PURE LIFE
EXPERIENCES
PURE LIFE
EXPERIENCES
Pure Life Experiences
Pure Life Experiences
Equiberia’s goal is to create Pure Life Experiences that will become Life Lasting Memories that you will treasure forever. How do we create those exceptional experiences?. LEARN MORE
It all starts with The Horses, our shared passion that draws us together. The horses makes us feel grounded and more connected with one’s self. Riding our fine horses through the diverse landscapes of Spain, you will feel an intimate connection with the land and Nature and enjoy Pure Horse Riding Experiences.
We design The Rides to create the most attractive itineraries to discover on horseback the hidden Spain and connect with our history and our culture, and give you very rich impressions of this beautiful country.
What brings our riding experiences to another level is our genuine hospitality and our dedication to make every ride a very special time for you. María Elena. The Memory Maker, and The Team, truly care about creating the perfect relaxed fun atmosphere for you to meet and connect with others. If you travel solo, in a couple or as a private group, our goal is to create a lasting feeling of togetherness and become a big Horse Riding Family.
Our exceptional selection of Accommodations and Food and Wines will connect you with the local culture, the people and the gastronomy of a region of Spain. You will experience a true immersion in the Spanish country lifestyle, where every meal turns into a feast to celebrate the good life and wraps up with a glorious siesta.
Equiberia aims to provide real travel experiences that also minimize negative impacts on the environment and ncrease the positive ones on local people. We work with local suppliers and we are actively involved in local and regional associations to support Responsible tourism. VIEW LESS
Accommodations
The accommodations have been carefully chosen for the quality and the welcoming to the riders and to the horses. Our selection includes some luxurious Paradores, boutique hotels or some small country hotels, where you will see the horses from your bedroom window. All the hotels provide double or twin-bedded rooms and en-suite baths. Every day, at the end of the day in the saddle, you will look forward to the surprise of arriving to the next charming hotel. Moreover, it will not be the end of the day, but the beginning of the rest of the day!
The description of every ride includes detailed information of the selected accommodations.
Food and Wine
You will be pampered by our attention to detail and our high standards in every aspect of the ride. Our exquisite aperitivos appear around the corner, just when you think you need a break. Our gourmet lunches served al fresco on white linens in stunning surroundings will become lifelong memories – dining will never be the same again. We always come up with surprises and special treats: delicious water cress in spring or exquisite mushrooms in the autumn, just picked up the same morning; a sumptuous birthday celebration in the middle of the countryside or under a 400 year old holm oak; a wine pairing gourmet dinner in a local wine shop, hosted by the whole family.
The cuisine of the different regions is excellent and much consideration is taken when planning the meals to provide visitors with a sampling of the many different delicious specialities. Our exciting selection of local Spanish wines will delight the most demanding palates. We offer Spanish Wine tasting in some of our rides.
All the aperitivos and lunch spots have been carefully selected for best views and scenery, while you enjoy the aperitifs and the meals, always surrounded by the horses at rest.
Dinners will be in the hotel or at a local restaurant with carefully chosen menus to add the specialties of the local gastronomy.
Concierge Services
We can cater for non-riders accompanying the rides, or customize our riding trips for private groups or families.
We recommend our trip extensions before or after the ride, to add to your experience of getting to know our beautiful country. We include some trip extensions suggestions in the information for every ride. We can create a trip extension for your group based on your interests and requirements.
What our guests sayVIEW LESS
“This is just to say THANK YOU again for the good time we spent on the Gredos Trail with you. It was an excellent opportunity to switch off completely from everyday life and to enjoy the beautiful horses and the magnificent sceneries. The trail is certainly one of my highlights of this year which I shall not forget and of which I shall always keep great memories”. Gisela, Germany
«Maria Elena was truly delightful, her horses were all well cared for and she really took care to partner the right horses and riders together. By far the best European ride we have been on». J&A C (UK)
“I had the most WONDERFUL week with Maria Elena. This was certainly the best of the approx. 8 riding holidays I have had. It was glorious countryside, the horse of my dreams and she is an exceptionally nice positive person to be around. I would recommend this holiday to anyone who likes to ride exceptionally well schooled and light-mouthed horses. I still miss mine a lot». JT (UK)
Dates And Prices 1
“Initially I thought it was quite an expensive holiday but on my return I would describe it as being cheap for everything it included. I hope to return which I certainly did not expect prior to going. My neighbour has just remarked that he has not seen me looking so refreshed and happy for a long time”.
RM (UK)
Dates And Prices 2
“Our hosts, Enrico and Maria Helena (and the other guides, driver, cook etc) were all wonderful and looked after us superbly - ever helpful and friendly. Nothing too much trouble. It was quite an expensive holiday, but they gave value for money - we never felt they were being "stingy" or taking short cuts - the food and wine flowed ad lib, the horses were good, we hardly had to lift a finger all holiday - everything was done for us, all sorted, thought out and well organised throughout.”
