Welcome to Portugal & the Baixo Alentejo Region

Why come to Portugal to ride?

The Lusitano horse originates from Portugal and is said to be the oldest saddle horse in the world. They are courageous, robust and agile working horses with natural collection. Their movement is comfortable to ride and combined with a kind nature. Once you have ridden one I am sure you will fall in love with them as we have.

What is it like in the Alentejo?

It is beautiful, with open land; miles of riding off road; hills; Monchique in the distance; cork oak and holme oak trees to give shade in the summer; streams and beautiful fields of wild flowers in the spring. The Alentejo is the area immediately to the North of the Algarve (Southern Portugal) and it reaches from Lisbon to the Algarve and right across Portugal from the western coast to Spain. The Baixo Alentejo (lower) is the part adjoining the Algarve where we are. The weather is seasonal and the best times here are March to June and September to Christmas.

Why train at Equus Ourique?

Nearly all the teaching is done by Pru, who has been involved with horses for many years, is BHSII regd and has since trained to specialise in teaching the biomechanics of riding along classical principles. BIOMECHANICS deals with energy systems and how one movement affects another. In riding terms it relates to small movements of the rider (I.e. the aids) affecting the horse�s way of going. This teaching is predominantly about obtaining an independent seat, quiet hands and legs, and a forward going, supple horse Pru specialises is teaching riders who want to improve their horse�s way of going by developing their own riding position, and with this understanding, so being a more effective rider and creating better harmony with the horse. All of this in a calm, considerate and natural way.

What level of rider do I need to be?

We teach from beginner to advanced in classical dressage Beginner to Improver in Show Jumping. (Specialist show jumping training can be arranged)

What is Equus Ourique?

The Farm of 16 ha (45 acres) is set in rolling, largely unfenced countryside with sheep, black pig & cows wandering about and miles of fabulous tracks to ride along through woods, over streams and to nearby villages. The centre was newly built in 2007/8 to high specifications and standards.

Our newly built facilities consist of: