Andalusia Ride | Horse Riding Holidays in Spain | Globetrotting

Andalusia, Spain

7 NightsIntermediate to AdvancedFrom €3,200 EUR?Tour costs €3,200 EUR which is approximately $5,307 AUD

Let’s face it – Spain is the epicentre of horse culture and that’s why it excites us so.

The horse is woven like gold thread through Spain’s history and is the cornerstone of the nation’s identity. It embodies the people’s culture, life and passion; it is the music from their guitars, the wine in their goblets, the sunshine on the hills, the blood spilled in the bullring. No horse is more beloved here than the Spanish horse (Pura Raza Española – P.R.E. – Andalusian), a true jewel of the equine race. The breed is renowned for its willing temperament, strong yet elegant build, agility and power. Enthusiastic testimonies to the qualities of the Spanish horse have abounded since it was officially recognised six centuries ago. French King Henri III wrote: ‘I put the true Spanish horse in first place, giving it my vote as the most beautiful, the most noble, the most graceful, the most courageous and the most worthy of King.’

This EXCLUSIVE riding program has been thoughtfully compiled by local hosts, Giles and Miranda, and takes in the very best of Andalusia. It’s here in the south of Spain, where the scent of orange blossom is pungent and white villages perch precariously on mountain sides, that you’ll get to ride the famed Spanish horse. Through pricked ears, you’ll ride, drink, eat and dance through Andalusia, where your knowledgeable guides will take you to local haunts not privy to the normal tourist.

The itinerary highlights are endless – from tapas in the old town of Málaga, to riding to a Spanish bar in Coín, to free-flowing canters through paddocks sprinkled with wild herbs. This ride is NOT just about the fine horse flesh and the epic riding adventures, but the off-the-horse cultural excursions that Giles and Miranda will take you on, as well.

Fast Facts

  • Horse Breed:Spanish horses (also called Pura Raza Española, P.R.E. or Andalusian) and Hispano Arabs (Spanish horse x Arabian),
  • Pace:The pace varies on a daily basis from a walk right through to a fast canter whenever the terrain is suitable. There will be plenty of opportunities to trot in between.
  • Weight Limit:A maximum of 85kg / 187lbs. This is a very strict weight limit!
  • Type of tack:'Barefoot' treeless saddles.
  • Seasons:May through to October.
  • Group size:A minimum of 4 and a maximum of 5 guests (own room guaranteed).
  • Time in Saddle:On average, 4 hours per day.
  • Riding Ability:Suitable for intermediate to advanced riders. You need to have an independent seat and be able to competently ride a forward-moving horse outside an arena at all paces, over varied terrain. Not sure what your riding ability is? Watch THIS video to find out.
  • Accommodation:Private room accommodation in beautifully converted 300-year-old marble mill. The shared facilities include an outdoor terrace, swimming pool and a communal dining room where you’ll enjoy the traditional Spanish fare. Not only that, you’ll be within walking distance from the centre of town (Coin), so when you’re not in the saddle, you can sit idle in a cafe and soak up the culture or explore the boutique shops.
  • Ride Length:8 days, 7 nights, with 5 days riding and a rest day in between where you’ll take part in a local cultural excursion with your hosts, Giles and Miranda.
  • Inclusions:

    The price includes private room accommodation for solo travellers; round trip transfers to/from Malaga Airport on the first and last days of the itinerary; all meals outlined in itinerary, including a walking tapas tour in Malaga; beer/wine/soft drinks at dinner; internal transfers and entrance tickets to sights; a private flamenco performance; a private presentation of Spanish High School horsemanship; guided walk of the famed El Caminito Del Rey.

  • Exclusions:

    The price does not include international or regional flights; travel insurance (compulsory); alcohol at bars/restaurants; and accommodation/meals outside the itinerary.

 

DEPARTURE DATES & RATES

NEW! Secure your saddle seat NOW with a 10% deposit - as part of our 10x 10% payment plan!
Departing FinishingAvailabilityTotal
April 6, 2024April 13, 2024Only 1 spot left!
From: €3,200 EUR ?Tour costs €3,200 EUR which is approximately $5,307 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
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2.5% credit card surcharge

From: €2,050 EUR ?Tour costs €2,050 EUR which is approximately $3,400 AUD - Non Rider?To twin-share with a riding guest
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2.5% credit card surcharge

May 11, 2024May 18, 2024SOLD OUT!
From: €3,200 EUR ?Tour costs €3,200 EUR which is approximately $5,307 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
From: €2,050 EUR ?Tour costs €2,050 EUR which is approximately $3,400 AUD - Non Rider?To twin-share with a riding guest

June 4, 2024

*Coincides with ‘Romeria’ pilgrimage in which guests will take part!

