Portugal

Beginner Horse-riding Adventure

7 nights from £ • € • $

Activities

7 days guided adventures

Accommodation

7 nights in a cosy lodge and hotel

Level

Beginner friendly

Food

Delicious high quality restaurant food - All meals included

Difficulty

Group Size

Moderate

Transfers

new friends

Dates

June | July | September | October

  • Learn to Ride

    Be immersed in the world of horseback riding in our horse riding holiday for beginners.

  • Whale & Dolphin Watching

    Hop on board for a marine adventure!

  • Trail Riding

    Never ridden before? Don’t worry, our passionate and knowledgeabl instructors will guide us every step of the way.

  • Hiking

    Lace up those boots for a hike around the edge of Faial Island’s breathtaking Caldeira crater.

  • E-Biking

    Pedal through the picturesque landscape with graceful ease.

  • Breathtaking Landscapes

    The Azores offers unspoiled beauty and dramatic landscapes.

Discover the Mid-Atlantic Islands in the heart of Faial Island.

Spend eight unforgettable days in the Azores with our horse riding holiday for beginners. Our Azores Beginner Horseriding Adventure is the perfect escape for those keen to learn horseback riding, improve skills, or simply enjoy the joy of riding. With expert guides by our side as we saddle up on elegant Lusitano horses, we’ll gain confidence, learn the ropes, and soak up the island’s beauty from an entirely new perspective. And the adventure doesn’t stop there! Faial Island invites us to hike a volcanic crater, cycle its breathtaking landscapes on an e-bike, and even set out to sea for whale watching with marine biologists.

And the best part? Every detail is thoughtfully taken care of, from accommodations to carefully planned activities, so we can fully immerse ourselves in this unforgettable experience. All that’s left to do is pack our sense of adventure and join the fun!

Location

The Azores, tucked away in the Atlantic, offer unspoiled beauty and dramatic landscapes. This breathtaking archipelago is a treasure trove of volcanic craters, shimmering lakes, and rolling hills that give way to rugged cliffs and black-sand beaches. The islands are laced with trails that wind through dense laurel forests and past steaming geothermal springs, offering a front-row seat to the raw power of nature. 

Often likened to a blend of Iceland, Hawaii, and Portugal, these islands are truly one of a kind—impeccably preserved and brimming with authenticity. The locals’ deep respect for nature ensures the Azores remain pristine, earning their title as one of the world’s most sustainable destinations. It’s a dreamscape of rugged charm and natural wonder for adventurers and horse-riding enthusiasts.


Activities

  • Trail Riding

    Never ridden before? Don’t worry, our passionate and knowledgeable  instructors will guide us every step of the way. We’ll ride safely through the stunning countryside, with the group divided by experience level. After a scenic 3-4 hour ride, enjoy a delightful picnic in nature’s green embrace.

  • Hiking

    Hiking

    Lace up those boots for a hike around the edge of Faial Island’s breathtaking Caldeira crater, a 1,2000 ft-deep volcanic wonder draped in lush greenery and bursting with rare endemic plants. With a knowledgeable nature guide leading the way, we’ll navigate this moderate three-hour trek with its sweeping views of the island and the Atlantic beyond - a challenge that will definitely reward us at every turn. 

  • Snowshoeing

    Whale & Dolphin Watching

    Hop on board for a 3-hour marine adventure taking us out into the water for an up close look at the whales and dolphins of Faial. With up to 20 species calling these waters home, we’ll be able to spot playful dolphins leaping alongside the boat, and even a mighty whale in its natural habitat. 

  • E-Biking

    Pedal through the picturesque landscape with graceful ease. With an e-bike, even the steepest hills feel like a breeze, allowing us to savor the views without breaking a sweat. It’s good for all fitness levels and enjoyable for both seasoned cyclists and those who haven’t pedalled in years.

Learn to Ride

Be immersed in the world of horseback riding in our horse riding holiday for beginners. Over eight days, novice riders will be under the expert guidance of skilled instructors, learning to mount and ride a majestic Lusitano horse with confidence and grace while exploring stunning scenic routes - and discovering the rich culture and history of the area along the way. 

Beyond the joy of learning a new skill, horse riding offers a unique way to connect with nature. Each trail invites us to take in incredible landscapes steeped in local charm. This holiday blends adventure, fitness, and fun, giving you the chance to build confidence while soaking up the tranquil surroundings. 

Trail Riding

Never ridden before? Don’t worry, our passionate and knowledgeable  instructors will guide us every step of the way. We’ll ride safely through the stunning countryside, with the group divided by experience level. After a scenic 3-4 hour ride, enjoy a delightful picnic in nature’s green embrace.

