Algarve Horse Riding . . .

The variable terrain found in the Algarve provides for a varied selection of horse riding, including hacking, river and beach. You will find well established riding centres (many are approved by the Association of British Riding Schools) along the entire Algarve from the east near Spain to the "wild" west of Cabo de São Vincente.

In the central Algarve region of Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago, the soft sandy soil amidst the pine forests makes for a very comfortable ride. The inland areas of Loulé across to Silves is dotted with valleys, rivers and tracks that take riders into rural areas of countryside where you will experience the real Algarve.

Going further inland towards the northern Algarve, riders can enjoy riding amidst the cool shade provided by the dense eucalyptus, cork oak and medronho trees that dominate the Serra do Caldeirão and Serra de Monchique. To the western Algarve there are large open spaces with rolling hills that seem virtually uninhabited. A ride through the colourful dunes and foothills of this region is an experience you will always remember.

Stables are able to provide selected horses for the young, nervous or experienced rider. However it is important that you discuss your own riding abilities with the stables beforehand to ensure that the right horse selection is achieved. Most of the riding centres welcome everyone from well-experienced hackers to young beginners, the very young can also experience pony walks. Dressage is of a high quality and many stables can provide pure thoroughbred Lusitanian horses.

The Lusitano breed has been bred for many hundreds of years in the central and Alentejo regions of Portugal, and today is acknowledged internationally as a mix of arab and english thoroughbred's. This breed is often chosen by riders for international equestrian events, their gentle nature and graceful agility is an experience not to be missed.