ABOUT THE RIDING

Style of Riding: The basic riding is English. The horses are ridden with long stirrups and a deep seat. They follow a direct rein or can be neck reined, if using weight balance. They are ridden with a light contact but with contact so they are well balanced. Rising trot, sitting seats for short canter and forward position when on a long canter-gallop.

Type of Riding: Trail Ride. The overall speed of the ride is moderate, slow at the beginning of the ride due to the mountains terrain and as the ride progresses one picks up the pace. Every day there is a chance for a good trot or canter. The terrain experienced on the ride is mountainous, with some forest tracks, cattle trails, open countryside and sandy paths.

Type of Tack: English

Hours in the Saddle: 5 to 7 hours a day.

Riding Ability Required: Intermediate upwards. The rides are geared towards the competent rider and suit those with a reasonable amount of riding experience. You will be riding for about five or six hours a day and so a reasonable level of riding fitness will ensure you get the most of your holidays

Maximum Weight: 90 kgs (14st) in riding clothes.

Number of Guides per Ride: 2

Minimum/Maximum number of riders in group: 6/10

Looking after the horse: Guests are welcome to help untacking at the end of the day and, when necessary, are asked to lead the horses to the field where they spend the night. Some days you may need to bring the horses in from the field in the morning. Guests often help to shower the horses too.

ABOUT THE HORSES

The herd is made up of Hispano-Arab, Andalusian, Lusitano and Arab horses, all about 15-16hh. They all have a willing nature, a great temperament and enjoy the rides. Some of them are livelier than others and need a more experienced and quieter rider. Some of them can take more nervous or less confident riders. They are all very well-mannered and well trained, sensitive and responsive and have very good mouths They are all sure-footed an fit and fun to ride.