AUSTRALIA’S NEW SOUTH WALES RIDING ADVENTURE

With the Autumn equinox behind us and winter chills approaching, how do pristine sandy beaches, undulating hills, eucalypt forests, pockets of rainforest and warm sunny days sound? To prolong the summer months, join Equine Adventures on its 8 day, centre-based Kerewong Horse Adventures in Australia’s New South Wales and ride through the extensive network of trails, natural Australian beauty and wildlife of Kerewong State Forest. Tours next depart Port Macquerie 19th October, 2nd, 16th, 30th November and 14th December 2008.

Situated on the New South Wales coast, Kerewong is operated by Kathy Holtrust and offers small groups of experienced riders carefully selected and trained Australian-bred Arabian horses that have the stamina, endurance and temperament to provide some of the world’s best riding! Guests are based at the riding centre, a 30-hectare former nursery, surrounded by extensive gardens, host to numerous native species. Accommodation is provided either in cabins or the main residence, all with superb views. The main property offers wide verandas, ideal to kick back with a cool drink and take in magnificent views of gardens and horse paddocks – or enjoy a refreshing dip in the heated swimming pool. Tours commence with a transfer from Port Macquarie to Kerewong in time to meet fellow guests and horses, before dinner and a good nights sleep. After breakfast, ride through the hilly terrain of Kerewong State Forest, stopping for a creek-side picnic and swim en route. Ride to impressive Comboyne Mountain (670m) for magnificent 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape, cross farmland for an Aussie ‘Morning Tea’ at Pear Trees Farm, nestling in a secluded valley, then cool-off during creek-crossings with ample opportunity to watch indigenous wildlife. Later, enjoy a fantastic beach ride along the Pacific Ocean and possible close encounters with kangaroos. Follow a historic timber railway line to sample produce at a local vineyard, then ride across beautiful green, rolling and fertile farmland of the Comboyne Plateau for ocean views before the holiday concludes next day.

The holiday costs £830 (ride only) including return transfers from Port Macquerie (or Kendall Railway Station), accommodation and most meals, wine with dinner and all riding.

Equine Adventures specialise in tailor making itineraries and is happy to arrange pre and post tour requirements for all clients.

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Equine Companions in Turkey

Equine Adventures has last minute availability on a 7-day horse-riding holiday through Turkey’s ancient Cappadocia, a fantasyland of ‘fairy chimneys’ rock formations, frescoed rock-hewn churches, troglodyte villages and beautiful valleys, departing London 5th October 2008.

The name Cappadocia dates back to Persian times, when the region was known as katpatukya meaning 'Land of Beautiful Horses'. Since that time Cappadocia has seen the rise and fall of many different civilisations, relics of which will be encountered during the ride. Cappadocia is rightly famed for its unique geology, shaped by volcanic activity and the effects of erosion and earthquakes. Layers of ash, lava and basalt form the foundations of this unique landscape of massive plateaux, steep cliffs, spectacular canyons, hidden caves and distinctive ‘fairy chimneys’. Spend the days riding through the magnificent Red, White and Pigeon valleys, meandering within canyons, crossing moon-like plateaux, visiting isolated villages and historical remnants en route. At night, experience legendary Turkish hospitality in a handpicked selection of characterful Anatolian guesthouses. Horses are well-schooled, sure-footed Arabs and Barbe-Arabs. A support vehicle transports luggage and equipment, while a packhorse is used to carry picnic lunches and small items during the rides.
The tour costs £625 p/p including transfers from Kayseri airport, guesthouse accommodation, most meals, horse and tack plus expert guiding.

Flights are not included.

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PACIFIC COAST, ANDES MOUNTAINS AND AN OLYMPIC TRAINER

The 2008 Beijing Olympics may be over but for Equine Adventures, the journey’s only just begun. Gallop along spectacular Pacific beaches spending nights under the stars, then journey into the High Andean mountains, riding through ancient forest, crossing rivers and passing blue lagoons, following in the historical footsteps of the Spanish conquistadors and led by former Spanish Olympic team equestrian trainer, Rodolfo Coombs. Equine Adventures’ 7-day Pacific Coast and Andes Ride, next departs Temuco 16th November and 15th December 2008.

The tour begins with a night to relax in the Mapuche market town of Temuco before transferring by road to the coastal village of Lobería. Here, guests meet their equestrian companions, direct descendants of Spanish conquistadors’ horses. Next day, head out on the only route Mapuche Indians permitted the Spanish colonists to travel, through land which continues to be Chile's stronghold of Mapuche culture and customs. Gallop along miles of magnificent beaches and wade through the turbulent surf of the Pacific Ocean, camping under the stars in igloo-style tents at Puerto Saavedra and at Budi Lake, the only salt-water lake in South America. In the 1960s this entire section of the Southern Chilean Coast was devastated by one of the largest tsunamis in recorded history. Now rebuilt, the area offers many fascinating historical and anthropological sites. Continue along the coastal route to Porma, where horses and riders are transported by road to the protected 200 hectare Huepilmalal Equestrian Centre. Owned by Rodolfo Coombs, the centre is located near Pucón, gateway to northern Chilean Patagonia at the heart of the Andes. The next two days are spent on rides through indigenous ancient forest, interspersed by spectacular volcanoes, snow-capped peaks, transparent lakes and relaxing hot springs, enjoying picnic lunches whilst taking in the magnificent views. Enjoy a final morning’s ride, before transferring back to Temuco for homebound flights.

