Portugal Lusitano Horse

Riding on the Silver Coast
We looked at several riding stables in the area and we were impressed with Associaçao Hipica 'O Cavalo' just outside Óbidos, pictured above. Run by Ricardo Rebalo and Oscar Costa the stables are professionally managed and the horses are well looked after.

Before you can do anything Oscar and Ricardo must be convinced that you are an experinced rider. There is a large indoor training ring which is busy most days with kids learning to ride. This is a great opportunity to learn to ride and then enjoy riding through the pine and eucalyptus forests and along the cliffs looking down on the Atlantic breakers. Oscar and Ricardo speak exellent English, for prices and bookings - Tel +351 96 447 36 34.

THE GOLEGA NATIONAL HORSE FAIR was founded in the 18th century as the Sao Martinho,the St. Martin Fair. In 1972 it became Feira Nacional doCavalo - National Horse Fair and is now considered one the most important events of its kind in Portugal. Golega attracts horse lovers, breeders and riders from around the world who all share a passion for the genuine Lusitano horse. Horses exhibited in Golega are sold all over the world from Japan to South America. People come to Golega to admire the horses, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the local cuisine, Portuguese wine and night events. Golega is described as the Horse Capital of Portugal. The entire economy of the town, and the area, depends on breeding Lusitano horses, growing grapes and making wine. For many that would be the ideal combination. The next Fair is from the 6th to the 15th of November.

Golegã does not have enough hotels or places to stay for the volume of people who vist each year. Praia d'el Rey is about an hour away and if you are thinking of somewhere to stay our Vila dos Principes townhouses would be the ideal choice for next November. Click the picture on the right..