If you say ‘YES’ to this ride in Spain, you’ll be staying in Carmona, one of the famous white villages of Andalusia. Every night and stolen moments during the day {when you’re not in the saddle} you’ll explore this hilltop town that sparkles with noble palaces and majestic Mudéjar churches.
But I’m getting ahead of myself – let’s talk about the riding. Andalusia is the birthplace of Spanish horse culture, so it comes as no surprise that on this riding itinerary, you’ll not only be mounted on the revered Spanish horse (Pura Raza Española – P.R.E. – Andalusian), you’ll actually learn to dance to its majestic rhythm with the help of highly trained teachers who are adept at teaching to every ability. There are three different programs to choose from depending on your interests and the level to which you want to take your riding throughout the week. Whether you’re a happy hacker or a highly trained dressage enthusiast, you won’t feel out of your depth and regardless of ability, you’ll leave feeling more confident as a rider.
Out of the saddle, the Spanish cultural highlights are crazy good – one morning you’ll be front-row spectators to watch the famous Andalusian Stallions perform, and your last evening will involve a road trip to nearby Seville to experience a typical Flamenco dancing show. Your hosts and guides, the Garcia family, will open their 16th century Hacienda and allow you to live and breathe their way of life – not only on an equestrian level but also through the food, lively evening entertainment and colourful village life of Carmona.
Fast Facts
- Horse Breed:The majority of the horses are Andalusians, or Andalusian crosses; there are also a few warmbloods.
- Pace:The pace varies from a walk right through to a canter.
- Type of tack:English dressage saddles. For guests booked on the Train & Trail program, you will be riding in all-purpose saddles while on the trails, and Spanish Vaquero saddles covered in sheepskin on the beach ride.
- Time in Saddle:On average, 3.5 to 4 hours daily.
- Ride Length:7 days, 6 nights, with 5 riding days. There are also 4-night (Sunday to Thursday or Tuesday to Saturday) stays available for the Train & Trail program.
- Seasons:The Hacienda is open to guests year-round, except for the Christmas/New Year holidays and the 3rd and 4th weeks of August.
- Group size:A maximum of 8 riders.
- Riding Ability:Suitable for all riding abilities.
Please be advised, if booking a dressage-only program outlined below, we recommend you be of intermediate to advanced ability and have a keen interest in Classical Dressage. Not sure what your riding ability is? Watch THIS video to find out. - Weight Limit:A maximum of 90kg / 210lbs for the Train & Trail program, a maximum of 85kg / 190lbs for the Intensive Training program, and a maximum of 80kg / 176lbs for the Classical Dressage & High School Training, and Rafael Soto Clinics. It is VERY important that you provide your current weight accurately when booking. If your weight is not accurate, we cannot guarantee that your hosts will have a horse for you to ride.
- Accommodation:Superior hotel accommodation at Alcázar de la Reina in the heart of the old district of the town of Carmona, just a 10 minute drive from the Hacienda.
Please note: Solo travellers will be required to pay the single supplement rate. - Inclusions:
The price includes accommodation, breakfast and lunch each day, dinner on the first evening only, guided visits to Doñana and Jerez (incl. tickets for the horse show in Jerez), all riding specified in the itinerary, transfers to/from Seville (set times & locations) on the first and last days of your ride, and transfers between your hotel and the riding centre each day.
- Exclusions:
The price does not include international or regional flights; travel insurance (compulsory); staff tips (please budget for around 10% of the ride price); or dinner from Monday to Friday – your hotel is within walking distance of many restaurants in Carmona, so you’ll have your pick of amazing places to eat.
DEPARTURE DATES & RATES
NEW! Secure your saddle seat NOW with a 10% deposit - as part of our 10x 10% interest-free payment plan!The child rate is for children aged 10-12 years of age.
Please note: Solo travellers will be required to pay the single supplement rate.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
The price includes accommodation, breakfast and lunch each day, dinner on the first evening only, guided visits to Doñana and Jerez (incl. tickets for the horse show in Jerez), all riding specified in the itinerary, transfers to/from Seville (set times & locations) on the first and last days of your ride, and transfers between your hotel and the riding centre each day.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE?
The price does not include international or regional flights; travel insurance (compulsory); staff tips (please budget for around 10% of the ride price); or dinner from Monday to Friday – your hotel is within walking distance of many restaurants in Carmona, so you’ll have your pick of amazing places to eat.
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.
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
Expand AllCollapse All*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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Train & Trail Ride - Day 1
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Train & Trail Ride - Day 2
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Train & Trail Ride - Day 3
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Train & Trail Ride - Day 4
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Train & Trail Ride - Day 5
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Train & Trail Ride - Day 6
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Train & Trail Ride - Day 7
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Intensive Training
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Classical Dressage & High School Training
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Rafael Soto Clinic
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The Andalusian Horse
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Transfer Information
What our valued Globetrotters say about Dressage in Spain

Helen E.
‘Myself and three friends went on the Train and Trail at the end of November 2024 and had the most wonderful time! Everyone’s abilities were well catered for, the horses were unbelievable, the accommodation was lovely, and the food was fabulous! We had such a good time that two of us are planning to return to do the more intense dressage program – once our bank accounts allow!’