Hiking

Lace up those boots for a hike around the edge of Faial Island’s breathtaking Caldeira crater, a 1,2000 ft-deep volcanic wonder draped in lush greenery and bursting with rare endemic plants. With a knowledgeable nature guide leading the way, we’ll navigate this moderate three-hour trek with its sweeping views of the island and the Atlantic beyond - a challenge that will definitely reward us at every turn. 


Whale & Dolphin Watching

Hop on board for a 3-hour marine adventure taking us out into the water for an up close look at the whales and dolphins of Faial. With up to 20 species calling these waters home, we’ll be able to spot playful dolphins leaping alongside the boat, and even a mighty whale in its natural habitat. 


E-Biking

Pedal through the picturesque landscape with graceful ease. With an e-bike, even the steepest hills feel like a breeze, allowing us to savor the views without breaking a sweat. It’s good for all fitness levels and enjoyable for both seasoned cyclists and those who haven’t pedalled in years. 

Sustainability and Guides

On our Portugal Beginner Horseriding Holiday, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. The Azores are renowned as one of the world’s top destinations for sustainable tourism, with four consecutive years of the highest sustainability award from the Azores Government and a TOP 5 Touristic Animation Award in 2019 from the Portuguese Government.

Our expert guides are the real stars of the show. Whether certified Horse-Trail Guides, certified Nature Park Guides, or both, they’re passionate about sharing their knowledge of the island. Fluent in English and often Portuguese, they’re ready to make our Portugal adventure both enriching and unforgettable.

Fitness and Experience Level

  • This trip is rated moderate.

    It’s perfect for beginners, with no previous ski or winter sport experience, however you’ll need a good level of fitness to get the most from this experience.

  • Downhill & Speed: Expect gentle slopes, they aren't very steep, but you will pick up speed. If past downhill skiing experiences left you apprehensive, this sport might not be for you.

    Gliding Motion: Cross country skiing is all about the glide, you’ll be aiming to generate speed and momentum! If sliding isn't your thing, this sport might not be for you.

    Falling: You’ll likely to take a few tumbles when learning to ski, though these falls are generally softer than in alpine skiing, you’ll need to be comfortable with the idea of falling!

    Intensity: Cross country skiing often feels like "running with skis on" long flat sections uphill climbs can be physically demanding, so you do need a good level of fitness.

    Duration: Daily, you'll be active for 6-7 hours, split into 2-3 hour sessions or occasionally full-day tours.

    Distance: We'll cover between 8km to 1km daily. Consider if you can comfortably walk these distances and on consecutive days.

    Consecutive Activity: This trip involves several days of back to back activity, which can be tiring.

    Comparison with Alpine Skiing:

    Cross country and alpine skiing are very different sports. Any prior ski experience can help, but foundational training for cross country is essential. Even experienced alpine skiers start as beginners here!

  • Stay in a stunning, sustainable 4-star Nature Ecolodge, offering the perfect retreat after a day of adventure. With a spacious garden, cosy lounge, and inviting bar, it’s a lovely spot to relax. The nearest Atlantic rock pool is just a 30-minute walk away, so we can easily unwind by the sea.

    Accommodation is in comfortable rooms (double occupancy) or charming Tiny-Houses (single occupancy). Each has a private bathroom, mini-bar, fluffy beds, fast Wi-Fi, and sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Comfort and nature effortlessly merge in this ideal setting for our Portugal adventure.

  • Each morning comes with a delicious, locally-sourced breakfast with homemade treats to kickstart our day. Lunch brings a delightful picnic - a saddlebag snack, panier feast, or served spread in the heart of nature. Evenings will treat us to a flavourful 3-course dinner offering a taste of Azorean cuisine. We’re happy to accommodate any dietary preferences.

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Arrival

    Welcome to our Portugal adventure! Upon arrival at Faial Island, we’ll head off  to our accommodation. After a refreshing welcome drink, settle into charming accommodation and relax before enjoying a delicious dinner. A perfect start to our horse riding holiday.

  • Day 2

    Horse-Trail to the Whale Spotter Point

    After a hearty breakfast, meet the Lusitano horses for a 1.5-hour trail ride to a whale spotting point. Novices will learn the ropes while riding through the scenic landscape. After soaking in the views and learning about the island’s whaling history, enjoy a picnic lunch before heading back. The day finishes with downtime and a tasty Azorean dinner.

