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Horseback riding tours
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Spain
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Spain
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Europe Overview
also:
Hiking in Spain
Cycling in Spain
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Train and Trail in Central Spain
Central Spain
Spain
Dressage, jumping, cross country and Trail in the Heart of Spain
A unique opportunity to train with one of the top instructors in Spain - not only in dressage, but also in cross country and stadium jumping - the choice is yours.
The weekly package includes instructions for all levels combined with spectacular trail rides across unspoiled countryside. Overnights are at a first class, charming guest lodge in a beautiful and elegant location.
The center is near Pedraza, one of the best-preserved medieval towns of Spain, just an hour from Madrid.
The new lodge, the “Molino”, is located in the outskirts of Pedraza. The lodge has all the modern comforts but retains a flair and structure of the old mill which it once was right alongside a stream.
Salvador Fábrega and Augusta, his love for 25 years, host a maximum of 6 riders at the time in 3 double bedrooms. Augusta is Italian and an expert in Italian and Spanish cuisine; she gives cooking lessons, on request.
Salvador is your teacher and riding companion. In the morning riders and instructor get together in the arena or on the cross country course for an extended session (1.5 to 2 hours).
You chose your discipline: Dressage up to a high level, Stadium Jumping or Cross Country. In the afternoon riders go out for a 2-3 hr hack (trail ride) around the beautiful surroundings of Pedraza.
The center boasts of two dressage arenas (grass and all weather), a full show jumping course and a cross-country course.
Salvador was part of the Real Federación Hípica Española in charge of the Eventing Committee from 1987 to 1992. He has been running the Pedraza Horse Trials, a one and two star event, for 13 years. He is done clinics around the world and has written a bilingual teaching interactive notebook on “Improving your riding skills”, in Spanish and English, shortly available on Internet and print.
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Rates and Dates for 2013
Rates include:
6 nights accommodation, all meals, 5 days training and trail riding, highly schooled horses, tack.
| A | 2013 | 7 day trip, AP 5 riding days | 7d / 6n | ā¬1500 | $1950 |
| Group discount (7) pp | (ā¬150) | ($195) |
| Single supplement | ā¬200 | $260 |
| Spanish Lessons (daily) | ā¬170 | $225 |
| Cooking School | ā¬170 | $225 |
Tour Dates for 2013
Check here for details and availability
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| A |
2013
|
04/14
- 04/20
|
7d / 6n
|
7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
|
Expired
|
| A |
2013
|
04/21
- 04/27
|
7d / 6n
|
7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
|
Expired
|
| A |
2013
|
04/28
- 05/04
|
7d / 6n
|
7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
|
Expired
|
| A |
2013
|
05/05
- 05/11
|
7d / 6n
|
7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
|
Expired
|
| A |
2013
|
05/12
- 05/18
|
7d / 6n
|
7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
|
Expired
|
| A |
2013
|
05/19
- 05/25
|
7d / 6n
|
7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
|
Expired
|
| A |
2013
|
05/26
- 06/01
|
7d / 6n
|
7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
|
Expired
|
| A |
2013
|
06/02
- 06/08
|
7d / 6n
|
7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
|
Expired
|
| A |
2013
|
06/09
- 06/15
|
7d / 6n
|
7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
|
Expired
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| A |
2013
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06/16
- 06/22
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7d / 6n
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7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
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1
/6
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Expired
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| A |
2013
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06/23
- 06/29
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7d / 6n
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7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
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1
/6
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Reserve
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| A |
2013
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06/30
- 07/06
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7d / 6n
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7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
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1
/6
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Reserve
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| A |
2013
|
07/07
- 07/13
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7d / 6n
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7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2013
|
07/14
- 07/20
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7d / 6n
|
7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2013
|
07/21
- 07/27
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7d / 6n
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7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2013
|
07/28
- 08/03
|
7d / 6n
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7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2013
|
08/04
- 08/10
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7d / 6n
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7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
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1
/6
|
Reserve
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| A |
2013
|
08/11
- 08/17
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7d / 6n
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7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
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1
/6
|
Reserve
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| A |
2013
|
08/18
- 08/24
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7d / 6n
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7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2013
|
08/25
- 08/31
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7d / 6n
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7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2013
|
09/01
- 09/07
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7d / 6n
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7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2013
|
09/08
- 09/14
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7d / 6n
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7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2013
|
09/15
- 09/21
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7d / 6n
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7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
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1
/6
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2013
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09/22
- 09/28
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7d / 6n
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7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2013
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09/29
- 10/05
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7d / 6n
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7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2013
|
10/06
- 10/12
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7d / 6n
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7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2013
|
10/13
- 10/19
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7d / 6n
|
7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2013
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10/20
- 10/26
|
7d / 6n
|
7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
|
Reserve
|
| A |
2013
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10/27
- 11/02
|
7d / 6n
|
7 day trip, AP 5 riding day...
