Lisbon: Portuguese Riding School Trainig with Lusitano Horse

Key Points

• Affordable experience at just $17 per person in Lisbon District, Portugal
• Witness daily Lusitano horse training at the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art
• Includes entry ticket and audio guide, with flexible booking options
• Observation of riders in period costumes performing warm-up exercises and complex choreographies
• Learn about horse care, rhythm, and physical needs from knowledgeable handlers
• Accessible and family-friendly with wheelchair access and language options

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art in Lisbon

The tour offers an enriching morning visit to the renowned Portuguese School of Equestrian Art in Lisbon. The experience centers around watching Lusitano Horses during their daily training sessions. Priced at only $17 per person, it provides an accessible way to explore Portugal’s deep-rooted equestrian traditions. The visit is designed for a single-day experience, with scheduled start times that vary, so checking availability is essential.

This tour is ideal for those interested in cultural heritage, horsemanship, and historic performances. The inclusion of an audio guide enhances the visit, offering insights in English, Portuguese, and French. While it does not cover transportation or food, the main highlight remains the chance to observe the impressive routines of Lusitano Horses and their riders in a historic setting.

Observation of Lusitano Horses During Morning Warm-up Exercises

The core of the experience involves watching the Lusitano Horses during their morning warm-up. Riders, dressed in period costumes, perform exercises that emphasize resourcefulness and coordination. You’ll see how they prepare the horses for the complex Equestrian Art routines, respecting each horse’s rhythm, health, and physical needs.

This warm-up session takes place at the Henrique Calado Riding Ring, where handlers carefully care for the horses. The scene is lively, with riders demonstrating traditional training techniques that support the high-level performances seen in gala shows. The focus on horse well-being ensures a respectful and authentic observation of Portuguese horsemanship.

Behind-the-Scenes Care at Henrique Calado Riding Ring

A highlight of this tour is the opportunity to see how handlers care for the Lusitano horses at the Henrique Calado Riding Ring. Visitors gain an understanding of daily horse management practices. The handlers’ attentiveness ensures the horses’ physical health and comfort, illustrating Portugal’s dedication to horse welfare.

This behind-the-scenes look makes the experience more personal. It provides context for the horses’ training and the rigorous routines that prepare them for performance art and shows. The setting exudes a historic charm, enhancing the sense of stepping back into an 18th-century court atmosphere.

The Charm of the Nora Patio and 18th-Century Atmosphere

The tour transports visitors to an 18th-century court ambiance through the Nora Patio. This part of the experience captures the charm and elegance of Portugal’s royal past. The period music played during rehearsals adds an engaging auditory layer, complementing the visual spectacle of the horses and riders.

Standing in this historic courtyard, you experience the atmosphere of a bygone era, where equestrian art was a royal pastime. The setting’s authenticity makes the visit feel like a step back in time, emphasizing the cultural significance of Portugal’s horsemanship traditions.

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Learning About Horse Rhythm, Health, and Physical Needs

Throughout the session, the riders and handlers share insights into horse care, focusing on the rhythm, health, and physical needs of the Lusitano breed. This educational component is especially valuable for those curious about equine physiology and training methods.

The audio guide enhances this learning by explaining the importance of respecting each horse’s individual rhythm. The trainers’ approach prioritizes horse well-being, ensuring that the routines are both technically impressive and humane. Visitors come away with a deeper appreciation of Portuguese horsemanship and animal care.

Timing and Best Viewing Hours

The activity runs from 10 am to 1 pm, with the peak viewing window between 11 am and 12:30 pm. Arriving during this time guarantees the most dynamic and lively demonstrations. The schedule allows flexibility, but the early afternoon offers the best chance to observe the full extent of the training.

Since the session includes training and rehearsals, expect a lively atmosphere with music, movement, and detailed routines. The timing is arranged to showcase the most elaborate exercises, giving visitors an authentic glimpse into the art of Portuguese horsemanship.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Booking

Participants meet at the Getyourguide booking point, where they must present a Book N Tour Ticket (not a GYG QR code). It’s important to provide a working WhatsApp number or email for communication. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, making logistics straightforward.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers audio guides in multiple languages, including English, Portuguese, and French. For those with comfortable shoes, headphones, and a charged smartphone, the experience runs smoothly. Note that transport, food, drinks, and photography are not included or allowed during the training sessions.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

This experience offers full flexibility with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can reserve and pay later, allowing for planning flexibility. The single-day validity of the booking means checking availability in advance is recommended to secure the most suitable time slot.

Authentic Cultural Experience at a Reasonable Price

Priced at just $17 per person, this tour provides a cost-effective way to explore Portugal’s equestrian heritage. The combination of live training observation, historical ambiance, and educational insights makes it a compelling choice for horse lovers, history buffs, and culture enthusiasts alike.

While it does not include transport or food, the tour’s focus on training routines, horse care, and historic settings offers an authentic and memorable experience in Lisbon.

Final Thoughts on the Portuguese Riding School Training Tour

This experience shines in offering a glimpse into traditional Lusitano horse training within a historic Portuguese setting. The affordable price, combined with the quality of the demonstrations and educational content, makes it a worthwhile visit for anyone interested in equestrian arts or Portuguese culture.

The period costumes, music, and historic courtyards create a distinctive atmosphere that transports visitors back to a time when horses played a central role in royal courts. The focus on horse well-being and detailed routines ensures a respectful and genuine portrayal of Portugal’s equestrian traditions.

This tour is especially suited for animal lovers, history enthusiasts, and curious travelers seeking a unique cultural experience that combines training, history, and local craftsmanship. Expect a well-organized, informative morning that highlights Portugal’s proud horse-breeding heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can enjoy observing the training sessions, especially if they have an interest in horses or history. The setting is family-friendly and accessible.

How long does the experience last?
The activity takes place from 10 am to 1 pm, with the best viewing hours between 11 am and 12:30 pm.

What is included in the ticket price?
The entry ticket to the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art, watching the daily Lusitano training, and an audio guide are included.

Are there any additional costs?
Transport, food, drinks, and photography are not included and are not allowed during the training.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel this booking?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a charged smartphone, headphones, and internet access.

Is there a dress code?
Riders wear period costumes during the exercises, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable, casual clothing.

Can I take photos during the training?
Photography is not allowed during the session to respect the horses and trainers.

How do I access my tickets and audio guide?
Once booked, you will receive a separate email with instructions for accessing and downloading your tickets and audio guide. Be sure to check your spam folder.

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