Kingdom of Castile Ride - across the Gredos Mountains Central Spain Spain Once upon a time the Kingdom of Castile was a medieval kingdom of the Iberian Peninsula; today it is known as a historical plot of central Spain. The kingdom emerged as a political autonomous entity in the 9th century and this ride explores the territory that was once developed and patrolled by nobles and peasants on horseback: the breathtaking region of the Gredos Mountains. The varied terrain is a delight to be discovered on the back of our equine friends: the northern side of the Sierra de Gredos is a rugged terrain and home to fast flowing rivers that run through small farming villages while the southern side offers a soft and warm landscape dotted with orchards and vineyards. Wildlife in this area includes mountain goats (an icon of the Gredos Mountain), black and griffin vultures, and golden and imperial eagles. Gredos is a classically privileged and austere area conditioned by northern winds and situated in a clear, crisp altitude. Here, rocks mix with prairies protected by pine forests, creating an ideal location for horseback treks. The tranquility, silence of the mountains, and clean air combine with excellent horses and knowledgeable guides to create an idyllic riding destination. This trip enjoys long canters across pine forests, crossing rivers of crystalline waters and tasty lunches to not only provide sustenance but satisfy the taste buds. All these factors add up to create wonderful days in the saddle. The horses are of pure Hispano-Arab descent and are beautiful and noble: they maintain the excellent character like the Andalusians as well as the fortitude of the Arabs. Every evening, we come to a small and charming rural hotel where we enjoy the exquisite Castilian local gastronomy. Some nights will be spent in paradores - historic noble houses restored to high end hotels. We offer 5 different itineraries throughout the season: A. Gredos to Salamanca Ride B. Castles of Gredos Mountains C. Four Valleys of Gredos D. Pristine Waters of Gredos E. Long Weekend Ride Progressive Ride (no camping) Family Vacation Meeting: Navarredonda de Gredos Airport: Madrid Transfer: Madrid airport Riders: Min 2 riders Max 10 riders Trip Brochure (PDF) Trip Rating

Packages and Options

Click here for updated current rates.

 

Rates Note:

The price for non rider is the same than always, 20% less than normal price.

Transfer and Other Charges:

Pick-up/ drop-off is available from Adolfo Suárez Madrid Barajas Airport in Madrid (MAD) for an extra fee.
Pick-up is set for 3:00pm on Day 1. Please, plan your arrival flight for no later than 2:00pm.
You will depart after breakfast on the last day and arrive at the airport around 12:30pm. Please do not book your departing flights leaving before 3:00pm!

In 2021, we offer 5 different itineraries:
A. Gredos to Salamanca Ride
B. Castles of Gredos Mountains
C. Four Valleys of Gredos
D. Pristine Waters of Gredos
E. Long Weekend Ride

Non-Riders
Non-riding companions are welcome to join this trip. They can travel in the support car and join in meals, dinners and others activities, or if they wish, they can rent a car and move on their own, joining the group for dinner.



Sample Itinerary: Gredos to Salamanca Ride (progressive ride) - subject to changes

Day 1: Arrival to Navarredonda de Gredos
Meet at Madrid airport and transfer to Navarredonda (2 hours’ drive) with a break in Avila for a short visit (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Enjoy your welcome dinner at the hotel with us.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos

Day 2: Navarredonda de Gredos to Angostura de Tormes
Distribution of horses. Our route follows the Tormes River at the bottom of the valley. Tapas for a short break. Lunch stop. Riding in the afternoon downhill along the river valley to Angostura de Tormes. Horses spend the night at the village and riders are transferred to their accommodation in El Barco de Ávila.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in El Barco de Ávila

Day 3: Angostura de Tormes to Becedas
In the morning, we will go through cattle trails. Lunch by the Tormes River, beside the medieval bridge (14th c.) and in the shade of a 14th c. church in El Barco de Ávila. Then, in the afternoon, we will ride to Sierra de Bejar and Becedas, the last village in Avila province where the horses spend the night. We transfer the riders to the same hotel than the night before in Barco de Ávila.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in El Barco de Ávila 

