GALLOPING THROUGH THE WAVES

GALLOPING THROUGH WAVES...

...Thankfully to us complete begginers, not quite galloping, but whether you are a complete begginer like we are or a seasoned rider, a trip along the Ria Formosa with these amazing animals is a must!

You might imagine that an unforgettable horseback ride in paradise requires at least some basic experience; however, this dream activity is made a reality with or without any prior lessons by Tavira Equestrian Tourism from Quinta Baleeira, near Cabanas, Tavira. The family home of Maria Campos for generations, it is surrounded by their private scented orchards of oranges and avocados which lead down to the stunning Ria Formosa coastline. Maria is a veterinary physician who studied in Lisbon and Spain, then followed her passion - working around the world with horses. The project evolved four years ago, after discussions with her boyfriend Jesus Grandes-Melgarejo who has the established riding school, Centro Ecuestre Las Marias, in Spain. They decided to combine and Tavira Equestrian Tourism began in July 2017. Centro Ecuestre, also breed fine Spanish horses, and Quinta Baleeira is now home to the young foals one of which was to be born the following night! Riding directly from the gates of the Quinta, guests immediately find themselves calmly meandering through the orange and avocado trees

and, after 15 minutes you’re able to see the stunning coastline beyond the eucalyptus trees. The horses are very calm and are suitable for riders of 4 years and older. The stunning Ria Formosa lagoon is calm and perfect for the horses as there are no waves, which makes it possible for the complete novice, as we were, to experience the thrill of entering the water with the horse. Experts Maria and Antonio guide clients along the beach making it very easy to enter the water as well as take in the amazing scenery. A magical experience made possible by Maria and Antonio’s professionalism, the serene animals and the stunning scenery. This is a really empowering and fun experience that can be enjoyed by experienced riders or, as in our case, with literally no prior experience at all. We would thoroughly recommend a visit. Maria can arrange rides to include lunch for singles or groups of up to 10. A must do in the breathtaking East Algarve; it was a real pleasure. To book telephone 00351 912 350 569 Or 0034 661 907 851 Check their Facebook: Tavira Equestrian Tourism Visit their website: www.taviraequestriantourism.com Email: info@taviraequestriantourism.com