Carly R.
‘I had the time of my life and absolutely loved the Dressage in Spain ride, for the second time! Some of the riding experiences were like a dream come true; I learnt so much to take home and left feeling happy and empowered. I rode Lucero – so amazing! Highly trained but spirited, so I had to ride properly. He gave me some unforgettable experiences that I have never had before. Such a lovely balance in the way he carried himself and beautiful as well. I nearly had to pinch myself to see if it was real! I couldn’t stop smiling – trying the changes and passage, and on the last day, we did Spanish walk, which was so cool! Thank you to all the staff and coaches for an amazing time!’

Lisa L
‘I was blown away by the quality of both the Dressage and Trail horses. Easily, the best horses I have ever seen or ridden in this type of establishment; they’re loved and cherished. During the week-long adventure, I rode three stand-out horses and each one I would have gladly taken home. The quality of the instruction is amazing. These ladies don’t miss anything! From nervous beginner to advanced level, they catered to every level. This family-run, and family-style operation made us feel at home from the second we arrived, and it is a horse lover’s paradise! The facilities were fantastic, the food, wholesome and more-ish, the horses to fall in love with and memories that will last me to the end. An experience I will never forget, my final day ride on a Grand Prix schoolmaster was the cherry on top.’

Carly R
‘The Train and Trail ride was an experience of a lifetime! Guason, my trail horse, was an impressive bay with amazing movement – the best trained trail ride horse I have ever ridden. He had so much personality, was powerful yet soft to ride, and had a cheeky side. Saludo, my dressage horse, was beautiful and straight, elegant, and well-trained. All the horses were so photogenic. The Jerez horse show and one of our trail rides among the olive trees were definite highlights. The guides were extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and shared a lot of information on Spanish customs and dressage. My coach, Michelle, knew how to push me but was also extremely encouraging, and I felt very welcomed by the entire team. This ride for my 50th birthday was an unforgettable experience. Thank you for such a wonderful time.’

Jocelyn B
‘I absolutely loved the Train & Trail experience. The instructors were amazing, and the quality of riding lessons and instruction was the best I’ve ever had. The horses were incredible teachers and so gentle and responsive. The lunches were delicious, the facilities were beautiful, and the hosts were gracious and kind; they went above and beyond to accommodate everyone. My non-riding husband wants to go back and actually ride next time! The whole experience was a real privilege. I loved it!’

Gai Wilson
‘I was completely blown away by my week in Spain for the train and trail. Fabulous horses, fabulous instructors, staff, and food. These horses are so happy and well-trained that they made an old thing like me, who has just returned to riding (thanks to a new pair of hips), feel like a dressage rider! I rode lots of movements I’ve never ridden before. I have so much to work on with my riding that I’ll just have to come back!’

Jane Heyburn
‘I had an absolutely fantastic riding experience. The horses were beautifully schooled and perfectly matched to the riders. The staff were engaging and knowledgeable. The meals were a highlight of Spanish cuisine. I hadn’t ridden dressage in 15 years, but the training gave me newfound passion and confidence. Riding out through the olive groves and beach rides was a highlight. I would definitely go back!’

Kali Gillen
‘I booked the Train and Trail last minute and am so glad I did! With such knowledgeable and generous trainers and guides, incredible horses (I rode Bandalero and Salaito) and a lovely travel group of new friends, it completely exceeded any expectations. This ride caters to everyone and anyone who loves riding. I wholeheartedly recommend doing this trip!’

Grazia Cordella
‘This experience was absolutely magical. The people I met, the instructors, the horses, the scenery, it couldn’t have gone any better. As someone who didn’t really grow up with horses, I enjoyed every second. The instructors know your strengths and limits better than yourself and provide the right challenges each and every day, somehow squeezing out all of your energy and converting it into personal growth and satisfaction. I enjoyed my lessons with Oscuro and my trail rides with Tambolir – I trusted and loved them both. The environment felt like home: the shared lunches, the chats on the cars and rides, wandering through the stables sneaking treats in… the atmosphere was so warm and welcoming that it was really hard to leave.’
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