Equestrian Vacations

Enjoy the beautiful Alentejo Region in Portugal from no other than on horseback

On this fantastic horse riding holiday, Equestrian Escapes are giving you the chance to ride Lusitano horses through some of the most beautiful parts of Portugal.  Accommodation here is a wonderful and old XVI Century convent that still stands in all its glory today.  This horse riding holiday allows you to combine excellence in equestrian instruction, with historical and cultural extravagance.

The Alentejo Region in Portugal is well known for its beauty and is something that is not to be missed.  Being rich in ancient legends and traditions, this area is dripping with magic!  From the light early morning air, to the deep sundowns, with the rolling hills and ever reaching countryside, this holiday will most certainly make an impression on you.

The equestrian centre is only a short walk from the luxurious hotel.  Lessons can start on the day of arrival if there is time, otherwise the next morning.  You will have a combination of lessons and hacks out in the beautiful countryside, though you may choose your riding schedule, ensuring you get the most out of your horse riding holiday.

Take some time to check out the local town Evora – a UNESCO World Heritage site that is incredibly breath-taking as it is one of the finest examples of the Golden Age of Portugal.  This site takes you back almost 2000 years, with its wall paintings and labyrinth-style setting.

This horse riding holiday from Equestrian Escapes allows you to explore Portugal like no other holiday.  This offers a tranquil break away where you can immerse yourself in equestrianism, beauty and culture.  For more information please go to our website, or give us a call to discuss your perfect horse riding holiday.

Follow in the footsteps of the pilgrims 24th October 2010!

This unique trail ride will take you high up into the stunning Tramuntana Mountains that run for about 90 kilometres from the South West to the North East of Mallorca; the range runs close to the sea and offers breathtaking views of the coastline from many of the higher peaks – what better way to absorb this amazing scenery than by horseback!

You will take the ancient pilgrim’s path, the Cami Vell de Lluc, to the Monastery at Lluc. Passing along gravel and earth tracks, through the river bed and beyond the ancient holm oak forests.

After spending the night in this beautiful old Monastery you will tack up once again and prepare for the downward journey home.
At first you will take a different route through what looks like an enchanted wood, eventually returning to a familiar landscape, down the steeper paths to the shallower inclines of the Tramuntana.

Sadly this brings you to the end of your journey but what better way to end than with a traditional Mallorcan supper of paella and a crisp chilled glass of white wine, then head back to your charming Andalucian hotel for one final night.

Please note we do have other dates available for this ride.

Get in contact with Equestrian Escapes now on 01829 781 123.

SICAB Seville

SICAB is held once a year and and includes all activities; show jumping, carriage driving, classical and country dressage, the national livestock breeders’ championship.  Also in the events are a variety of events and shows for you to watch, and even a quality horse auction!  This horse riding holiday is for any equestrian enthusiast, and is surely not one to be missed.  The quality of horses that are on display is like none other, and their elegance and grace is none other than wondrous.  SICAB Seville is a wonderful horse riding break opportunity, where you are sure to find your clarity with these horses!

For more information on a horse riding break to SICAB in Seville, then please do not hesitate to get in contact with Equestrian Escapes.  SICAB runs from the 23rd to the 28th November 2010, so book while you can!!

23rd - 28th November 2010

Equestrian Escapes proudly present to you a luxury UK horse riding break with an offer that you cannot refuse.  Two nights in a 4* Spa Hotel in the beautiful East Devon and get a third absolutely free!  We are happy to  announce that in this offer you will enjoy a wonderful combination of lessons and hacks out in the scenic surrounding areas, making it an unforgettable weekend!

This really is a wonderful opportunity to bring your skills up to that higher level.  Our Devon Horse Riding Break provides expert tuition in dressage and show jumping and the facilities are excellent.  

If you are a beginner, then where better to start?  We provide a range of horses for all sizes and abilities, so I am sure you will find a friend to get along with!  On the morning of your arrival you will be matched with your furry companion and then will have a lesson as a small assessment.  You may then return to your accommodationfor a long lunch, perhaps followed by a book by the pool, a stroll on the beach or even some afternoon tennis?

If this, for you, may be more of a laid back holiday, you may choose how much riding you do, and whether you would like to ride out more, or receive more tuition.

