Portugal's North Coast Ride

Venture into the untamed beauty of northern Portugal and discover one of Europe’s last ancient wild horse breeds — the magnificent Garranos!

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Intermediate/Advanced
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February to November
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8 Days
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Porto
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Portugal
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8 Members
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Bungalows

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All meals included

Overview

  • Trip Details

    Venture into the untamed beauty of northern Portugal and discover one of Europe’s last ancient wild horse breeds — the magnificent Garranos! In the breathtaking Penêda-Gerês region, we’ll explore the spectacular Vez Valley, where these hardy, free-roaming horses graze across rugged mountain slopes, lush valleys, and open pastures dotted with traditional villages.


    Here, nature sets the pace, the landscapes feel wonderfully untouched, and every turn reveals another glimpse of Portugal’s wilder side. 


    This is an amazing, rare and unforgettable adventure for horse lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone longing to get off the beaten track and into the extraordinary.


    2027 Dates: 

    Feb. 20-27, March 6-13, March 20-27, April 10-17, April 24-May 1, May 8-15, May 22-29, June 5-12, June 19-26, July 3-10, July 17-24, Aug. 28-Sept. 4, Sept. 25-Oct. 2, Oct. 9-16, Oct. 23-30, Nov. 6-13, Nov. 20-27


    2027 Rates: 

    $1,725.00 USD (or 1,380€) per person sharing (based on 6 person minimum)

    $38.00 USD (or 30€) per person supplement if only 4-5 riders

    $125.00 USD (or 100€) per person supplement if only 2 riders

    $438.00 USD (or 350€) per person supplement if only 1 rider

    Single Supplement:  $280.00 USD (or 225.00€)

  • Itinerary

    Day 1: Saturday 

    Transfer from Porto or Vigo to our base in Arcos de Valdevez. Enjoy a tour of the stables, meet the horses, settle into your accommodations, and gather for a traditional Portuguese welcome dinner.


    Day 2: Sunday 

    After an 8:00 AM breakfast, saddle up at 10:00 AM toward Penêda-Gerês National Park. Ride past ancient castles, mountain plains, and stone villages where wild Garrano horses roam. Enjoy a mountain picnic, visit prehistoric ruins, and explore the park's interpretation center. Horses rest in forestry fields while you head to a local quinta for dinner.


    Day 3: Monday 

    Breakfast at 8:00 AM. Ride deeper into Penêda-Gerês, climbing historic trading routes to 1,000 meters (3,280 ft) for sweeping views. Stop by a mountain lake for a picnic, then descend along the historic Trail of the Deceased to Ferreiros. Horses settle at an old farmhouse while you transfer back for dinner.


    Day 4: Tuesday

     Transfer to Ferreiros after an 8:00 AM breakfast. Ride out at 10:00 AM through farmlands, oak forests, and along the Vez River, crossing by horseback (or via a historic bridge, water permitting). Stop for lunch at a local tavern, then explore the 17th-century streets of Arcos de Valdevez on horseback before returning for dinner.


    Day 5: Wednesday 

    After breakfast, ride into the Corno de Bico protected reserve, home to wild Garranos, cattle, boar, and deer. Enjoy lunch at a remote village tavern (pop. 16), then climb through mountain forests to an old forestry guard post with Atlantic views. End in Bico, leaving the horses in local fields.


    Day 6: Thursday 

    Breakfast at 9:00 AM, then rejoin the horses in Bico. Ride through the reserve’s scenic trails, tracking free-roaming Garrano herds and enjoying fresh trail lunches in the village of Grijó. Return via woodland paths and relax at the Quinta over dinner.


    Day 7: Friday 

    Breakfast at 9:00 AM. Follow old forestry guard trails, viewing natural tree shelters planted for the wild horses. Enjoy a scenic trail lunch near the forest's edge. Ride downhill to your accommodations for a free afternoon by the pool, capped with dinner at a traditional local restaurant.


    Day 8: Saturday 

    After breakfast, say goodbye to the horses. Depart at 10:00 AM for transfers to either Porto or Vigo airport (~100 km away).


  • What's Included

    • 7 nights accommodation
    • Riding activities
    • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
    • Horse and all tack
    • Guiding services on the trail rides
    • All local taxes

  • What's Not Included

    • Airfare
    • Transfers
    • Distilled alcoholic beverages
    • Travel insurance
    • Gratuities for the team at the end of your stay

Reviews

From   $1,725  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.