Monte Velho · Alentejo, Portugal
Luxury accommodation on a working Lusitano stud farm
Monte Velho Stud Farm, owned by Diogo Lima Mayer, one of the most internationally recognised breeders of the Lusitano horse (his horses have gone on to dressage careers across Europe and Brazil), sits within an ecological reserve in the Alentejo. Choose lessons, trail rides, or a combination, on two separate groups of horses, one trained for classical dressage, one for the countryside riding programme. Trails cross grassy plains, lakes and cork oak plantations on the estate and neighbouring properties.
The stud tailors the riding to you: complete beginners can take lessons and gentle hacks, while experienced riders work on classical dressage on schoolmaster Lusitanos or ride out across the estate. Say where you are and they match the horse and the programme.
Home-bred Lusitanos from a leading stud, in two groups: one schooled for classical dressage, one for riding out.
You choose the shape of your stay: lessons in the arena on trained Lusitanos, rides out across the plains, lakes and cork oak of the estate, or a mix of the two. The stud sits within an ecological reserve, so between rides there is quiet countryside, the horses and the life of a working stud to enjoy.
Comfortable farm accommodation on the estate, in the peaceful Alentejo countryside.
Meals included, with local Alentejo cooking.
Best months: April to June and September to October
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable for riding; high summer in the Alentejo is very hot.
Nearest airport: Lisbon (LIS)
Transfers: A drive of roughly one and a half to two hours from Lisbon; transfers can be arranged
Fly to Lisbon, then drive or transfer out to the estate in the Alentejo.
