General Info

Dressage holidays & horse riding Spain - Hacienda and riding center just outside of Seville! Buy 1 riding vacation get the second half off for a special Winter travel deal. 

You may venture to Epona to brush up on your dressage skills or try training and trail riding, a combination of lessons and time on the trails. Riders and non-riders may enjoy the variety of activities available from Epona’s central location, near the Seville Airport and downtown Seville, especially exploring the vibrant city of Seville with its impressive churches, tapas bars and magical winding streets.

Andalucía, Spain is renowned for its warm sunny weather, friendly people, good food and natural beauty. Epona, in the heart of Andalucia, is a longtime British Horse Society approved riding centre run by Fernando Garcia and his daughter Vivi, who studied under Olympic dressage medalist Rafael Soto at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art. The family has organized training and trail riding holidays since 1985. With more than 60 horses and ponies that are well mannered and schooled, Epona is equipped to accommodate a variety of vacations. The programs are adapted as necessary to suit both experienced and less experienced riders, so that families or groups with different abilities may ride together.

You’ll stay at a 16th century hacienda and enjoy local food, and culture. On the training and trail riding adventure, ride to a historic hacienda, take in the freedom of beach riding and nature at Donana National Park, and ride through olive groves. The terrain around Epona is wide open and flat with very few fences, blanketed with flowers in the springtime and with a variety of interesting crops all year, such as olive groves, and sunflowers. In the afternoons, you can brush up on your riding skills by taking lessons in dressage or more general riding skills. The equestrian facilities include a covered arena, which is particularly important in Spain where one may wish to escape the heat of the midday sun. There is also an Olympic-sized dressage arena, as well as two additional rings, a jumping arena, a cross country course, and beautiful countryside and trails. The Center also has permission to ride for up to three hours at any time over the dunes, through the surf, and along the magnificent beaches of Doñana National Park.

For the Intensive Dressage Training, riders enjoy instruction in the mornings and afternoon and may want to add in a few trail rides, just for fun. Special Dressage trips include lessons with Olympic Silver Medalist Rafael Soto and special training in Classical Dressage and High School Training, all the while enjoying Spain. The programs are primarily designed for adults but families are welcomed. The children's program varies slightly from the adult program. Young children spend more time in classes and take shorter trail rides, according to their ability. They are also encouraged to take part in the practical care of their pony.

Equestrian Vacation Options
Training and Trail Riding- 7 days/ 6 nights - Beginner to Advanced
Intensive Dressage Training- 7 days/ 6 nights- Beginner to Advanced
Classical Dressage- 7 days/ 6 nights- Intermediate to Advanced
Dressage Clinic with Olympian- 8 days/ 7 nights- Novice to Advanced

Awards & Accolades
Feautured in Equitrekking Southern Spain, part of Equitrekking’s fourth season on PBS. You may meet your hosts Vivi and Fernando Garcia in this episode.
Featured in several magazine articles and TV programs.
Dressage Today - February 2008
British Horse Society Overseas Award 2003

Members of
Spanish Equestrian Federation
Agetrea (Equestrian Tourism Association)
British Horse Society
An approved British Horse Society Training and Examination Center. All ride leaders and assistantant ride leaders hold diplomas from British Equestrian Tourism and the Federation of International Equestrian Tourism (FITE).

Packing

Packing for horse riding holidays in Spain

Take a look at Equitrekking Travel's General Packing List for suggestions.

Time out of the saddle here is very casual. Laundry facilities are available. In spring, autumn and especially in the summer months, it can be hot, so natural, light fabrics, are recommended. Long sleeve shirts are best for protecting the shoulders against sunburn or low hanging branches on the trail rides. For winter, layers allow the rider to adjust appropriately to temperature changes.
 

About the Horses

This training center is approved by the British Horse Society. There are 60 horses on site and the breeds used are mostly Andalusians and Andalusian crosses, but there are also a few Lusitanos and Warmbloods.

Activities/Events

Area Activities
On site, Epona offers language and flamenco dance lessons for an additional cost. There are many other activities easily available in the area, such as five golf courses around Seville and sightseeing in the cities of Sevilla and Carmona. Travelers may rent a car or arrange for transfers from Epona for an additional cost. The cities of Cordoba (one hour away), Ronda and Granada (two hours away) are ideal for day trips.

