Horse Riding Holidays
Experience the timeless beauty of central Portugal on horseback.
In this unspoilt and authentic region, rolling countryside, medieval villages, exceptional local cuisine, and warm Portuguese hospitality create the perfect setting for a truly memorable riding escape. Far from the crowds, you will explore ancient trails lined with traditional stone walls and majestic cork oaks, following paths that have connected villages for centuries.
Our trained, well-cared-for horses offer a safe, refined, and deeply enjoyable riding experience. Whether you are a confident rider seeking scenic adventure or a leisure rider wishing to reconnect with nature at a relaxed pace, each stay is thoughtfully tailored to your level and expectations.
This is more than a riding holiday — it is an opportunity to slow down, reconnect with nature, and discover a hidden corner of Portugal in an elegant and unforgettable way.
General information for horse riding holidays with us
- Length
- between 3 and 8 days, up to 6 riding days
- Approximate riding time
- 1-2 hours (beginners), around 5 hours (experienced intermediate riders)
- Riding Ability
- complete beginners welcome but all riders must be physically fit and comfortable with being around horses
- Group size
- min 2, max 3 adults and/or 2 children, perfect for family holidays or a couple or friends wanting a private getaway
Your Host
Quinta Encantada brings together the Portuguese equestrian tradition with the natural beauty and charm of the surrounding rural landscape.
Experience and local knowledge combined with a genuine passion for horsemanship enable an unforgettable equestrian experience tailored to the needs of each person. The well-being of the horses is a priority. The owner and your guide has over 30 years of experience working with equines and will make sure you have fun while maintaining safe and calm approach.
We are a small, dedicated equestrian business with a clear mission: to create meaningful connections between horses and people. Through thoughtful training, responsible horsemanship, and personalised experiences we aim to foster trust, understanding and mutual respect between horse and rider.
Accommodation
Beyond the saddle your experience continues with carefully selected accommodation options designed for comfort and atmosphere (more details on request).
We will help with arranging accommodation for you. All options are self-catering, breakfast can be arranged, there will be tasty picnic lunch during the rides.
Accomodation options:
Quinta Terramadome
Unique eco-lodgings set in a beautiful natural environment, blending sustainability with comfort.
The dome
80€ per night, 4 guests
The little dome
55€ per night, 2 guests
Cozy Nook
A charming townhouse in the heart of the historic village of Penamacor where cobbled streets and local cafés create an authentic Portuguese ambience.
60€ per night or 350€ per week, 2 guests
One additional adult person is possible at extra charge of 25€ per night
Palace Hotel & Spa Termas de S.Tiago
Enjoy a relaxing escape at this elegant 4-star hotel where stylish comfort meets a tranquil spa experience designed to soothe body and mind.
Prices can be checked here: termasdesaotiago.com
Additional details
- Weight limit
- 85kg for adults, 50kg for ponies
- Transport
- You need to arrange your own transport, a car can be easily hired at the airport, we can help with that
- Airports
- Both Lisbon and Porto are convinient to fly to, we are aproximately 3 hours drive from both
- Travel Insurance
- We recommend to arrange your own medical insurance
- Food
- Portugal is known for its flavourful meats and delicious cheeses so you can look forward to a mouth-watering BBQ lunch served with fresh salads, rustic bread, local cheeses and traditional jams. Vegetarian options are also available upon request.
- Saddles
- Western/Australian
Special Offers for 2026
April
- When
- 16. - 23.4. 2026
(dates can be slightly adjusted, this holiday includes a full day ride to a yearly traditional gypsy market on April 19th) - Length
- 8 days / 7 nights / 6 riding days
- Approximate riding time
- at least 5 hours each ride (detailed itinerary on request)
- Riding Ability
- Comfortable and independent at all gaits and on varied open terrain. Must be physically fit.
- Group Size
- min 2, max 3 adults and/or 2 children, perfect for family holidays or a couple or friends wanting a private getaway
- Price
- 790€ including all riding hours, food and drinks during rides, English and Portuguese speaking guide
May
- When
- 28.5. - 4.6. 2026
(dates can be slighly adjusted, this holiday includes a fullmoon ride on May 31st) - Length
- 8 days / 7 nights / 6 riding days
- Approximate riding time
- around 5 hours each ride (detailed itinerary on request)
- Riding Ability
- Comfortable and independent at all gaits and on varied open terrain. Must be physically fit.
- Group Size
- min 2, max 3 adults and/or 2 children, perfect for family holidays or a couple or friends wanting a private getaway
- Price
- 790€ including all riding hours, lunch and drinks when riding, English and Portuguese speaking guide
Other Activities in the Area
Our region is home to unique and charming villages where life moves at a gentler pace. Here you’ll still see donkeys used to carry firewood and locals growing their own food. It’s a place where people take the time to stop and chat with their neighbours, enjoy a coffee together and share a laugh.
Throughout the year you can visit local markets and enjoy traditional festivals that celebrate the area’s culture and community spirit.
Not far from here lies Monsanto, known as “the most Portuguese village in Portugal.” We highly recommend exploring its breathtaking scenery and discovering why it was chosen as a filming location for the acclaimed series House of the Dragon.
On warmer days cool off at one of the many nearby river beaches, rent a kayak for a peaceful paddle or simply relax in the shade of majestic cork oak trees while tasting local wine and cheese.
Dreaming of a Horse Riding Holiday?
Experience the beauty of the countryside from the saddle and create memories that will last a lifetime. Contact us to begin your adventure.
Use the contact form and we will respond as soon as possible or check our contact page to find other means of contact.