Equestrian Escapes can tailor-make the holiday to suit you.  This luxury spa and ride horse riding holiday is located close to the coast so as you can imagine, the riding is simply unbelievable, yet I’ve heard the spa is good too..  On this holiday you can enjoy yourself, as everything you could possibly need is at your fingertips…

(Offer expires on the 31st October, 2010)

For any queries regarding this holiday, or for any information on any of our horse riding holidays, please do not hesitate to contact Equestrian Escapes.

Equestrian Escapes have been receiving wonderful customer feedback from our horse riding holiday-goers, and we are delighted with the response!  Here is a little taster, but I assure you there is plenty more to come…

Laura took a French horse riding holiday to Saumur in the Loire Valley and

Laura - many thanks!

 had a wonderful time – “exciting place close to the Loire River … great experience visiting Le Cadre Noir!”  Laura said she would happily suggest a horse riding holiday with Equestrian Escapes to friends and family, and said she would definitely go again! 

Jim went on one of our Portugal horse riding holidays to Obidos Lagoon.

Thank you, Jim, for such fantastic feedback!

 Jim was very happy with our service – “Excellent.  Especially at such late notice: thank you!” and that the facilities and riding were “outstanding”.  When asked about his overall experience with us, he said: “[t]he experience [that the staff had] with and knowledge of the horses transmits confidence. The horses themselves were, I thought (not having ridden before), wonderful animals. I wished I’d had more time there!”

Kyrrias kindly gave us feedback on her horse riding holiday to Cornwall. 

Thank you kyrrias - we look forward to booking your next horse riding holiday with us!

 Kyrrias assured Equestrian Escapes that they chose us because of our quick and positive handling of her booking over other tour operators.  When asked about the quality of riding that was available to her, Kyrrias boasted: “”Excellent, we liked all our instructors and I was successful in a dressage test I took on my return, I’m sure the extra practice helped!”

Martin used Equestrian Escapes for a wonderful horse riding holiday in

Martin - thank you for such valuable feedback!

Pembrokeshire.  He commented about the quality of riding and his overall experience – “As  total novices, we have nothing but praise for the patience of  ALL of the staff – especially the girls!” and even said he would “…start saving & planning for next year!”  Thank you Martin for such lovely feedback.

Equestrian Escapes look forward to hearing from our customers who have travelled with us, and value their feedback!  Equestrian Escapes would like to thank our customers for their loyalty and insight into our horse riding holidays, and would also like to thank the staff on hand who make the magic happen!

If you have any questions about any of our horse riding holidays, or wish to give your own feedback, please do not hesitate to contact us directly. 

Many thanks!

If you like Portugal, and fresh fish, then the Alentejo region is the place for you.  Fresh sardines for breakfast, cork and olive trees covering the surroundings, and the most beautiful and healthy horses you have ever seen.  It is very tranquil, and the beaches go on for miles.  Views of the Atlantic Ocean are certainly not one to pass up, and it is not every day nature’s beauty is so clearly defined around you.  The colours of the flowers, and the varied vegetation are everywhere; be sure not to overlook it because once you are home you’re little vegetable patch will look like nothing in contrast, I promise!  If you would prefer to see the sights and not only horse ride, this can be easily arranged, and the beaches are sensational for swimming and sunbathing.  The fishing villagers are fantastic for long lunches, and walking is also gorgeous.  Porto Covo is located in a magical setting, and it is impossible for its beauty to go unnoticed.  Such a region should most certainly be explored, and I intend to go back to see more of this enchanting landscape.  Equestrian Escapes – THANK YOU!

Many thanks to Equestrian Escapes for creating the most perfect horse riding holiday for my husband and I. Many thanks!

Many thanks,

Barbara Church

Choose a Horse Riding Holiday of a Lifetime!

Equestrian Escapes is proud to say that a series of brand NEW horse riding holidays in Mallorca are to shortly be revealed!  This exclusive holiday destination is not one to be missed, and makes a horse riding holiday of a lifetime!  You could stay in the beautiful town of Alcudia, and explore the surrounding attractions.  These horse riding holidays will vary in length, and are possible for all riders of all different standards.  As ever, the facilities are exceptional, with wonderfully healthy horses.  Riding tuition is of very high standard, and we can assure you that you will be in safe hands!

Look Forward To Mallorca With Equestrian Escapes - WATCH THIS SPACE!

Discover Tuscany, and the beautiful countryside that surrounds it!  The breath-taking scenery is even more glorious when experienced on horseback and no true horse lover should deprive themselves from such a thing.  Joie de vivre – INDEED!  Equestrian Escapes offers a range of Italian holidays for all standards of rider.