NB: Participation in the pilgrimage will replace the excursion to the Caminito del Rey as outlined in the itinerary below.

June 11, 2024SOLD OUT!
From: €3,200 EUR ?Tour costs €3,200 EUR which is approximately $5,307 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
From: €2,050 EUR ?Tour costs €2,050 EUR which is approximately $3,400 AUD - Non Rider?To twin-share with a riding guest
August 31, 2024September 7, 2024SOLD OUT!
From: €3,200 EUR ?Tour costs €3,200 EUR which is approximately $5,307 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
From: €2,050 EUR ?Tour costs €2,050 EUR which is approximately $3,400 AUD - Non Rider?To twin-share with a riding guest
September 28, 2024October 5, 2024SOLD OUT!
From: €3,200 EUR ?Tour costs €3,200 EUR which is approximately $5,307 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
From: €2,050 EUR ?Tour costs €2,050 EUR which is approximately $3,400 AUD - Non Rider?To twin-share with a riding guest
October 19, 2024October 26, 2024SOLD OUT!
From: €3,200 EUR ?Tour costs €3,200 EUR which is approximately $5,307 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
From: €2,050 EUR ?Tour costs €2,050 EUR which is approximately $3,400 AUD - Non Rider?To twin-share with a riding guest
April 5, 2025April 12, 2025Only 1 spot left!
From: €3,200 EUR ?Tour costs €3,200 EUR which is approximately $5,307 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
Book

2.5% credit card surcharge

From: €2,050 EUR ?Tour costs €2,050 EUR which is approximately $3,400 AUD - Non Rider?To twin-share with a riding guest
Book

2.5% credit card surcharge

April 29, 2025May 6, 20255 spots left
From: €3,200 EUR ?Tour costs €3,200 EUR which is approximately $5,307 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
Book

2.5% credit card surcharge

From: €2,050 EUR ?Tour costs €2,050 EUR which is approximately $3,400 AUD - Non Rider?To twin-share with a riding guest
Book

2.5% credit card surcharge

June 3, 2025June 10, 20255 spots left
From: €3,200 EUR ?Tour costs €3,200 EUR which is approximately $5,307 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
Book

2.5% credit card surcharge

From: €2,050 EUR ?Tour costs €2,050 EUR which is approximately $3,400 AUD - Non Rider?To twin-share with a riding guest
Book

2.5% credit card surcharge

October 11, 2025October 18, 20255 spots left
From: €3,200 EUR ?Tour costs €3,200 EUR which is approximately $5,307 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
Book

2.5% credit card surcharge

From: €2,050 EUR ?Tour costs €2,050 EUR which is approximately $3,400 AUD - Non Rider?To twin-share with a riding guest
Book

2.5% credit card surcharge

October 28, 2025November 4, 20255 spots left
From: €3,200 EUR ?Tour costs €3,200 EUR which is approximately $5,307 AUD - Single Rider?Happy to pay a booking supplement for own room
Book

2.5% credit card surcharge

From: €2,050 EUR ?Tour costs €2,050 EUR which is approximately $3,400 AUD - Non Rider?To twin-share with a riding guest
Book

2.5% credit card surcharge

EARLY BIRD SPECIAL - book on a 2025 departure date before June 30, 2024 and SAVE 10%!

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
The price includes private room accommodation for solo travellers; round trip transfers to/from Malaga Airport on the first and last days of the itinerary; all meals outlined in itinerary, including a walking tapas tour in Malaga; beer/wine/soft drinks at dinner; internal transfers and entrance tickets to sights; a private flamenco performance; a private presentation of Spanish High School horsemanship; guided walk of the famed El Caminito Del Rey.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
The price does not include international or regional flights; travel insurance (compulsory); alcohol at bars/restaurants; and accommodation/meals outside the itinerary.

Accepted payment is by credit or debit card only. Depending on the ride you choose to book and your country of residence, there will be a 1.2% to 2.9% surcharge.

