Through the Ears of an Andalusian
On this exclusive itinerary curated by local hosts Giles and Miranda, you’ll eat, drink, ride and revel your way through fragrant white-washed villages, wild herb-scented hills and local haunts far from the tourist path, pairing glorious canters with soul-stirring cultural adventures.
Exclusive to Globetrotting
Rides hand crafted at GT HQ, available only to Globetrotters.
Trip Highlights
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Riding the famed Spanish horse, or Pura Raza Española, for the very first time
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Exploring local haunts not privy to the average tourist
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Enjoying free-flowing canters through paddocks sprinkled with wild herbs
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Discovering the pleasures of the Spanish afternoon siesta
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Sinking your teeth into the stomach-filling food found on a tapas tour in Malaga
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Exploring one of the most famed walks in the world, the El Caminito del Rey
- Enjoying a unique and private presentation of Spanish horsemanship at the home of Spanish double national champion in Working Equitation
Details
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Riding levels
Suitable for intermediate to advanced riders. You need to have an independent seat and be able to competently ride a forward-moving horse outside an arena at all paces, over varied terrain.
Not sure what your riding ability is? See the definitions below.
- Type of tack
'Barefoot' treeless saddles.
- Horse breed
Spanish horses (also called Pura Raza Española, P.R.E. or Andalusian) and Hispano Arabs (Spanish horse x Arabian),
- Accommodation
Private room accommodation (with ensuite) in a beautifully converted 300-year-old marble mill.
- Pace
The pace varies on a daily basis from a walk right through to a fast canter whenever the terrain is suitable. There will be plenty of opportunities to trot in between.
- Weight limit
A maximum of 80kg / 176lbs. This is a very strict weight limit!
It is VERY important that you provide your current weight accurately when booking. If your weight is not accurate, we cannot guarantee that your hosts will have a horse for you to ride.
- Group size
A minimum of 4 and a maximum of 5 guests (own room guaranteed).
- Minimum age
12 years of age
- Time in Saddle
On average, 4 hours per day.
- When to go
May through to October.
- Languages
Instructions spoken in English.
Guides speak Spanish, Dutch, German and English.
What’s included (and what’s not)
Included
- Private room accommodation for solo travellers
- Round trip transfers to/from Malaga Airport on the first and last days of the itinerary
- All meals outlined in the itinerary, including a walking tapas tour in Malaga
- Beer, house wine & soft drinks at dinner
- Internal transfers and entrance tickets to sights
- A private flamenco performance
- A private presentation of Spanish High School horsemanship
- Guided walk of the famed El Caminito Del Rey
Excluded
- International or regional flights
- Travel insurance (compulsory)
- Staff tips
- Accommodation, meals and drinks outside the itinerary
Departure dates and prices
Instalment plans available
Lock in your ride with a 10% deposit and pay the rest over time – interest-free in 10 easy payments. Learn more.
Per person
2026
May 26 to June 2, 2026
Includes the Romería pilgrimage celebrations!
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
June 9 to 16, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
July 4 to 11, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
September 26 to October 3, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
October 10 to 17, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
October 31 to November 7, 2026
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
2027
April 10 to 17, 2027
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
May 1 to 8, 2027
Waitlist yourself and we will send you an email if this date becomes available. Spots are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
June 22 to 29, 2027
September 4 to 11, 2027
October 2 to 9, 2027
October 23 to 30, 2027
We'll email you — you'll be among the first to hear when new departure dates are released.
The fun bits
Payment details
- A fixed Booking Fee of €93 EUR
- All bookings are charged in the local currency of the ride destination.
- Accepted payment method is by credit or debit card only.
Cancellation policy
We understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel your ride, please let us know as soon as possible. Cancellation fees apply based on how close your departure date is, and deposits are non-refundable. We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect your booking. Read our full cancellation policy.
International fees
If you're paying in a currency different from your own, your bank may charge a conversion or international transaction fee.
Itinerary
Please note, this is a suggested itinerary only and subject to change at the discretion of your guides due to weather and other influencing factors.