Special Events
SICAB International Spanish Horse Show- Every year, end of November in Seville. Includes a trade show with shopping, Spanish National Conformation Championship, the ANCCE Dressage Cup, the ANCCE Doma Vaquera Cup, and evening performances. Stallions, mares and young stock may be admired throughout all the events programmed during the week.

Cabalgata de Reyes (The Three Kings Parade) has been held in Seville every year since 1918. Full of light and color, the Kings, their pages and ladies, all attired in Carnival costumes, throw armloads of sweets to the children.

Holy Week, Semana Santa, in Seville- This week leading up to Easter features religious processionals throughout Seville of these enormous floats, called ‘paseos’ and is a popular time to visit Southern Spain.

Seville’s April Fair ‘La Feria de Abril’- Festivals across the city of Seville, every year, about two weeks after Easter week. The fair officially begins on Monday at midnight. It ends with fireworks the following Sunday at midnight. Flamenco, bullfighting and horses are a theme for this week. At noon every day the 'Paseo de Caballos' features locals in their full flamenco dresses in a parade through the city. In the Plaza de Toros each night, there are bullfights.

Jerez Horse Fair- Cultural celebration with local food, Andalusian horses, Flamenco and more.

“La Saca de las Yeguas” (The Sorting of the Mares)
There are over 4000 horses living in complete freedom in the marshlands of Doñana Natural Park. Thousands of wild horses are moved as a large herd through the streets of the village, being guided and driven by the local cowboys attired with their traditional outfits.

Accommodations/Food

Accommodations
You will stay in a 16th century Hacienda that is divided in two wings: the family house and the guest accommodation and built around two connected patios (courtyards). The main courtyard houses the family residence, guest sitting rooms, office, tack-room and three double guest rooms and the family guest room, all with en-suite shower rooms. The working courtyard contains three further guest rooms all with en-suite shower rooms. Both patios are connected. Single accommodations are available for a supplemental fee. Rooms at the hacienda are basic and are decorated with furniture traditional to haciendas. Some rooms have original fireplaces where others have retained their original cottage feeling. You will find a tea and coffee tray, mineral water, towels, a hair dryer, air conditioning and fan in each room.

Afternoons and evenings can be spent enjoying a drink and chat about the day's activities in one of two traditional living rooms. You are also welcome to visit and help with the horses under the stable yard’s supervision. There is a swimming pool open from April to November, with plenty of places to catch some sun. Guests may also be treated to wine and sherry in the large lounge that used to be part of an olive oil mill.

Food
Meals are included as indicated under each Itinerary. For Training & Trail Riding, Intensive Dressage Training and Classical Dressage, tickets for the horse show in Jerez, the Flamenco Show and two meals- one in Carmona and in Seville on the last evening are not included. All other meals are included. All meals are included during the Dressage Training with Olympian.

Many meals are cooked daily onsite consisting mostly of typical Spanish and Mediterranean home cooking. Organic vegetables and fruit are used as much as possible. Menus are varied and food is abundant, set out in buffet style so that guests can have as many servings as they wish. Vegetarian options are available. Please notify of special diets at the time of your booking.

Drinks
Wine is included with meals. Beer and other beverages are available in the vending machines.

 

The Ideal Traveler

The ideal guest would be one who is keen to improve their riding skills and learn about the Spanish culture. An interest in dressage is key for the dressage training programs.

Training & Trail Riding

Special Winter Travel Deal! Buy one riding vacation and get another half-price!*
In the winter, daytime temperatures rarely fall below 54ºF (12ºC), and there is little rain, making it a great time to ride horses in Andalucia.

* The offer is valid for all riding vacations with the exclusion of Rafael Sotos' "Dressage Clinic with Olympian", and includes the non-rider vacations. Dates are for all of December 2011, and January and February 2012. The offer is for two people on the same or different vacations during the same week, sharing a room. The vacation of most value pays full price.

Dates & Rates 2012
7 days/ 6 nights
$1800* per person double occupancy.
Single supplement for all programs $330*
SOLD OUT the weeks of June 3 and June 10, 2012

Non-rider price $1,045*

Sunday to Saturday year-round, except the two last weeks of July, the first two weeks of August and Christmas week, when the hacienda is closed.

25% off Children under 12 years old. Children under 3 stay free

*Prices subject to change based on currency conversions. The total price for this trip includes accommodation, most meals, transfers to and from airport, train station, etc, guided visits to Jerez and Doñana, riding, and more. Not included in price: Tickets for the horse show in Jerez, the Flamenco Show and two meals- one in Carmona and in Seville on the last evening.

