The perfect riding holiday for the dressage lover or for those who wish to discover this magnificent art. Just outside Lisbon, stay at this dressage centre and have lessons on their highly schooled Lusitano horses from one of their experienced instructors.
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Dressage stays
8 days / 6 riding
From £1,171
From the horse’s mouth
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November 2025 Janet aged 70Garcia is a wonderful school master. He was able to help me improve my riding and show me how some of the upper level movements are done.
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November 2025 Cathy aged 71Carmelo was a really patient teacher.
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October 2025 Cynthia aged 51Mario and Ivan were wonderful and dedicated instructors, and I really improved my skills. The horses are well trained and capable. The whole environment was great - it felt like going to camp and having an international home stay. The food was great - wonderful homestyle cooking. Would definitely recommend and do it... Read all
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January 2025 KIMBERLY aged 25This trip was truly once in a lifetime. i loved everything and felt immediately at home. the staff were extraordinarily friendly and welcoming, the horses were well trained, and the instructor was thorough and detailed. i do not know when I would be able to get the opportunity to ride such wonderful horses under such... Read all
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November 2024 Hanneke aged 28I had an amazing time in Portugal. The ambiance and riding was well above my expectations! Young but well trained horses
Itinerary
Highlights
- Classical dressage, Portuguese Equitation lessons in small groups of 2 or 3 riders (maximum 4 in a group)
- Choose to have one or two lessons each day (each lesson lasts between 50 and 60 minutes)
- Beautifully schooled Lusitano horses, some of whom are capable of high school movements
- Non riders are welcome
- Plan your week to allow time to visit some of the surrounding area such as local monasteries, Lisbon city or the Portugese School of Equestrian Art at Queluz.
- Choose to have one or two lessons each day (each lesson lasts between 50 and 60 minutes)
- Beautifully schooled Lusitano horses, some of whom are capable of high school movements
- Non riders are welcome
- Plan your week to allow time to visit some of the surrounding area such as local monasteries, Lisbon city or the Portugese School of Equestrian Art at Queluz.
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Day 1 1 : HOME - LISBON - No lesson
AlcaincaYour flight to Lisbon can arrive at any time, although please note that there is no discount if your late arrival means that you miss dinner on the first night.
You will be met on arrival at Lisbon airport and transferred to the equestrian centre which is located just 25km from Lisbon. Alternatively you may prefer to hire a car and drive yourself to the centre - we can provide driving directions. -
Day 2 2 : DRESSAGE - 1 or 2 lessons
AlcaincaYou will have pre-booked either one or two lessons today.
Each lesson comprises 2 - 3 riders and lasts between 50-60 minutes.
The morning lessons start around 09:30 and the afternoon lessons start around 16:00, although this can vary depending on the time of year and weather.
Lessons usually start in walk with the chance to practice shoulder-in, leg yielding and travers before moving onto trot and canter. For those with prior dressage experience if may be possible to practice Spanish walk, piaffe, passage or pirouettes. Classical dressage is particularly focused on lightness, beauty and expression.
If you have chosen only one lesson today, then this could be either in the morning or the afternoon and the rest of the day can be spend relaxing at the centre, by the pool or perhaps off-site visiting Lisbon, Mafra or Sintra.
Please note that over the duration of your stay, you migh take lessons with different instructors, depending on your riding abilities and language preferences. -
Day 3 3 : DRESSAGE - 1 or 2 lessons
AlcaincaAgain you will have booked either one or two dressage lessons for today. It is not always possible to request additional lessons once you have arrived so you should be certain to book enough in advance. -
Day 4 4 : DRESSAGE - 1 or 2 lessons
AlcaincaAgain you will have booked either one or two dressage lessons for today. It is not always possible to request additional lessons once you have arrived so you should be certain to book enough in advance. -
Day 5 5 : DRESSAGE - 1 or 2 lessons
AlcaincaAgain you will have booked either one or two dressage lessons for today. It is not always possible to request additional lessons once you have arrived so you should be certain to book enough in advance. -
Day 6 6 : DRESSAGE - 1 or 2 lessons
AlcaincaAgain you will have booked either one or two dressage lessons for today. It is not always possible to request additional lessons once you have arrived so you should be certain to book enough in advance. -
Day 7 7 : DRESSAGE - 1 or 2 lessons
AlcaincaAgain you will have booked either one or two dressage lessons for today. It is not always possible to request additional lessons once you have arrived so you should be certain to book enough in advance. -
Day 8 8 : LISBON - HOME - No lesson
After lunch, transfer to the airport so you can catch your flight home.
