Portugal’s Azores Ride and Retreat
This is a PERFECT ride for all of you that want some fun and active riding – but with the chance to relax several hours daily as well as unpack for the week. The Azores are a volcanic archipelago in the North...
Guesthouse
Meals as outlined in the itinerary
Overview
Trip Details
This is a PERFECT ride for all of you that want some fun and active riding – but with the chance to relax several hours daily as well as unpack for the week. The Azores are a volcanic archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean, forming an autonomous region of Portugal. Known for their lush, green landscapes, volcanic features like hot springs and lakes, and unique flora and fauna, the islands are a perfect destination for riding.
São Miguel, known as the “Green Island”, holds a treasure full of interesting, exciting and exotic places waiting to be explored on horseback. Also the largest of the nine islands of the Azores, you’ll find this gem of a ride. Please note that the pace is set by the least experienced rider.
Accommodations are in a genuine 17th century estate of historical interest, one of the oldest on all of the islands (so be sure to ask for a tour of the private parts of the house!). Views of the ocean, mountains and valleys with lush vegetation and diverse colors make this a perfect year round trip.
If you are traveling with a non rider, the estate is near two beautiful golf courses, beaches, lagoons and thermal waters. Non riding activities include whale and dolphin safaris, fishing, sailing and diving.
NOTE: The guesthouse has 5 well appointed ensuite rooms – 2 are twin bedded and 3 are double beds (1 bed). The hosts are not able to accommodate some dietary requirements, including celiac.
Dates: Open year round, Saturday to Saturday – there are 2 itinerary versions available:
2026 Rates: High Season – April 1-Oct. 31
Itinerary 1 (more active): $2,870.00 USD per person sharing or 2390€
Itinerary 2 (pleasure week): $2,650.00 USD per person sharing or 2205€
2026 Rates: Low Season – Jan. 1-March 31, Nov. 1-Dec. 31
Itinerary 1: $2,715.00 USD per person sharing or 2260€
Itinerary 2 (pleasure week): $2,520.00 USD per person sharing or 2100€
Single Supplement – any season: $440.00 USD or 365€
Non rider rate (sharing with a rider, includes all meals and itinerary noted excursions):
Itinerary 1: Low Season: $1,320.00 USD or 1100€
Itinerary 2: Low Season: $1,420.00 USD or 1205€
Itinerary 1: High Season: $1,450.00 USD or 1150€
Itinerary 2: High Season: $1,545.00 USD or 1285€
*****
2027 Rates: High Season – April 1-Oct. 31, 2027:
Itinerary 1 (more active): $3,125.00 USD per person sharing or 2500€
Non-rider Itinerary 1: $1,638.00 USD or 1310€ (sharing with a rider, includes all meals and itinerary noted excursions)
Itinerary 2 (pleasure week): $2,875.00 USD per person sharing or 2300€
Non-rider Itinerary 2: $1,688.00 USD or 1350€ (sharing with a rider, includes all meals and itinerary noted excursions)
2027 Rates: Low Season – Jan. 1-March 31, Nov. 1-Dec. 31, 2027:
Itinerary 1: $2,970.00 USD per person sharing or 2375€
Non-rider Itinerary 1: $1,515.00 USD or 1210€ (sharing with a rider, includes all meals and itinerary noted excursions)
Itinerary 2 (pleasure week): $2,756.00 USD per person sharing or 2205€
Non-rider Itinerary 2: $1,550.00 USD or 1240€ (sharing with a rider, includes all meals and itinerary noted excursions)
2027 Single Supplement – any season: $465.00 USD or 370€
See the video HERE!
For reliable travel insurance ART recommends Squaremouth for their excellent packages and rates.
Itinerary
Itinerary #1: Green Island Trail
Day 1: Arrival
Met at the airport (included) and transferred to the estate. Settle in, explore the property, and enjoy a welcome dinner.
Day 2: Start of the Riding
Introductory evaluation and 1-hour assessment lesson in the arena. In the afternoon, take a half-day ride from the estate through orange plantations, agricultural fields, and sub-tropical forest.
Day 3: Peixe Assado to Calhetas (Full Day)
Cross the island to Calhetas on the north coast, riding through lush valleys, rainforest, and small villages. Enroute picnic lunch; dinner back at the estate.
Day 4: Lameiro (Half Day) & Excursion
Horses are trailered to the north coast. Mount up near the ocean, riding over Pico da Multa and through Gramas along old roads and tracks with scenic views. In the afternoon, take a guided car excursion to Lagoa do Fogo, Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande thermal baths, and Gorreana tea plantation.
Day 5: Mid-Island Remedios to Cabuco (Full Day)
Trailer to the south side of São Miguel (35-minute drive). Ride small lanes between pastures, enjoying a picnic lunch in Remedios. Continue climbing uphill to Cabuco with views of Ponta Delgada and the coast.
Day 6: Livramento & Mata Santa (Half Day) & Excursion
Ride from the estate through fields into Mata Santa forest, passing flora and the Lapinha burial site. In the afternoon, choose between whale watching or visiting Ponta Delgada’s churches and local markets.
Day 7: Sete Cidades (Full Day)
Ride along the south rim of the massive volcanic crater with views of the blue and green twin lakes, then descend into the basin (canter opportunities around the shore). Lunch at a restaurant or picnic.
