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Horseback riding tours
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also:
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Vineyard Trail - Ruta del Vino
Central Spain
Spain
Join us on a special ride through the famous wine harvest area of Ribera del Duero in Castile.
During the 1990's the region developed into one of the best wine producers of Spain and now showcases some of the country's best wines. The area has 28.000 acres in grape production and is home to over 180 vineyards- over 8000 wine producers buy their grapes from this area! Our horseback tour allows you to explore its bountiful landscapes while you taste some of these classic and delicious wines.
The first two days of the ride focus on the beauty of the nature park, Hoces del Rio Duraton. Situated to the northeast of Segovia, it has many great archaeological and historical riches as well as natural splendor. The water of the River Duratón is dammed after passing Sepúlveda, in a canyon with areas that have astounding drops of over 100 metres. Impressive and deep gorges have been carved out by the river's forces in these limestone lands, where a great number of birds of prey nest, like the striking Griffon Vulture.
The next four days we will follow along the river of the same name - Ribera del Duero - and visit the nearby vineyards. The soft dandy trails of the high plateau are the perfect place explore on horseback and of course the cultural and culinary experiences along the way play a big role during these days. We visit castles and abbeys, stop at the best bodegas (wine tasting rooms and cellars) and enjoy the beautiful wines and cuisine of the region. Savor typical regional dishes like the juicy lamb roasts and the full flavored sheep cheese. This trip is certainly designed for lovers of fine wines and delicious foods!
Accommodations are in very nice hotels and country estates. To make it a bit more relaxing we only move lodgings every second day (a total of 4 different accommodations) – so no need to pack your bags every morning. You will have breakfast and dinner at your accommodations and lunch is typically at one of the bodegas or a sumptuous picnic alongside the trail. A wonderfully appetizing way to explore central Spain!
Progressive Ride (no camping) Ride with Western Tack
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Meeting:
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Airport:
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Madrid
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Transfer:
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Madrid
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Riders:
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Min
4 riders
Max
9 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF)
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2023
Rates include*:
Accommodations, All meals, 6 riding days & Transfers from/to Madrid Airport at set times
Helmets can be provided
A | 2023 | 8 day trip | 8d / 7n | €2320 | $2390 |
* prices are per person based on double/twin occupancy
Transfer and Other Charges:
2023
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Transfer from airport in Madrid included at set times
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€
0
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$0
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2023
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Single supplement
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€
200
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$205
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2023
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Non-rider
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€
1,550
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$1,595
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Pick-up/ drop-off is available from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD). Pick-up is fixed for 5:00pm. Drop-off around 12:00pm on the last day.
Rates do not include:
Gratuities
Sample Itinerary - subject to changes
Day 1 (Saturday): Arrival
Arrival in Madrid, Spain and transfer to the first accommodation. It may be possible depending on the time of arrival, to visit Sepúlveda in the afternoon. It has picturesque town walls, churches and traditionally built houses.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at La Cerca Blanca or Posada del Duratón or similar
Day 2 (Sunday): Sebúlcor to Fuentidueña
We start our route in Sebulcor, a small town that allows the most direct access to the Natural Park of “Las Hoces del Río Duratón”. Riding between pine groves, forests of shore, sabinas and junipers, we traverse the Park and enjoy a precipitous view of the meandering S bends of the Duratón river. We ride in the habitat of hundreds of leonados vultures and some Egyptian vultures, kites, eagles, sparrow hawks, and if we are really fortunate we will see the only pair of Real Eagles that nest in the park. Otters, genets and other species are prevalent. Upon arriving in the small town of San Miguel de Bernuy we stop for a wonderful lunch in a restaurant or we stop for a picnic. After our siesta we head down the river Duratón to Fuentidueña and the end of our first day.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at La Cerca Blanca or Posada del Duratón or similar
Day 3 (Monday): Fuentidueña to Peñafiel to Curiel
Riding along the Duratón river we find the point where it joins the Duero River, we head towards Peñafiel with its majestic Castle (Tenth century and reconstructed in the fourteenth century and the National Historical Monument) and the Provincial Wine museum both of which we will have the opportunity to visit. We stop for a picnic in Peñafiel.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Posada Real Castillo de Curiel or similar
Day 4 (Tuesday): Curiel to Valle del Cuco to Curiel
Today we ride a circuit round the plateau of Peñafiel taking in the Valley of Cuco, down by the Castle of Curiel to come back again to the foot of the mountain where the Castle is located. Visit to the Wine cellar of PROTOS or other.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Posada Real Castillo de Curiel or similar
Day 5 (Wednesday): Curiel to Valbuena to Quintanilla de Onesimo
We cross the Duero river and once on the right bank we visit one of the most emblematic wine cellars of the region: Pesquera, Dehesa de los Canónigos or Emina. We have lunch next to the Monastery of Santa Maria de Valbuena (San Bernardo) of the order of the Cister and permanent seat of the Foundation “Las Edades Del Hombre”. We finish the day in Quintanilla de Onesimo!