JN (UK)
PHOTOS & VIDEOS
Paradores of Spain
Boutique hotels
Country rural hotels
Boutique hotels are our preferred choice when available in the small towns or cities near where our itinerary takes us. We may need to organise a short transfer but always worth the surprise at the end of the day and you will always be looking forward to it. Boutique hotels always cater to the individual, providing very personalized, intimate service and styled accommodations and they are designed to blend into the community and reflect the neighbourhood’s and cultures around them. They are rich in local flavour, small size hotels, urban or rural, but they always remind you of where you are and they convey a strong sense of place and pride in its location's heritage. A boutique hotel focuses on food and beverage. You can count on a boutique hotel to house an outstanding restaurant with a traditional or modern menu and regional wines.
The Parador of Gredos inaugurated in 1928 was the first establishment of the future Paradores de España, a hotel in the Gredos Mountains that would make the wonders of the area's landscape accessible to tourism. Soon after, the "Board of Paradores and Inns of Spain" was formed to select historical-artistic monuments and beautiful landscapes for the establishment of new Paradores, creating a hotel infrastructure-practically non-existent in Spain at the time. At Paradores the hospitality is harmoniously integrated with the restoration of castles, palaces and convents, rescuing from ruin and abandonment monuments representative of Spain's historical and cultural heritage. In addition to unique and historical accommodations, Paradores also feature restaurants specializing in regional gastronomy accompanied by a fine selection of local wines. Paradores are often located off the beaten track in medieval villages that were grand back in history and depopulated nowadays. This hotel chain is state owned, and it is their policy to support the local economy and they always employ local people, helping the sustainability of rural life. The Parador de Gredos, built as a hunting mountain lodge for the King of Spain, is where the Gredos rides start and end. In most of our rides we spend at least one night at Paradores, some 3* or 4*, offering an exquisite balance of luxury, authenticity, and hospitality.
We always choose the small Country Rural Hotels along the route because we can literally get to the hotel on horseback and see the horses from our bedroom windows. These are hotels denominated “rural” because they in rural areas, in the middle of the country or in small villages and run by a local family. Most often built as a restoration of an old country house or barn, they are very authentic, charming and welcoming, and they provide delicious local food and wines. These hotels are privately booked for our groups as they often have less than 10 rooms, so we book the whole “house” for us. All the rooms have en-suite private bathroom and single rooms can be accommodated.
Aperitivos
Gourmet picnic lunches
Spanish Local wines
Our “epic” aperitivos have become a distinctive Equiberia brand. They appear around the corner right when you were thinking “I would love to stretch my legs and have something to drink…” Always set in the most beautiful locations and surrounded by the horses having a short break, white linen tables with a sample of the most delicious mid-morning bites; seasonal fruit beautifully cut and presented; our exquisite Iberic ham (“jamón ibérico” probably the best ham in the world), a selection of local cheeses, olives, almonds and always a little something special of the season or a specialty from the village we just rode through. Local beers and refreshments and always a glass (or two) of a very selected manzanilla sherry – as María Elena often says, “One for each leg”. You will look forward to our aperitivos every day and probably miss them when back home. They are always a small feast after two or three hours riding in the morning and they definitely hit the spot.
Our gourmet lunches served al fresco on white linens in stunning surroundings will become lifelong memories. Our meals are elaborated with local produce: salad, vegetables, meats, and fruit are produced in the Northern and the Southern slopes of Gredos. Even our olive oil is produced is a small local cooperative. We serve local Spanish wines and beer made in Gredos. Whenever possible our choice is Zero km food (0 km food). It denotes the food produced, sold and eaten locally – the food which travelled zero kilometres. Mainly it refers to non-industrial fruits, vegetables, cheese, meat, honey etc, which does not go through global trade chains, therefore it does not have big price margins and quality lose during long storage in international supermarkets. It also has an important ecological aspect which cannot be overseen – since there is no transport involved (we buy from the shop on the corner), the environment does not suffer from direct and indirect pollution. This is the way the local people have always done it and the Gredos gastronomic association is creative and keeps comes up with new recipes. There is such thing as gourmet cuisine in Gredos!
We believe the best times are shared with friends and family over a great bottle of wine and delicious regional food to match. During our rides we carefully select the local wines for the week, to give you the best wine tasting experience of Spanish wines that often never access other countries.
Spain is the largest vineyard in the world, with more than 100 different grape varieties and 69 denominations of origin. So many grape varieties to taste. Spain is home to the world's largest surface of organic vineyards and 390,000 hectares of 30+-year-old vines in Spain. The country's grape growing heritage is truly remarkable. Spain is Europe's second most mountainous country and mountains play an important role in shaping the landscape and they set the boundaries for different wine regions. Right now, many of Spain’s most exciting wines come from mountain vineyards. as is the case with Gredos, where Garnacha is grown on granite or slate soils, or the Sierra de Salamanca, also in Castilla y León. A great selection of Ribera del Duero and Toro red wines and Rueda whites from Castilla y León, and red and whites from small wineries in other regions of Spain will be offered in all our rides.