Dates & prices
Price details
IMPORTANT: THERE ARE NO LESSONS ON SUNDAYS
- Flights or transportation to your destination (international/domestic) are not included, but can be booked on request - please contact us for rates.
- Rates are per person, based on two riders sharing a twin or double room during the ride, and on the "moderate programme"
- Dates are flexible and you can arrive/depart on any day and stay for as long as you like with discounts for longer stays. We recommend arriving on Sundays as there are no lessons on Sundays. Please contact us for a personalised quote.
- There are 2 set programmes available:
> Moderate (includes 5 group lessons + 1 private lesson) - listed price
> Intense (includes 10 group lessons + 2 private lessons) - Low season €1818/£1575/$2110; Rest of year €2020/£1750/$2345 (2025/2026 rates)
- Solo riders will be given a single room free of charge.
- Transfers are not included but can be arranged (invoiced before departure):
From the airport to the dressage centre approx. €110/£95/$130 return (1-3 passengers);
From the city centre to the dressage school costs approx. €130/£115/$155 return (1-3 passengers).
Alternatively you may prefer to hire a car and drive yourself - we can provide driving directions.
- Riders from 12 years are welcome if they have the required riding level and a good level of concentration, and if accompanied by their parents.
- A driver is available during your stay if you wish to take a local excursion, such as to the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art, Mafra or Lisbon - these excursions are at additional cost and payable locally.
- There is a discount available for accompanying non-riders (sharing the room). Please contact us for more details.
Please Note
The itinerary may be modified at anytime for security reasons, meteorological or events beyond our control such as blocked roads, rivers in flood, drought, strikes and local holidays. Equus Journeys, our local partners and their local guides will always strive to find the best solution and will alter the itinerary as needed.
The names of the hotels and accommodation are given for information only and depending on availability, they may be modified without notice and replaced by another of a similar standard.
- Flights or transportation to your destination (international/domestic) are not included, but can be booked on request - please contact us for rates.
- Rates are per person, based on two riders sharing a twin or double room during the ride, and on the "moderate programme"
- Dates are flexible and you can arrive/depart on any day and stay for as long as you like with discounts for longer stays. We recommend arriving on Sundays as there are no lessons on Sundays. Please contact us for a personalised quote.
- There are 2 set programmes available:
> Moderate (includes 5 group lessons + 1 private lesson) - listed price
> Intense (includes 10 group lessons + 2 private lessons) - Low season €1818/£1575/$2110; Rest of year €2020/£1750/$2345 (2025/2026 rates)
- Solo riders will be given a single room free of charge.
- Transfers are not included but can be arranged (invoiced before departure):
From the airport to the dressage centre approx. €110/£95/$130 return (1-3 passengers);
From the city centre to the dressage school costs approx. €130/£115/$155 return (1-3 passengers).
Alternatively you may prefer to hire a car and drive yourself - we can provide driving directions.
- Riders from 12 years are welcome if they have the required riding level and a good level of concentration, and if accompanied by their parents.
- A driver is available during your stay if you wish to take a local excursion, such as to the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art, Mafra or Lisbon - these excursions are at additional cost and payable locally.
- There is a discount available for accompanying non-riders (sharing the room). Please contact us for more details.
Please Note
The itinerary may be modified at anytime for security reasons, meteorological or events beyond our control such as blocked roads, rivers in flood, drought, strikes and local holidays. Equus Journeys, our local partners and their local guides will always strive to find the best solution and will alter the itinerary as needed.