Day 4: Becedas to Candelario
This day is a short day ride from Becedas to Candelario. We will go through villages of peculiar feature.
In the afternoon, visit of Candelario, a picturesque village (one of the most beautiful in Spain). Walk up the steep streets, and walk along the channels that collect the water from the mountains - magnificent, examples of architecture in this town.
Dinner and overnight at charming rural Inn “Artesa”, in the center of the town. Accommodation and an excellent restaurant where you can taste the most traditional Castilian cuisine.
Riding 4 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Candelario

Day 5: Candelario to Guijo de Avila
Northward to Salamanca through Puerto de la Hoya we will get to Neila de San Miguel and stop for tapas at the unique church in a Celtic location (Cerro del Berrueco). Lunch at Medinilla. In the afternoon, the landscape is open and flat and we will reach the Cañada Soriana Occidental one of the main cattle path in Spain.
We will spend the night at Guijo de Avila in a rural complex with very comfortable cabins and a nice views of the Tormes River.
Riding 6.5 hours.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Guijo de Avila

Day 6: Guijo de Avila to Horcajo Medianero
We will cross the river Tormes by Santa teresa´s dam, a huge water reservoir. We will ride all day through the Dehesas of Salamanca with holm oaks, bulls, black Iberian pigs. Lunch by small river. Afternoon canters through the dehesa and holm oaks to Horcajo Medianero. Night and dinner at monastery of Valdejimena with horses very close to us. You stay in a very special place and you might have to share a bathroom.
Riding 6 hours.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Monastery Valdejimena in Horcajo

Day 7: Horcajo Medianero to Alba de Tormes (Half-day ride)
In the morning, we ride along the Eastern lands of the province with beautiful and clear horizons bathed by waters of the Tormes River. We have lunch near Alba de Tormes. The history of Alba de Tormes is linked to Santa Teresa´s life and death, where the body rests in one of the convents. This is the end of the ride.
The horses travel back home by truck and we transfer riders to Salamanca town (20 min driving).
In the afternoon you can walk along the streets of this historical town, world heritage by UNESCO, visit the most important monuments, The Plaza Mayor with its arcades is particularly impressive. Dinner at a restaurant located at the Plaza Mayor. Night in the heart of Salamanca.
Riding 4 hours.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Salamanca

Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, departure from Salamanca at 10 am on time for flights departing Madrid after 2 pm. All riders will be transferred at the same time, so if any of rider needs to arrive to Madrid prior to noon all riders depart earlier or we will arrange transfer (at extra cost).
Meals included: Breakfast



Sample Itinerary: Castles of Gredos Mountains (progressive ride) - subject to changes

Day 1: Arrival to Navarredonda de Gredos
Meet at Madrid airport for 3:00 pm and transfer to Navarredonda (2 hours’ drive). Stop in Avila for a short visit. Enjoy a welcome dinner.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos

Day 2: Navarredonda de Gredos to Hoyos del Espino
After the distribution of horses, we ride through the Tormes valley and pine forest. We cross some open fields with great views of the Gredos Mountains. We have lunch at fisherman´s hut with an excellent paella, cooked on the spot, beside the river Tormes (possible swimming in summer). Short afternoon ride to Navacepeda. 
Riding 4 hours.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Hoyos del Espino

Day 3: Hoyos del Espino to El Barco de Avila
The longest day and the most beautiful views of Gredos Mountains await us! We ride down the valley riding through small and remote shepherd villages. We stop for lunch at Aliseda de Tormes, beside the Tormes River and its medival bridge. In the afternoon, we will ride across an open valley with a different landscape and good trots and canters to El Barco de Ávila. We will cross the Tormes River on a beautiful roman bridge to get to the village. Night and dinner at a 4* hotel.
Riding 6.5 hours.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in El Barco de Ávila

