves, cork trees and vineyards, it is an ideal year round riding destination.

Based at Hippikos Equestrian Centre on the border of the Peneda-Geres National Park, riders combine morning or afternoon trail rides with equitation lessons - exploring the beautiful Green Coast of Portugal’s north-west whilst learning classical dressage or improving their show jumping skills.

Equine Adventures’ two new centre-based, ‘trail & training’ riding holidays, depart Porto every Sunday throughout 2008.

Choose from 25 horses including Hanovarians, Holsteiners, Oldenburgs, Bradenburgers and Selle Francais as well as a number of world-famous Lusitanos. All are well schooled and able to do flying changes, tempi changes, Spanish walk, lateral work, extended trot, half pass, and work on long lines. For time out of the saddle, relax by the indoor pool, explore the stunning landscape on foot, play tennis or visit tranquil, nearby beaches.

Classical Dressage Training & Trail Riding - 7 days, departs Porto every Sunday

Classical dressage lessons are taken on skilfully trained horses, with internationally renowned dressage rider, Miguel Magalhaes, and David Alves. Ride for between three and four hours a day, including two 60-minute sessions of flatwork training, mainly concentrating on outline, transitions, lateral movement and flying changes (depending on ability), and a trail ride.

The holiday costs £1,099 p/p (ride only) including return transfers, guesthouse accommodation, most meals and all riding.

Show Jumping & Trail Riding - 7 days, departs Porto every Sunday

The programme is run by Olympic show jumper, Antonio Vozone, and Francisco Fleming. Combine flat work and jumping on highly trained horses. Ride for between three and four hours a day, including one 60-minute flat work lesson and one 60-minute session over jumps, followed by a trail ride. The holiday costs £1,099 p/p including return transfers, guesthouse accommodation, most meals and all riding.

For more information, visit Equineadventures.co.uk.