|
1
/6
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Reserve
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Rates do not include:
Please note that the use of a helmet is compulsory. Riders should bring their own or buy one locally.
Sample Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival at Madrid-Barajas airport. If you can arrive in the morning, Salvador will be waiting for you at the airport and take you to the Prado museum which hosts one of the most famous art collections in the world; there you can watch the marvelous equestrian paintings of the Kings and Queens on horseback along the history of Spain - if you cannot arrive in the morning, there will be no time for the Prado later on. Early afternoon we will drive to the equestrian centre in the province of Segovia, where you will ride all week. You will spend some time getting acquainted with your lodgings (or at the nearby hotel and the medieval town of Pedraza, its
shops, tapas-bars and restaurants).
Dinner will be served in the house, at the inn or in the Soportal, a
charming restaurant located only five minutes from the inn which serves
regional Segovia cuisine. Rioja wine will be served at dinner.
Day 2 After breakfast riders and will be introduced to the horses; a mini
“clinic “ to assert the rider’s capabilities followed by an introduction to
basic dressage on highly trained horses or alternatively you can opt for jumping or cross country instructions.
In the afternoon a 2-3 hr trail ride in the
countryside through shaded areas of Poplar, Juniper, Spanish Oak and Pine Trees,
under the majestic gaze of the medieval town of Pedraza, its castle dominating
the scenery from afar.
Day 3 After breakfast we will continue introducing (or improving )
the different figures of basic dressage: different paces, transitions, seat,
etc.
In the afternoon a trail ride in the “Cañada Real” (Queen Isabella’s XVth
century green pasture highways which cross Spain). Ride to and through the
walled town of Pedraza standing out proudly on a rocky crag. A great collection of videos and DVDs are available in the community room
for guests. Also individual videos on request can be taken and watched in the
evening.
Day 4 Advancing in flatwork: lateral movements and changes of lead
or ´for those who are ready, jump some fences or do some gridwork.
An afternoon trail ride takes us through picturesque villages overlooking the bank drop of the
Sierra de Guadarrama mountains in the powerful Castilian landscape. Gallop over
open fields of grass or harvested grains. Enjoy the widespread fields of
sunflowers ( in season).
Day 5 Lessons continue in the morning. After lunch, afternoon free
to visit the ancient town of Segovia. A guided tour of its Cathedral, Roman
aqueduct, Romanesque churches and its romantic castle, the “Alcazar”. Afterward there is
free time to shop and wander around the historic city. Return by taxi.
Day 6 Practice and evaluate exercises learned during the week.
A relaxed trail ride in the afternoon and one last fun gallop for whoever is in
the mood for it concludes the riding program.
Day 7 Breakfast and transfer to the Barajas airport in Madrid.
Special Weeks:
TRAIN WITH ANDALUSIANS AND LIVE THE VIBRANT SEVILLE’S APRIL FAIR
During this week we offer the opportunity to visit one of the most traditional events in Spain, the Seville’s April Fair. Lord Byron once referred to Seville as being famous for its oranges and women and when one sees the festival out there, the meaning of his words become clear. Spain is noted for the various colorful and extensive festivals and Seville's April Fair* (La Feria de Abril) is one of them which presents a true picture of a vibrant and colorful Spain. Every day in the 'Paseo de Caballos' local girls and men in their full flamenco outfit ride through the city on splendid horses and beautiful carriages , a majestic equestrian show.
Don’t dare to miss out on a fun experience like this. Come and enjoy the color, the place and the festive mood and have the opportunity to train on pure Spanish and other well-bred horses in the heart of Spain!