Day 4: El Barco de Avila to Hoyorredondo
We ride to Salamanca province, a beautiful flat and dry area, with incredible granite formations. It is a very rural region, where you will see fields with stonewalls and farmers riding donkeys. Later on, we ride through holm oaks woods and pastures. We will cross Puente del Congosto, another medieval village with a 15th century bridge and Castle. Picnic near the river, a very beautiful spot for swimming in summer. In the afternoon, we will have some fast and good canters to Hoyorredondo. Overnight and dinner at a very beautiful rural Inn, La Trocha de Hoyorredondo, where it is possible to see the horses resting from your bedroom´s window. A magical place.
Riding 6 hours.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at La Trocha de Hoyorredondo in Hoyorredondo

Day 5: Hoyorredondo to Navacepedilla de Corneja
Good trots and canters in the morning by the flat Corneja River Valley to Bonilla de la Sierra - very important medieval town, with a beautiful church. We take our lunch break in a private garden with swimming pool and taste a bbq with Avilan beefsteak. In the afternoon, we will start climbing to the top of the mountains.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel in Navacepedilla de Corneja

Day 6: Navacepedilla de Corneja to Navarredonda de Gredos
This is a magnificent day! We ride in the mountains through 3 different valleys. In the morning, we will ride up to the highest place of the ride: Puerto de Chía (1,800 m), with a magnificent view of the Corneja river valley in the back and the Alberche river valley in the front. Lunch break is at San Martin de la Vega with the views of the Gredos Mountains. After lunch, we will cross the Alberche River and continue to Tormes River valley to get to the stables.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos

Day 7: Departure
Breakfast at the hotel, departure at 10am to be in Madrid airport around noon.
Meals included: Breakfast

8-day option: Same itinerary with extra day riding with good trots and canters along the lovely Tormes river valley.

Day 7: Navarredonda de Gredos
Good trots and canters along the lovely Tormes river valley.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos

Day 8: Departure 
Breakfast at hotel, departure at around 10 am. To be at Madrid airport at 12 pm.
Meals included: Breakfast



Sample Itinerary: Valleys of Gredos (progressive ride) - subject to changes

Day 1: Arrival to Navarredonda de Gredos
Meet at Madrid airport for 3:00 pm and transfer to Navarredonda (2 hours’ drive) with a stop en route in Avila (short visit). Enjoy your welcome dinner at the hotel with us in Navarredonda de Gredos.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos

Day 2: Navarredonda de Gredos - Cuevas del Valle (Tietar river valley)
Distribution of horses at the stables. We cross the mountains through Puerto del Arenal following the very old path, which was used like a commercial way from north to south of the Gredos Mountains. Beautiful views of the Tietar river valley. Night in very nice rural inn “El rinconcito de Gredos” in Cuevas del Valle.
Riding 6 hours. 
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at “El rinconcito de Gredos” in Cuevas del Valle

Day 3: Cuevas del Valle to San Martín del Pimpollar (Alberche river valley)
We ride through the Roman Road (II century B.C.) to join the Cañada Real - very important medieval paths for Merino sheep Transhumance. We will get Puerto del Pico, with magnificent views of the Tietar River Valley. After a tapas-break we continue riding along the Alberche River Valley. Beautiful lunch beside the river. Tonight, we will arrive in San Martín del Pimpollar.
Riding 5 hours. 
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at casa rural “Las cuatro calles in San Martín del Pimpollar

Day 4: San Martín del Pimpollar to San Martín de la Vega (Corneja river valley)
Following the Alberche River Valley, we will ride through wild nature in the north side of the mountains. Beautiful landscape, especially in Spring when the broom is blooming. Lunch in the countryside with magnificent views of the highest peaks of the Sierra de Gredos. We stop for dinner and overnight at rural inn in San Martín de la Vega.
Riding 6.5 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in San Martín de la Vega