The tour costs £1,060 p/p (ride only) including return transfers from Temuco Airport, hotel and camp accommodation, camping equipment, most meals, a support vehicle and all riding. Flights are not included but are available through Equine Adventures.

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RIDING IN SOUTH AFRICA’S WATERBERG MOUNTAINS

Ok, so the summer is nearly over - before it began, some may say - and the nights are drawing in... Don't feel cheated - grab your passport, pack up your chaps and head off to where spring has sprung! Equine Adventures still have availability on South African riding holidays that will refuel the soul!

Dinaka Safari
7-nights, departing Johannesburg 22nd November and 6th December 08.
Enjoy spectacular African game viewing, endless horizons, good company, great food, excellent hosts and exceptional horses - all set amongst a 9,000 hectare game reserve located in the majestic Waterberg Mountains. Dinaka is unquestionably for 'lovers of luxury' and those who want a guaranteed game viewing experience including Rhino, Hippo, Buffalo, Giraffe, Leopard and Ostrich. Guests are based in lodges situated high on a ridge overlooking a picturesque lake, offering spectacular views across the plains - a prime spot to relax whilst observing wildlife activities below. As rides are taken during the cooler hours of the day when the game is more active, there is plenty of time to relax and chill-out in the plunge pool.
The safari costs from £1640 p/p including transfers from Johannesburg, luxury thatch lodge accommodation, most meals, locally made drinks and all riding.

Horizon Horseback Adventure
7-nights, next departing Johannesburg 20th September and 3rd October 08 (other dates available)
Guests are based at Horizons Triple B Ranch in Limpopo Province, an area renowned for its wilderness, reflected in its status as a UNESCO recognised Biosphere Reserve. Triple B is a working cattle and game ranch where willing riders can lend a hand during the mustering of Bonsmara cattle from amongst over 20,000 acres of superb riding country. Wildlife highlights include Giraffe, Zebra, Baboon and Warthog, as well as numerous bird species. Enjoy clear blue skies, breathtaking views and vast open spaces - and for the even more adventurous, a challenging cross-country course with over 40 taxing open jumps. Round up the day with a sundowner, exquisite cuisine, great company and a good nights sleep. Horizon is ideal for all abilities - from experienced riders who want to spend quality time playing with horses to beginners and family groups.

The safari costs from £1,170 p/p including transfers from Johannesburg, farm lodge accommodation, most meals and locally made drinks, laundry and all riding.

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DRESSAGE, JUMPING & TRAIL RIDING IN PORTUGAL

The 2008 Olympic Equestrian Teams have seen some excitement – from the US claiming Gold after a ‘jump-off’ and Norway winning its first Equestrian medal, to the Netherlands retaining gold for a record third time… To get a piece of the action – or even brush-up on vital skills in preparation to apply for the 2012 London Olympic Jumping or Dressage Teams, Equine Adventures’ offer two centre-based, Portuguese ‘trail and training’ horse-riding holidays. Tours combine trail rides with expert equitation tuition from Olympic Show Jumper, Antonio Vozone and internationally renowned dressage rider, Miguel Magalhaes.

Portugal has a strong equestrian tradition dating back to pre-Roman times and has produced many fine international riders. With a temperate climate, stunning landscapes of olive groves, cork trees and vineyards, it is an ideal year round riding destination. Based at Hippikos Equestrian Centre on the border of the Peneda-Geres National Park, riders explore the beautiful Green Coast of Portugal’s north-west whilst learning classical dressage or improving show jumping skills. Choose from 25 horses including Hanovarians, Holsteiners, Oldenburgs, Bradenburgers and Selle Francais as well as a number of world-famous Lusitanos. All are well schooled and able to do flying changes, tempi changes, Spanish walk, lateral work, extended trot, half pass, and work on long lines. For time out of the saddle, relax by the indoor pool, explore the stunning landscape on foot, play tennis or visit tranquil, nearby beaches.

Classical Dressage Training & Trail Riding - 7 days, departs Porto every Sunday.
Classical dressage lessons are taken on skilfully trained horses, with internationally renowned dressage rider, Miguel Magalhaes, and David Alves. Ride for between three and four hours a day, including two 60-minute sessions of flatwork training, mainly concentrating on outline, transitions, lateral movement and flying changes (depending on ability), and a trail ride.
The holiday costs £1,099 p/p (ride only) including return transfers, guesthouse accommodation, most meals and all riding.

