Short break in Cabo de Gata

A short break in the heart of the Cabo de Gata Natural park. Enjoy the lovely bays and beaches of Andalusia, and ride through villages that witnessed the era of piracy in the Mediterranean.
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Fast Ride
5 days (3 days riding)
From £1,040
Open to non-riders

From the horse’s mouth

  • September 2025 Claire aged 52
    The riding trip to Cabo de Gata was faultless from start to finish. Beautiful horses who were obviously looked after extremely well by Antonio and his team. The treks were glorious, incredible landscapes on fabulous horses who never put a foot wrong. We all felt we were in very safe hands both with the horses and... Read all
  • September 2025 Rosamund aged 55
    A long-planned trip, much anticipated, we couldn't have asked for more. The pre-trip help was brilliant, very responsive, and the local team were just fantastic from the first evening onwards. They clearly love their horses and we had a wonderful time getting to know them. Antonio cleverly managed to make each day's... Read all
  • September 2025 Lucinda Caroline aged 54
    Only have positive things to say. It was exactly what we hoped. Thank you Equus Journeys and Cabacci. We will be back. I rode 3 different horses and all 3 were fantastic. Hidden Face, Dakota and Inca Great temperaments, sure footed, steady and plenty of Zip!

Itinerary

Highlights

- A short itinerary for a quick getaway!

- Discover the untouched beauty of the landscapes of Andalusia on an active trail ride.

- Ride along the white sand beaches and discover hidden bays.

- Enjoy being on the set of some of the most famous Wild West films.

- Relax in the comfort of local hotels.


Check the long version of this trail here!
  • Day 1 1: EUROPE - ALMERIA

    Sotillo Hotel
    Fly to Almeria. You will be transferred to the accommodation where you will meet your guide and fellow riders (transfers are not included).
    Enjoy your first night in Spain with a delicious locally cooked dinner.

    Overnight at the Sotillo hotel (or Dona Pakyta)

  • Day 2 2: SAN JOSÉ - GENOVESES BEACH - SAN JOSÉ - 5-6 hours riding

    Sotillo Hotel
    After breakfast, your guide will introduce you to the safety procedures, and pair you with your horse.

    Start your trail ride towards Genoveses - arguably one of the most famous beaches in Spain. Discover the pristine coastline of the Mediterranean as you allow your horse to stretch their legs across the white sands of Mónsul and Media Luna. A perfect photo opportunity set in one of the most iconic film sets for films such as “Indiana Jones” or “Lawrence of Arabia”. Enjoy a picnic at the foot of the Cortijo “El Romeral”, an Andalusian farm. End your day on a high as you ride up into the Del Tesorillo valley. Dinner and overnight at the Sotillo hotel (or Dona Pakyta).



  • Day 3 3 : SAN JOSÉ - RODALQUILAR - 5-6h riding

    Oro y Luz Hotel
    After breakfast, you will start today’s ride in the north of the park where the Sierra de Gata Mountains are located. Enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the mountain range as your ride across fields and hills, and pass through an original Spanish village of Los Albaricoques. Today, most of the village houses have been refurbished, stripping away the original Old West style theme, but as you ride through the narrow streets, you may see some familiar street names of famous films and actors that were made here. Let your horses have a well deserved break close the iconic El Cortijo del Fraile, where you can
    enjoy a picnic lunch. You will ride back to the hotel in the afternoon.

    Depending on the departure, dinner can be held either at the hotel of at a nearby restaurant.

    Overnight at the hotel.
  • Day 4 4: RODALQUILAR - ISLETA DEL MORO- SAN JOSÉ - 5-6 hours riding

    Sotillo Hotel
    Your final day in the saddle. As you leave behind Rodalquilar, you will ride along the beautiful coast line on a track that was once used to protect the local villages from pirate attacks. Take a look back into history as you pass the small castles and watch towers of this idyllic region. After an adventurous morning, enjoy a picnic in a small oasis, under the shade of large palm tree leaves on the beautiful beach of Escullos.

    Overnight at the Sotillo hotel (or Dona Pakita)
  • Day 5 5: ALMERIA - EUROPE

    The last breakfast with your group and your brilliant guides, before saying goodbye.

    Note: Check out from the hotel at 12 noon at the latest.

Dates & prices

Price details

- Please note that for some departures the riding requirements can be adjusted and low intermediate riders can be welcomed.

- International flights are not included, but can be booked upon request.

- Rates are per person based on two riders sharing a twin or double room.

- The groups are made up of 4 to 6 riders or 4 to 8 riders, depending on the dates (or 2 to 8 riders in 2027). The ride will also confirm from 2-3 riders on payment of a supplement (rates per person, not applicable in 2027):
> 2 riders - €206/£175/$240 in 2026
> 3 riders - €32/£30/$40 in 2026

Once the group has reached the minimum number of people required, we will remove this supplement from your invoice and refund you if you have already paid it.