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Day 1: Arrival & Tapas Tour
Non-riding dayMeet & greet at Málaga airport with your enthusiastic hosts and guides, Giles and Miranda, then you’ll take the train to Málaga city centre and enjoy a 3.5 hour tapas tour through the beautiful city of Málaga – a type of “restaurant hopping” very common in the everyday life of locals. You’ll savour a great variety of creative, surprising and delicious tapas in many different prestigious establishments as you eat your way through Málaga’s old town! Artisans, grocers, and chefs will share their personal stories and their passion for food.
Afterwards, you will be transferred to Coín and your new home, Molino de Saladilla, where your accommodation and horses await. In the evening, a light meal and drink will be offered by the fireplace.
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Day 2: River Ride
3 to 4 hours in the saddleAfter a good breakfast (cereals, fruit, yogurts, breads, cold meats, cheese, marmalade, coffee, tea and juice) you will be introduced to your hosts’ pride and joy: the HORSES. Each rider will be matched with the horse most suitable for their ability, weight and height and after a short assessment in the arena/paddock, you’ll be off on the first ride.
Today your globetrotting posse will cruise through valleys and follow the local rivers “Pereila” and “Río Grande”, where you’ll encounter plenty of bird life. Depending on the time of year, you may see small groups of Black Stork (flying in from Eastern Europe to pass the winter in this region) and other inland water birds (such as Egrets, Herons and Black-winged Stilts). There will be gentle trots and canters wherever the terrain allows. This is when you’ll fall head over heels in love with your Spanish horse. You’ll marvel at the surefootedness of the horses as they manoeuvre over rocky riverbeds and are always ready to turn on the engine when asked!
Upon return, there will be a light lunch with drinks, after which you have time to take a nice hot shower and enjoy some time to relax before dinner, which will be served at approximately 7pm.
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Day 3: El Nacimiento
3 to 4 hours in the saddleAfter breakfast this morning, another unique Spanish experience beckons. Today you’ll be crossing the nearby town of Coín. You’ll ride through the high street and climb up towards the southside of the town and into a forest area called “El Nacimiento”, which literally means “birth”. In this case it’s the birthplace of natural springs, as this area holds an underground aquifer with natural spring water, a very important local water supply. You’ll encounter many wild herbs in the forest, such as rosemary, thyme and sage which, together with the pine trees, offers a wonderful blend of fragrance as you ride through them. The terrain is rocky at times but there will still be plenty of opportunities for trots and canters. On the way back, you’ll do as the locals do and stop for a drink at a local bar before returning home for dinner.
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Day 4: La Jarra
3 to 4 hours in the saddleToday, after breakfast, you’ll follow a quiet country lane for a while before exploring an area towards the north-west from Molino de Saladilla. You’ll descend down towards the Rio Grande where the horses are offered a drink before crossing over and into some stunning open countryside ‘La Jarra’. From this vantage point, the views will astound you and you’ll gain a new appreciation as to why visitors are in awe of the beauty of Andalucía. After another exhilarating canter, you’ll enjoy a fabulous 360 degree view of ‘La Jarra valley’ overlooking quaint coastal regions and the white village of Alozaina with the “Sierra de las Nieves” as a stunning backdrop.
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Day 5: El Caminito del Rey Excursion
Non-riding dayToday is a rest day for the horses, but don’t worry, your hosts have a full cultural agenda planned. After breakfast you’ll be driven to the beautiful local lake district ‘El Chorro’ and Ardales National Park, where you’ll explore one of the most famed walks in the world – ‘El Caminito del Rey’ (Walk of Kings). This used to be one of the most dangerous hikes in the world as the paths became nearly impassable after many years of disuse – the original pathway was built in 1805 in order to connect two waterfall locations for a hydro-electrical company. It was called the ‘Walk of Kings’ after King Alfonso XIII walked over it in 1921 as he officially opened the “Guadalhorce Reservoir” (the main drinking water source in the area). The area has Roman and Miocene history and is of great geographic importance, with Jurassic limestone formations and dolomite as well as Miocene sediments. This incredible walk is not very demanding, but hugely spectacular. The gorge is 300m deep in parts (don’t worry, safety standards are very high!) and you’ll see eagles and vultures circling above, whilst below, aquamarine water rushes past – an experience not to be missed! A packed lunch can be enjoyed whilst sitting on the edge of the reservoir taking in the beauty of your surroundings. Evening meal back at Molino de Saladilla.