Riding Level: Beginner to Advanced

This is a seven day and six night riding holiday combining trail rides with training and sightseeing and local shows. This vacation is ideal for riders who believe that trail riding is one of the best ways to have fun, make new friends, relax from the stress of modern-day life and see Spain from another angle, while devoting some time to improving your horse riding skills and your confidence. Board and accommodation are at Epona’s 16th Century hacienda, owned by the García family.

The immediate countryside around Epona allows for miles of open, slightly rolling land in which frequent trots and canters are possible. Fast gallops are not possible, as the turf is not suitable. You will be riding through fields of wheat, sunflowers and olive groves, and orchards of orange and peach trees; the only sounds are the horses hooves, the birds, and the breeze rushing through the wheat. You can ride in a different direction every day so the views are varied.

Sunday- Arrive

Guests arrive in the afternoon after 4.00 p.m., earliest arrival time, either by pick-up at the airport or train station in Seville (10 - 20 minute drive) or by means of their own transport. A free transfer service is offered between 3.30 pm and 8.00 pm. After these hours the service will be charged.

You may meet your hosts and get to know your way around. Take a dip in the private pool, or perhaps discover the pleasures of the Spanish afternoon "siesta" after a tiring journey. In the evening, you will travel to the nearby town of Carmona, one of the famous white villages of Andalucia. You may stroll through the narrow streets of the old town, inside the ancient fortified walls, where ancient cultures- Iberians, Visigoths, Phoenicians, Romans, Moors roamed. Their architectural influence is evident in the churches, towers, palaces and mansions as well as in the inherited customs. Savor the delights of the local Mediterranean cuisine olive oil, garlic, onions, vegetables and fruit. (Please note that the evening meal in Carmona is not included in the trip price) 

Monday: Old Hacienda Ride

Start your morning with a leisurely breakfast followed by optional yard work and grooming. Mount up for the Old Hacienda Ride, taking you on a relaxed hack through the countryside, through olive groves and eucalyptus trees. Depending on the season, you can see fields of sunflowers, wheat and cotton, as well as melons and watermelons in late summer. The ride takes you past 16th and 17th century haciendas and cortijos. A typical Andalusian lunch is served back at Epona. The afternoon can be spent relaxing or sightseeing. Equitation lessons will take place in the late afternoon’s cooler temperatures. Dinner is followed by recounting the day at Epona with friends.

Tuesday: Royal Andalusían School of Equestrian Art

After an early breakfast, you will depart at 9 a.m. for Jerez de la Frontera, in the province of Cádiz, one hour away by car. Jerez is internationally renowned for its sherries and brandies and your trip will include a visit to a famous wine shop where you will be able to sample some of the local varieties. A highlight of the day is the visit to the Real Escuela Andaluza del Arte Ecuestre, the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, to see a performance (tickets for this show at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art are not included in the trip price). Here, top Andalusians and riders don 18th and 19th century styled costumes and perform various types of country and classical dressage. After returning to Epona for lunch, you will have your afternoon lessons. Dinner is at Epona.

Wednesday: Roman Bridges & Spanish Countryside

Saddle up and set off across the countryside to the Roman Bridge. Depending on the time of the year, you might ride through fields of sunflowers, wheat, cotton, oranges, peaches, or through olive groves. The countryside has very few fences and is a landscape rich with a patchwork of different crops. Along the way, you’ll come across a river, full and flowing in spring, cool and shallow in summer. You’ll then emerge at the old Roman Bridge and shady eucalyptus grove. After a short rest, head back to Epona for a late lunch and a siesta. Equitation classes are held later in the afternoon, followed by dinner.

Thursday: Doñana Beach Ride

Set off early to the seaside village of Matalascañas, where sturdy Spanish horses, most in Spanish tack, will be waiting to take you on your Beach Ride. The ride takes you on an unforgettable route through Doñana Natural Park, one of Europe’s last true wilderness regions and one of the largest wildlife reservations in Spain. Ride over the golden dunes, brushing through fragrant wild lavender, rosemary and thyme. This area is home to many protected species such as fallow deer, boar, fox, lynx, imperial eagles, vultures, storks, flamingos and herons. After riding down to the beach, you may want to canter through the surf. Then it’s back to Epona for lunch and a siesta by the pool before your early evening equestrian lessons followed by a traditional ’paella campestre’ under the stars, washed down with wonderful home-made sangria.