Day 5: San Martín de la Vega to Hoyos del Espino (Tormes river valley)
We are still in the mountains, with pine trees, broom, stonewalls… The region we explore today is the summer pastures for Avilan cows. We will get very close to the source of the Alberche River. We stop for lunch beside a lagoon. In the afternoon, we ride to Navacepeda through open landscapes with the most beautiful views of Gredos Mountains. Dinner at a restaurant.
Riding 5 hours.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Capra Hispanica in Hoyos del Espino 

Day 6: Hoyos del Espino to Navarredonda de Gredos (Tormes river valley)
Easy and beautiful day. Today’s ride follows the Tormes River Valley. Lunch at fisherman´s hut beside the Tormes River - wonderful spot for swimming. Short afternoon ride with a few fast good canters to finish the ride.
Riding 5 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos

Day 7: Departure
Breakfast at hotel. Departure around 10 am to be at 12 pm in Madrid airport.
Meals included: Breakfast



Sample Itinerary: Pristine Waters of Gredos (progressive ride) - subject to changes

Day 1: Arrival to Navarredonda de Gredos
Meet at Madrid airport for 3:00 pm and transfer to Navarredonda (2 hours’ drive). Stop in Avila for a short visit. Enjoy your welcome dinner at the hotel with us in Navarredonda de Gredos.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos

Day 2: Ride To San Martín Del Pimpollar
Easy day riding from Navarredonda to the mountains, across summer pastures. We stop for lunch by the river near San Martín del Pimpollar with an excellent pic-nic cooked on the spot. In the afternoon, we ride through pine forests, with a possibility of good canters and trots.
Riding 5 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos

Day 3: Ride To Laguna Cañada Del Gallo
Riding in the morning to Cañada del Gallo lagoon with some great views of the peaks of Gredos. We have some great canters in open landscape. Later on, we ride down to the Tormes river valley for another luxury pic-nic with an excellent paella cooked on the spot (opportunity for swimming). After a relaxing lunch break, we head back to the stables with some good canters.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos

Day 4: Ride to Barbellido & Navacepeda de Tormes
Today we will ride in the direction of the highest mountains with stunning views on the way. We ride up to Puente de las Juntas and down to Barbellido gorge, where we stop for an excellent lunch with Avilan beef bbq at a fisherman’s hut. It is a good spot for swimming in crystalline waters of Barbellido gorge.
After a relaxing lunch stop, in the afternoon good canters along the pinewoods riding to a different hotel in Navacepeda de Tormes.
Riding 6 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Navacepeda de Tormes

Day 5: Ride To Pozo De Las Paredes & Back To Navarredonda De Gredos
Following the Tormes River through Navacepeda historic town, we ride into the mountains to Navalperal for a tapas-break, continuing to Pozo de las Paredes, a 14th century bridge over the Barbellido gorge. Lunch at the beautiful place perfect for swimming. In the afternoon riding along the Tormes river coming back to the stables. Dinner and night at rural hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos.
Riding 6 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos

Day 6: Ride To Hoyos Del Espino
Fast morning riding to Hoyos del Espino. Lunch stop and swimming at an excellent spot. In the afternoon great riding with canters through the pine forest. Night and farewell dinner in Navarredonda de Gredos.
Riding 5 hours
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos

Day 7: Departure
Breakfast at hotel, departure at 10am to be in Madrid airport around noon.
Meals included: Breakfast



Sample Itinerary: Long Weekend Ride (stationary ride) - subject to changes

This ride follows the same itinerary as the last part of the Pristine Waters of Gredos Ride.