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Day 6: La Carreta
4 hours in the saddleThis morning you’ll be taking in Coín’s beautiful countryside once again. Today you’ll be in the saddle for four hours and will head east towards the Guadalhorce Valley to an area called ‘la Carreta’. You’ll initially be riding over a plateau dotted with Spanish country residences, and will enjoy long trots and changing vistas before descending towards Rio Pereila and following lower tracks to return back to Coin. Finally, another delightful evening of food and conversation awaits.
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Day 7: Private Spanish Performance
3 to 4 hours in the saddleToday is the last day in the saddle (boo hoo!) but rest assured you’ll be ending with a BANG! Your tight-knit globetrotting group will be crossing the Pereila and Rio Grande rivers, riding past smallholdings and orchards plump with citrus, avocados, pecan nuts and olive trees. The honeycomb farmland is great for long, loping canters before you start climbing to reveal exceptional views, finally crossing the Rio Grande towards home.
After lunch, you’ll be taken to visit a local equestrian family, where you’ll be offered a private presentation of Spanish horsemanship with beautiful, highly trained Spanish stallions. Be prepared to see some magnificent horses, trained in a quiet manner to a very high standard. The family lives and breathes horses and have earned great respect nationwide and even across the borders. This evening you’ll enjoy a farewell fiesta complete with Flamenco dancing – a brilliant way to end your wonderful week!
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Day 8: Departure
Non-riding dayAfter breakfast, you’ll be transferred back to Málaga airport for your onward travels.
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May 26, 2026 departure - The Romeria
This particular departure coincides with one of the biggest events of the year for the local town of Coín: a day when the whole town dons their traditional costumes, saddles their best horses, harnesses the oxen, puts the wagons in party mode and shimmies up to the local chapel in a giant, rainbow-hued, mobile Spanish carnival. Honouring the patron saint of Coín, Fuensanta, the pilgrimage is unique to Coín and considered one of the best of its kind! Normally locals-only, you’ll have a special invitation to join in on all the festivities.
(This will replace the visit to the Caminito del Rey.) -
Additional Activities
Extra horse riding lessons (Alta Escuela – High School Spanish Dressage) are available upon request but need to be arranged ahead of time as they are subject to availability. The cost for these private lessons is €75* (payable direct to hosts – prices are subject to change). Massages are available upon request (prices vary depending on selection).
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Non-riders
Non-riders are welcome to join their riding partners/friends on this itinerary. We recommend non-riders have their own rental car so they can have the freedom and flexibility of exploring the local region at their leisure each day. The hosts will be able to recommend a number of sightseeing activities.
Transfer information
Transfers to and from Málaga are included in the ride price.
Guests should be ready for pick up from Málaga Airport no later than 10am on the morning of day one. If the flight times are too tight, we recommend staying in Málaga the night before so you’re ready for collection on day one.
On the final day, departure time can be flexible, but check out from your accommodation must be by 10am.
Accommodation
Private room accommodation in a beautifully converted 300-year-old marble mill. The shared facilities include an outdoor terrace, swimming pool and a communal dining room where you’ll enjoy the traditional Spanish fare. Not only that, you’ll be within walking distance of the centre of town (Coin), so when you’re not in the saddle, you can sit idle in a cafe and soak up the culture or explore the boutique shops.
Food
Each day begins with a breakfast buffet of coffee, tea, juice, milk, yoghurts, cereals, breads and fruit, and you are welcome to make extra sandwiches to take on the rides (water and an apple will already be tucked into your saddle bag, although your horse may insist the apple is theirs!). On returning from your ride, you’ll enjoy a light lunch, usually a salad with a hot dish and drinks. Evenings bring a full meal with dessert, all freshly prepared and featuring local specialties.
