Your safety, the welfare of the horses, and the protection of our environment and property are central to our
operations.
All visitors, clients, participants, owners, and providers must comply with the following rules.
5.1 Mandatory Compliance with On-Site Safety Policies
You agree to comply with:
• Health & Safety procedures
• Fire Safety Instructions
• Accident & Emergency Procedures
• Yard Rules
• Retreat House Rules
• Stable and Arena Rules
• Any posted signs or verbal instructions
These on-site documents form part of these Terms.
Failure to follow safety instructions may result in removal from the premises without refund.
5.2 Behaviour Around Horses
Participants, visitors, and owners must:
• Approach horses only with permission
• Never feed horses without authorisation
• Follow staff instructions at all times
• Maintain calm, respectful behaviour
• Avoid sudden movements, shouting, or behaviours that may startle horse
We reserve the right to stop any session, lesson, retreat, or activity if we judge behaviour to be unsafe.
5.3 Personal Responsibility & Assumption of Risk
Working with and around horses involves inherent risks.
By entering the premises or participating in activities, you accept that:
• Horses are unpredictable
• Riding carries risk of injury
• Even well-trained horses can behave unpredictably
• You are responsible for your own safety and choices
You participate voluntarily and at your own risk.
5.4 Helmets & Riding Equipment
All riders must wear:
• CE-approved riding helmet
• Suitable footwear
• Appropriate riding attire
We are not responsible for providing riding equipment unless specified.
Riders not wearing approved equipment may be refused access to horses.
5.5 Retreat House, Stables & Property Conduct
Participants must:
• Respect quiet hours
• Use facilities responsibly
• Leave shared spaces clean
• Follow check-in/out times
• Avoid restricted areas
• Use equipment with care
• Keep personal belongings secure (we are not liable for theft or loss)
Damage caused by negligence will be charged to the client.
5.6 Dogs & Animals
For safety and welfare reasons:
Dogs are not permitted on the property, either indoors or outdoors, unless expressly authorised in writing
for a specific purpose. This applies to all visitors, participants, and clients.
5.7 Fire Safety
You must:
• Familiarise yourself with fire exits
• Follow any evacuation instructions
• Not smoke on the property
• Not use candles, open flames, or personal heaters
• Not tamper with safety equipment
We reserve the right to charge for misuse or damage to fire safety systems.
5.8 Accidents & Reporting
Any accident, injury, or incident involving:
• people
• horses
• property
must be reported immediately to a member of staff. We maintain accident logs as part of our safety
compliance.
5.9 Alcohol, Drugs & Behaviour
For safety:
• No alcohol before riding or horse handling
• No recreational drugs on site
• Misconduct, aggression, harassment, or unsafe behaviour will result in immediate removal
without refund
We reserve the right to refuse participation to anyone we believe may pose a risk to themselves or others.
5.10 Environmental Care
Vila Ascensão is a protected natural environment. All clients agree to:
• Respect the land
• Protect ancient trees
• Dispose of waste responsibly
• Avoid damaging flora or fauna
We may charge for environmental damage caused by negligence