Show Jumping & Trail Riding - 7 days, departs Porto every Sunday.
The programme is run by Olympic show jumper, Antonio Vozone, and Francisco Fleming. Combine flat work and jumping on highly trained horses. Ride for between three and four hours a day, including one 60-minute flat work lesson and one 60-minute session over jumps, followed by a trail ride.
The holiday costs £1,099 p/p including return transfers, guesthouse accommodation, most meals and all riding.

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NEW TOUR - POMINO AND MUGELLO WILDERNESS TRAIL RIDE

Stylish, cultured, good humoured and yet volatile - Italy, with its golden light, stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage has inspired poets and painters for centuries. Equine Adventures’ offers a new tour, riding deep into Tuscany’s spectacular landscape through the heart of the Casentino-Pomino, Chianti Rufina and Mugello regions. Discover the dramatic Mugellos wilderness, take in some of the world’s top wine regions, soak up Tuscan history, and indulge in local gastronomic delights accompanied by superb wines – the epitome of a perfect holiday and with a one-off saving of £60 p/p! Equine Adventures’ new 8-day Pomino & Mugello Trail departs 27th September 2008.

From Florence, guests spend an initial night at the 18th century Villa de Colognole estate, arriving in time for an aperitif before dinner followed by a good night’s sleep. After breakfast, meet up with equine companions then ride along national park tracks and through local vineyards before returning to Colognole for a delicious Tuscan-style lunch and an afternoon relaxing by the pool. Next up, enjoy a full day riding through the Pomino winemaking region before reaching overnight accommodation in a converted olive mill, high in the Pomino hills overlooking the Frescobaldi vineyards. Continue through the Pomino and Sieve valley areas, crossing rivers and taking in the spectacular views over the Chianti Rufina and Molin di Piano regions. Spend a night at Casa Cheli above Pontassive, where guests enjoy an al fresco dinner and drink locally produced wines. Continue into the Mugello region passing two prominent castles, then overnight at a Medician Villa, famous for being the country getaway for some of Florence’s most prominent artists. Ride up to the summit of Monte Giove, through forests and along old partisan tracks, stopping at Bottega restaurant for a lunch of local specialities before returning through vineyards back to the estate. A final day can be spent relaxing by the pool taking in the Tuscan sun, or sightseeing in Florence, before the holiday concludes next day.

The holiday costs £935 p/p (usually from £995 p/p) (September departure) including return transfers from Pontassieve train station (Florence), villa accommodation, most meals, wine with evening meals and all riding.

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DESERT EXPLORER HORSE RIDING HOLIDAY - JORDAN

Ever dreamed of galloping through unspoiled valleys of biblical lands, crossing the mystical landscape of Lawrence of Arabia, riding through canyons and gorges on the finest-bred Arabian horses, and spending nights under star-filled desert skies? Explore Jordan’s ‘King’s Highway’ and the unique rock-hewn Nabataean city of Petra, during Equine Adventures’ 10-day riding adventure from the deserts of the Wadi Rum to the Red Sea shores at Aqaba, next departs Amman 19th September and 10th October 2008. (Other dates available).

After arrival in Amman, the adventure begins by vehicle with a visit to the King’s Highway, an area rich in archaeological sites dating back to the Hebrews, King Solomon, the Crusaders and Saladin. Next day, continue by road to explore the ancient city of Petra, described by D.Burgen as ‘the rose city, half the age of time’. The site was at the heart of the ancient Nabataen kingdom, with many tombs and temples still remaining, all hewn out of the living pink sandstone rock, amongst the canyons of Jordan’s south. Later, transfer by road to Wadi Rum, then saddle-up for 5-days of exhilarating desert riding on well-schooled Arabs, retracing many of Lawrence’s trails. Set off through the expanses of Jordan’s desert landscape, venturing deep into canyons, passing immense sand dunes, stony plains, valleys and dry oases. Experience the towering wind-sculpted rock formations, including the ‘Seven Pillars of Wisdom’ immortalised in Lawrence’s writings, visiting Bedouin tribes along the way. Whilst in the desert, riders sleep under the stars or in tents, meals are prepared over an open fire, while watching the sun set. Finally, transfer by road for 2-nights in Aqaba, searching for souvenirs in the colourful souks, or relaxing along the coral-rich coast of the Red Sea, before returning to Amman for homeward flights.

The tour costs from £995 p/p (ride only) plus a local payment of US$50 p/p payable on arrival in Amman. The cost includes transfers, 4-nights hotel and 5-nights camp accommodation, most meals, baggage transfers during ride, horse, tack and expertly guided activities. Visas will be issued on arrival in Jordan at a cost of US$15.

Click here for Horse Riding Holiday - Jordan Explorer