In Gredos there is a local wine shop in the small town of El Barco de Ávila, which is one of the top-ten Wine Shops of Spain. They offer more than 1100 different Spanish wines, many of them from regions and small producers you have never heard of. During the rides we organise wine tasting and a pairing dinner hosted by the family owners – we never get to taste all 1100 different wines though!
Non-riders
Bespoke groups and families
Trip extensions
On all our tours non-riders can enjoy themselves just as much as they could by taking any trip to that region of Spain and still spend a good part of the time with the riders.
Non-riders can hire a car and visit the interesting tourist spots in the area. They can re-join the riders in the evening for dinner and split off again after breakfast the following morning. We will provide information on the area, suggest itineraries, and connect with local guides and any place of interest, local artisans, or a small bar in a village where the local meet. On some of the ride, some of the days, non-riders can go in the support vehicle and join the riders for the aperitivos and lunches in the countryside too.
Gredos is our home and we have great flexibility and many local contacts to organise activities for non-riders.
The Gredos itineraries can be adapted for cycling (ideal for road cycling and E-bikes and there are good paths and beautiful remote empty roads and villages with the greatest views); walking or hiking: fit walkers can follow some of the itineraries the riders do and then we can organise local drivers to meet the walkers and take them to the hotel; hiking or trekking in the Gredos high mountains for fit skilful trekking adepts is magnificent. Birdwatching, flyfishing, stargazing, wine tasting, history and local traditions… there is plenty to do for non-riders in the Gredos rides. And there is also a Rural Spa, where one can relax and enjoy a massage.
In the Segovia rides, hiking, cycling and history and culture tours are great options. In Sevilla the sandy trails are best on a horse-carriage that can be privately organised for the non-riders to accompany the riders for 3 or 4 days during the ride and the visit of the city of Sevilla offers many attractions of history, traditions and gastronomy. In Menorca, fit hikers can follow the horses hooves or visit the island or rest in the exquisite hotels reading a book by the pool or on the beach.
We can customize our equestrian vacations for private groups such as small parties, family gatherings or groups of friends. We can create a trip for a group with special interests or around a special event, or create an exclusive tour including trip extensions with our customizable concierge services.
Our riding trips are designed for competent riders. They can be tailored for private groups or families with mixed riding abilities, from beginners to advanced riders. In Gredos, we can schedule a trip at a special date and the amount of riding or the riding itinerary could be optimized for the group. The riding trips can be combined with other activities such as cycling, walking, bird-watching, activities ones for children, or special interests such as cooking, wine tasting, or learning Spanish.
We customize intimate, fun, rich, flexible and memorable experiences. We offer some options but we can adapt to new requests an adapt to a wide range of needs or interests.
Our carefully crafted trip extensions, before and/or after the ride, capture the essence of an authentic Spain.
We are passionate about Spain, its history, its nature, its traditions, its joy, and its lifestyle - and the Spanish food and wines, of course. Every ride is a true immersion into the culture of Spain. We design our trip extensions so that every day is a hans-selected experience specifically designed for you to learn something different about our fascinating country.
Accommodation and transport can be tailored to guests’ wishes and needs in the itinerary that will fit the travellers best.
We select the people that will provide each service included in the trip by their professionalism, knowledge, and enthusiasm, and they will go the extra mile to ensure you get the best experience. They will contribute to creating special moments and memories of your trip to the hidden Spain.
Gredos rides trip extensions can include Madrid and Ávila. Segovia rides: Madrid and Segovia. Menorca trips: Mahón and Ciutadella. Sevilla trips: Sevilla, Cordoba, Granada, the Royal School of Equestrian Art. We can include thematic extensions such as horse-breeding farms or horse related activities; museums and art galleries; wineries and incredibly special restaurants; or even visits of private gardens or outings with special guides/hosts.