Reviews
Holly M
Katherine F
Anne M
Susan W
Lynne P
Patricia H
Monique H
Wendy L
Sally K
Brooke K
Nancy P
Diane B
Belinda S
Amy K
Erin C
Cassandra M
Joy R
Kathy N
18 reviews
Holly M
‘This ride was amazing. I knew from all of the previous reviews that it was going to be something special, but I had no idea how special. Giles and Miranda were amazing hosts. They are friendly and warm and genuinely invested in making sure that you have a good time. They obviously care so much for their horses. They also care deeply that you get the experience that you’re looking for. The setting was even more beautiful than I imagined, and Giles made sure that we got all of the views and all of the canters we wanted. The horses were super fit, very kind and confident, and it’s clear that they are incredibly well-loved and cared for. There was so much more that I could go on and on about. 10 out of 10 would recommend!’
Katherine F
‘The Andalusia Ride is a perfect first-timers’ trip! The rides are just long enough and exciting enough to give you an adrenaline rush, but also accessible for all. The hosts made the trip for me; Giles and Miranda are top-tier in terms of hospitality, and you can tell just how much they care about their horses and how proud they are to share them with visitors. I also feel this trip encompasses the cultural aspect well: a tapas tour in the city, a private flamenco show, a private Spanish dressage show, and more. Highly recommend!’
Anne M
‘The Andalusia Ride was a fabulous experience! The hosts were delightful, the horses were wonderful, and the food and accommodation were excellent. The pilgrimage we went on was a fantastic experience, and again, there was a lot of food and wine flowing, as well as dancing and frivolity, despite supposedly being a religious day. I’m already considering going back!’
Susan W
‘A Most Meaningful Ride via Andalusia, Spain. What began as an exciting adventure soon became daunting due to unforeseen personal challenges. However, through sheer determination and many willing helpers, I was able to prepare just one month before my trip! Our guides, Giles and Miranda, were absolutely fabulous and assured me they would take care of me. I rode a wonderful horse, Diabolo, who was perfect for my needs, and I felt very safe and secure with him. All our meals were outstanding and delicious. Our last meal was very special, as were the Flamenco dancers, singer, and guitarist! At the end of the ride, I broke into tears (happy tears) that I had succeeded regardless of the difficult life happenings. It was such an accomplishment for me and something that I emotionally needed to conquer!’
Lynne P
‘What an introduction to Spain! The tour kicked off with a tapas tour of the main market, led by a fun and informative guide. The accommodation was luxe, and meals were substantial—including wine. This experience was made even better by the Andalusian horses we rode; it was the perfect way to get to know about the Andalusia area and the horses. I have to mention our hosts, Miranda and Giles, who were outstanding and had planned an immersive experience. I loved every moment and met some great riders, and I only regret that the time passed quickly because I enjoyed it so much.’
Patricia H
‘My daughter and I went on the Andalusia Ride in Spain, and it was truly an adventure! We learned a lot of things from our guides, Giles and Miranda. The highlight for both of us was taking a dressage lesson at the Spanish riding school on an Andalusian stallion; what a gorgeous animal! It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The rooms are very spacious, comfortable, and clean. The terrain and cultural experiences included a city tour and Flamenco dancing demonstration, which were fantastic!’
Monique H
‘This was truly a special and memorable experience, especially with being involved in the annual patron saint festival of Cóin. People outside of the community are not normally allowed to be involved, but we were welcomed and treated like special guests. The atmosphere was amazing; the horses spectacular, and the costumes gorgeous. We were astounded that these stunning horses did not bat an eyelid at the noise and chaos around them. Most were stallions, and all were impeccably behaved. This was such an amazing, special experience that I will always cherish. Our hosts, Miranda and Giles, could not be any more amazing; they are not only very knowledgeable horse people but beautiful people. Our cook, Natalia, overfed us with food to die for, and I wanted to take her home with me. And, of course, the horses – they are stunning and beautiful to ride.’
Wendy L
‘I highly recommend the horse riding holiday with Giles and Miranda. Every day was a new adventure with a perfect balance of riding, relaxing and sightseeing. I rode Bandolero, a fantastic little horse! I really loved the visit to the equestrian establishment with the demonstration of the PRE horses, the hike of Caminito del Rey, and the flamenco dancing on the last night.’
