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:

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