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel Fuente de la Aceña or similar
Day 6 (Thursday): Quintanilla de Onesimo to Traspinedo
We dedicate the day to riding, rising to the high lands from where shores of the Duero river can be seen stretching out before us, we have lunch wine-tasting and traditional lamb dish called “Lechazo”. Our meal is in a wine cellar in Traspinedo.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel Fuente de la Aceña or similar
Day 7 (Friday): Traspinedo to Aldeamayor
Today we ride through resin pinewoods towards Aldeamayor de San Martín where We will have lunch in a picnic area located in a quite park.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight in Covarrubias
Day 8 (Saturday): Airport transfer
Transfer to Madrid after breakfast.
Meals included: Breakfast
Airport:
Madrid
Transfer:
Madrid
Pick-up/ drop-off is available from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD). Pick-up is fixed for 5:00pm. Drop-off around 12:00pm on the last day.
Tack:
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Spanish (Vaquero) and some English
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Horses:
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Pura Raza Española, Hispano Arab, Lusitanos, Cruzados con Español Arab
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Pace:
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Moderate with nice canters
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
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Level:
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(3
to
4
out of 5) Intermediate
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Riders:
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Min
4 riders
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Max
9 riders
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Riding Experience
You should be a reasonably experienced rider who is comfortable, secure and in control on a well-schooled horse at a walk, trot and canter in open country and over varied terrain. You should also have a fairly good level of general and riding fitness.
Pace
The pace is moderate overall but it varies each day. One day in particular, includes some steep ascents, descents and narrow trails to negotiate; other days are on more open terrain, which allows faster riding.
Horses
We currently have around 20 horses, mainly locally Andalusian, Andalusian crosses and Spanish breeds. They average between 15hh and 16hh and are a forward going, responsive and thoroughly enjoyable ride. They are also good natured, nimble and sure-footed.
The stables where horses live are fully equipped and designed for the comfort and well-being of our horses.
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
Valladolid area
Month
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Jan
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Feb
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Mar
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Apr
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May
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Jun
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Jul
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Aug
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Sep
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Oct
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Nov
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Dec
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Average High Temperature (°F)
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47
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52
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59
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62
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70
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80
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87
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86
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78
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66
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54
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47
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Average Low Temperature (°F)
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33
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34
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37
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41
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46
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53
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57
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57
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53
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46
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39
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35
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Average High Temperature (°C)
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8
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11
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15
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17
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21
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27
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30
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30
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26
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19
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12
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9
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Average Low Temperature (°C)
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1
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1
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3
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5
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8
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12
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14
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14
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11
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8
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4
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2
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Average Precipitation (days of rain)
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6
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5
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5
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7
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7
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4
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2
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2
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3
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7
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6
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6
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Source: NOAA
Seasons
The overall climate of Castilla is similar to Southern California. It benefits from a continental Mediterranean climate with hot summers, pleasant and moderate temperatures in the spring and fall, and fairly cool temperatures in the winter.
Rain is possible anytime of the year, but rare in summer. The main rainy season is from the end of October to of May.
Rain gear suitable for riding should be carried along, particularly during the months from November through April
A belt pack in which to carry your camera and other small valuables during the ride is handy.
Attire is strictly informal throughout, though if you are planning to visit other cities on your own later you may wish to bring a jacket and tie. Regular film can be obtained locally, but special sizes may not be available-bring plenty. It is a good idea to bring your own soap, since not all hotels supply it.
Also, please bring comfortable walking boots as you have to walk with the horses downhill on a rocky surface on the second day for at least one hour.
