Horseback Riding in Spain

Seasonal Splendor in the Valleys of Gredos

Overview

The Sierra de Gredos passes through one of the most distinctive regions of the Iberian Peninsula. River valleys, surrounded by rugged mountains, are dotted with small villages. Here and there a towering castle perches in austere grandeur on a hill and an ancient monastery lies in a valley. The final day of this ride is spent exploring the medieval town of Avila.

This is a very representative part of the Sierra.  Riders will be inspired by this National Park’s diverse display of flora and fauna through the Tormes, Corneja and Alberche river valleys.  Ride up slopes of oak, pine and chestnut trees, discover wildlife from rocky overlooks, and gallop across pastures and open fields.  The small villages along the trail display their architecture, their traditions, and the way of life of their people.

These ride dates allow you to admire Gredos at its best depending on the time of year: Easter, spring, summer and the fall mushroom ride.

Lodging is planned in small and very comfortable village and rural hotels, providing twin-bedded rooms and en-suite baths. The first and second night are spent at the National Parador of Gredos, an ancient hunting lodge built by the King Alfonso 13th, the first Parador opened in Spain. The accommodations have been carefully chosen for the quality and welcoming to the riders and horses. The last night will be spent at the National Parador of Avila. Single accommodations can be arranged at an additional charge.

A support vehicle will follow the riders during the entire trip, meeting for meals and at night. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included while on the trek. The local cuisine is excellent and much consideration is taken when planning the meals to provide visitors with a sampling of the many different dishes produced in the area. Lunch is usually a picnic in the countryside. Some lunches will be cooked on the spot; others prepared and packed in the saddle bags; and still others at local bars or restaurants. Excellent Spanish red and white wines are available during lunches and dinners. Dinners will be at the hotels and will feature a varied selection of typical local cuisine. Vegetarians can be accommodated with advance notice.

  • Overview:
    The horses are Andalusian, Hispano-Arab, and Lusitano crosses ranging in height from 15 - 16 hh, and selected for their good nature and endurance. The organizer and guide takes great pride in the quality and the character of the horses and is adept at matching horse and rider. The horses are fun to ride, strong, fit, lots of personality and well-adapted to the terrain. English all purpose saddles are used which have a deep knee roll. Small pommel bags and seat savers are provided.
  • Horse Breeds:
    Hispano-Arab, Andalusian, Lusitano
  • Trip Pace:
    Moderate
  • Tack:
    English trekking
  • Weight limit:
    195 with riding equipment

Madrid

Trip Itinerary

This itinerary is designed to take advantage of the best summer riding in Spain. On one side you have the altitude of the mountains and the alpine valleys, all above 1500 m, and on the other mountain gorges and swimming in the rivers followed by sunbathing siestas – a real summer holiday.

There will be small variations depending on the time of year: Easter Ride, Spring Ride, Cattle Ride, Summer Ride and Autumn Mushroom Ride.

Day 1

Meet in Madrid and transfer to Navarredonda de Gredos (2 hour drive), a small village in the heart of Castilla 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, and which the Spanish still refer to as “the stone heart of the peninsula”. Enjoy a welcome dinner and overnight at the National Parador of Gredos, the first Parador opened in Spain.

Day 2

Circular ride from Navarredonda, an easy introductory day, with lunch in the countryside. Riding in the woods and towards the source of the Tormes River and alpine pastures of the Sierra de Gredos. A chance for riders and horses to get to know one another. In the afternoon ride back to the stables. Dinner and overnight as the previous night. (About 4 ½ hours riding)

Day 3

In the morning ride along the river to Hoyos del Espino and climb up to Hoyos del Collado. Riding along an ancient cattle path you will reach Navacepeda de Tormes. Descent towards the Tormes River and the gorge of Barbellido. Lunch at the beautiful Pozo de las Paredes with a 14th century bridge, an ideal spot for a swim. Short afternoon ride with magnificent views to the village of Navalperal de Tormes. Dinner and overnight at a charming hotel in the village. (About 4 ½ hours riding)

Day 4

From Navalperal follow the cattle path to Navacepeda de Tormes, then ride along the Tormes river. Picnic lunch will be at a fisherman’s hut at Hoyos del Collado, another wonderful spot for a swim. In the afternoon, follow along the river and through pinewoods to get back to the stables in Navarredonda. Dinner and overnight at a comfortable village hotel.

Day 5

In the morning climb to the heights of Canada del Horno, through open fields and dense broom areas and enjoy the wonderful views of the Alberche river valley. Lunch at a bar in the village or a picnic near the river. The afternoon will bring great views of the Sierra de Gredos. Descent back towards Barajas de Gredos and the stables in Navarredonda. Dinner and overnight as previous night. (About 5 hours riding)

Day 6

In the morning climb to the heights of Canada del Gallo, through open fields and dense broom areas, with great panoramic views of the Alberche river valley and the Sierra de Gredos. Aperativo and gourmet lunch in the open countryside with amazing views. Descent to the pinewoods of Hoyos del Espino before arriving back at the stables. Farewell dinner and overnight at a local boutique hotel.

Day 7

After breakfast transfer (1 hour) to the National Parador of Avila, which is a 16th century palace located in the historical center of Avila, backing onto the majestic city walls. Dinner, overnight and Sunday breakfast will be taken at your accommodations. Lunch is not included today.

You will have the day to visit this historical walled town from the 11th century. Your ride organizers will be happy to make suggestions for tours and restaurants in Avila.

Day 8

After breakfast transfer to Madrid airport, arriving there about 12 noon. All riders will be transferred at the same time. If any rider needs to arrive in Madrid prior to noon, all riders will have to depart earlier, or alternative transportation can be arranged at an additional cost.

Itinerary Addendum

This itinerary is flexible and changes may be made at the guide's discretion based on weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

Trip Map

Trip Dates & Pricing

Departure Dates

Trip Starts
Trip Ends
Apr 28, 2024
May 5, 2024
May 12, 2024
May 19, 2024
May 26, 2024
Jun 2, 2024
Jun 9, 2024
Jun 16, 2024
Jul 14, 2024
Jul 21, 2024
Jul 28, 2024
Aug 4, 2024
Sep 1, 2024
Sep 8, 2024
Oct 6, 2024
Oct 13, 2024
Oct 20, 2024
Oct 27, 2024

Pricing & Options

  • Base Price
  • $2,940
  • Pricing Variation
    • Below minimum supplement: $405 per person if less then 4 riders
  • Single Supplement
  • 200 Euros payable in Spain.
  • Transportation
  • Transfers from and to Madrid included at specified times.
Additional Pricing Information:
Prices are based on the dollar/euro exchange and are subject to change. Ride price is set, guaranteed, and final at the time deposit is paid.


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Contact Biggi Hayes

This was my first horseback riding vacation and won't be the last. The food was excellent and prepared as if we were royalty. I felt completely safe and taken care of.

Barbara Shea