SEE THE RUNNING OF THE BULLS ON HORSEBACK IN THE MEDIEVAL TOWN OF PEDRAZA and ride all week (September 4-11-2010) with individual dressage and/or jumping lessons (get the new “Improve your basic riding skills notebook” just released in the English version by Salvador Fábregas, for free) and hack to and around the unique medieval walled town of Pedraza.
TRAIN IN SPAIN AND QUALIFY TO COMPETE INTERNATIONALLY
You can train near Madrid, with Salvador Fábregas, former Chef d’Equipe of the 3 Day Eventing Spanish Team, at his Equestrian Centre Molino de la Umbria, and take the exams or “galopes” required for competing in Spain and other European countries.
An opportunity to spend some time in beautiful Spain, learn its language and culture and, also, train in your favorite sport, with the possibility of qualifying for competing internationally.
-- available any regular week on request
Meeting:
Pedraza
Airport:
Madrid
Distance:
71 miles
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Tack:
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English tack
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Horses:
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PREs (Pura Raza EspaƱola), English thoroughbred, Angloarab, Crosses
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Pace:
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According to riding level - jumping is always optional
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Jumps |
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Level:
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(2.5
to
4
out of 5) Low Intermediate +
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Age:
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Min
16
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Riders:
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Min
1 riders
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Max
6 riders
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Riding helmets are mandatory for this ride.
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Your instructor, Salvador Fabregas, held a key position at the Real Federación HĆpica EspaƱola as Chairman of the 3 Day Event Olympic discipline committee and now teaches and runs the equestrian center. Your private lessons will be on experienced eventers or purebred and cross-bred Spanish horses, depending on your particular interest.
Each day you will receive morning lessons concentrating on your individual goals. Either before or after your lessons you will be able to hack out in the dramatic Castilian countryside. This vast unspoiled land is dominated by mountains, castles, medieval villages and rolling hills for fun gallops.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart except:(a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.Note: EU nationals are onl. more
In Spring, Autumn and especially in
the summer months, it can get very hot, so to avoid feeling sweaty and
sticky all the time, try to stick to natural fabrics, especially
cotton. There are many fantastic new products on the market, including
full cotton seamless underwear, which is a blessing for the trail
rides. Don't forget about fine cotton socks, too.
Trousers:
Of course, nothing beats the comfort and
protection that proper cotton breeches or jodhpurs afford for riding,
but if you don't intend to ride much after your holiday, you can get by
with cotton tracksuit bottoms or leggings.
Tops:
Should be fairly fitting, and it is better to
have at least half sleeves for protection to the shoulders against
sunburn or low hanging branches on the trail rides. Even in the summer,
they are just as cool and for the ladies, are much more "supportive"
and comfortable so you can concentrate on learning in your classes. If
you come in winter, it's good to bring tops you can wear in layers,
T-shirts, sweatshirts and vests. Sometimes it is quite cold and
suddenly it gets hot, so it's good to be able to add or subtract
quickly.
Helmet:
This is obligatory by law in Spain, though not always
put into practice, but here in Milino safety of our guests is our first
priority, so it is mandatory for all riding. Light colours reflect the
sun and keep your head cooler and cooling vents are a huge plus when
riding in hot conditions. Also, some helmets come with a detachable net
lining, which can be rinsed out everyday?. Fantastic! We do have a few
helmets to lend, but it is much preferable for each person to have
his/her own, as a good fit is essential If you are buying a new helmet,
do try various different trademarks and models as they come in
different shapes and you should find the one which fits the shape of
your head.
Footwear:
Short jodhpur or paddock boots are the best
option as they are much cooler and easier to transport, but if you are
serious about your riding, we recommend that you use half-chaps along
with them If you do not have riding boots and do not want to go to the
expense of buying some, you must bring string shoes or boots with a
small, 1cm heel and no buckles. Please note, sneakers, canvas shoes or
sandals are NOT acceptable, even for beginners.