Day 1: Arrival to Navarredonda de Gredos
Meet in Avila and transfer to Navarredonda de Gredos by car (about 1 hour). Enjoy your welcome dinner at the hotel with us.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos

Day 2: Ride and visit of a Medieval Town
We ride along the Tormes River Valley and stop for lunch at a beautiful place, perfect for swimming.
In the afternoon we ride back to the stables. After the riding, we go visit a medieval town in the area.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lucnh & Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos

Day 3: Full day ride and visit to the herd of horses
In the morning, we enjoy a fast paced ride to Hoyos del Espino. Lunch break and swimming.
In the afternoon, ride with canters through the pine forest. After the riding, we go visit our herd of horses in the forest.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lucnh & Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos

Day 4: Full day ride
Riding in the morning to Cañada del Gallo lagoon with some great views of the peaks of Gredos. We have great canters in open landscape. We take our picnic in the Tormes valley and enjoy an excellent paella cooked on the spot (opportunity for swimming). After a relaxing lunch break, we ride back to the stables with some good canters.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lucnh & Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos

Day 5: Navarredonda de Gredos to Ávila
After breakfast, transfer at 10 am to be in Ávila town around 11 am.
Meals included: Breakfast

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Sample Itinerary: Christmas Special (stationary program) - subject to changes

The following is the sample itinerary but please note that changes are possible due to weather and local conditions.

Day 1: Arrival to Navarredonda de Gredos
Transfer from Madrid to Navarredonda de Gredos (2-hour drive) with a break for a short visit to amazing walled medieval town of Ávila (World Heritage Site UNESCO).
Enjoy your welcome dinner at the hotel.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos

Day 2: Ride to Hoyos del Collado
After matching our excellent homebred horses with each rider, we get in the saddle. Riding through the Tormes valley and pine forest, we cross open fields with great views of Gredos Mountains. We stop for lunch beside the river Tormes. In the afternoon we head back to the stables. We will ride for about 5 hours total during the day.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos

Day 3: Barbellido Gorge Ride
This morning, we ride in the direction of the highest mountains with stunning views of the Gredos range. Riding up to Puente de las Juntas and down to Barbellido gorge, we stop for an excellent lunch at a fisherman hut. After a relaxing lunch stop, we get back in the saddle and enjoy good canters along the pine woods, riding back to the stables. We will have time to relax before our Christmas eve dinner.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos

Day 4: Cañada del Gallo Ride
We start the day by riding to Cañada del Gallo lagoon with some great views of the peaks of Gredos and great canters. We then ride down to the Tormes valley for another beautiful pic-nic. After a relaxing lunch break, we ride back to the stables with some good canters. Today, we will spend about 6 hours in the saddle. 
Tonight, farewell dinner at the hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at a Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos

Day 5: Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Madrid airport.
Meals included: Breakfast

                                                Ávila‎‎ area

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Average High Temperature (°F)	46	48	54	57	65	75	82	82	74	62	52	47
Average Low Temperature (°F)	30	32	34	38	44	51	55	55	50	43	36	32
Average High Temperature (°C)	8	9	12	14	18	24	28	28	23	17	11	8
Average Low Temperature (°C)	-1	0	1	3	7	11	13	13	10	6	2	0
Average Precipitation (days of rain)	5	4	4	7	7	4	1	2	3	6	6	6

Source: NOAA


Seasons
Castilla and León has a continental Mediterranean climate with long and relatively cold winters with an average of temperatures between 4º and 7º C (39.2º F and 44.6º F) and with warm to hot summers.

The general lack of rainfall makes it easy for accommodating riding holidays and is excellent to enjoy the sun all year round whatever the temperature. The high altitude of the plateau and mountains accentuate the contrast between the winter and summer temperatures, as well as during the day and night.

This list is only a basic guideline for you...

TRAVEL
Travel documents and Trip Voucher
Flight tickets
Passport
Visa (check with your consulate)

RIDING GEAR
English or Western riding attire - whatever you are most comfortable riding long distances in!
Comfortable and worn-in riding boots
A hard hat is not required, but always recommended for safety
Riding gloves
Hat (with chin strip) for sun protection
Rain proof coat

PERSONAL CLOTHING
Jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
Comfortable T-Shirts
Jeans
Shorts
Underwear and socks
Pyjamas
Light summer 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 any electric appliances
Camera and enough extras (films, batteries, memory cards etc)
Belt pack
Sun glasses with strap
Sun tan lotion and lip balm
Small bar of soap
Flashlight