Sally K
‘My first Globetrotting ride completely lived up to my expectations. My faith in their vetting of the horses, guides, and accommodations was more than well placed. I can’t recommend them enough if you want to have a perfect riding vacation. The food was fabulous; Giles and Miranda were very accommodating and helped ensure we all had a great experience. I rode Amedeo, which was a new experience for me since I ride Western QH at home. It took a couple of days, but once we got used to each other, he was great—very forward-moving but calm. I’m just sorry I didn’t discover Globetrotting 20 years ago!’
Brooke K
‘This was the best vacation I have ever had! Our hosts were awesome, the horses were great, and the accommodations were fantastic! It was the perfect amount of cultural experience, riding, and downtime/relaxation. I cried when we returned from our last ride, on our last night there, and the day we said goodbye to our hosts!’
Nancy P
‘Our Andalusia Ride was spectacular. Our hosts, Miranda and Giles, were beyond accommodating – so helpful, responsive and a lot of fun to be around. The horses were fabulous and the trails were unlike any I have ever ridden before. The rides were just the right length for me, and different each day, but always with spectacular views, great trails and a good amount of trotting and cantering. Best of all, after the rides we returned to the ‘hacienda’: a lush tropical property complete with a pool and comfy chaise lounges. Perfect for relaxing after a long day. The accommodations far exceeded our expectations – very clean, comfortable and spacious, with all the modern conveniences. The extra-curricular activities were also wonderful, especially the private Flamenco performance on the last night. I highly recommend this total experience!’
Diane B
‘WOW is the word I use to describe my first Globetrotting experience. I have dreamt of visiting the Andalusia area for years, and riding with Globetrotting is the way to go. I adored the horses, the accommodation, and the hosts, Giles and Miranda; they are such beautiful people. Every detail was attended to, you only needed to ask, and it was so. We had the most wonderful visits to the towns of Malaga and Coin and hiked El Caminito del Rey. The private performance of horsemanship by the owners of Picadero El Rocio was magnificent, as were the beautiful Flamenco dancers, Hola! I made the most wonderful new friends on this trip of a lifetime. And again, I have to say, WOW’.
Belinda S
‘My daughter and I hadn’t had the opportunity to spend time together alone for over 10 years, and we had never been so very far away from home. I could never have imagined how greatly my expectations would be fulfilled, from the moment we were greeted by Miranda’s warm, smiling face, to the welcoming taxi drivers and tour guides who shared their extensive knowledge, to the most beautiful rides across Andalusia guided by Giles. We fell in love with our horses, who were extremely well-trained, honest, forgiving and understanding. Our canters across the fields and our walks through the creeks and riverbeds brought laughter and exhilaration to my soul. We felt so at home in Coín thanks to the incredible hospitality and loving personalities of everyone there. I have tears in my eyes writing this review because everyone involved touched my heart deeply and made us feel like family. Be prepared for an adventure of a lifetime that will grab hold of your heart and never let go.’
Amy K
‘This trip was terrific. The scenery was stunning, the hosts were incredibly kind, knowledgeable and accommodating, the meals were all beautiful, healthy and delicious and our accommodations were lovely. Then there were the horses…. I’m in love with Spanish horses! Surefooted and peppy, they were wonderful partners to carry us through the amazing hills, fields and olive groves. I rode Bandolero, and I wish I could take him home with me! He was everything I’ve always liked in my favorite horses, all rolled into one. I can’t imagine how this adventure could have been any better.’
Erin C
‘This was my first Globetrotting experience. I was excited and had high expectations, but this ride was beyond anything I could have imagined. Miranda and Giles are gems – they’re diamonds: warm, authentic, funny, kind and helpful. The small group of 6 guests was great, and I have made new horse friends for life. I came with two of my friends, and we are definitely closer now because of this experience. The horses are delightful, surefooted, well trained, and have lovely unique personalities. I opted to book a dressage lesson and the “lesson horse” was this big, beautiful, award-winning PRE stallion who was unlike any horse I have ridden before. I hadn’t done dressage in 25 years and by the end we had lovely long trots, flying changes, half passes, a Spanish walk and a piaffe. It felt SO cool! An experience I will never forget.’
