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Golegã Horse Fair & Ride

This National Horse Fair is an annual event which takes place over 10 days in November. During this time, the usually quiet town transforms into a lively horsey hub! It is a spectacle like no other in the world and we recommend that every horse person puts this visit on their bucket list. The Fair has run since the mid 18th century when Golegã became the capital of the Lusitano Horse. This is a sell-out event and we have limited availability so get in touch if you are interested, we can work with additional hotels in the area but places are always limited. During the morning you will be riding our Lusitano horses out in the surrounding countryside. Then after lunch you will be enjoying the excitement of the fair.

What's Included:

  • From 4 nights hotel accommodation
  • Transfers to Fair in Golegã
  • Flexible riding programme
  • Half board
  • All ages and experiences welcome.

Price: from £1295


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Sample Itinerary and prices – scroll down for more details

"Brilliant time from start to finish. No hassle pick up and drop off for the airport. Great riding, both hacking and lessons on well schooled responsive horses. Fantastic service ferrying us too and from Golega for the fair, to be honest it couldn’t have been better and Joaquin and Antonia were absolutely fabulous. Huge thank you."

07 - 16 November 2025

Combine a chance to experience the Golegã Horse Fair with riding the famous Lusitano horse in an unspoilt area of Portugal less than 1hr north of Lisbon.

The whole 'capital of horses' Golega transforms for ten days into a frenzy of horses, carriages, food and drink stalls. From late afternoon the streets are packed until the early hours. There are wonderful stalls selling everything from traditional tack and clothing to childrens toys, antiques and artwork. Food and drink is very much part of the visit!

There are Lusitano classes ridden and inhand, competions for equitation and jumping. The main arena - the Manga - features classical shows and fast action riding and prize giving parades.

Back at our ranch we create a personalised riding programme designed especially for you - whether you are just starting or an experienced rider. Half board, daily lessons or hacking out through eucalyptus and pines trees, olive groves and rivers.

Day 1

Arrive into Lisbon airport where you can be collected and then taken to your accommodation, transfers are to be paid for directly in Euros. Lisbon is within easy access of many regional UK airports, if you have any problems finding flights just ask and we'll try to help you. You will be staying in a beautifully converted Monastery with lots of original features and tradionally decorated rooms and living rooms. The food here is exceptional and the staff are welcoming (there is a fabulous, traditional bar!).

Sample Day

After an exceptional breakfast in the old vaults of the monastery you will be riding. The riding programme is completely flexible and will be tailor made to suit you. Depending on your preference you can have a lesson or for those who want to enjoy the local scenery there will be a hack out on offer. The hacking routes vary as the stables is located on the edge of a large nature reserve, you ride through eucalyptus, pine and cork trees, past corn fields and along the Tejo and Zezere rivers. 

Lunch is included and will be taken at a restaurant close to the stables. This is the main meal of the day in Portugal and they take it very seriously!

Trips to the Fair will be in the afternoon / evening, once in Golega you are free to wander around and lose yourself in the capital of horses.Your host will be able to let you know what performances are scheduled during your visit. Transport back / to from the fair is included and timings are discussed daily with participants. The fair has many eating options so most guests will get a snack from one of the venders if they are still hungry after lunch! 

Weight Limit fro riding of 90Kg.

Golegã Horse Fair 2025

Confirmed dates, 07 - 16 November 2025

06 - 10 Nov Golega Fair 5 days 4 nights staying in Monastery Hotel £1295pp 3 places available 

10 - 14 Nov Golega Fair 5 days 4 nights staying in Monastery Hotel £1395pp 3 places available 

14 - 18 Nov Golega Fair 5 days 4 nights staying in Monastery Hotel £1495pp 2 places available 

Prices are based on two people sharing a room. If you require a double room for single occupancy please add £80 per night to the prices above.

Lisbon Airport Transfers

Equestrian Escapes are happy to reserve your transfers for you however, as payment for this service is made directly to the transfer provider this service does not form part of our contract with you. As such, we are unable to accept responsibility for any delays, missed transfers etc. Approximate cost per return trip 170 €.  (this can be more during The Golega Fair week)

Customer reviews 2024 

'I had the most fabulous time. The hosts were wonderful so helpful and friendly. The horses were gorgeous and the views and rides out were lovely. Hotel was great, food amazing and I loved the laid back schedule it felt very relaxed and I felt looked after.' R

'We had a lovely time and the host picked us up although our flight was 2 hours late. The holiday was a unique Portuguese experience. The riding was good and we felt safe. The visits to the Golega Fair 20 minutes away were very enjoyable and the special experiences on the last evening were memorable... a driving opportunity around the town and a barbq in one of the stables with the horses of th the host's friends. Accommodation was comfortable.' K 

Click here for more testimonials!

For tips regarding your holiday such as what to wear and riding ability, please visit the Travel Tips page.

We work hard to ensure that each customer has a great time on their holiday. Please see some riding holiday reviews here.

We have a large range of holidays to suit a range of riding abilities. Please see here for more information.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us.

With easy access and collection from Lisbon airport you can enjoy a stress free relaxing holiday close to the beautiful historic town of Golega. With frequent flight connections from many UK airports this is a great short break that you can enjoy at any time of the year. This is one of our most popular European horse riding holidays.

https://www.equestrian-escapes.com/Ride-in-the-Sun-Portugal/

How To Book

  • Select your dates - from 4 night stay
  • 30% deposit to book
  • Final balance 8 weeks prior to holiday
  • Book On-line by filling in the booking form below and pay deposit via WorldPay
  • or Book by phone on 01829 781123

Optional Extras

  • Transfers to & from Lisbon Airport
  • Extra nights
  • Single supplement