The Parador of Gredos inaugurated in 1928 was the first establishment of the future Paradores de España, a hotel in the Gredos Mountains that would make the wonders of the area's landscape accessible to tourism. Soon after, the "Board of Paradores and Inns of Spain" was formed to select historical-artistic monuments and beautiful landscapes for the establishment of new Paradores, creating a hotel infrastructure-practically non-existent in Spain at the time. At Paradores the hospitality is harmoniously integrated with the restoration of castles, palaces and convents, rescuing from ruin and abandonment monuments representative of Spain's historical and cultural heritage. In addition to unique and historical accommodations, Paradores also feature restaurants specializing in regional gastronomy accompanied by a fine selection of local wines. Paradores are often located off the beaten track in medieval villages that were grand back in history and depopulated nowadays. This hotel chain is state owned, and it is their policy to support the local economy and they always employ local people, helping the sustainability of rural life. The Parador de Gredos, built as a hunting mountain lodge for the King of Spain, is where the Gredos rides start and end. In most of our rides we spend at least one night at Paradores, some 3* or 4*, offering an exquisite balance of luxury, authenticity, and hospitality. CLOSE
Paradores of Spain
Boutique hotels are our preferred choice when available in the small towns or cities near where our itinerary takes us. We may need to organise a short transfer but always worth the surprise at the end of the day and you will always be looking forward to it. Boutique hotels always cater to the individual, providing very personalized, intimate service and styled accommodations and they are designed to blend into the community and reflect the neighbourhood’s and cultures around them. They are rich in local flavour, small size hotels, urban or rural, but they always remind you of where you are and they convey a strong sense of place and pride in its location's heritage. A boutique hotel focuses on food and beverage. You can count on a boutique hotel to house an outstanding restaurant with a traditional or modern menu and regional wines. CLOSE
Boutique hotels
We always choose the small Country Rural Hotels along the route because we can literally get to the hotel on horseback and see the horses from our bedroom windows. These are hotels denominated “rural” because they in rural areas, in the middle of the country or in small villages and run by a local family. Most often built as a restoration of an old country house or barn, they are very authentic, charming and welcoming, and they provide delicious local food and wines. These hotels are privately booked for our groups as they often have less than 10 rooms, so we book the whole “house” for us. All the rooms have en-suite private bathroom and single rooms can be accommodated. CLOSE
Country rural hotels
Our “epic” aperitivos have become a distinctive Equiberia brand. They appear around the corner right when you were thinking “I would love to stretch my legs and have something to drink…” Always set in the most beautiful locations and surrounded by the horses having a short break, white linen tables with a sample of the most delicious mid-morning bites; seasonal fruit beautifully cut and presented; our exquisite Iberic ham (“jamón ibérico” probably the best ham in the world), a selection of local cheeses, olives, almonds and always a little something special of the season or a specialty from the village we just rode through. Local beers and refreshments and always a glass (or two) of a very selected manzanilla sherry – as María Elena often says, “One for each leg”. You will look forward to our aperitivos every day and probably miss them when back home. They are always a small feast after two or three hours riding in the morning and they definitely hit the spot. CLOSE
Aperitivos
Our gourmet lunches served al fresco on white linens in stunning surroundings will become lifelong memories. Our meals are elaborated with local produce: salad, vegetables, meats, and fruit are produced in the Northern and the Southern slopes of Gredos. Even our olive oil is produced is a small local cooperative. We serve local Spanish wines and beer made in Gredos. Whenever possible our choice is Zero km food (0 km food). It denotes the food produced, sold and eaten locally – the food which travelled zero kilometres. Mainly it refers to non-industrial fruits, vegetables, cheese, meat, honey etc, which does not go through global trade chains, therefore it does not have big price margins and quality lose during long storage in international supermarkets. It also has an important ecological aspect which cannot be overseen – since there is no transport involved (we buy from the shop on the corner), the environment does not suffer from direct and indirect pollution. This is the way the local people have always done it and the Gredos gastronomic association is creative and keeps comes up with new recipes. There is such thing as gourmet cuisine in Gredos! CLOSE
Gourmet picnic lunches
We believe the best times are shared with friends and family over a great bottle of wine and delicious regional food to match. During our rides we carefully select the local wines for the week, to give you the best wine tasting experience of Spanish wines that often never access other countries.
Spain is the largest vineyard in the world, with more than 100 different grape varieties and 69 denominations of origin. So many grape varieties to taste. Spain is home to the world's largest surface of organic vineyards and 390,000 hectares of 30+-year-old vines in Spain. The country's grape growing heritage is truly remarkable. Spain is Europe's second most mountainous country and mountains play an important role in shaping the landscape and they set the boundaries for different wine regions. Right now, many of Spain’s most exciting wines come from mountain vineyards. as is the case with Gredos, where Garnacha is grown on granite or slate soils, or the Sierra de Salamanca, also in Castilla y León. A great selection of Ribera del Duero and Toro red wines and Rueda whites from Castilla y León, and red and whites from small wineries in other regions of Spain will be offered in all our rides.
In Gredos there is a local wine shop in the small town of El Barco de Ávila, which is one of the top-ten Wine Shops of Spain. They offer more than 1100 different Spanish wines, many of them from regions and small producers you have never heard of. During the rides we organise wine tasting and a pairing dinner hosted by the family owners – we never get to taste all 1100 different wines though!