Gloves:
We recommend you wear gloves at least for the
classes. We will be teaching you to ride a horse correctly on the bit
which requires a good contact, and if you are not accustomed to this,
plus the warmer conditions, blisters can develop on the first day,
which will definitely spoil you enjoyment of the riding for the rest of
the week
| This list is only a guideline for you |
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| Travel documents and Voucher |
| Flight tickets |
| Passport |
| Visa (check with your consulate) |
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| RIDING GEAR |
| Normal riding gear, no rubber boots, please |
| Light pants without any strong seams |
| Ankle-high solid shoes with flat heels |
| Long sleeved cotton shirts (sun protection) |
| Riding helmet (please bring your own) |
| Light gloves, if wanted |
| Hat (with chin strip) for sun protection |
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| PERSONAL CLOTHING |
| Lightweight jacket or vest |
| Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts |
| Jeans |
| Shorts |
| Underwear and socks |
| Pyjama |
| Bag for dirty clothes |
| Trekking boots/ comfortable shoes |
| Swimsuit |
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| ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING |
| Personal Toiletries |
| Insect protection |
| Personal medications |
| Sore cream (for the emergency) |
| Sewing kit |
| Handkerchiefs |
| Adapter for electric appliances |
| Camera and enough extra films and batteries |
| Address book and pen (for pictures postcards!) |
| Sun glasses with strap |
| Sun tan lotion and lip balm |
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
..view other reports for different trips
Your lodging is a centuries old water mill converted into a luxurious country house and equestrian center.
Offering very comfortable rooms, excellent cuisine and very tranquil surroundings, you will be able to truly focus on learning.
At the end of each day, you will enjoy the excellent Spanish wines and gourmet dinners with the chance to discuss the previous day progress and watch the interesting international collection of training and events videos and DVDs, available in the house.
This trip includes
some wine with dinner
and can accommodate special dietary requests.
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Tack:
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English tack
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Horses:
|
|
PREs (Pura Raza EspaƱola), English thoroughbred, Angloarab, Crosses
|
|
Pace:
|
|
According to riding level - jumping is always optional
|
Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
Jumps |
|
|
Level:
|
|
(2.5
to
4
out of 5) Low Intermediate +
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Age:
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Min
16
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Riders:
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Min
1 riders
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Max
6 riders
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Your instructor, Salvador Fabregas, held a key position at the Real Federación HĆpica EspaƱola as Chairman of the 3 Day Event Olympic discipline committee and now teaches and runs the equestrian center. Your private lessons will be on experienced eventers or purebred and cross-bred Spanish horses, depending on your particular interest.
Each day you will receive morning lessons concentrating on your individual goals. Either before or after your lessons you will be able to hack out in the dramatic Castilian countryside. This vast unspoiled land is dominated by mountains, castles, medieval villages and rolling hills for fun gallops.
Passports
Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart except:
(a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.
Note: EU nationals are only required to produce evidence of their EU nationality and identity in order to be admitted to any EU Member State. This evidence can take the form of a valid national passport or national identity card. Either is acceptable. Passports held by EU nationals need only be valid upon entry to and exit from Spain. Possession of a return ticket, any length of validity on their document, sufficient funds for the length of their proposed visit should not be imposed.
Passport Note
Spain is a signatory to the 1995 Schengen Agreement.
Visas
Not required by nationals of EU countries regardless of purpose and/or length of stay; 2. not required by nationals of other countries referred to in the chart above for stays of up to 90 days.
Visa Note
Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements
| Passport Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
1 |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
No/2 |
| Canadian |
No/2 |
| USA |
No/2 |
| Other EU |
No |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
No |
| Canadian |
No |
| USA |
No |
| Other EU |
No |
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
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Train and Trail in Central Spain
Tour Code:
IT-SPSR40
7 days /
6 nights
~$1,950.00
Dates :
March to Nov
Trip Rating :
Difficulty :
Riding Level Explained | A | Beginner  | Beginner A rider who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot and does not canter. | | B | Novice
 | Novice A rider who is capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, capable of
applying basic aids, comfortable and in control at the walk, moderate length posting
trots, and short canters. | | C | Intermediate
 | Intermediate A rider who has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces
(including posting trots, two point canters and gallops), but does not ride regularly. |
| D | Strong Intermediate
 | Strong Intermediate An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly and is comfortable in the saddle for at least 6 hours per day. | | E | Advanced
 | All of the above, plus an independent seat, soft hands, and capable of handlinga spirited horse in open country. |
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