- If you sign up to the ride as a solo rider and there are no other riders likely to share your room, you will be charged a single room supplement. You will then be reimbursed if a sharer is found for you at a later date.

2026 - €112/£95/$130 in the low season; €159/£130/$175 in the mid season/high season.
2027 - €119/£100/$140 in the low season; €153/£135/$180 in the mid season; €166/£145/$195 high season; or €213/£185/$245 in Easter/July/August

- Transfers from/to Almeria are not included. The rate is around €65 in 2026/2027 per car, per way (paid locally in cash/card). The pick up/drop off timings are flexible.
- A transfer to and from Malaga airport can be organised and is payable locally. Rates are per car, per way:
> 1-3 people = €250 in 2026 or €265 in 2027
> 4-8 people = €310 in 2026 or €330 in 2027

- It is also possible to take a bus from Malaga or Granada to Almeria: see here (needs to be prebooked to guarantee space).

- Children must be accompanied by an adult and are welcome from the age of 14, provided that they have the required equestrian level.

- Non-riders are welcome and benefit from a 50% discount in 2026/2027 (breakfast and dinner included, shared room). Non-riders can join riders for lunch picnics (not included - €25/£22/$35 per picnic, per person - invoiced before departure).
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

1 English speaking horse guide

Logistics

1 support vehicle

Accommodation

Double/twin room in hotels

Meals

Full board from dinner on day 1 to breakfast on the final day

Additional equipment

First aid kit

Price doesn't include

Meals

Beverages and personal extras

Accommodation

Single room supplement

Transport

International flights
Return airport transfers

Extras

Tips to the local team
Small group supplement - see above for the details

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

Extras

Trip extensions or additional activities
  • Departure Return Price without flights Status
    11/10/2026 15/10/2026 £1,070 €1,220 $1,380
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    14/10/2026 18/10/2026 £1,070 €1,220 $1,380
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  • Departure Return Price without flights Status
    08/11/2026 12/11/2026 £1,040 €1,186 $1,342
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    11/11/2026 15/11/2026 £1,040 €1,186 $1,342
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    20/12/2026 24/12/2026 £1,040 €1,186 $1,342
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    23/12/2026 27/12/2026 £1,070 €1,220 $1,380
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  • Departure Return Price without flights Status
    06/01/2027 10/01/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    13/01/2027 17/01/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    20/01/2027 24/01/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    27/01/2027 31/01/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    03/02/2027 07/02/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    10/02/2027 14/02/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    14/02/2027 18/02/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    24/02/2027 28/02/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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  • Departure Return Price without flights Status
    03/03/2027 07/03/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    10/03/2027 14/03/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    17/03/2027 21/03/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    31/03/2027 04/04/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    04/04/2027 08/04/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    14/04/2027 18/04/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    21/04/2027 25/04/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    28/04/2027 02/05/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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  • Departure Return Price without flights Status
    02/05/2027 06/05/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    12/05/2027 16/05/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    19/05/2027 23/05/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    26/05/2027 30/05/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    30/05/2027 03/06/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    09/06/2027 13/06/2027 £1,432 €1,633 $1,847
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  • Departure Return Price without flights Status
    15/09/2027 19/09/2027 £1,499 €1,709 $1,934
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    22/09/2027 26/09/2027 £1,499 €1,709 $1,934
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    29/09/2027 03/10/2027 £1,499 €1,709 $1,934
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    03/10/2027 07/10/2027 £1,499 €1,709 $1,934
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    13/10/2027 17/10/2027 £1,499 €1,709 $1,934
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    20/10/2027 24/10/2027 £1,432 €1,633 $1,847
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    24/10/2027 28/10/2027 £1,432 €1,633 $1,847
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  • Departure Return Price without flights Status
    03/11/2027 07/11/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    07/11/2027 11/11/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    24/11/2027 28/11/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    28/11/2027 02/12/2027 £1,432 €1,633 $1,847
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    08/12/2027 12/12/2027 £1,432 €1,633 $1,847
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    15/12/2027 19/12/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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    19/12/2027 23/12/2027 £1,385 €1,579 $1,787
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Equestrian info

Horses

The herd has a total of 20, ranging from Andalusian, Hispano-Arab and Spanish bred horses. They are sure-footed, respectful and sensitive horses.

They are usually kept in paddocks. During their time off, they are kept in a field where they are free to roam.

Guide & local team

You guides are Antonio, Michel and Desi. They are extremely professional and very good at what they do meaning you will be in safe hands throughout your trail ride. They speak Spanish and a reasonably good English.

Minimum riding ability

Minimum riding ability

This holiday is suited for strong intermediate riders who ride regularly.

Riders must be able to ride confidently over varied terrain as some of the sections can be slightly technical.

The rider weight limit is 90 kilos / 14,1 st / 198 lbs

Pace

The pace is varied to include long trots and canters.

Depending on the overall disposition of the group, gallops may also be possible but are not guaranteed.

Tacking ability and participation

All riders are responsible for grooming and tacking their own horse. You are also expected to help the team to feed and water the horses when required.