Day 8: Departure
Check-out by 12:00 PM. Airport transfer provided.
Itinerary #2: Pleasure Week
Day 1: Arrival
Met at the airport (included) and transferred to the estate. Settle in, explore the grounds, and enjoy a welcome dinner.
Day 2: Assessment & Village Ride
Relaxed breakfast followed by a 1-hour assessment lesson. In the afternoon, take a trail ride through the village, along historic stone walls, and past cattle pastures into sub-tropical rainforest before returning for dinner.
Day 3: Remedios Ride (Half Day)
Morning half-day ride in Remedios on the south side of Lagoa do Fogo, passing over open pastures and small roads with sweeping views across central São Miguel. Afternoon at leisure.
Day 4: Furnas Excursion (No Riding)
Guided car trip to Furnas crater. Visit Terra Nostra Botanical Garden to swim in warm natural thermal pools (34-37°C) and taste spring mineral water. Lunch in Furnas before returning to the estate.
Day 5: Ponta Delgada & Coastal Ride
Morning excursion to Ponta Delgada for shopping or an optional whale safari. Afternoon ride starting near the ocean, climbing Pico da Multa, passing through Gramas, and finishing near Ribeira Grande.
Day 6: Lagoa do Fogo Excursion & Peixe Assado Ride
Morning visit to Lagoa do Fogo crater lake, thermal baths, and the Gorreana tea plantation. Afternoon ride through Livramento, ascending to Peixe Assado and lush forests for views of the north coast.
Day 7: Sete Cidades (Full Day)
Ride along the volcano crater rim with views of the twin lakes and the ocean. Descend into the crater to the village of Sete Cidades for lunch at a local restaurant before returning to the estate.
Day 8: Departure
Check-out after breakfast and depart for the airport.
What's Included
- 7 night guesthouse accommodation
- 6 days of riding (includes 1 lesson, 3 half days and 3 full days)
- 2 afternoon excursions as noted in the itinerary
- All meals from dinner on arrival through breakfast on departure
- Horse and all tack
- Guiding services on the trail rides
- Wine with dinner
- Airport Transfers
- All local taxes
What's Not Included
- Airfare
- Travel Insurance (highly recommended)
- Excursions not listed in the itinerary
- Drinks out of meals
- Gratuities for the team at the end of the stay
- Lunch on arrival or departure days
Reviews
Lucille T.
Fantastic chef and owner Christine. Excellent customer service Bruno and gang. Housekeeping was excellent, room was always clean when I got back from my ride . Not forgetting to mention – wonderfully trained horses that are happy.
Henri G.
The Azores! Portuguese Islands in the middle of the Atlantic only a short 5 hours flight from the East Coast. Fantastic scenery, lovely horses, cozy and comfortable accommodations. I chose the itinerary that offers a little less riding and more sight seeing, and I loved it. I even brought a non-riding friend who had no problem passing the time when the rest of us were on horseback. I can highly recommend this destination, it’s fabulous!
Catherine H.
The riding was wonderful and the horses well cared for. The guides were excellent and kind, and made fun outings, supporting riders wanting to gain more knowledge/skill, as well as learn a little about the geography and culture. The island of Sao Miguel is lush and gorgeous. Excellent meals, comfortable casual rooms. Only surprise was no a/c in a climate that can be very humid! Overall very well planned and executed.
Nancy H.
Horses to suit riders… Bruno does a great job of matching horses to riders and accommodates for riders with different levels of experience. Quinta is totally charming and Cristina is a superb cook and desert maker.. San Miguel is magical.. An excellent trip.
Ann B.
Our hosts exceeded our expectations, every detail was anticipated and met. The guides were expert riders and intimately familiar with the islands most beautiful points of interest. The horses were very well schooled. I hope to visit Sao Miguel again and stay at Quinta de Terca. Would highly recommend for any horse enthusiast.
Joyce S.
Omg! This trip was everything I’d hoped for, and then some! Riding near the ocean, in the crater, along village roads and through lush, jungle-like terrain was so amazing. Lots of trotting, cantering and even some fast gallops along the way. Great non-riding activities as well.
Sandy G.
This trip was one of the most amazing trips I’ve ever been on! Every day was filled with the beauty and wonderful culture in and surrounding the farm.
Christina, Claude and all of the staff were so attentive to all of us on the trip. The horses were also amazing, fit and ready to do their jobs. It was evident that the owners and staff care deeply for their horses.
The food was outstanding along with the beautiful table settings at each meal, even when eating out during our full day rides!
I cannot express enough the gratitude I have of the hospitality and care all of the staff showed to us on this lovely stay. A true gem of a trip to the Azores!
From $2,870 per person
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FAQ's
What is included in the tour price?
Tour prices typically include accommodation, guided activities, transportation during the trip, and some meals. Exact inclusions may vary depending on the itinerary.
Can I customize my itinerary?
Yes. Most of our trips can be tailored to match your interests, schedule, and travel style. Just let us know your preferences and we’ll help design the perfect adventure.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, we strongly recommend travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and adventure activities.
How many people are in a tour group?
Group sizes are usually small to ensure a more personal and immersive experience. The exact number may vary depending on the expedition.