CLOSE
Spanish Local wines
On all our tours non-riders can enjoy themselves just as much as they could by taking any trip to that region of Spain and still spend a good part of the time with the riders. Non-riders can hire a car and visit the interesting tourist spots in the area. They can re-join the riders in the evening for dinner and split off again after breakfast the following morning. We will provide information on the area, suggest itineraries, and connect with local guides and any place of interest, local artisans, or a small bar in a village where the local meet. On some of the ride, some of the days, non-riders can go in the support vehicle and join the riders for the aperitivos and lunches in the countryside too. Gredos is our home and we have great flexibility and many local contacts to organise activities for non-riders. The Gredos itineraries can be adapted for cycling (ideal for road cycling and E-bikes and there are good paths and beautiful remote empty roads and villages with the greatest views); walking or hiking: fit walkers can follow some of the itineraries the riders do and then we can organise local drivers to meet the walkers and take them to the hotel; hiking or trekking in the Gredos high mountains for fit skilful trekking adepts is magnificent. Birdwatching, flyfishing, stargazing, wine tasting, history and local traditions… there is plenty to do for non-riders in the Gredos rides. And there is also a Rural Spa, where one can relax and enjoy a massage. In the Segovia rides, hiking, cycling and history and culture tours are great options. In Sevilla the sandy trails are best on a horse-carriage that can be privately organised for the non-riders to accompany the riders for 3 or 4 days during the ride and the visit of the city of Sevilla offers many attractions of history, traditions and gastronomy. In Menorca, fit hikers can follow the horses hooves or visit the island or rest in the exquisite hotels reading a book by the pool or on the beach. CLOSE
Non-riders
We can customize our equestrian vacations for private groups such as small parties, family gatherings or groups of friends. We can create a trip for a group with special interests or around a special event, or create an exclusive tour including trip extensions with our customizable concierge services. Our riding trips are designed for competent riders. They can be tailored for private groups or families with mixed riding abilities, from beginners to advanced riders. In Gredos, we can schedule a trip at a special date and the amount of riding or the riding itinerary could be optimized for the group. The riding trips can be combined with other activities such as cycling, walking, bird-watching, activities ones for children, or special interests such as cooking, wine tasting, or learning Spanish. We customize intimate, fun, rich, flexible and memorable experiences. We offer some options but we can adapt to new requests an adapt to a wide range of needs or interests. CLOSE
Bespoke groups and families
Our carefully crafted trip extensions, before and/or after the ride, capture the essence of an authentic Spain.
We are passionate about Spain, its history, its nature, its traditions, its joy, and its lifestyle - and the Spanish food and wines, of course. Every ride is a true immersion into the culture of Spain. We design our trip extensions so that every day is a hans-selected experience specifically designed for you to learn something different about our fascinating country.
Accommodation and transport can be tailored to guests’ wishes and needs in the itinerary that will fit the travellers best.
We select the people that will provide each service included in the trip by their professionalism, knowledge, and enthusiasm, and they will go the extra mile to ensure you get the best experience. They will contribute to creating special moments and memories of your trip to the hidden Spain.
Gredos rides trip extensions can include Madrid and Ávila. Segovia rides: Madrid and Segovia. Menorca trips: Mahón and Ciutadella. Sevilla trips: Sevilla, Cordoba, Granada, the Royal School of Equestrian Art. We can include thematic extensions such as horse-breeding farms or horse related activities; museums and art galleries; wineries and incredibly special restaurants; or even visits of private gardens or outings with special guides/hosts.
CLOSE
Trip extensions
Paradores of Spain
Boutique hotels
Country rural hotels
The Parador of Gredos inaugurated in 1928 was the first establishment of the future Paradores de España, a hotel in the Gredos Mountains that would make the wonders of the area's landscape accessible to tourism. Soon after, the "Board of Paradores and Inns of Spain" was formed to select historical-artistic monuments and beautiful landscapes for the establishment of new Paradores, creating a hotel infrastructure-practically non-existent in Spain at the time. At Paradores the hospitality is harmoniously integrated with the restoration of castles, palaces and convents, rescuing from ruin and abandonment monuments representative of Spain's historical and cultural heritage. In addition to unique and historical accommodations, Paradores also feature restaurants specializing in regional gastronomy accompanied by a fine selection of local wines. Paradores are often located off the beaten track in medieval villages that were grand back in history and depopulated nowadays. This hotel chain is state owned, and it is their policy to support the local economy and they always employ local people, helping the sustainability of rural life. The Parador de Gredos, built as a hunting mountain lodge for the King of Spain, is where the Gredos rides start and end. In most of our rides we spend at least one night at Paradores, some 3* or 4*, offering an exquisite balance of luxury, authenticity, and hospitality.
Boutique hotels are our preferred choice when available in the small towns or cities near where our itinerary takes us. We may need to organise a short transfer but always worth the surprise at the end of the day and you will always be looking forward to it. Boutique hotels always cater to the individual, providing very personalized, intimate service and styled accommodations and they are designed to blend into the community and reflect the neighbourhood’s and cultures around them. They are rich in local flavour, small size hotels, urban or rural, but they always remind you of where you are and they convey a strong sense of place and pride in its location's heritage. A boutique hotel focuses on food and beverage. You can count on a boutique hotel to house an outstanding restaurant with a traditional or modern menu and regional wines.
We always choose the small Country Rural Hotels along the route because we can literally get to the hotel on horseback and see the horses from our bedroom windows. These are hotels denominated “rural” because they in rural areas, in the middle of the country or in small villages and run by a local family. Most often built as a restoration of an old country house or barn, they are very authentic, charming and welcoming, and they provide delicious local food and wines. These hotels are privately booked for our groups as they often have less than 10 rooms, so we book the whole “house” for us. All the rooms have en-suite private bathroom and single rooms can be accommodated.
