Wolf and Wild Horses

If you are interested in nature conservation, then visit the Geres region, one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Portugal, for a different type of riding holiday.  The Geres is prime territory of the Iberian wolf, an endangered species, that has been helped hugely by Ecotura in this area.  Make trips on horseback and foot into the wolf's territory and look for signs of this beautiful animal, and if you are lucky, you may be treated to the sound of its haunting howl.

Ride through dense oak woods and groves of birch, a natural shelter for roe deer and wild boar, through patches of chestnut and holly trees inhabited by squirrels, jays and oriols.  Ride along cliffs spotting hovering eagles and a rare species of crow.  

Vist Fojos and discover ancient stone man-made traps used to catch the wolf once upon a time, and learn more about the history and legends of this enigmatic beast.

When not riding into the mountains, swim in the natural pools of the river Laboreiro, and relax in the hot thermal baths of the area.  Hike along ancient paths of natural beauty and ecological value and enjoy moonlit picnics made with local fare.

Day 1 (Sunday)

Arrival into Porto airport and transfer to your accommodation.

Day 2 (Monday)

9.00am meet your horse and ride in the mountains until noon.  After lunch visit the National Park Office exhibition to learn more about the region.  At 4.30pm trail walk to the medieval castle of Castro Laboreiro.

Day 3 (Tuesday)

Ride to the south-west part of the Castro Laboreiro plateau, passing through the small village of Rodeiro and riding up into the mountains.  A picnic lunch and hopefully observation of the wild mountain horses.

Day 4 (Wednesday)

Ride into the mountains until noon, then stop for lunch.  Trail walk along the Laboreiro river in the afternoon to natural pools where you can swim. That night trek out to listen to the wolf's howing.

Day 5 (Thursday)

Ride to the south-east part of the mountain and visit the Iberian Peninsula's biggest megalithic necropolis, where you observe the wild mountain horses and birds of prey.  Learn more from your guide about the mythical wolf.

Day 6 (Friday)

Ride to the mountain until noon, then stop for lunch.  In the afternoon bicycle to the lower village of Ribeiro de Baixo and swim in the river.

Day 7 (Saturday)

Ride into the mountain to the Ghost Valley.  A beautiful valley where oak and birch trees give protection and shelter to a variety of plants and animals.

Day 8 (Sunday)

Transfer to Porto Airport.

2012 prices: 7 nights, 6 days riding, half board, £745pp for riders and non-riders

2012 dates: April - October (holidays run from Sunday to Sunday)

Single supplement: £95pp for 7 nights

Accommodation: high quality local hotel or self contained apartments with own kitchen facilities

Not Included: Flights and Travel Insurance

Meeting point: Porto

Indicative flight price: London to Porto £50 - £160pp return depending on time of year

Transfer: included from Porto

Group size: 5 max

Max Weight: 90 kilos

Hours in the saddle: 4.5 hours per day

Suitable for non-riders: hiking, nature trails, bicycle tours, river swimming for all non-riders

Call us on +44 (0)1225 424413 or email contact@redlandsequestrian.com to check the ride availability and dates, once we have confirmed availability you can download and fill in a booking form:

• UK Rides Booking Form
• Worldwide Rides Booking Form

Each rider in the party must also complete a riding ability questionnaire before we can complete the final confirmation of your holiday booking.