Cassandra M
‘As a first-time Globetrotter, I booked this trip on a whim and was blown away by the horses, the countryside, the culture and of course the incredible hosts, Miranda and Giles. This couple are fantastic at what they do and have really built an oasis for mind, body and soul. Every member of their team is a pleasure to speak to and I felt at home as soon as I arrived. Catalina, our chef, is an angel and the quality of the vegetarian food was next level. The horses are all so well taken care of and so are the guests. I rode Amadeus and Tia Pepe, two very responsive gentlemen with just enough attitude to keep me laughing. Giles led our rides and his good humour and knowledge about the area really connected me to the beautiful Andalusian culture. The cultural experiences were enriching, high quality and worth every cent. I cannot recommend this ride enough!’
Joy R
‘This trip was a dream come true. From the wonderful horses, to the exquisite Spanish cuisine, to the fields of wildflowers and orange blossoms, to the traditional flamenco and working equitation performances, to the luxurious accommodation and fabulous company, we felt as if we’d stepped into a magical “other world”. There is no better way to experience the breathtaking Andalucian province than by horseback on a true-bred Spanish horse! Every ride was a magical journey with breathtaking views, gorgeous fragrances, great company, and responsively willing horses. We were thrilled with how capable and surefooted our horses were, and it’s clear that they’re well-trained, well-handled, and extremely well-taken care of. The entire experience was enriching and delightful!’
Kathy N
‘What an amazing time we had with Giles and Miranda in Andalusia. Our hosts have to be the most competent, caring and lovely couple on the planet. They attended to so many extra things outside of the ride itself – nothing seemed too big or small. Our meals were exceptional and Kati, the newly minted chef, was delightful too. The horses were impressive and all of us felt safe and well mounted. Our group of six ranged in age and experience, but we meshed in the best of ways. It’s hard to think any combination of individuals could be any better.
For me, one of the most memorable parts of the trip was our chance to see and experience the culture of the area. This was not just a case of ‘get on and ride’, but see, feel, smell and taste what this region has to offer.
So, despite the considerable travel issues I encountered due to Covid, I am SO glad you all convinced me to go. Thank you so much for all you have done to keep this form of travel going in very difficult times!’
What's my riding level?
Not sure what your riding level is? Watch our videos to see all our levels.
Beginner
Reasonably confident riding a horse at a walk, a rising trot, and learning to canter.
Intermediate
Confident and in control riding at all paces outside an arena, but not riding regularly. Comfortable and competent using aids {the language of your leg, seat and hands} to communicate with your horse.
Strong Intermediate
An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly outside of an arena and is fit enough to ride for at least six hours per day. Strong intermediate riders are comfortable and competent in all three gaits; able to post or sit to the trot; have an independent seat while cantering (don’t hold onto the saddle); and can pick up the correct canter lead. They can also navigate more complex terrain, including asking a horse to sidestep and jump over a small obstacle.
Advanced
A frequent rider who is very fit, comfortable in the saddle for at least six hours per day, and has an independent seat and soft hands. Advanced riders are confident on a forward-moving horse at all paces over rough and variable ground on open terrain. They can ride over small jumps and know the techniques used to collect a horse
Not sure? Contact our team to help you figure out your riding ability.
Stories from the saddle
Globetrotting Guest Horse: Embrujarda
If you’ve secured a saddle on our exclusive Andalusia horse riding holiday in Spain, you may be lucky enough to experience a true double win and ride the delightful Embrujarda. This elegant mare is one of the standout guest horses on our Andalusian riding journey, offering riders a genuine connection to the region’s classical horsemanship…
Meet our Guides: Giles and Miranda
Giles and Miranda Crawford-Alards are the driving force behind our Andalusia horse riding holiday in southern Spain. With immense pride in their work, they delight in sharing the region’s sublimely beautiful countryside from the saddle, riding their super-responsive Andalusian (PRE) horses. Combining deep horsemanship, local knowledge, and genuine hospitality, this experienced couple sets the tone…