Click HERE to read more about our fees and charges.
Click HERE to read our recommendations on which cards are best to use to avoid international transaction fees.
WHY IS THE PRICE QUOTED IN EUR?
With our riding destinations, the currency is dictated by our ride partner in that country. Therefore due to fluctuating exchange rates we have to quote in the same currency.

Itinerary

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*Please note, this is a suggested itinerary only and subject to change at the discretion of your guides due to weather and other influencing factors.

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  • Day 1

    Meet & greet at Málaga airport with your enthusiastic hosts and guides – Giles and Miranda – where you’ll take the train to Málaga city centre, and enjoy a 3.5 hour tapas tour through the beautiful city of Málaga – a type of “restaurant hopping” very common in the everyday life of locals. You’ll savour a great variety of creative, surprising and delicious tapas in many different prestigious establishments as you eat your way through Málaga’s old town! Artisans, grocers, and chefs will share their personal stories and their passion for food.

    Afterwards you will be transferred to Coín and your new home -Molino de Saladilla, where your accommodation and horses await you. In the evening, a light meal and drink will be offered by the fire place.

  • Day 2

    After a good breakfast (cereals, fruit, yogurts, breads, cold meats, cheese, marmalade, coffee, tea and juice) you will be introduced to your hosts’ pride and joy: the HORSES. Each rider will be matched with the horse most suitable for their ability, weight and height and after a short assessment in the arena/paddock, you’ll be off on the first ride.
    Today your globetrotting posse will cruise through valleys and follow the local rivers “Pereila” and “Río Grande”, where you’ll encounter plenty of bird life. Depending on the time of year, you may see small groups of Black Stork (flying in from Eastern Europe to pass the winter in this region) and other inland water birds (such as Egrets, Herons and Black-winged Stilts). There will be gentle trots and canters wherever the terrain allows. This is when you’ll fall head over heels in love with your Spanish horse. You’ll marvel at the sure-footedness of the horses as they manoeuvre over rocky riverbeds and are always ready to turn on the engine when asked!

    Upon return there will be a light lunch with drinks after which you have time to take a nice hot shower and enjoy some time to relax before dinner, which will be served in the evening at approximately 7pm.

  • Day 3

    Breakfast in the morning after which you are about to have another unique Spanish experience. Today you’ll be crossing the town of Coín – you’ll ride through the high street and climb up towards the southside of the town and into a forest area called “El Nacimiento”, which literally means “birth”. In this case it’s the birthplace of natural springs as this area holds an underground aquifer with natural spring water, a very important source of local water supply. You’ll encounter many wild herbs in the forest, such as rosemary, thyme and sage which, together with the pine trees, offers a wonderful blend of fragrance as you ride the horses through them. The terrain is rocky at times but there will still be plenty of opportunities for trots and canters. On the way back, you’ll do as the locals do and will stop for a drink at a local bar before returning home.

  • Day 4

    After breakfast you’ll follow a quiet country lane for a while before exploring an area towards the north-west from Molino de Saladilla. You’ll descend down towards the Rio Grande where the horses are offered a drink before crossing over and into some stunning open countryside ‘La Jarra.’ From this vantage point, the views will astound you and you’ll gain a new appreciation as to why visitors are in awe of the beauty of Andalucía. After another exhilarating canter, you’ll enjoy a fabulous 360 degree view of the ‘La Jarra valley’ overlooking quaint coastal regions and the white village of Alozaina with the “Sierra de las Nieves” as a stunning back drop.

  • Day 5

    Today is a rest day for the horses but don’t worry, your hosts have a full cultural agenda planned. After breakfast you’ll be driven to the beautiful local lake district ‘El Chorro’ and Ardales National Park where you’ll explore one of the most famed walks in the world – ‘El Caminito del Rey’ (Walk of Kings). This used to be one of the most dangerous hikes in the world as the paths became nearly impassable after many years of disusage – the original pathway was built in 1805 in order to connect two waterfall locations for a hydro-electrical company. It was called the ‘Walk of Kings’ after King Alfonso XIII walked over it in 1921 as he officially opened the “Guadalhorce Reservoir” (main drinking water source in the area). The area has Roman and Miocene history and is of great geographic importance as it boasts Jurassic limestone formations and dolomite as well as Miocene sediments. This incredible walk is not very demanding, but hugely spectacular as you’ll walk along a deep gorge of 300m depth at times (don’t worry, safety standards are set very high!) and you’ll feel like you are up there with the eagles and vultures (who will be circling above you), whilst below the crystal clear water is flowing – an experience not to be missed! A packed lunch can be enjoyed whilst sitting on the water edge of the reservoir taking in the beauty of your surroundings. Evening meal back at Molino de Saladilla.

