Travel | TENGOAL


BEST FOR TUITION: PORTUGAL


PORTUGAL is the home of working equitation and a centre for elite dressage. Riders of all abilities and disciplines looking to brush up their skills are able to access top class tuition on horses schooled to the highest level in this horse-loving country. Riding a Lusitano horse trained in piaffe, canter pirouettes and flying changes is the draw here, an experience simply not available at the average UK riding school. “The Lusitano horse is arguably one of the best breeds in the world,” said Holly. “They are brave,


noble and versatile. You can ride a Lusitano and feel that you could do anything with it. “They can perform the highest-level dressage movements, they can jump, and they have a solid mind for trail riding.” The best example of the Lusitano’s versatility is working equitation, a discipline combining


jumping, dressage movements and trail obstacles, where competitors are judged not only on time and ability, but also on the panache with which the course is completed. It is not all work and no play in Portugal however! Programmes can be tailor-made, combining


trail rides to the beaches, vineyards, mountains and forests with jumping and dressage lessons. Visits to traditional Lusitano horse studs, soaking up sunshine on charming beaches and enjoying the local wine and cuisine are available on days spent out of the saddle.


HOLLY’S TIPS FOR SURVIVING A RIDING HOLIDAY “If using your phone


for photographs be sure to have it on a lanyard. Once it’s fallen under the feet of a rhinoceros there’s no getting it back!”


1. Take your helmet in your hand luggage and wear your riding boots on your feet during your flight. That way if luggage is delayed you won’t miss out on any time in the saddle 2. Don’t take anything new, only tried and tested riding clothes and equipment. Once you have blisters you are doomed! 3. Think of a sensible way to carry your daily essentials: a bum bag or “horse holster” (a pocket that straps to your leg) is ideal for quick and easy access to quick-grab items such as camera, phone, lip balm, sunscreen, tissues and coins for snacks). If using your phone for photographs be sure to have it on a lanyard. Once it’s fallen under the feet of a rhinoceros there’s no getting it back!


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