Friday: Stud Farm Ride

Set off across open country for your last hack of the week, through olive and orange groves, past farmers working the land. In Andalucia, everyone understands and loves the horse, so farmers continue to allow you to cross through their fields. Eventually you arrive at the fields of a top class Andalusian stud farm. Catch a glimpse of the beautiful mares and foals grazing peacefully in the sunlight. Back at Epona, lunch is a famous Paella accompanied by Sangria. After a well deserved “siesta”, you can spend the afternoon visiting Seville, where you are encouraged see a classical Flamenco Show (Ticket price for the Flamenco Show is not included in your tour price), including over 15 dancers, traditional singers, and wonderful flamenco guitar. Dinner in Seville is at a restaurant specializing in Spanish and international cuisines. (The dinner in Seville is not included in your tour price)

Saturday: Depart

Enjoy your last breakfast. It is time for good-byes and last minute pictures. Complementary transport to the airport or train station.

* Please note that this itinerary is flexible and subject to changes and revisions based on the weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

Intensive Dressage Training

Special Winter Travel Deal! Buy one riding vacation and get another half-price!*
In the winter, daytime temperatures rarely fall below 54ºF (12ºC), and there is little rain, making it a great time to ride horses in Andalucia.

* The offer is valid for all riding vacations with the exclusion of Rafael Sotos' "Dressage Clinic with Olympian", and includes the non-rider vacations. Dates are for all of December 2011, and January and February 2012. The offer is for two people on the same or different vacations during the same week, sharing a room. The vacation of most value pays full price.

Dates & Rates 2012
7 days/ 6 nights
$2100- double occupancy
Single supplement US$ 330

Non-rider price $1,045*

Sunday to Saturday year-round, except the two last weeks of July, the first two weeks of August and Christmas week, when the hacienda is closed.

*Prices subject to change based on currency conversions. The total price for this trip includes accommodation, most meals, transfers to and from airport, train station, etc, guided visits to Jerez and Doñana, riding, and more. Not included in price: Tickets for the horse show in Jerez, the Flamenco Show and two meals- one in Carmona and in Seville on the last evening.

Riding Level: Beginner to Advanced

This program is similar to the classical dressage program, but classes are both in the morning and the afternoon. This seven day/ six night holiday is designed for those who prefer to concentrate on improving their riding skills, while enjoying the well trained Epona horses and top class instructors. This program is popular with guests who are visiting Epona for the second time.

The program includes lessons in the morning and afternoon. The lunging sessions will help you to improve your seat, balance, and posture. Sometimes guests like to change one of the lessons for a trail ride, for added fun. 

Sunday: Arrive

Guests arrive in the afternoon after 4.00 p.m., earliest arrival time, either by pick-up at the airport or train station in Seville (10 - 20 minute drive) or by means of their own transport. A free transfer service is offered between 3.30 pm and 8.00 pm. After these hours the service will be charged.

You may meet your hosts and get to know your way around. Take a dip in the private pool, or perhaps discover the pleasures of the Spanish afternoon "siesta" after a tiring journey.

In the evening, you will be escorted to the nearby town of Carmona, one of the famous white villages of Andalucia. You may stroll through the narrow streets of the old town, inside the ancient fortified walls, where ancient cultures- Iberians, Visigoths, Phoenicians, Romans, Moors roamed. Their architectural influence is evident in the churches, towers, palaces and mansions as well as in the inherited customs. Savor the delights of the local Mediterranean cuisine olive oil, garlic, onions, vegetables and fruit. (The evening meal in Carmona is not included in your trip price)

Monday: Andalusian Training

Start your morning with a leisurely breakfast followed by optional yard work and grooming. Your first lesson will be an assessment ride with your instructor, followed by your first lunging session, as you adjust to the sensitive style of riding required for the Andalusian and Iberian horses. A typical Andalusian lunch is served in the cafeteria. The afternoon can be spent relaxing or sightseeing or you are welcome to watch the other training groups before continuing your equitation lessons in the late afternoon. Dinner is followed by recounting the day at Epona.