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 |
English or Western riding attire |
Comfortable/riding boots |
A hard hat is not required, but recommended for safety |
Riding gloves |
Hat (with chin strip) for sun protection |
Rain coat/Wax jacket |
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PERSONAL CLOTHING |
Jacket or sweater for cool evenings |
Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts |
Jeans |
Shorts |
Underwear and socks |
Pyjama |
Light summer jacket |
Warm jacket |
Trekking boots/ comfortable shoes |
Swimsuit |
Bandana |
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 |
Belt pack |
Sun glasses with strap |
Sun tan lotion and lip balm |
Small bar of soap |
Flashlight |
Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*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
Accommodations
This is a progressive ride so nights are spent in different locations
Description
Overnights are in 3 and 4-star hotels and country inns with private bathrooms. Wi-Fi connection is available in all accommodations.
Accommodations Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Nights 1 & 2: Country Hotel in Sebúlcor (2 options)
Nights 3 & 4: Hotel in Curiel
Nights 5 & 6: Hotel in Quintanilla de Onésimo
Night 7: Hotel in Covarrubias (2 options)
Country Hotel (option 1) in Sebúlcor
This small country hotel is composed of different buildings built with local materials and set around a large patio. The rooms are simply furnished and all feature a TV, ensuite facilities and free Wi-Fi access.
Country Hotel (option 2) in Sebúlcor
This charming country hotel is surrounded by nature and offers tastefully decorated bedrooms. All rooms come equipped with a TV, heating, a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi access. There are also 2 lounges with fireplaces where guest can relax.
Hotel in Curiel
This beautiful castle-like accommodation offers comfortable bedrooms each decorated with a unique historic style. The bedrooms have a TV, individual air conditioning, a safe, free Wi-Fi and private facilities. There is a small outdoor pool on the rooftop, from which you have a beautiful view over the valley below.
Hotel in Quintanilla de Onésimo
This accommodation is set in a former flourmill that has been entirely refurbished to ensure a comfortable stay to its guests. The rooms are modern and elegant and all come fitted with a private bathroom, air conditioning, a TV and free Wi-Fi access. The property also has a terrace and a lounge with a fireplace.
Hotel Casa Ramón in Quintanar de la Sierra
This small rural hotel offers 34 simply furnished bedrooms with great views over the surrounding mountains. Each room has its own temperature control, TV and private bathroom. There is free Wi-Fi available in common areas.
Posada Las Mayas in Quintanar de la Sierra
This charming hotel located in the heart of the mountains only recently opened after enduring renovations. The interiors have been tastefully decorated and the original spirit of the house (dating from 1920) has been kept through small objects and furniture. The 11 rooms are all spacious and all come equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, phone and private facilities.
Room Occupancy
If we are unable to find another rider to share the room with you, the single supplement fee applies.
Meals
All meals are included with this trip.
We serve mainly Spanish dishes.
Lunches are at local bodegas along the way or picnic along the trail.
Dinners are in local restaurants with delicious local specialties.
Wine is included with dinner.
Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to all dietary restrictions with prior notice.
This trip
includes some wine with dinner
and
can accommodate special dietary requests.
Tack:
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Spanish (Vaquero) and some English
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Horses:
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Pura Raza Española, Hispano Arab, Lusitanos, Cruzados con Español Arab
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Pace:
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Moderate with nice canters
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
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Level:
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(3
to
4
out of 5) Intermediate
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Riders:
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Min
4 riders
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Max
9 riders
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Riding Experience
You should be a reasonably experienced rider who is comfortable, secure and in control on a well-schooled horse at a walk, trot and canter in open country and over varied terrain. You should also have a fairly good level of general and riding fitness.
Pace
The pace is moderate overall but it varies each day. One day in particular, includes some steep ascents, descents and narrow trails to negotiate; other days are on more open terrain, which allows faster riding.
Horses
We currently have around 20 horses, mainly locally Andalusian, Andalusian crosses and Spanish breeds. They average between 15hh and 16hh and are a forward going, responsive and thoroughly enjoyable ride. They are also good natured, nimble and sure-footed.
The stables where horses live are fully equipped and designed for the comfort and well-being of our horses.
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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Vineyard Trail - Ruta del Vino
Tour Code:
PG-BUTV
8 days /
7 nights
~$2,390.00
Dates :
May, June & September
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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