Equestrian Experience on an Alentejo Family Farm
There are places rooted in tradition — and then there are places shaped entirely by it.
This farm holiday invites you into the daily rhythms of an Alentejo family whose life revolves around Lusitanos, cattle, and the land they have stewarded for generations.
Beneath vast skies and among ancient holm oak pastures, your days unfold through authentic farm life: riding highly trained Lusitanos, learning Vaquera and Garrochista traditions, and experiencing cattle work guided with quiet precision, trust, and respect.
This is horsemanship deeply connected to heritage, instinct, and the natural rhythm of the land.
Herdade da Carapuca
Owned by the Moura Tavares family for over a century, Herdade da Carapuça is rooted in the traditions of Alentejo cattle farming and Lusitano breeding.
Set among rolling hills, cork oak forests, and vast open skies, the landscape feels timeless. On clear days the views stretch towards the Spanish border, while the evenings bring deep silence, star-filled skies, and unforgettable sunsets.
Today the family continues to breed quality Lusitanos alongside the native Alentejana cattle — preserving a way of life shaped by generations of horsemanship and connection to the land.
The farm follows traditional Vaquera and Garrochista methods, where Lusitanos work cattle calmly and instinctively from horseback.
Guided with quiet precision and respect, the horses learn to manage cattle with minimal stress — whether moving herds, separating calves, or working across the open pastureland.
Guests are welcomed into this authentic rhythm of rural life through small-group experiences designed to offer genuine connection to the horses, the cattle, and the culture of the Alentejo.
WHO WILL BE YOUR GUIDE?
Shaped by the traditions of the Alentejo, Lusitanos and cattle move with Bernardo in an unspoken partnership — a connection formed through trust, land, and generations of horsemanship.
Bernardo has spent his life working horses and cattle in the traditional Alentejo way. While modern machinery is sometimes used on the farm, much of the work is still carried out from horseback — preserving the calm precision and deep connection between Lusitano, rider, and cattle that defines the Vaquera tradition.
The Lusitanos are highly trained working horses, combining agility, balance, and responsiveness developed through real farm work and classical training. During your stay, Bernardo will guide you through this rare and authentic experience with patience, confidence, and quiet expertise.
What you can expect during your farm retreat
Our farm holidays are designed for small groups, creating a more personal and immersive learning experience.
Your days include :
- Arena lessons with the working Lusitanos
- Introduction to Vaquera and Garrochista riding traditions
- Garrocha training
- Riding out with the cattle
- Natural working equitation obstacles
- Rides to a neighbouring quinta
- Visit to local saddle maker
- Dinner with the family and traditional Alentejo cuisine
- Lessons in the arena.
- Rides out with the cattle.
- working equitation skills out on the land.
- Accommodation in a stunning Alentejo barn conversion.
- Bedroom en suite, sitting room and kitchen.
- Meals
- Not included Flights, Airport Transfers, personal insurance. Going out there are ample heritage sites to see and high quality local restaurants in the area, You can also prepare your own meals in the beautifully designed and well appointed kitchen
- Lessons in the arena.
- Rides out with the cattle.
- working equitation skills out on the land.
- Accommodation in a stunning Alentejo barn conversion.
- Bedroom en suite, sitting room and kitchen.
- Meals.
- Package Price 1980 euros per person.
- Not included Flights, Airport Transfers, personal insurance. Going out there are ample heritage sites to see and high quality local restaurants in the area, You can also prepare your own meals in the beautifully designed and well appointed kitchen.
- Lessons in the arena.
- Rides out with the cattle.
- working equitation skills.
- Long ride out to neighbouring farm & lunch.
- Accommodation in Alentejo barn conversion.
- Bedroom en suite, sitting room and kitchen.
- Meals.
- Package Price 3180 euros per person.
- Not included Flights, Airport Transfers, personal insurance. Going out there are ample heritage sites to see and high quality local restaurants in the area, You can also prepare your own meals in the beautifully designed and well appointed kitchen.
- Lessons in the arena.
- Rides out with the cattle.
- working equitation skills.
- Long ride out to neighbouring farm & lunch.
- Accommodation in Alentejo barn conversion.
- Bedroom en suite, sitting room and kitchen.
- Meals.
- Package Price 3780 euros per person
- Not included Flights, Airport Transfers, personal insurance. Going out there are ample heritage sites to see and high quality local restaurants in the area, You can also prepare your own meals in the beautifully designed and well appointed kitchen.
WHERE WILL YOU BE STAYING?
Thoughtfully restored accommodation blending Alentejo heritage, understated luxury, and the quiet rhythm of life on the farm.
What you need to bring
Guests should feel confident riding in open countryside and comfortable around horses.
Recommended riding attire –
- Riding Helmet
- boots
- riding trousers
- long sleeve tops and sun protection as it can be strong sun.
- In winter warm water proof clothing
Group Size
Farm holidays are limited to a maximum of four riders per week, creating a more personal and authentic experience. Non-riding partners are welcome and can enjoy the surrounding countryside, historic towns, and local culture.
Transfers & Travel
Transfers to and from Lisbon Airport can be arranged at approximately €360 each way per vehicle.
Many guests also choose to hire a car, allowing time to explore the Alentejo’s historic villages, restaurants, and landscapes during their stay. Trains are another option.
As a relitively new International Traveller. I found the HC farm and family FAR exceeded every expectation! It is was so much more than just a “resort”. the horses clearly love Bernando and their lifestyle here in the Alentejo hills. To be welcomed by the family and to share a meal in this beautiful setting was lovely. Our riding will most definitely be affected in a positive way! Portugal and HC have left an indellable mark on our HEARTS ! We hope to return soon.
October 2024. Melanie Hunter, Jen Johnson, Carrie St Clair. – Columbus OH USA
Welcomed by the family and to share a meal with them Magic!
One of the most amazing experiences of my life!! Thank you to Ana, Bernardo and the family for sharing your home, your horses and your culture with us! Bernardo you are an amazing horseman and an excellent riding instructor. Humaine is a very patience horse 🙂 I will take what I have learnt from you and continue to grow as a rider with my horses. The farm the cattle the fresh air everyday. The pastures, the hills, the trees no words to describe the peace of this counrtyside and the majoc of this adventure with my friend Lise Heblan has brought me.
We will see you again next year!
Cheryl Quast Stonehedge Stable, Cadshill, Ontario Canada
March 2024
One of the most amazing experiences of my life!
No Words No pictures can describe the magic that I experienced here at your beautifully restored farm. This experience was life changing for me. The vacation here exceeded all my expectations from the stunning accommodations to the excellent instruction from Bernardo. The suprior horses and the cultural immersion, the magestic cattle and all the while being enveloped by breathtaking views. And so warmly received by your hospitality.
The fresh baking and fresh friut kept me well fed Thank you!
I have learned so much ! Thank you Bernardo for your hard work. Obrigada por esta experienca! incrivel que ficara comigo!
Lise Le Blanc. Ontario Canada March 2024
No Words No pictures can describe the magic that I experienced here!
Nestled in teh stunning landscape of the Alenetejo Portugal, HC is a hidden gem. It offers a unique experience blending classical dressage and authentic traditional farming. From teh moment we arrived there Ana , Bernardo and the children welcomed us with open arms and made us feel very much treasured guests.
My first passage and canter piruoette – I will NEVER forget.
Watching the horses working in harmony while managing “defending” the cattle was mesmerising.
HC is more than just a farm, it´s a place were tradition, education and family values converge.
We won´t ever forget this eperience and you!
August 2024
My first passage and canter pirouette I will never forget!