The Parador of Gredos inaugurated in 1928 was the first establishment of the future Paradores de España, a hotel in the Gredos Mountains that would make the wonders of the area's landscape accessible to tourism. Soon after, the "Board of Paradores and Inns of Spain" was formed to select historical-artistic monuments and beautiful landscapes for the establishment of new Paradores, creating a hotel infrastructure-practically non-existent in Spain at the time. At Paradores the hospitality is harmoniously integrated with the restoration of castles, palaces and convents, rescuing from ruin and abandonment monuments representative of Spain's historical and cultural heritage. In addition to unique and historical accommodations, Paradores also feature restaurants specializing in regional gastronomy accompanied by a fine selection of local wines. Paradores are often located off the beaten track in medieval villages that were grand back in history and depopulated nowadays. This hotel chain is state owned, and it is their policy to support the local economy and they always employ local people, helping the sustainability of rural life. The Parador de Gredos, built as a hunting mountain lodge for the King of Spain, is where the Gredos rides start and end. In most of our rides we spend at least one night at Paradores, some 3* or 4*, offering an exquisite balance of luxury, authenticity, and hospitality. CLOSE
Paradores of Spain
Boutique hotels are our preferred choice when available in the small towns or cities near where our itinerary takes us. We may need to organise a short transfer but always worth the surprise at the end of the day and you will always be looking forward to it. Boutique hotels always cater to the individual, providing very personalized, intimate service and styled accommodations and they are designed to blend into the community and reflect the neighbourhood’s and cultures around them. They are rich in local flavour, small size hotels, urban or rural, but they always remind you of where you are and they convey a strong sense of place and pride in its location's heritage. A boutique hotel focuses on food and beverage. You can count on a boutique hotel to house an outstanding restaurant with a traditional or modern menu and regional wines. CLOSE
Boutique hotels
We always choose the small Country Rural Hotels along the route because we can literally get to the hotel on horseback and see the horses from our bedroom windows. These are hotels denominated “rural” because they in rural areas, in the middle of the country or in small villages and run by a local family. Most often built as a restoration of an old country house or barn, they are very authentic, charming and welcoming, and they provide delicious local food and wines. These hotels are privately booked for our groups as they often have less than 10 rooms, so we book the whole “house” for us. All the rooms have en-suite private bathroom and single rooms can be accommodated. CLOSE
Country rural hotels
Aperitivos
Gourmet picnic lunches
Spanish Local wines
Our “epic” aperitivos have become a distinctive Equiberia brand. They appear around the corner right when you were thinking “I would love to stretch my legs and have something to drink…” Always set in the most beautiful locations and surrounded by the horses having a short break, white linen tables with a sample of the most delicious mid-morning bites; seasonal fruit beautifully cut and presented; our exquisite Iberic ham (“jamón ibérico” probably the best ham in the world), a selection of local cheeses, olives, almonds and always a little something special of the season or a specialty from the village we just rode through. Local beers and refreshments and always a glass (or two) of a very selected manzanilla sherry – as María Elena often says, “One for each leg”. You will look forward to our aperitivos every day and probably miss them when back home. They are always a small feast after two or three hours riding in the morning and they definitely hit the spot.
Our gourmet lunches served al fresco on white linens in stunning surroundings will become lifelong memories. Our meals are elaborated with local produce: salad, vegetables, meats, and fruit are produced in the Northern and the Southern slopes of Gredos. Even our olive oil is produced is a small local cooperative. We serve local Spanish wines and beer made in Gredos. Whenever possible our choice is Zero km food (0 km food). It denotes the food produced, sold and eaten locally – the food which travelled zero kilometres. Mainly it refers to non-industrial fruits, vegetables, cheese, meat, honey etc, which does not go through global trade chains, therefore it does not have big price margins and quality lose during long storage in international supermarkets. It also has an important ecological aspect which cannot be overseen – since there is no transport involved (we buy from the shop on the corner), the environment does not suffer from direct and indirect pollution. This is the way the local people have always done it and the Gredos gastronomic association is creative and keeps comes up with new recipes. There is such thing as gourmet cuisine in Gredos!
We believe the best times are shared with friends and family over a great bottle of wine and delicious regional food to match. During our rides we carefully select the local wines for the week, to give you the best wine tasting experience of Spanish wines that often never access other countries.
Spain is the largest vineyard in the world, with more than 100 different grape varieties and 69 denominations of origin. So many grape varieties to taste. Spain is home to the world's largest surface of organic vineyards and 390,000 hectares of 30+-year-old vines in Spain. The country's grape growing heritage is truly remarkable. Spain is Europe's second most mountainous country and mountains play an important role in shaping the landscape and they set the boundaries for different wine regions. Right now, many of Spain’s most exciting wines come from mountain vineyards. as is the case with Gredos, where Garnacha is grown on granite or slate soils, or the Sierra de Salamanca, also in Castilla y León. A great selection of Ribera del Duero and Toro red wines and Rueda whites from Castilla y León, and red and whites from small wineries in other regions of Spain will be offered in all our rides.
In Gredos there is a local wine shop in the small town of El Barco de Ávila, which is one of the top-ten Wine Shops of Spain. They offer more than 1100 different Spanish wines, many of them from regions and small producers you have never heard of. During the rides we organise wine tasting and a pairing dinner hosted by the family owners – we never get to taste all 1100 different wines though!