Tuesday: Royal Andalusían School of Equestrian Art

After an early breakfast at 8:30am, you will depart at 9am for Jerez de la Frontera, in the province of Cádiz, one hour away by car. Jerez is internationally renowned for its sherries and brandies and your trip will include a visit to a famous wine shop where you will be able to sample some of the local varieties. A highlight of the day is the visit to the Real Escuela Andaluza del Arte Ecuestre, the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, to see a performance (tickets for this show at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art are not included in the trip price). Here, top Andalusians and riders don 18th and 19th century styled costumes and perform various types of country and classical dressage. After returning to Epona for lunch, you will have your afternoon lessons. Dinner is at Epona.

Wednesday: Advancing Movements

As the day’s lessons begin, you are well on your way to progressing at the art of dressage, while your training continues onto more advanced movements. After the lesson, riders are encouraged to continue observing the daily training of the geldings, mares and stallions.

Thursday: Training Continues

Today you will continue your training from Wednesday. You will also have your second lunging session.

Friday: Final Training & Flamenco Dancing

As you spend your morning enjoying your last riding lesson, you will be on your way to performing some of the more advanced moves. Your last lunch at Epona includes the famous Paella accompanied by Sangria. After a well deserved “siesta”, you can spend the afternoon visiting Seville, where you are encouraged see a classical Flamenco Show (Ticket price for the Flamenco Show is not included in your tour price), including over 15 dancers, traditional singers, and wonderful flamenco guitar. Dinner in Seville is at a restaurant specializing in Spanish and international cuisines. (The dinner in Seville is not included in your tour price)

Saturday: Depart

Enjoy your last breakfast. It is time for good-byes and last minute pictures. Complementary transport to the airport or train station.

* Please note that this itinerary is flexible and subject to changes and revisions based on the weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

Classical Dressage Vacation

Special Winter Travel Deal! Buy one riding vacation and get another half-price!*
In the winter, daytime temperatures rarely fall below 54ºF (12ºC), and there is little rain, making it a great time to ride horses in Andalucia.

* The offer is valid for all riding vacations with the exclusion of Rafael Sotos' "Dressage Clinic with Olympian", and includes the non-rider vacations. Dates are for all of December 2011, and January and February 2012. The offer is for two people on the same or different vacations during the same week, sharing a room. The vacation of most value pays full price.

Dates & Rates 2012
$2,650- double occupancy
Single supplement US $330

Non-rider price $1,045*

Sunday to Saturday year-round, except the two last weeks of July, the first two weeks of August and Christmas week, when the hacienda is closed.

*Prices subject to change based on currency conversions. The total price for this trip includes accommodation, most meals, transfers to and from airport, train station, etc, guided visits to Jerez and Doñana, riding, and more.  Not included in price: Tickets for the horse show in Jerez, the Flamenco Show and two meals- one in Carmona and in Seville on the last evening.

Riding Level: Intermediate to Advanced

This program is similar to the intensive program, but all of the classes are in the morning.

This is a seven day/ six night equestrian vacation designed for riders at a high level. The recommended rider should have a passion for dressage and be ready to work hard to improve their riding. Guests will be immersed in the day to day training that goes on at the Epona Center. Riding Andalusians and Iberian horses, trained to high schooling levels, will allow you the enjoyment of experiencing some of the advanced movements, such as Passage, Piaffe and Spanish Walk. The program includes many private lessons, one of which will be with Olympic medalist Rafael Soto, semi private lessons, ground work sessions (working on training piaffe, passage and Spanish walk) and lunge sessions, working on improving the classical seat. Most of the lessons will take place in the morning leaving most afternoons free for guests to enjoy some shopping or sight seeing in the nearby towns. A visit to view a training session at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art is a highlight where your guide will explain the methods of training of the horses and riders, most of which are internationally recognized. Tickets for the horse show in Jerez, the Flamenco Show and two meals in Carmona and in Seville, and any extra lessons outside of the set program are an additional cost.

Sunday: Arrive

Guests arrive in the afternoon after 4.00 p.m., earliest arrival time, either by pick-up at the airport or train station in Seville (10 - 20 minute drive) or by means of their own transport. A free transfer service is offered between 3.30 pm and 8.00 pm. After these hours the service will be charged.