The names of the hotels and accommodation are given for information only and depending on availability, they may be modified without notice and replaced by another of a similar standard.
Price includes
Support Team
English speaking instructors
Logistic
1 horse equipped with classical dressage/Portuguese saddle and bridle (the horse can change during the stay)
Accommodation
Double/Single room in Guesthouse (7 nights)
Meals
Full board from dinner on day 1 to lunch on day 8
Price doesn't include
Meals
Beverage and personal extra
Transport
International flights
Extra
Tips to local team
Insurance
Cancellation and travel insurance are not included in the above listed price. Please note that insurance is mandatory. We recommend taking out an insurance policy as soon as your trip is booked to cover you in case of cancellation
Optional
Transport
Airport transfers on destination
Extras
Private lessons - on request
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Departure Return Price without flights Status 22/03/2026 29/03/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Contact an advisor 29/03/2026 05/04/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Contact an advisor 05/04/2026 12/04/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now 12/04/2026 19/04/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now 19/04/2026 26/04/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now 26/04/2026 03/05/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now -
Departure Return Price without flights Status 03/05/2026 10/05/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now 10/05/2026 17/05/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now 17/05/2026 24/05/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now 24/05/2026 31/05/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now 31/05/2026 07/06/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now 07/06/2026 14/06/2026 £1,239 €1,413 $1,598 Book now 14/06/2026 21/06/2026 £1,239 €1,413 $1,598 Book now 21/06/2026 28/06/2026 £1,239 €1,413 $1,598 Book now 28/06/2026 05/07/2026 £1,239 €1,413 $1,598 Book now -
Departure Return Price without flights Status 05/07/2026 12/07/2026 £1,239 €1,413 $1,598 Book now 12/07/2026 19/07/2026 £1,239 €1,413 $1,598 Book now 19/07/2026 26/07/2026 £1,239 €1,413 $1,598 Book now 26/07/2026 02/08/2026 £1,239 €1,413 $1,598 Book now 02/08/2026 09/08/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now 09/08/2026 16/08/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now 16/08/2026 23/08/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now 23/08/2026 30/08/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now 30/08/2026 06/09/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now -
Departure Return Price without flights Status 06/09/2026 13/09/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now 13/09/2026 20/09/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now 20/09/2026 27/09/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now 27/09/2026 04/10/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now 04/10/2026 11/10/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now 11/10/2026 18/10/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now 18/10/2026 25/10/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now 25/10/2026 01/11/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now -
Departure Return Price without flights Status 01/11/2026 08/11/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now 08/11/2026 15/11/2026 £1,377 €1,570 $1,776 Book now 15/11/2026 22/11/2026 £1,239 €1,413 $1,598 Book now 22/11/2026 29/11/2026 £1,239 €1,413 $1,598 Book now 29/11/2026 06/12/2026 £1,239 €1,413 $1,598 Book now 06/12/2026 13/12/2026 £1,239 €1,413 $1,598 Book now 13/12/2026 20/12/2026 £1,239 €1,413 $1,598 Book now
Equestrian info
Horses
There are approximately 12 horses available for guests and they are all pure-bred or part-bred Lusitanos. Some are stallions but mainly they are geldings. The horses are at varying levels of training, so there are schoolmasters for intermediate riders or those just starting out in dressage as well as horses capable of producing high school movements for experienced riders.
Guide & local team
There are two main instructors and it is likely that you will have lessons with one of them throughout your stay for continuity and consistency in your training.
Minimum riding ability
Minimum riding ability
You should be able to walk, trot and canter and be a confident rider.
Riders who have some prior experience of dressage will get the most from this holiday. An understanding of some basic terms, such as shoulder-in is required. The centre cannot cater for beginner riders. You will be expected to wear a hard hat when mounted and please note that we can not guarantee that your lessons will be with a particular instructor.
On some occasions, novice riders may be welcomed (special package), please enquire for further details.
Rider weight limit - 89 kgs / 13.5 stones. Heavier riders please contact us.