Average ratings from 17 tour feedbacks (see details below) Horses: (5) Excellent (4) Very Good (3) Good (2) Satisfactory (1) Not Satisfactory Saddle/Tack: Accommodations: Meals: Host/Guide: other Riders: Name Date susan katz sliski 8/15/2018 amy liu 10/16/2017 doug ferro 10/21/2015 pamela nelson 10/20/2015 mark hungerford 12/12/2013 jeanene c williams 11/8/2013 carrie cheong 10/22/2013 kathleen lumb 4/28/2013 lauren cartwright 4/27/2013 mark hungerford 10/14/2012 wayne brown 9/5/2012 carol stockton 5/1/2012 patricia lawler 4/28/2012 kelly mckimmy 2/16/2012 carrie cheong 10/11/2011 peter singline 6/27/2011 carrie cheong 6/10/2011

Accommodations
These are progressive rides, so nights are spent in different locations. Only the long weekend ride is stationary with all nights spent in Navarredonda de Gredos.

Description
Accommodations are in small hotels and rural inns with private bathroom (toiletries almost always included). Most overnights are at charming rural hotels where we enjoy the exquisite regional cuisine, known for its tendency to be gourmet. We will also experience modern hotels, built in the traditional European style, located in areas of outstanding beauty.
All accommodations provide free Wi-Fi access.

Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability

Gredos - Salamanca Ride
Night 1: Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos
Night 2 & 3: Hotel in El Barco de Avila
Night 4: Hotel in Candelario
Night 5: Hotel in Guijo de Avila
Night 6: Monastery Valdejimena in Horcajo
Night 7: Hotel in Salamanca



Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos
This small hotel is surrounded by nature and provides great views of the mountains. The bedrooms all come with Wi-Fi access, a TV and private facilities. Guests are welcome to relax in the panoramic lounge or outdoor terrace.


Hotel in El Barco de Ávila
This beautiful hotel built out of noble materials offers modern and comfortable accommodations featuring private bathrooms with hair dryer and toiletries, heating/air-conditioning, a TV, free Wi-Fi access and hardwood floors. The property benefits from a beautiful view over the city and surrounding mountains as well as a lovely garden and terrace.

Rural Hotel in Candelario
This rural hotel is housed in a beautiful building featuring the local architectural style. During its restoration in the 90s, great care was taken in conserving the charm of the traditions while providing more modern accommodations. Each room has its own decor and comes equipped with Wi-Fi access, a TV, heating and private facilities.


Hotel in Guijo de Avila
This small hotel has 20 modern accommodations, all equipped with full bathrooms, air conditioning, a TV and internet access.

Hotel in Salamanca
The hotel is housed in a beautiful historic building with a neoclassical renaissance façade. Rooms are simply decorated and all have air conditioning, a satellite TV, a safe and private bathroom with free toiletries. Free Wi-Fi is available at the reception.


Castles of Gredos Ride
Night 1: Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos
Night 2: Hotel in Hoyos del Espino
Night 3: Hotel in El Barco de Avila
Night 4: Rural Hotel in Hoyorredondo
Night 5: Rural Hotel in Navacepedilla
Night 6: Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos



Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos
This small hotel is surrounded by nature and provides great views of the mountains. The bedrooms all come with Wi-Fi access, a TV and private facilities. Guests are welcome to relax in the panoramic lounge or outdoor terrace.

Hotel in Hoyos del Espino
This family hotel has been welcoming visitors since 1978. It has 15 guestrooms; all fitted with a private bathroom and a TV. There are public areas where guest can read a book, enjoy the view, watch TV or simply surf the internet. There is also a small garden with colorful flowers and a terrace.


Hotel in El Barco de Ávila
This beautiful hotel built out of noble materials offers modern and comfortable accommodations featuring private bathrooms with hair dryer and toiletries, heating/air-conditioning, a TV, free Wi-Fi access and hardwood floors. The property benefits from a beautiful view over the city and surrounding mountains as well as a lovely garden and terrace.


