Horse Riding Holidays and Equestrian Breaks - beginner or experienced rider, we have a Horse Riding Holiday for you. Horse Riding Holidays and Equestrian Breaks - beginner or experienced rider, we have a Horse Riding Holiday for you.

Mountains & Valleys of the Gredos

8 days - Madrid to Madrid

The Sierra de Gredos, one of the most picturesque regions of the Iberian Peninsula, is situated between the provinces of Avila, Caceres and Salamanca. The area is characterised by snow-capped mountains overlooking numerous wildflower-filled valleys intersected by clear running rivers. A mix of mature forests, lavender and thyme covered hillsides and highland pastures offer fantastic riding country giving riders an interesting insight into rural Spain.

Ride up slopes covered by oak, pine and chestnut trees, cross rivers of pristine waters, discover wildlife from rocky overlooks and canter across pastures and open fields. The small rural villages along the way afford you the opportunity to experience the unique characteristics and traditions of the people of the region.

Day 1
Meet in Madrid and transfer to Navarredonda de Gredos (2 hour drive), a small village in the heart of Castile with a splendid view of the Sierra de Gredos. This is a region steeped in history, where the Moors and Christians fought, where Romans built roads that have lasted for centuries. Riders will enjoy a welcome dinner and night at the Gredos National Parador. (D)
Day 2
Circle ride from Navarredonda, an easy introductory day, with a picnic lunch in the countryside. Ride through pinewoods, open fields and trails, towards the mountains with great views of the Sierra de Gredos. Picnic lunch in the countryside. In the afternoon ride back to the stables in Navarredonda. A small Spa has been opened nearby - a special rider's massage can be arranged before dinner if required. (B,L,D)
Day 3
Ride through woods and beautiful meadows in the Tormes river valley. Follow the course of the Tormes River. Lunch at the Pozo de las Paredes, a magic spot at the gorge of Barbellido, which joins the Tormes River. This spot is ideal for a swim in summer. In the afternoon, riders will follow the cattle path, with great views, to Navalperal the Tormes. Ride to the Hotel Rural Cruz del Gallo - a new small hotel, near the Tormes River. (B,L,D)
Day 4
This day it will be a long half-day ride. It is a progressive ride to get to El Barco. A ride along the Tormes River valley, along cattle paths, passing the village of Aliseda de Tormes. Riders will appreciate the change in the vegetation as you will approach the small town of El Barco de Avila. The hotel in Barco de Avila is a country hotel, a luxurious hotel built as a restoration of an ancient country estate. The hotel has a spa and an indoor heated pool, a good chance for a rest to be fresh for the rest of the ride! The afternoon will be free to visit the 15th Century walled village of El Barco de Avila or just relax in the hotel. (B,L,D)
Day 5
Todays ride proceeds through holm oaks woods and pastures, following the cattle track between Barco and Hoyorredondo, arriving in Puente del Congosto, which is home to an XVth century bridge and castle. Picnic near the river - again a beautiful spot for a swim in the summer! In the afternoon there will be a short ride to Hoyorredondo. Tonight will be spent at a beautiful and comfortable rural hotel. (B,L,D)
Day 6
Today is a day with great contrasts in the landscape. The ride starts in the valley of the Corneja River, open flat valleys until you reach the aperitif stop. Follow the river Corneja to its source, and stop for lunch near one of the water mills along the river. In the afternoon follow a Roman road up to the Puerto de Chia (5,686 feet) for a panoramic view of the Corneja Valley on one side, and the Alberche River on the other. Descend to San Martin de la Vega for the night. Dinner and night at a rural centre. (B,L,D)
Day 7
Final ride back to the Sierra de Gredos, with some great views of the peaks of the Sierra. Picnic lunch with panoramic views of the Sierra de Gredos. Short afternoon, with some good canters, back to the stables. Night and farewell dinner at the Parador. (B,L,D)
Day 8
After breakfast transfer to Madrid. (B)
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  • Departure Dates: 15, 29 Mar, 12, 26, Apr, 10, 24 May, 07, 21 Jun, 06, 20 Sep, 04, 18 Oct 2009.
    Please note that we still have plenty of availability on our September and October departures!
  • Prices (2009 land only):
    £1495 per person
  • Includes: Transfers, accommodation and meals as indicated, drinks with meals and all riding.
  • Single Supplement: None if wiling to share, otherwise £150.
  • Non-Riders: Not suitable.
  • Children: Aged 10 and upward are accepted if they have the necessary riding skills and are accompanied by an adult rider.
  • Riding ability required: Intermediate upward
  • Type of ride: Trail rideSpain
  • Trip Code: ESMV