Riders who have some prior experience of dressage will get the most from this holiday. An understanding of some basic terms, such as shoulder-in is required. The centre cannot cater for beginner riders. You will be expected to wear a hard hat when mounted and please note that we can not guarantee that your lessons will be with a particular instructor.
On some occasions, novice riders may be welcomed (special package), please enquire for further details.
Rider weight limit - 89 kgs / 13.5 stones. Heavier riders please contact us.
Pace
Depending on your experience you will work in all three paces and may include movements such as shoulder-in, travers, half pass, piaffe etc.
Tacking ability and participation
You will be expected to assist with grooming, tacking up and untacking your horse each day but grooms are available to assist you if necessary.
Trip conditions and Requested experience
No special difficulties, but a prior knowledge of basic dressage is required. You will get more out of the tuition if you have some experience of basic dressage terms, such as shoulder-in.
Equestrian equipment
Spurs and sticks will be made available to you if the instructors feel you require them.
Riding helmets are mandatory. We recommend all our riders to wear a helmet to the correct standard and you should bring your own to ensure a proper fit.
Riding helmets are mandatory. We recommend all our riders to wear a helmet to the correct standard and you should bring your own to ensure a proper fit.
Travel info
Comfort
The guesthouse at the equestrian centre has four twin rooms and one double room , each with private bathroom and located close to the stables. There are also an additional three twin rooms just over the road. The dining room, communal living area with TV and bar, as well as the unheated swimming pool are all available year round.
Meals
You eat all your meals in the dining room at the riding centre, which overlooks the indoor arena.
Breakfast is continental and buffet style.
For lunch you will have traditional Portuguese food.
Dinner is usually fish with salads and vegetables. The focus is on traditional Portugese cuisine and all is prepared locally by the chef.
Wine is included.
Vegetarians can be accommodated. Please let us know in advance.
Breakfast is continental and buffet style.
For lunch you will have traditional Portuguese food.
Dinner is usually fish with salads and vegetables. The focus is on traditional Portugese cuisine and all is prepared locally by the chef.
Wine is included.
Vegetarians can be accommodated. Please let us know in advance.
Climate
Portugal has a pleasant climate with mild temperatures all year round:
Winter: 12 - 15c
Spring: 20 - 25c
Summer: 30 - 35c
Autumn: 15 - 20c
There is rarely rain during the summer months, but rain is common in winter and can occur in spring also.
Winter: 12 - 15c
Spring: 20 - 25c
Summer: 30 - 35c
Autumn: 15 - 20c
There is rarely rain during the summer months, but rain is common in winter and can occur in spring also.
Tips
Tips are appreciated but not expected. You should give what you feel is appropriate and you feel comfortable with.
Packing list
Please pack carefully and sensibly: the following guide is here to give you an idea of what to bring. This list must be adapted depending on the season and individual needs.
Head
- Riding helmet
Upper Body
- Half or long-sleeved cotton shirts or T-shirt in a quick-drying material
- A light raincoat that you are comfortable in
- A lightweight fleece or jumper
- A swimsuit
Legs
- 2 pairs of jodhpurs or riding trousers
- 1-2 pairs of trousers
Hands and feet
- Short jodhpur boots and half chaps are the best option as they are much cooler and easier to transport, but if you are used to riding in your long boots and want to wear them this is fine.
- Lightweight shoes for the evenings
- Several pairs of socks
- Gloves
Other useful items
- Toiletries
- Small medical kit - antiseptic cream, plasters, aspirin, anti-histamine, insect-bite salve etc..
Our Recommendations
- We recommend travelling in your riding boots and carrying your hat and some riding clothes in your hand luggage - then if your luggage goes astray you are still able to ride!
- We recommend taking a copy of your passport and insurance documents with you in case you lose your originals
Head
- Riding helmet
Upper Body
- Half or long-sleeved cotton shirts or T-shirt in a quick-drying material
- A light raincoat that you are comfortable in
- A lightweight fleece or jumper
- A swimsuit
Legs
- 2 pairs of jodhpurs or riding trousers
- 1-2 pairs of trousers
Hands and feet
- Short jodhpur boots and half chaps are the best option as they are much cooler and easier to transport, but if you are used to riding in your long boots and want to wear them this is fine.
