For centuries, smugglers moved goods across the hills between Galicia and northern Portugal on trails the border guards never patrolled. On this 7-day point-to-point horseback riding vacation, you follow those same routes from the medieval port town of Baiona to Portugal’s Atlantic coast.
You’ll spend five days in the saddle on surefooted Galician horses. Climb into the Serra da Groba, where semi-wild horses roam free. Descend through stone villages into Albariño wine country, ford rivers, and cross the Miño River into Portugal on horseback. The last full day is all coast: forest trails, Portuguese fishing towns and long gallops on empty beaches.
Nights are as varied as the riding: a riverside camp under the stars, family-run boutique hotels, a private coastal house, and cozy apartments in Baiona. With no more than six guests, this is an intimate ride for confident intermediate riders who want real distance and real gallops — and a good story to bring home.
Arrive in Baiona and settle into your apartment in this historic seaside town. In the afternoon, head to the stables just outside town to meet the horses. A 2–3 hour trail ride into the hills behind the ranch lets you get to know your horse and learn how to ride safely in mountain terrain. Back in Baiona, enjoy a welcome dinner.
After a hearty breakfast, ride south and climb into the Serra da Groba, home to herds of semi-wild horses that roam these hills freely. By late afternoon you reach a riverside camp. Settle the horses, cool off in natural pools, and enjoy a barbecue under the stars.
If weather doesn’t allow camping, you’ll stay in a traditional village house nearby.
Wake to cool mountain air and descend through small stone villages into wine country. Stop at a local vineyard for a tasting and picnic lunch, then canter between the vines. Conditions permitting, take a swim in a river pool along the way. Tonight you stay in a boutique hotel, with a dinner of regional Galician cooking and time to explore the town.
Today’s highlight: riding across the Miño River bridge from Spain into Portugal — an international border crossing on horseback. Follow the scenic riverbank to lunch at a local restaurant, then arrive at a family-owned boutique hotel near the river. Spend the afternoon swimming with the horses, then share dinner and a board game night at the hotel.
Saddle up for a full day on Portugal’s Atlantic coast. Gallop along long, empty beaches, wind through coastal pine and eucalyptus forest, and pass through small Portuguese towns on the way toward Viana do Castelo. Tonight’s base is a private two-story house with spacious bedrooms and private bathrooms.
A shorter morning ride brings you to the horse trucks, where you say goodbye to your horses. A separate transfer takes you back to Galicia. Spend the afternoon soaking in hot springs, then celebrate the journey at a farewell dinner. Overnight in Baiona.
Check out after breakfast. Airport transfers to Vigo or Porto can be arranged, or continue your travels independently.
The itinerary is flexible. Changes may occur at the guide's discretion based on weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
Available by taxi from Vigo Airport or bus station. Cost is around 40 Euro one way.
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This trip was awesome. It was the most physically strenuous one I have ever been on and I loved it! Lots of fast trots, canters and gallops, beautiful surroundings. Awesome! ***** 5 star.
Annie Reece
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