Wild Horses Trail

8 Daysย  |ย  From ยฃ1299pp

Portugal ( Best airport: Porto)

Discover Portugalโ€™s wild side on this trail through the Peneda Geres national park where you can spot eagles, deer and even wolves. Look out for one of the last species of wild horses in Europe: the Garranos, who roam these remote mountains in herds. This northernmost area of Portugal is peppered with hidden valleys, hilltop villages and prehistoric rock art, while tangled woods envelop ancient castles and forts.

The Riding

Youโ€™ll ride through ancient forests, crossing desert-like plateaus on top of mountains, and passing rivers, waterfalls, lakes and huge boulders in amazing formations.

There are many uphill climbs leading to wonderful views and the scenery is dominated by granite rocky mountains, dense oak forests, narrow valleys, rivers and groves of birch.

There are plenty of canter opportunities and it is also possible to gallop for some sections of the ride, although this depends on the level of the group.

Level of Riding and Fitness

This trail is suitable for strong intermediate and experienced riders only. Riders must be able to mount and dismount from the ground unaided. All participants must be competent, confident and in control at all paces over rough terrain and on a forward going horse. Good level of current riding fitness is required as youโ€™ll be spending 5-6 hours in the saddle each day. You should be comfortable in all paces including gallop and you should also be happy to complete river crossings on horseback. The weight limit is 90kg.

Guides and Group Size

Carlos and Luis are the friendly guides that accompany this trail. Both are Portugese natives with a deep knowledge of the region and speak English, Spanish and Portugese.

Group size 2-6

The Horses

The horses are mainly Hispano-Arab cross breeds and Lusitano horses. There are also some Arab and thoroughbred crosses. All the horses are ideally suited to the trail and terrain and are known as being brave and calm. There are strong, lively and fast horses for the more experienced rider.

English saddles are used and most of the time the horses are ridden with long reins, leading to a relaxed and comfortable horse during the trail.

Wild Horses Trail - Horse Riding Holidays Portugal

Accommodation and Dining

Your first accommodation is in a large traditional manor house, built in the 18th century and just outside the charming village of Arcos de Valdevez, built on the banks of the river Vez. There are seven bedrooms equipped with private bathrooms, TV and radio. The accommodation also has an outdoor swimming pool for relaxing after rides. The second accommodation on the trail is also a traditional manor house, all rooms have private bathrooms and there is a swimming pool and barbecue area. Towels are provided.
Breakfast is served at your accommodation each morning. This is typical Portugese fare and includes bread, sliced cheese, sliced ham, bread, jam, and a milky coffee. Lunch is sometimes a picnic on the trail or eaten at a local tavern or restaurant. Evening meals are mainly eaten in local restaurants. Typical dinners include a starter, one or two courses and a dessert. Tea, coffee and mineral water are included and local wine is provided with dinner.

Allergies and special dietary requirements can be catered for with advance notice.

Get a free Wild Horses Trail mini-brochure in PDF format.

Itinerary

Wild Horses Trail

8 days / 7 nights / 6 days riding
ยฃ1299pp

Single supplement ยฃ185.

Flights & Airport transfers

Do not book flights until you have received the Booking confirmation email from saddletravel.com.

Please plan your flights to/from as follows:

Your flight can arrive into Porto at anytime on the first day of your holiday.

Your return flight should depart after midday on the last day of your holiday.

Airport transfers are โ‚ฌ165 each way split between the group.

Price Includes
  • Accommodation in twin or double rooms with private bathrooms
  • Breakfasts
  • Lunches
  • Dinners
  • Tea, coffee, water and soft drinks
  • Wine with dinners
  • 5-6 hours riding on 5 days
  • Transfers during the trail
  • Luggage transfer
Price Excludes
  • Airport transfers
  • Tips
  • Other alcoholic drinks

Join a ride - Select your date:

30th September 2023 - 6 Saddles Available - ยฃ1299pp
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14th October 2023 - 7 Saddles Available - ยฃ1299pp
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28th October 2023 - 8 Saddles Available - ยฃ1299pp
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11th November 2023 - 8 Saddles Available - ยฃ1299pp
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25th November 2023 - 8 Saddles Available - ยฃ1299pp
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17th February 2024 - 8 Saddles Available - ยฃ1380pp
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26th October 2024 - 8 Saddles Available - ยฃ1380pp
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