  • Day 6

    This morning you’ll be taking in Coín’s beautiful countryside once again. Today you’ll be in the saddle for four-hours and will head east towards the Guadalhorce Valley to an area called ‘la Carreta’. You’ll initially be riding over a plateau dotted in Spanish country residences, and will enjoy long trots and changing vistas before descending towards Rio Pereila and following lower tracks to return back to Coin.

  • Day 7

    Today is the last day in the saddle (boo hoo!) but rest assured you’ll be ending with a BANG! Your tight-knit globetrotting group will be crossing the Pereila and Rio Grande rivers, riding past small holdings, orchards plump with citrus, avocados, pecan nuts and olive trees. The honey-comb, farmland is great for long, loping canters before you start climbing to reveal exceptional views, before crossing the Rio Grande towards home. After lunch at home, you’ll be taken to a local equestrian family where you’ll be offered a private presentation of Spanish horsemanship with beautiful highly trained Spanish stallions. Be prepared to see some magnificent horses, trained in a quiet manner to a very high standard. The family lives and breathes horses and have earned great respect nationwide and even across the borders. This evening you’ll enjoy a farewell fiesta complete with Flamenco dancing – a brilliant way to end your wonderful week!

  • Day 8

    After breakfast you’ll be transferred back to Málaga airport.

  • Transfer Information

    Transfers to and from Málaga are included in the ride price.
    Guests should be ready for pick up from Málaga Airport no later than 10am on the morning of day one. If the flight times are too tight, we recommend staying in Málaga the night before so you’re ready for collection on day one. We can recommend a suitable guesthouse and a central meeting place will be advised for collection on day one.
    On the final day, departure time can be flexible, but check out from your accommodation must be by 10am.

  • Additional Activities

    Extra horse riding lessons (classical dressage, alta escuela and doma vaquera) are available upon request but need to be arranged ahead of time as they are subject to availability. The cost for these private lessons is €75 (payable direct to hosts). Pilates classes are available a few times a week at €10 per person (price subject to change). Massages are available upon request (prices vary depending on selection).

What our valued Globetrotters say about The Andalusia Ride

The Andalusia ride, Spain, Globetrotting horse riding holidays.

Diane Boone

‘WOW is the word I use to describe my first Globetrotting experience. I have dreamt of visiting the Andalusia area for years, and riding with Globetrotting is the way to go. I adored the horses, the accommodation, and the hosts, Giles and Miranda; they are such beautiful people. Every detail was attended to, you only needed to ask, and it was so. We had the most wonderful visits to the towns of Malaga and Coin and hiked El Caminito del Rey. The private performance of horsemanship by the owners of Picadero El Rocio was magnificent, as were the beautiful Flamenco dancers, Hola! I made the most wonderful new friends on this trip of a lifetime. And again, I have to say, WOW’.

The Andalusia Ride, Spain, Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Nancy Parello

‘Our Andalusia Ride was spectacular. Our hosts, Miranda and Giles, were beyond accommodating – so helpful, responsive and a lot of fun to be around. The horses were fabulous and the trails were unlike any I have ever ridden before. The rides were just the right length for me, and different each day, but always with spectacular views, great trails and a good amount of trotting and cantering. Best of all, after the rides we returned to the ‘hacienda’: a lush tropical property complete with a pool and comfy chaise lounges. Perfect for relaxing after a long day. The accommodations far exceeded our expectations – very clean, comfortable and spacious, with all the modern conveniences. The extra-curricular activities were also wonderful, especially the private Flamenco performance on the last night. I highly recommend this total experience!’

The Andalusia Ride, Spain, Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Erin Creed

‘This was my first Globetrotting experience. I was excited and had high expectations, but this ride was beyond anything I could have imagined. Miranda and Giles are gems – they’re diamonds: warm, authentic, funny, kind and helpful. The small group of 6 guests was great, and I have made new horse friends for life. I came with two of my friends, and we are definitely closer now because of this experience. The horses are delightful, surefooted, well trained, and have lovely unique personalities. I opted to book a dressage lesson and the “lesson horse” was this big, beautiful, award-winning PRE stallion who was unlike any horse I have ridden before. I hadn’t done dressage in 25 years and by the end we had lovely long trots, flying changes, half passes, a Spanish walk and a piaffe. It felt SO cool! An experience I will never forget.’