Rural Hotel in Hoyorredondo
This charming rural accommodation is surrounded by beautiful nature and has been built in the traditional architectural style of the area. It has 6 guestrooms with a rustic decor, private facilities and a TV. There is a lovely garden and terrace where guests can relax. There is also a living room with a big fireplace that guests are welcome to use. Wi-Fi is available in public areas.


Rural Hotel in Navacepedilla
This charming rural complex has 17 accommodations with beautiful views over the surrounding mountains. The rooms feature natural materials with stone walls and beam ceilings. Each one of them has been fitted with a TV, free Wi-Fi access, a lounge area with fireplace, air conditioning and a modern bathroom. Guests are also welcome to relax in the beautiful garden.


Valleys of Gredos 
Night 1: Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos
Night 2: Country House in Cuevas del Valle
Night 3: Country Hotel in San Martin del Pimpollar
Night 4: Country House in San Martin de la Vega
Night 5: Hotel in Hoyos del Espino
Night 6: Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos



Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos
This small hotel is surrounded by nature and provides great views of the mountains. The bedrooms all come with Wi-Fi access, a TV and private facilities. Guests are welcome to relax in the panoramic lounge or outdoor terrace.


Country House in Cuevas del Valle
This lovely rural accommodation benefits of great mountain views. The rooms are simply decorated and all include a TV, air conditioning and heating as well as a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi access.

Country Hotel in San Martin del Pimpollar
This small hotel offers comfortable bedrooms with great mountain views. Each room features a TV, Wi-Fi access, heating and private facilities. There is a lounge area where guests can relax in front of the fireplace.

Country House in San Martin de la Vega
This charming stone house accommodation offers 2 cozy bedrooms and a shared bathroom. There is a living room with a TV, free internet access and a washing machine. Guests are also welcome to use the small terrace.

Hotel in Hoyos del Espino
This family hotel has been welcoming visitors since 1978. It has 15 guestrooms; all fitted with a private bathroom and a TV. There are public areas where guest can read a book, enjoy the view, watch TV or simply surf the internet. There is also a small garden with colorful flowers and a terrace.


Pristine Waters of Gredos
Night 1 to 3 + 5-6: Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos
Night 4: Hotel in Navacepeda de Tormes



Hotel in Navarredonda de Gredos
This small hotel is surrounded by nature and provides great views of the mountains. The bedrooms all come with Wi-Fi access, a TV and private facilities. Guests are welcome to relax in the panoramic lounge or outdoor terrace.

Hotel in Navacepeda de Tormes
This small mountain hotel has 16 guestrooms that all come equipped with a private bathroom and a TV. The building is made out of local materials (stone and woods) and was originally built in 1974 and refurbished in 2000.


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 on this trip.

The food is a highlight of this trip! Mamen will delight you with the tapas-breaks waiting for you with Serrano ham, Manchego cheese, olives, nuts, etc.

Lunches are taken on the trail; in the countryside (we bring tables and chairs) and always include a starter (salad, gazpacho, vegetables, etc), a main course (paella, iberian pork, fish, etc), fresh fruit, coffee and local wines. Lunchtime features delicious home cooked Spanish dishes such as Paella, Tortilla Española, Iberian pork bbq, salads, and soft cheese very typical from Extremadura “Torta del Casar”. Lunch is often followed by a siesta in the countryside.
 
After the day riding, your dinner in the evening is around 9 pm and you can choose from different dishes and courses of local Spanish recipes. Your dinner is usually taken at the accommodation and include a choice between 3-5 starters (mix salad, soup, vegetables, pasta, etc), 3-5 main course (grilled beef, pork, stews, fish, omelet, etc), a dessert (flan, rice pudding, fruit, cake, etc), local wine, bread and coffee or tea.

The following drinks are included in the package: red and white wines, beer, refreshments, coffee or tea during the meals and aperitifs. Water bottle is provided every morning.

Dietary Restrictions
Special diets (vegetarian, gluten free, allergies, etc.) can be arranged with advance notice.

