Quinta do Rol

I felt at home with the family at Quinta do Rol. Rita was welcoming from the moment I arrived, and everyone, from reception and housekeeping to the kitchen staff, was friendly and helpful. The riding instructors deserve a special mention too. I’d love to come back. I stayed solo for a week, with five riding days and two rides a day. The stables, both indoor and semi-outdoor, were gorgeous and well kept, and there’s a lovely room with a glass window where you can watch the action when you’re not riding. The horses are very well trained. Instructor João knew them well and started me on a gentle, calm horse before moving me onto others, each of which helped me learn something different. He gave precise cues and kept me relaxed. As a novice, I had a lot of fun and learned a great deal. In a week I improved my lateral movement, canter transitions, contact, and suppleness, and tried piaffe, passage, half-pass, and spanish walk for the first time. Portugal is beautiful, and the place is just 15 minutes from the beach.

I loved working equitation, thanks to the fantastic trainers. The Lusitanos were lovely to ride and very responsive, and the wines were lovely too. The vineyards and facilities are stunning. The hosts were wonderful and made me feel at home, and I had a really relaxing stay.

I learned a lot from Miguel and João. They were patient, kind, and knew their stuff, and I came away feeling I’d achieved something after every lesson. The horses are gorgeous, well cared for, and highly trained, and the facilities are spacious, beautiful, and spotless. I took five riding lessons here in November 2022, so this review is long overdue. I had a spectacular time at Quinta do Rol and can’t recommend it enough. I had so much fun and can’t wait to return when I’m in Portugal later this year.

The international guests I met were super friendly and happy to share riding advice. The horse groomers also deserve a mention: they kept the horses in impeccable condition and took time to show me the delicate art of horse care. The horses were fun to ride and completely safe. Lessons with Joao and Rui were a highlight. Their knowledge and patient teaching made each ride fun and enriching, and my skills improved in their expert hands. I also felt a real connection with the beautiful horses I rode. Rita and her team made me feel like part of the family from the moment I arrived. Each meal was a lovely mix of flavors, with care and love behind the food. The days passed with laughter, learning, and warm Portuguese sun. I’m grateful to Rita, Joao, Rui, and everyone at Quinta do Rol. I left with cherished memories and a real wish to come back. Thank you so much.