Our “epic” aperitivos have become a distinctive Equiberia brand. They appear around the corner right when you were thinking “I would love to stretch my legs and have something to drink…” Always set in the most beautiful locations and surrounded by the horses having a short break, white linen tables with a sample of the most delicious mid-morning bites; seasonal fruit beautifully cut and presented; our exquisite Iberic ham (“jamón ibérico” probably the best ham in the world), a selection of local cheeses, olives, almonds and always a little something special of the season or a specialty from the village we just rode through. Local beers and refreshments and always a glass (or two) of a very selected manzanilla sherry – as María Elena often says, “One for each leg”. You will look forward to our aperitivos every day and probably miss them when back home. They are always a small feast after two or three hours riding in the morning and they definitely hit the spot. CLOSE
Aperitivos
Our gourmet lunches served al fresco on white linens in stunning surroundings will become lifelong memories. Our meals are elaborated with local produce: salad, vegetables, meats, and fruit are produced in the Northern and the Southern slopes of Gredos. Even our olive oil is produced is a small local cooperative. We serve local Spanish wines and beer made in Gredos. Whenever possible our choice is Zero km food (0 km food). It denotes the food produced, sold and eaten locally – the food which travelled zero kilometres. Mainly it refers to non-industrial fruits, vegetables, cheese, meat, honey etc, which does not go through global trade chains, therefore it does not have big price margins and quality lose during long storage in international supermarkets. It also has an important ecological aspect which cannot be overseen – since there is no transport involved (we buy from the shop on the corner), the environment does not suffer from direct and indirect pollution. This is the way the local people have always done it and the Gredos gastronomic association is creative and keeps comes up with new recipes. There is such thing as gourmet cuisine in Gredos! CLOSE
Gourmet picnic lunches
We believe the best times are shared with friends and family over a great bottle of wine and delicious regional food to match. During our rides we carefully select the local wines for the week, to give you the best wine tasting experience of Spanish wines that often never access other countries.
Spain is the largest vineyard in the world, with more than 100 different grape varieties and 69 denominations of origin. So many grape varieties to taste. Spain is home to the world's largest surface of organic vineyards and 390,000 hectares of 30+-year-old vines in Spain. The country's grape growing heritage is truly remarkable. Spain is Europe's second most mountainous country and mountains play an important role in shaping the landscape and they set the boundaries for different wine regions. Right now, many of Spain’s most exciting wines come from mountain vineyards. as is the case with Gredos, where Garnacha is grown on granite or slate soils, or the Sierra de Salamanca, also in Castilla y León. A great selection of Ribera del Duero and Toro red wines and Rueda whites from Castilla y León, and red and whites from small wineries in other regions of Spain will be offered in all our rides.
In Gredos there is a local wine shop in the small town of El Barco de Ávila, which is one of the top-ten Wine Shops of Spain. They offer more than 1100 different Spanish wines, many of them from regions and small producers you have never heard of. During the rides we organise wine tasting and a pairing dinner hosted by the family owners – we never get to taste all 1100 different wines though!
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Spanish Local wines
Non-riders
Bespoke groups and families
Trip extensions
On all our tours non-riders can enjoy themselves just as much as they could by taking any trip to that region of Spain and still spend a good part of the time with the riders. Non-riders can hire a car and visit the interesting tourist spots in the area. They can re-join the riders in the evening for dinner and split off again after breakfast the following morning. We will provide information on the area, suggest itineraries, and connect with local guides and any place of interest, local artisans, or a small bar in a village where the local meet. On some of the ride, some of the days, non-riders can go in the support vehicle and join the riders for the aperitivos and lunches in the countryside too. Gredos is our home and we have great flexibility and many local contacts to organise activities for non-riders. The Gredos itineraries can be adapted for cycling (ideal for road cycling and E-bikes and there are good paths and beautiful remote empty roads and villages with the greatest views); walking or hiking: fit walkers can follow some of the itineraries the riders do and then we can organise local drivers to meet the walkers and take them to the hotel; hiking or trekking in the Gredos high mountains for fit skilful trekking adepts is magnificent. Birdwatching, flyfishing, stargazing, wine tasting, history and local traditions… there is plenty to do for non-riders in the Gredos rides. And there is also a Rural Spa, where one can relax and enjoy a massage. In the Segovia rides, hiking, cycling and history and culture tours are great options. In Sevilla the sandy trails are best on a horse-carriage that can be privately organised for the non-riders to accompany the riders for 3 or 4 days during the ride and the visit of the city of Sevilla offers many attractions of history, traditions and gastronomy. In Menorca, fit hikers can follow the horses hooves or visit the island or rest in the exquisite hotels reading a book by the pool or on the beach.