This trip includes some wine with dinner and can accommodate special dietary requests.

Tack:		English with saddlebag
Horses:		Pura Raza Española PRE (14), Pure Hispano-Arab (4), Anglo-arab (1), 2 Crossed (hispano-bretón, hispano-lusitano)
Pace:		Moderate with extended trots and controlled canters. 6 hrs per riding day. | Walk | Trot | Canter |
Level:		(3 to 3 out of 5)    Intermediate
Age:		Min 8
Weight:		Max 200 lbs
Riders:		Min 2 riders	Max 10 riders

Option A: Gredos to Salamanca Ride - 6 riding days (approx. 180 km total).
Option B: Castles of Gredos Mountains - 5 or 6 riding days (approx. 150-180 km total).
Option C: Valleys of Gredos - 5 riding days (approx. 150 km total).
Option D: Pristine Waters of Gredos - 5 riding days (approx. 150 km total).

Riding Schedule
On a normal day, we start riding at 10am, after a well-deserved rest and a good breakfast. Participants are encouraged in helping with the preparation of the horses. Usually, we need to catch the horses from the fields where they have spent the night, feed them, brush them and saddle them up before breakfast.
In the morning, you will ride about 4 hours with a short tapas-break (Serrano ham, Manchego cheese, olives, nuts, etc. and something to drink) in the middle of the morning (usually around noon). After the break, we ride to the lunch place. A luxury picnic is waiting for us in the quietest and most beautiful spot. The stop for lunch is about 2 hours long, with time to enjoy the pic-nic and little siesta after lunch.
In the afternoon, we ride for about 2 hours until we get to our accommodation.

Riding Experience
These trips have been designed for intermediate to experienced riders. You should be comfortable at the walk, trot and canter, in group, in open spaces and your seat should be firm. On the rides, you will be riding for between four to seven hours a day so it is important to be as riding fit as possible.

Pace
The overall pace of riding is moderate with walk, trots and canters mostly every day. Usually, when the terrain allows for a safe canter, we canter. In the mountains, in many areas the terrain does not allow for trotting or cantering so we enjoy walking with breathtaking views around.
The distance covered on the average is 25-35 km per day. We usually spend about 6 hours in the saddle every riding day.

Tack
We use fine quality English saddles and silicon seat saver. All the tack is in excellent conditions, very comfortable for horses and riders. You have small saddlebags in front of the saddles for a water bottle, sunscreen, camera, mobile, etc.

Support Vehicle
A support van follows the group during the whole week, meeting us in the morning, for tapas-breaks, lunches, at night and to move your luggage. This means you have access to your luggage at least 3 times a day.

Horses
We currently have 21 horses: 14 PRE, 4 Pure Hispano-Arab, 1 Anglo-Arab and 2 Crossed (hispano-bretón, hispano-lusitano).
Our horses are responsive, well behave, good natured and serene thanks to the natural horsemanship method used to train them.
Most of our horses were born and bred at home while others have been with us since they were foals.
They live in freedom as a herd, eating, drinking, sleeping and traveling together in the most natural way possible.
They live in a huge pine forest (500 ha) in the Gredos Mountains or in the rich pastures in the Dehesas of Extremadura. They keep fit as they can walk around 20 km every day. They live with other groups of animals including other horses, donkeys, cows and also wild animals such as wolves, roe deer, deer, wild boar, foxes.

Staff
Emilio and Mamen (both born in Gredos Mountains) will be personally escorting you on these trips. Emilio will happily guide you across the trails, while Mamen will be preparing delicious meals and pic-nics.
Emilio has been working in equestrian tourism for over 30 years and he dedicated his whole life to his horses. He speaks English and Spanish.

Age Restrictions
There is no upper age limit, as long as you are riding fit and healthy. The minimum riding age is 10 years old (competent riders only), accompanied by an adult.

Travel Insurance
It is mandatory to take a travel insurance for this trip! If you come from Europe, you should bring the European Health card, this gives you access to Spanish health care.

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 

 

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.