- Lightweight shoes for the evenings
- Several pairs of socks
- Gloves
Other useful items
- Toiletries
- Small medical kit - antiseptic cream, plasters, aspirin, anti-histamine, insect-bite salve etc..
Our Recommendations
- We recommend travelling in your riding boots and carrying your hat and some riding clothes in your hand luggage - then if your luggage goes astray you are still able to ride!
- We recommend taking a copy of your passport and insurance documents with you in case you lose your originals
Sustainable tourism
- Travel light. It's a little known fact, but the lighter you pack, the better for the environment as heavy bags will produce higher emissions (when flying a plane or driving a car!).
- Reduce plastic waste. Take your favorite reusable bottle with you. Avoid single-use bags, cups, or straws.
- Preserve nature. Always take your rubbish with you during the ride and recycle them. Leave all the flowers or plants as you found them, and never get too close when observing wildlife. Make sure to use eco-friendly products such as body wash or laundry detergent (if camping) to protect both your skin and the environment.
- Choose your experiences carefully. Respect animal life by not participating in any activities that abuse wild animals (shows, elephant rides, etc.).
- Support local populations. Buy local handicrafts, be respectful of customs, and learn about the culture of local communities.
- Share! Raise awareness among your family and friends about sustainable tourism.
For more information please see this page.
Did you know?
Did you know?
Nuno Oliveira (1925-1989) was a Portugese riding instructor, considered as the most important master of equestrian art in the 20th century. Fuelled by a love of equestrian culture and opera music, he approached riding as a true art and devoted his time to learning and teaching lightness and the love of the horse through his clinics and writing. Hypersensitive, quick-tempered, generous, independent and a genius he is still revered amongst lovers of classical dressage.
Customer reviews
Customer reviews
All of our reviews are real, honest opinions from riders who have recently travelled with us. Upon their return, our riders will receive an email inviting them to share their experiences from their trip. Good or bad, each review will be published on our website, provided that they respect our editorial guidelines.
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Janet aged 70 UNION BRIDGE 1 tripNovember 2025Garcia is a wonderful school master. He was able to help me improve my riding and show me how some of the upper level movements are done.
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Cathy aged 71 FREDERICK MARYLAND 1 tripNovember 2025Carmelo was a really patient teacher.
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Cynthia aged 51 PORTLAND 1 tripOctober 2025Mario and Ivan were wonderful and dedicated instructors, and I really improved my skills. The horses are well trained and capable. The whole environment was great - it felt like going to camp and having an international home stay. The food was great - wonderful homestyle cooking. Would definitely recommend and do it... Read all
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KIMBERLY aged 25 Saratoga 1 tripJanuary 2025This trip was truly once in a lifetime. i loved everything and felt immediately at home. the staff were extraordinarily friendly and welcoming, the horses were well trained, and the instructor was thorough and detailed. i do not know when I would be able to get the opportunity to ride such wonderful horses under such... Read all
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Hanneke aged 28 ENSCHEDE 1 tripNovember 2024I had an amazing time in Portugal. The ambiance and riding was well above my expectations! Young but well trained horses
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Frederikke aged 26 Copenhagen 1 tripJune 2024Had the pleasure of riding Garcia, Caramelo and Jozedo who were all incredibly well kept, talented and happy horses, very suitable to teach the proper riding (signals, position etc.) to the rider, as they knew all exercises (flying changes, passage, piaffe, spanish walk, half pass etc.) but would only do them when... Read all
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JULIE BOTHELL 1 tripOctober 2023Well trained; rode multiple horses so could experience different personalities and skills
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Mary aged 71 CEHEGIN 1 tripOctober 2022A lovely situation. Superb instruction on well trained horses. Accommodation and food the best. I learnt more in a week than I imagined. Instructors Sergio and Mario were so patient and understanding. Already trying to plan a return visit. All horses exceptional for their purpose.
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