We can customize our equestrian vacations for private groups such as small parties, family gatherings or groups of friends. We can create a trip for a group with special interests or around a special event, or create an exclusive tour including trip extensions with our customizable concierge services. Our riding trips are designed for competent riders. They can be tailored for private groups or families with mixed riding abilities, from beginners to advanced riders. In Gredos, we can schedule a trip at a special date and the amount of riding or the riding itinerary could be optimized for the group. The riding trips can be combined with other activities such as cycling, walking, bird-watching, activities ones for children, or special interests such as cooking, wine tasting, or learning Spanish. We customize intimate, fun, rich, flexible and memorable experiences. We offer some options but we can adapt to new requests an adapt to a wide range of needs or interests.
Our carefully crafted trip extensions, before and/or after the ride, capture the essence of an authentic Spain.
We are passionate about Spain, its history, its nature, its traditions, its joy, and its lifestyle - and the Spanish food and wines, of course. Every ride is a true immersion into the culture of Spain. We design our trip extensions so that every day is a hans-selected experience specifically designed for you to learn something different about our fascinating country.
Accommodation and transport can be tailored to guests’ wishes and needs in the itinerary that will fit the travellers best.
We select the people that will provide each service included in the trip by their professionalism, knowledge, and enthusiasm, and they will go the extra mile to ensure you get the best experience. They will contribute to creating special moments and memories of your trip to the hidden Spain.
Gredos rides trip extensions can include Madrid and Ávila. Segovia rides: Madrid and Segovia. Menorca trips: Mahón and Ciutadella. Sevilla trips: Sevilla, Cordoba, Granada, the Royal School of Equestrian Art. We can include thematic extensions such as horse-breeding farms or horse related activities; museums and art galleries; wineries and incredibly special restaurants; or even visits of private gardens or outings with special guides/hosts.
On all our tours non-riders can enjoy themselves just as much as they could by taking any trip to that region of Spain and still spend a good part of the time with the riders. Non-riders can hire a car and visit the interesting tourist spots in the area. They can re-join the riders in the evening for dinner and split off again after breakfast the following morning. We will provide information on the area, suggest itineraries, and connect with local guides and any place of interest, local artisans, or a small bar in a village where the local meet. On some of the ride, some of the days, non-riders can go in the support vehicle and join the riders for the aperitivos and lunches in the countryside too. Gredos is our home and we have great flexibility and many local contacts to organise activities for non-riders. The Gredos itineraries can be adapted for cycling (ideal for road cycling and E-bikes and there are good paths and beautiful remote empty roads and villages with the greatest views); walking or hiking: fit walkers can follow some of the itineraries the riders do and then we can organise local drivers to meet the walkers and take them to the hotel; hiking or trekking in the Gredos high mountains for fit skilful trekking adepts is magnificent. Birdwatching, flyfishing, stargazing, wine tasting, history and local traditions… there is plenty to do for non-riders in the Gredos rides. And there is also a Rural Spa, where one can relax and enjoy a massage. In the Segovia rides, hiking, cycling and history and culture tours are great options. In Sevilla the sandy trails are best on a horse-carriage that can be privately organised for the non-riders to accompany the riders for 3 or 4 days during the ride and the visit of the city of Sevilla offers many attractions of history, traditions and gastronomy. In Menorca, fit hikers can follow the horses hooves or visit the island or rest in the exquisite hotels reading a book by the pool or on the beach. CLOSE
Non-riders
We can customize our equestrian vacations for private groups such as small parties, family gatherings or groups of friends. We can create a trip for a group with special interests or around a special event, or create an exclusive tour including trip extensions with our customizable concierge services. Our riding trips are designed for competent riders. They can be tailored for private groups or families with mixed riding abilities, from beginners to advanced riders. In Gredos, we can schedule a trip at a special date and the amount of riding or the riding itinerary could be optimized for the group. The riding trips can be combined with other activities such as cycling, walking, bird-watching, activities ones for children, or special interests such as cooking, wine tasting, or learning Spanish. We customize intimate, fun, rich, flexible and memorable experiences. We offer some options but we can adapt to new requests an adapt to a wide range of needs or interests. CLOSE
Bespoke groups and families
Our carefully crafted trip extensions, before and/or after the ride, capture the essence of an authentic Spain.
We are passionate about Spain, its history, its nature, its traditions, its joy, and its lifestyle - and the Spanish food and wines, of course. Every ride is a true immersion into the culture of Spain. We design our trip extensions so that every day is a hans-selected experience specifically designed for you to learn something different about our fascinating country.
Accommodation and transport can be tailored to guests’ wishes and needs in the itinerary that will fit the travellers best.
We select the people that will provide each service included in the trip by their professionalism, knowledge, and enthusiasm, and they will go the extra mile to ensure you get the best experience. They will contribute to creating special moments and memories of your trip to the hidden Spain.
Gredos rides trip extensions can include Madrid and Ávila. Segovia rides: Madrid and Segovia. Menorca trips: Mahón and Ciutadella. Sevilla trips: Sevilla, Cordoba, Granada, the Royal School of Equestrian Art. We can include thematic extensions such as horse-breeding farms or horse related activities; museums and art galleries; wineries and incredibly special restaurants; or even visits of private gardens or outings with special guides/hosts.
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Trip extensions