All holidays on offer are castle based with wonderful trail ride opportunities.  Riding attractions are all very varied and very exciting, including riding on the stunning beaches of Lake Bosena and cantering through the local vineyards.  opportunities to sample the local delights are also on offer, including tasting fresh olive oil and visiting the local dairy to watch the production of ricotta cheese and sample if you wish.  Our holidays range from top-class luxury to a more comfortable form of accommodation.  Swimming pools are available at each destination, and you can be assured that every comfort you will need will be available to you.  All riding tuition is of very high standard, as are the horses who are kept in fabulous condition.  So now your mind is set at ease, do you need much persuasion to click the link?…..  http://www.equestrian-escapes.com/

Italy has always been famously beautiful, and romantic.  With a wonderful selection of Italian horse riding breaks in store for you, I assure you that beautiful and romantic are the words that first spring to mind.

Lounge by the pool with a book in Italy....

To start with we have a wonderful Italian family horse riding holiday for you, nestled between Tuscany and Umbria this ongoing countryside works wonders with the kids.  You would stay in an enchanting castle so the adventures keep going on and on.  What is wonderful about this holiday package is that you are able to choose how much riding you would like to do.  Non-riders are most welcome and they will find plenty to amuse themselves with in this fabulous Italian countryside.

We offer a wonderful long weekend break in Italy that is only on offer when the children are back at school.

Exploring the beautiful countryside around the castle

Again you stay in the castle and on arrival you can meet your companion for the weekend, tack up and go for a hack in the countryside surrounding the  castle and even wading through the Stridolone River.  Whilst riding out the wildlife is very varied including deer, wild boar and various birds in the surrounding areas and especially from Lake Bolsena to Lake Mezzano.  All of the horses are very well looked after and excellent riding tuition is on hand in a variety of languages.  So, all that is left is to pack your jodhpurs, then you’ll be on your way!

The enchanting 17th Century castle that will be your home for your stay

Equestrian Escapes proudly offers you an Italian Castle & Trail horse riding holiday that was designed with the adventurous in mind.  If you like to don your riding attire and gallop off into the distance on an adventure then you should most definitely look at this horse riding holiday very carefully.   You will head out along the Brigands Trail and towards the stunning Lake Bolsena where the views are quite literally breath-taking.  Accommodation is half board and you will be staying in a stunning 17th Century castle perched atop a hill, and you will feel on top of the world with this horse riding holiday of a lifetime…

Stay in luxury accommodation in the form of three different castles!

If the idea of staying in beautiful medieval castles thrills you, then read on!  This wonderful Italian castle-based horse riding holiday is more than thrilling as you have the opportunity to stay in not one, not two, but three castles (two medieval, and one historic fortress)!  This holiday is only available to intermediate and advanced riders and you will thoroughly enjoy the luxurious castle accommodation, as well as the first-class horse riding tuition.  Riding out in this location could not be more luxurious either – cantering along the beaches of Lake Bolsena and through the surrounding vineyards of the area.  perhaps even try some of the local grape – luxurious for sure!

Once you have decided which horse riding holiday you intend to go on, Equestrian Escapes has a few more tips for you, too…

When going away on a horse riding holiday, don’t take too much with you!  Especially if you are an inexperienced rider, do not spend a lot of money on equipment that you may never use, or that you may never use again.

In Spring, Autumn and especially in the summer months, it can get very hot, so to avoid feeling sweaty and sticky all the time, try to stick to natural fabrics, especially cotton. There are many fantastic new products on the market, including full cotton seamless underwear, which is a blessing for the trail rides. Don’t forget about fine cotton socks, too.

 Trousers
Of course, nothing beats the comfort and protection that proper cotton breeches or jodhpurs afford for riding, but if you don’t intend to ride much after your holiday, you can get by with cotton tracksuit bottoms or leggings.

Tops
Should be fairly fitted, and it is better to have at least half sleeves for protection to the shoulders against sunburn or low hanging branches on the trail riding holidays. Even in the summer, they are just as cool and for the ladies, are much more “supportive” and comfortable so you can concentrate on learning in your classes. If you come in winter, it’s good to bring tops you can wear in layers, T-shirts, sweatshirts and vests. Sometimes it is quite cold and suddenly it gets hot, so it’s good to be able to add or subtract quickly.

Whatever your experience, whatever the holiday, Equestrian Escapes are here to help make your dreams come true…..