Andalusia, Spain - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Amy Krone

‘This trip was terrific. The scenery was stunning, the hosts were incredibly kind, knowledgeable and accommodating, the meals were all beautiful, healthy and delicious and our accommodations were lovely. Then there were the horses…. I’m in love with Spanish horses! Surefooted and peppy, they were wonderful partners to carry us through the amazing hills, fields and olive groves. I rode Bandolero, and I wish I could take him home with me! He was everything I’ve always liked in my favorite horses, all rolled into one. I can’t imagine how this adventure could have been any better.’

Belinda Strickland

‘My daughter and I hadn’t had the opportunity to spend time together alone for over 10 years, and we had never been so very far away from home. I could never have imagined how greatly my expectations would be fulfilled, from the moment we were greeted by Miranda’s warm, smiling face, to the welcoming taxi drivers and tour guides who shared their extensive knowledge, to the most beautiful rides across Andalusia guided by Giles. We fell in love with our horses, who were extremely well-trained, honest, forgiving and understanding. Our canters across the fields and our walks through the creeks and riverbeds brought laughter and exhilaration to my soul. We felt so at home in Coín thanks to the incredible hospitality and loving personalities of everyone there. I have tears in my eyes writing this review because everyone involved touched my heart deeply and made us feel like family. Be prepared for an adventure of a lifetime that will grab hold of your heart and never let go.’

The Andalusia Ride, Spain - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Cassandra Miller

‘As a first-time Globetrotter, I booked this trip on a whim and was blown away by the horses, the countryside, the culture and of course the incredible hosts, Miranda and Giles. This couple are fantastic at what they do and have really built an oasis for mind, body and soul. Every member of their team is a pleasure to speak to and I felt at home as soon as I arrived. Catalina, our chef, is an angel and the quality of the vegetarian food was next level. The horses are all so well taken care of and so are the guests. I rode Amadeus and Tia Pepe, two very responsive gentlemen with just enough attitude to keep me laughing. Giles led our rides and his good humour and knowledge about the area really connected me to the beautiful Andalusian culture. The cultural experiences were enriching, high quality and worth every cent. I cannot recommend this ride enough!’

Andalusia ride in Spain - Globetrotting horse riding holidays

Joy Roberts

‘This trip was a dream come true. From the wonderful horses, to the exquisite Spanish cuisine, to the fields of wildflowers and orange blossoms, to the traditional flamenco and working equitation performances, to the luxurious accommodation and fabulous company, we felt as if we’d stepped into a magical “other world”. There is no better way to experience the breathtaking Andalucian province than by horseback on a true-bred Spanish horse! Every ride was a magical journey with breathtaking views, gorgeous fragrances, great company, and responsively willing horses. We were thrilled with how capable and surefooted our horses were, and it’s clear that they’re well-trained, well-handled, and extremely well-taken care of. The entire experience was enriching and delightful!’

Kathy Nekton

‘What an amazing time we had with Giles and Miranda in Andalusia. Our hosts have to be the most competent, caring and lovely couple on the planet. They attended to so many extra things outside of the ride itself – nothing seemed too big or small. Our meals were exceptional and Kati, the newly minted chef, was delightful too. The horses were impressive and all of us felt safe and well mounted. Our group of six ranged in age and experience, but we meshed in the best of ways. It’s hard to think any combination of individuals could be any better.
For me, one of the most memorable parts of the trip was our chance to see and experience the culture of the area. This was not just a case of ‘get on and ride’, but see, feel, smell and taste what this region has to offer.
So, despite the considerable travel issues I encountered due to Covid, I am SO glad you all convinced me to go. Thank you so much for all you have done to keep this form of travel going in very difficult times!’

Jennifer Joiner

‘Ahhhhh… trail riding in southern Spain.
This was my fourth Globetrotting ride and it was amazing!
I could talk forever about the Spanish food and wine, the gorgeous views, the charming, thoughtful and generous hosts BUT it was all about the horses… beautifully responsive to leg, wonderful temperament – forward moving when asked and yet responsive to the slightest touch on the bit.
Giles and Miranda have assembled and trained an outstanding group of horses who are much loved and much respected, and it shows. I couldn’t have enjoyed myself more.’

STORIES FROM THE SADDLE

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