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This trip was the absolute highlight of my 7-week holiday! From the welcoming reception by our driver Sergio to the excellent riding lessons on the majestic Lusitano's - everything was great. The lessons were tailored to our levels, and I learnt a huge amount. The outdoor rides, swimming with horses and careful organisation by Floor made it an unforgettable experience.
The trip was perfectly organised. Floor made everyone feel welcome and everything went smoothly, even with unexpected challenges. The private lessons with experienced trainers and the opportunity to try Working Equitation were highlights. The culinary stops and cultural excursions, such as the Tuk Tuk tour of Lisbon, also added extra charm to the trip.
The Lusitano horses were absolutely amazing - I have never ridden such well-trained and elegant horses. The accommodations were generally luxurious, with a few exceptions, and the wine and cheese tastings were delicious. The programme offered a perfect balance between lessons, outdoor rides and relaxation, like the massages and swimming pool at Madre De Agua.
What I really appreciated was the personal attention during classes and the programme. Each trainer took into account our levels, and I never felt overloaded. The small group size and the shared WhatsApp group for photos and videos made it extra special. The Working Equitation class with Gilberto Filipe was a highlight!
Although the programme was generally fantastic, one of the hotels did not have the level we were used to, and the lessons on the last day could have been better organised. But despite these minor flaws, the trip was a success. I went home with new knowledge, many pleasant memories and a deep appreciation for the Lusitano horses and Portuguese culture.
Now I've had a smorgasbord of dressage experience in Portugal I hope I can do a trip like this again in the future. 🤩🐴
This trip delivered a wonderful mix of riding, cultural immersion, and luxury. From the breathtaking vineyards of Madre de Água to the high-level dressage training at renowned facilities, every moment was enriching. The camaraderie, excellent horses, and Floor's exceptional hosting made it a standout experience. I look forward to another dressage-focused trip in the future!"
The cultural experiences were well-curated, from the Tuk Tuk tour showcasing Lisbon's street art to the private tour of the Portuguese School of Equestrian Arts. The wine and cheese tastings, combined with massages at Madre de Água, provided the perfect balance of relaxation and luxury. Exploring iconic spots like the Belem Tower and tasting the best Pastéis de Nata in Lisbon added memorable touches to the trip.
This trip was a highlight of my summer holidays! The variety of experiences, from riding exceptional Lusitano horses to exploring the rich Portuguese culture, made it unforgettable. The river ride at Quinta do Falcao was exhilarating, and the trail through the vineyards at Madre de Água, complete with wine tasting, was a dream. The overall organisation and attention to detail by Floor and the Cavago team were top-notch.