You may meet your hosts and get to know your way around. You may appreciate a dip in the private pool, or perhaps discover the pleasures of the Spanish afternoon "siesta" after a tiring journey. In the evening, you will be escorted to the nearby town of Carmona, one of the famous white villages of Andalucia. You may stroll through the narrow streets of the old town, inside the ancient fortified walls, where ancient cultures- Iberians, Visigoths, Phoenicians, Romans, Moors roamed. Their architectural influence is evident in the churches, towers, palaces and mansions as well as in the inherited customs. Savor the delights of the local Mediterranean cuisine olive oil, garlic, onions, vegetables and fruit. (The evening meal in Carmona is not included in your trip price)

Monday: Andalusian Training

Start your morning with a leisurely breakfast followed by optional yard work and grooming. Your first lesson will start at around 10:30am, after the morning trail rides have departed. You’ll have an assessment ride with your instructor, as you adjust to the sensitive style of riding required for the Andalusian and Iberian horses. After this first session and a short break, you will meet your new mount for you private lesson, followed by a lunging session. A typical Andalusian lunch is served in the cafeteria. In the afternoon, you have free time to relax or sightsee or watch the other training groups. Some guests are often keen to join these lessons if there are places available. If you are feeling in need of culture, take a bus into Carmona to explore the old streets, the archaeological sites or the Roman Necropolis, the second largest in the world after Rome itself. Dinner is followed by recounting the day at Epona.

Tuesday: Royal Andalusían School of Equestrian Art

After an early breakfast at 8:30am, you will depart at 9am for Jerez de la Frontera, in the province of Cádiz, one hour away by car. Jerez is internationally renowned for its sherries and brandies and your trip will include a visit to a famous wine shop where you will be able to sample some of the local varieties. A highlight of the day is the visit to the Real Escuela Andaluza del Arte Ecuestre, the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, to see a performance  (tickets for this show at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art are not included in the trip price). Here, top Andalusians and riders don 18th and 19th century styled costumes and perform various types of country and classical dressage. After returning to Epona for lunch, you will have your afternoon lessons. Dinner is at Epona.

Note: if guests have already seen the Andalusian Show at Jerez, they will optionally be able to assist to the training session on Wednesday. Wednesday lessons will be switched to Tuesday and vice versa.

Wednesday: Ground Work Training

As the day’s lessons begin, you are hopefully well on your way to progressing at the art of dressage, so your training continues onto more advanced movements. A private session follows the group training. Later enjoy the unique opportunity to do some ground work, a strong part of the classical dressage training. The trainer will demonstrate the techniques used for training some of the more advanced movements on a one on one basis. After the lesson, riders are encouraged to continue observing the daily training of the geldings, mares and stallions.

Thursday: Training Continues

Today you will continue your training from Monday. You will also have your second lunging session.

Friday: Final Training & Flamenco Dancing

As you spend your morning enjoying your last riding lesson, you will be on your way to performing some of the more advanced moves. Your last lunch at Epona is the famous Paella accompanied by Sangria. After a well deserved “siesta”, you can spend the afternoon visiting Seville, where you are encouraged see a classical Flamenco Show (Ticket price for the Flamenco Show is not included in your tour price), including over 15 dancers, traditional singers, and wonderful flamenco guitar. Dinner in Seville is at a restaurant specializing in Spanish and international cuisines. (The dinner in Seville is not included in your tour price)

Saturday: Depart

Enjoy your last breakfast. It is time for good-byes and last minute pictures. Complementary transport to the airport or train station.

* Please note that this itinerary is flexible and subject to changes and revisions based on the weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

Dressage Clinic with Olympian

Dates & Rates 
2012: Feb 12-18, March 18-24

$2,850- double occupancy*
Single supplement US $330 (2011)

* Prices subject to change based on currency conversions. 

Riding Level: Novice to Advanced

This is an eight day seven night riding program of intensive dressage with Spanish Olympic Team Silver Medalist Rafael Soto. The program begins Sunday after 4.00 pm, and ends Sunday before 11.00 a.m.

Spanish Olympic Team Silver Medalist Rafael Soto is world renowned and respected by dressage enthusiasts and fellow riders alike. What most people don't know is that in his early years, Soto was rejected by other riders as 'impossible to train', due to his immense size, strength and laid-back disposition. In this Intensive Dressage Clinic, you have a rare opportunity to learn from a champion.

This program’s training consists of three lunging sessions focusing on improving the classical seat; six group lessons with the head instructor, Catalina Garcia Dow, to determine the level and most suitable mount for the rider’s maximum benefit during the four 45-minute private sessions with Rafael Soto. Participants will also have a chance to sit in and observe the lessons of the other guests. Other program activities include a visit to the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art in Jerez de la Frontera, a Flamenco Show and dinner in Seville, and a farewell evening of cocktails with Rafael and the staff, where your progress will be discussed and participants will be presented with a diploma and a signed portrait photograph with Rafael. For maximum benefit, the requirements to participate in this training clinic are elementary knowledge of dressage.