Trip conditions and Requested experience

Good levels of fitness and endurance are needed since you will spend long hours in the saddle every day.

Riders must remain in control of their horse at all times and be comfortable riding in the outdoors at speed.

This holiday is not recommended for people who suffer from vertigo.

Equestrian equipment

McClellan or English saddles. The horses are ridden with snaffle bits, or bitless.
Small saddlebags are provided.

Helmets are mandatory and the team has a few available locally. We recommend our riders to wear a helmet to the correct standard and you should bring your own to ensure a proper fit.

Travel info

Comfort

This is a semi mobile ride with two different hotels on this riding holiday. The accommodation is of 3 or 4**** and have a pool.

Riders stay in double or twin rooms (or single room for solo riders, with a supplement), which are comfortable and have a private bathroom.

During the winter months, Sotillo hotel is closed so you will be staying in Dona Pakyta hotel.

Meals

The Spanish cuisines are varied and will give you a taste of the Mediterranean flavours.
Lunch will be mostly picnics of local, home-made food (no sandwiches).
Typical Spanish dishes will be served for dinner every night at the chosen hotels.

Special diets can be accommodated with advance notice.

If there are less than 4 riders in the group, the picnic lunches will be replaced by local restaurants.

Climate

During springtime temperatures generally reach 15-20°C, where as in summer the temperature rises at around 25°C (June) and can even reach 35°C
In Autumn temperatures are approx. 20 – 25°C. December temperatures can get to 15°C with cool evenings.

This ride does not run in July/August due to high temperatures and busy beaches.

Tips

Tips are welcome but not expected. You should tip what you feel is appropriate and you are 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
- Sunhat for when not riding
- Sunglasses
- Buff or bandana

Upper body
- Thermal long-sleeved tops
- Long sleeved shirts
- T-shirts
- Lightweight fleece or jumper
- Warm polar fleece or equivalent
- Waterproof jacket - rain can be difficult to predict and it's better to be prepared.

Legs
- Lightweight, comfortable riding trousers or jodhpurs
- Waterproof over trousers
- Casual clothes for the evenings (jeans or walking trousers)

Hands and Feet
- Comfortable riding boots. We recommend short boots with half chaps.
- Lightweight shoes for the evenings
- Several pairs of socks
- Gloves

Nightwear
- Pyjamas etc

Other useful items
- Swimsuit - there are pools on some nights
- Water bottle
- Ear plugs (for light sleepers)

Medical kit
- Sunscreen and lip balm - should be high factor
- Insect repellent
- Any medication you regularly take
- Blister plasters in case of any rubs
- Antiseptic cream, plasters, aspirin, anti-histamine, insect-bite salve etc...
- Spare prescription glasses/contact lenses
- Eye drops
- Imodium or similar anti-diarrhoea medication
- Re-hydration sachets
- Antiseptic wipes
- Handwash gel

Our recommendations
- Backpacks cannot be worn whilst riding. We recommend a small bumbag or a coat with pockets so that you can carry small items with you during the day (passport, camera, sunscreen, lipbalm etc)
- 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!
- You should also bring a copy of your passport/insurance in case you lose your documents. You can also save a copy into your mobile phone.

Sustainable tourism

  1. 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!).
  2. Reduce plastic waste. Take your favorite reusable bottle with you. Avoid single-use bags, cups, or straws.
  3. 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.
  4. Choose your experiences carefully. Respect animal life by not participating in any activities that abuse wild animals (shows, elephant rides, etc.).
  5. Support local populations. Buy local handicrafts, be respectful of customs, and learn about the culture of local communities.
  6. Share! Raise awareness among your family and friends about sustainable tourism.


For more information please see this page.

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.
  • Claire aged 52 BISHOPS STORTFORD 2 trips
    September 2025
    The riding trip to Cabo de Gata was faultless from start to finish. Beautiful horses who were obviously looked after extremely well by Antonio and his team. The treks were glorious, incredible landscapes on fabulous horses who never put a foot wrong. We all felt we were in very safe hands both with the horses and... Read all
    • Horses
    • Programme
    • Accommodation
    • Local guide
  • Rosamund aged 55 JEDBURGH 2 trips
    September 2025
    A long-planned trip, much anticipated, we couldn't have asked for more. The pre-trip help was brilliant, very responsive, and the local team were just fantastic from the first evening onwards. They clearly love their horses and we had a wonderful time getting to know them. Antonio cleverly managed to make each day's... Read all
    • Horses
    • Programme
    • Accommodation
    • Local guide
  • Lucinda Caroline aged 54 SAFFRON WALDEN 2 trips
    September 2025
    Only have positive things to say. It was exactly what we hoped. Thank you Equus Journeys and Cabacci. We will be back. I rode 3 different horses and all 3 were fantastic. Hidden Face, Dakota and Inca Great temperaments, sure footed, steady and plenty of Zip!
    • Horses
    • Programme
    • Accommodation
    • Local guide