Classical Riding

Classical Riding tuition in the school can be taken as a supplement to Options B, D or E on 3, 4 or 7 night holidays

or on an hourly/daily basis; see hourly/daily rates

Instruction is given on a one-to-one basis. As this is a more intensive course where full attention is given to the rider through individual instruction, these holidays are limited to a maximum of 4 persons.

We are a centre of Classical Dressage and offer the opportunity to ride well schooled Purebred Spanish (Andalusian) and Portuguese (Lusitano) horses. Our aim is to ensure all our students achieve the clearest understanding of classical methods.

We tailor as best we can lessons and courses according to your interests and needs, taking the objects of each rider into account, and our goal is to teach, in an easily understood way, the classical methods that have stood the test of time, with no gimmicks or 'techno-speak' (see 'Terminology' below!). Age or standard is unimportant but these courses do not suit beginners. Naturally, riders who already have some experience and a reasonable riding ability can benefit the most.

Some of our more advanced horses are extremely sensitive and responsive, enabling the rider to refine the use of their position, seat and aids, feeling an instant response from the horse, as well as cadence, collection, freedom of movement and lateral work. In fact our horses can often teach you more than our instructors!    Click here to see guides & instructors

We expect to give you a minimum of 2 individual lessons per day.

Guests can watch other lessons and watch horse training sessions. We also generally have a good selection of books and videos covering many aspects of classical equitation in our on-site tack shop.

The Horses

Predominantly Purebred Spanish horses, some Portuguese Lusitanos and Tres Sangres. Our horses have great spirit, yet are gentle and intelligent. We have horses at various levels of training, from youngsters recently backed, through all stages. Our more experienced horses are capable of elevated movements and High School as well as good extension and they move with lightness, collection and with excellent balance and cadence. You have the opportunity to experience the horse of the 'masters' of years gone by.

More details of our horses can be found under the heading 'Horses' in 'Riding Holidays', or - Click here to see our horses

'Terminology': Have you wondered what is meant by Natural Horsemanship, Horse Whisperer or Horse Communicator?

We don't call ourselves whisperers or communicators, but we believe we have a natural approach to horses; consider our 15 or so main riding stallions quietly working together in the school, working willingly in hand, riding out with our mares or when Richard sometimes works a group of mares (lote de yeguas, or 'cobra') while riding one of our stallions. You never hear raised voices or see horses pulled or pushed around at our centre, so we do communicate quietly.

Typical itinerary (7 Night 'inclusive' holidays)