* Please note that this itinerary is flexible and subject to changes and revisions based on the weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

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Traveler Reviews

Ms. Compton had a daily lesson, a lovely room in the hacienda and meals on a patio. What she didn't expect was the cultural richness. On morning trail rides, she and her friends came across olive groves, a Roman bridge and farmers tending their land. In other words, "the history of the place," said Ms. Compton, 54, who is the executive director of a nonprofit organization. "It gave us real insight into old Spain."

-- Christian Wright, New York Times

During a second trip to Spain with my husband, we discovered a wonderful riding center near Seville. It is a family owned and operated equestrian center with dressage as one of its specialties. We both fell in love with the setting, the horses, the Garcia family and the great staff. After a number of visits "across the pond," we also feel like family.

-- Darlene Vaughan, Dressage Today

My week was magical. I had wanted to do it for awhile, and finally the stars aligned. I had pretty high expectations, so was ready for some disappointment - I couldn't imagine it could really be all I hoped it might be. Wrong! It exceeded ALL my expectations. First, the riding. I got to do things on a horse that I never dreamed I'd ever get to do. Every horse was so well-trained that advanced movements were easy - from shoulder-in to half-pass to pirouette. Lessons were great - from Vivi as well as Raphael. I think my riding improved more in that week than any other week in my life. And the best part ---- I was able to put into practice what I learned when I got home. I finally knew what a "correct" half pass felt like - not to mention piaffe and passage. (We of course had less success replicating piaffe and passage, but we DID get a half pass.) Everything other than the riding was just as fabulous. The Hacienda is gorgeous and comfortable. The food is to die for. And the Garcia family --- I felt like I was vacationing with friends. I made good friends with the other students and am trying to plan my next visit.

-- Dialorr, Manila, Phillipines

I just returned from having spent a week there for the intense training program, which includes a two day clinic with Olympian Rafael Soto. A friend asked what was my favorite part? Hard to pick...but if I had to pick, it would be the Garcia family. Every member of the family had an important job to perform to make it such a special place. How often do you see that?.....Jane's wonder gourmet cooking and the pride in her presentation of the food...Fernando's humor, his stories, and his hospitality - always gets the best seats in the house wherever you go....sisters Vivi and Caty are very talented riders/trainers, superb teachers, humble and kind. Then there was the working student from Australia, also named Jane, who was fun, sweet and very helpful, great accent! I loved the hacienda, the weather, the mornings, the evenings, the horses(wonderful!) and the lessons. And, of course, Spain...Carmona...Seville...The Royal School. It was all special and unforgettable. I hope to return.

-- Boyertown, Pennsylvania

Reading List

Spain Guidebooks & History

Fodor's Spain 2010 (Fodor's Gold Guides) (Paperback) by Fodor’s
Fodor’s helps you unleash the possibilities of travel by providing the insightful tools you need to experience the trips you want. Although you’re at the helm, Fodor’s offers the assurance of our expertise, the guarantee of selectivity, and the choice details that truly define a destination. It’s like having a friend in Spain! Updated annually, Fodor’s Spain provides the most accurate and up-to-date information available in a guidebook. Fodor’s Spain features options for a variety of budgets, interests, and tastes, so you make the choices to plan your trip of a lifetime. 8-pg. color insert; full-color pullout map

Spain: The Root and the Flower: An Interpretation of Spain and the Spanish People (Paperback) by John A. Crow
This is the late John A. Crow's classic study of the cultural history of Spain and its people, which he last updated in 1985 but which seems as fresh and pertinent as when he first wrote it. Crow devoted a lifetime to Hispanic studies and here provides a historical interpretation of Spanish civilization from its earliest beginnings to the present. The scope of this study is remarkable and includes chapters on Roman Spain, the Jews in Spain, the Moors, life in medieval towns, and the Golden Age of Spain, plus a view of Franco's legacy.