  • Day 3

    Whale Watching and Horta Town

    Kick off the day with breakfast before heading to Horta for an unforgettable whale-watching adventure. On a powerful RIB boat, have the chance to see some of the 20 species of whales and dolphins that frequent Faial. Afterward, take a stroll through the picturesque town with a local guide, before returning to the Ecolodge for a well-deserved dinner.

  • Day 4

    Horse-Trail to Old Whalers Harbors

    Get ready for another exciting day on horseback! After breakfast, embark on a ride to two historic whaling ports. Explore Porto da Eira and Porto do Salão, with a chance to swim or dip our toes in the natural rock pools. Enjoy a scenic picnic before heading back for some relaxation and dinner.

  • Day 5

    Horse-Trail into Faial Mountains

    Right after breakfast, set off on a thrilling ride through the Faial mountains, where we’ll canter across jungle-like paths and visit a beautiful forest park. After a delicious Azorean picnic in this peaceful setting, continue the trail through yams gardens before returning to the lodge. Wind down with a glass of wine and enjoy the stunning sunset.

  • Day 6

    Hiking-Tour Around the Caldeira of Faial

    After a filling breakfast, hike around the awe-inspiring Caldeira volcano, which is over 3,000 feet high. Our Nature Park Guide will lead us through the lush landscape, sharing fascinating stories about the volcano and its surroundings. After a picnic break with incredible views, head back to for some relaxation and yoga before a delicious dinner.

  • Day 7

    E-Bike Tour to the Volcano of Capelinhos

    After breakfast, hop on an e-bike for a tour to the Capelinhos Volcano. Learn about the dramatic 1957 eruption that reshaped the island and visit the informative visitor centre. We’ll also have time to admire local arts at the Craft School of Capelo before enjoying a bikers’ lunch in the Capelo Forest Park. The day concludes with a scenic ride back for dinner. 

  • Day 8

    Departure

    After a final breakfast and check-out, head back to the airport for the journey home.

  • Mon 9th - Mon 16th

  • Sat 5th - Sat 12th

  • Sat 6th - Sat 13th

  • Sat 18th - Sat 25th

Dates

Price

Twin Room: £ (approx. € / $)

Private Room: £ (approx. € / $)

  • Gutsy Girls is a UK-based adventure company welcoming women worldwide. Prices are in pounds (£) with estimates in euros (€) and US dollars ($). The final amount depends on your card provider’s conversion rate at payment time and may fluctuate.

  • Secure your spot with a 30% deposit; the balance is due 45 days before the trip.

Included

  • 7 nights accommodation - room or tiny house, shared room or single

  • 7 local fresh breakfast

  • 7 3-course dinners w/o beverages

  • 4 backpack / saddlebag / pannier picnics incl. beverages

  • 1 served large picnic incl. beverages

  • 1 lunch in a restaurant w/o beverages

  • 3 day horse trails

  • All riding equipment and horse

  • Hiking trail around the Caldeira

  • Whale watching

  • City walk

  • Yoga / pilates / meditation session

  • E-bike tour

  • All biking equipment

  • All transfers and entrance tickets according to the program

  • Certified english spoken guides

  • All riding and hiking briefings

  • Free WIFI in the Ecolodge


    • Flights

    • Personal clothing (see packing list)

    • Drinks

    • Personal travel insurance

  • The cancellation will only be effective from the date that the cancellation is received in writing by email. Cancellation charges will be payable as follows:

    • Cancellation fee of 100% is charged if cancelled 44 days or less before the trip

    • Cancellation fee of 30% is charged if cancelled 45 days or more before the trip

  • We require a minimum of 6 participants to confirm this adventure.

    If you book and we don’t reach the minimum numbers, you’ll receive a full refund. Please hold off on booking any flights until the trip is confirmed. We have no doubt that the spots will fill up quickly!

Travel

  • We offer one group transfer to and from Akureyri Airport on arrival and departure days. The transfer times are:

    • Arrival day: 14:30

    • Departure day: 11:00

    These times align with our recommended flights. You are welcome to book other flights if they match the transfer schedule.

    Please note: If you book non-recommended flights and experience delays, we cannot wait for you. Private transfers are very expensive, so we strongly recommend booking the suggested flights.

  • London Gatwick to Akureyri (AEY) | easyJet

    Pick up: 14:30
    Drop off: 11:00

    LGW 10:35 ✈︎ 13:55 AEY | EZY8849
    AEY 13:10 ✈︎ 16:40 LGW | EZY8850

Packing List

    • Cross country skis

    • Ski boots

    • Ski poles

  • Please see our full packing list here.

Questions?

If you have any questions, check our FAQs or drop us a message below!