Dressage Lovers

Dressage: The Art of Classical Riding (Hardcover) by Sylvia Loch
A lavish history of classical riding, from ancient times to modern competition, now available again. Featuring more than 100 photos. Classical riding historian Sylvia Loch here traces the development of classical equitation ‹ from antiquity, through the Baroque period of splendid enlightenment, to Nuno Oliveira, the Spanish Riding School, and modern dressage competition. Remarkably, this is the only English-language book to comprehensively cover all the great masters, past and present, and to explain in depth the methods and schools that they represent. 

Literature
The Sun Also Rises (Paperback) by Ernest Hemingway
Equitrekking Host Darley Newman’s Pick: “Travel through 1920’s Paris and Spain with Hemingway’s quirky cast of ex-pats as they feast on decadent food and wine, take on nightlife in Paris, fish in Basque country and witness the running of the bulls in Pamplona. Though it was written decades ago, Hemingway’s story and descriptions of life in Spain still resonate today. I recently reread this book. I remember enjoying it when it was required reading in high school, but enjoyed it even more after traveling to Spain myself as an adult.”

Amazon.com Review- The Sun Also Rises is Hemingway's masterpiece--one of them, anyway--and no matter how many times you've read it or how you feel about the manners and morals of the characters, you won't be able to resist its spell. This is a classic that really does live up to its reputation.

Spain in Mind (Paperback) edited by Alice Leccese Powers
This spellbinding literary travel guide gathers poetry, nonfiction, and fiction about Spain by forty English and American writers. Here are letters and memoirs from Lord Byron, Edith Wharton, and Henry James; a poem about Picasso by E. E. Cummings; and a comic tale by Anthony Trollope in which two Englishmen mistake a Spanish duke for a bullfighter. W. H. Auden, George Orwell, and Langston Hughes record their experiences in the Spanish Civil War, Ernest Hemingway takes on bullfighting, Richard Wright is beguiled by gypsy flamenco dancers, and Calvin Trillin pursues an obsession with Spanish peppers. From Chris Stewart’s memoir of his rural retreat in Driving Over Lemons to Barbara Kingsolver’s idyllic portrait of the Canary Islands in “Where the Map Stopped,” the glimpses of another world in Spain in Mind will enchant you.

Equitrekking Coffee Table Companion Book & DVD

Equitrekking Travel Adventures on Horseback by Darley Newman with Photographs by Chip Ward available at Amazon.com
This companion to the PBS TV series, Equitrekking, proves that the world's most beautiful views are often best seen from atop a horse. This gorgeous book features dozens of scenic rides in the U.S. and around the globe. Denver Post review: For horse folk and dreamers, as well as fans of the show, it's a beautiful trip through stunning equestrian-friendly possibilities.



Equitrekking DVD's featuring Emmy winning PBS episodes, available in the Shop section of Equitrekking.com 

Get off the beaten path to see some of the world's most beautiful horses and classic riding destinations with host and equestrian travel expert Darley Newman with Emmy Award-winning Equitrekking, the horseback riding travel series on PBS. 

Season One: Vermont, the Carolinas, Georgia Coast, Wyoming, Colorado and Spain.

Season Two: Iceland, Coastal Ireland, Hawaii's Big Island, Irish Countryside, Maui, Virginia Hunt Country and California Wine Country.

Season Three: Arizona, Belize, Costa Rica, Kentucky, Quebec, Texas and Utah.

Season Four: Southern Spain, Alaska, Central Turkey, Quebec City and Beyond, Scotland and Wales.

    

Good Books for Horse Lovers and Equestrians

Animals in Translation: Using the Mysteries of Autism to Decode Animal Behavior (Paperback) by Temple Grandin
Philosophers and scientists have long wondered what goes on in the minds of animals, and this fascinating study gives a wealth of illuminating insights into that mystery. ---Publishers Weekly

The Horse: A Miscellany of Equine Knowledge (Hardcover) by Julie Whitaker with Ian Whitelaw
The Horse is an informative gallop through everything to do with the horse:  evolution, history, biology, breeds, behavior, training, competition, health, and care—all gathered into an accessible gallery of solid information, essential facts, and fascinating trivia.                                                           

Hunter Seat Equitation (Hardcover) by George H. Morris
A classic by a world-renowned teacher and master equestrian--the definitive work on the art of teaching and riding the hunter seat, now updated to include refinements in Morris's insightful program of riding instruction.

The New Encyclopedia of the Horse (Hardcover) by Elwyn Hartley Edwards
Chronicling the history of the horse, this guide encompasses the early domestication of the horse, classical riding styles, as well as a survey of the great stud farms and current international sporting events.