NEW - INDIAN CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR

Britain didn’t have an Indian summer this year… However, there is an opportunity to head off on an Indian Christmas and New Year. Ride the famous Marwari horses across beautiful and varied landscapes of Rajasthan - through forest, across semi-desert, over rocky hills and passing tribal villages, staying in forts, palaces and under canvas – the perfect horseback adventure! Equine Adventures’ NEW 14-day Rajasthan’s New Year Ride departs Delhi 22nd December 2008.

From Delhi, transfer by air to Udaipur in time for an afternoon visit to the City Palace and Jagdish Temple, before continuing to Kumbal Garh next day. Here, meet up with equine companions - locally bred Marwari horses, with their characteristic inward-curling ears, descendants of the splendid war horses that served the ruling families and warriors of feudal India. The ride follows trails through forests and wildlife reserves, across deserts, past villages and along the foothills of the Aravalli Hills. Experience spectacular panoramas, stopping for freshly prepared lunches en route and staying in converted forts, castles, palaces and a luxury camp along the way. Spend Christmas Day riding through some of Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary’s 578 km² - surrounding Kumbhalgarh Fort and host to leopard, sloth bear and chaisingh (four horned antelope), before reaching Ghanerao Royal Castle and a traditional Rajasthani feast. Journey west across the rugged slopes of the Aravalli Range, along dry riverbeds and over sand dunes to Bhadrajun Castle, also known as the Pink Castle, in time for New Year’s Eve. Later, visit Jodhpur Fort en route to Delhi and take in a sight seeing tour of the city before homeward flights.

The holiday costs £1,995 p/p (land only) including transfers, internal flights, fort, palace, camp and hotel accommodation, most meals and all riding. Flights are not included but are available through Equine Adventures.

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NEW CYPRUS HORSEBACK ADVENTURE

Explore the beautiful Cypriot countryside on horseback across gentle hills, through remote valleys or along pristine beaches and rocky coastlines, develop riding skills during intensive lessons, or relax in the pool. Equine Adventures’ NEW 7-day Drapia in Winter ride offers experienced riders extra hours in the saddle – along with some winter sun, AND if booked before 24th December 08, save 10% plus a further £50 early booking discount! Holidays depart Larnaca NOW till 31st March 09.

Guests are based in traditional, recently renovated and fully equipped apartments in the picturesque village of Tochni. Surrounded by gentle hills and beautiful valleys of orange groves, it is the perfect location from which to explore the area on horseback or just sit back and relax. Numerous trails are on offer and rides begin each day from Drapia Farm, a short drive away, an idyllic, year-round destination. Enjoy two full-day trail rides across gentle hills, through remote valleys or along pristine beaches and rocky coastlines, enjoying picnic lunches en route. On remaining days choose between two-hour trail rides or develop skills during intensive one-hour lessons. After a day in the saddle, take a dip in the swimming pool before enjoying delicious meals in the nearby restaurant. For time out of the saddle, discover the region on foot or by bike, or for those who would like to explore further afield Equine Adventures would be happy to arrange car hire.

The holiday now costs £526 (land only) (was £640 – SAVE £114) including transfers from Larnaca airport, half-board accommodation and all riding. Car hire costs £155 for 6-days. (£248 for non-riders – was £275 SAVE £27).

Alternatively, for beginners, children (6yrs – 12yrs) or those wishing to improve their riding skills;

The Drapia Ride - 7-days, daily departures from Larnaca throughout 08/09 – AND if booked before 24th December 08 comes with a 10% early booking discount.
The holiday now costs £441 p/p (land only) (was £490 – SAVE £49) including transfers from Larnaca airport, half-board accommodation and all riding. Car hire costs £155 for 6-days. (£248 for non-riders – was £275 – SAVE £27).

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NEW EQUINE ADVENTURES 2009/10 BROCHURE

Equine Adventures’ new 2009 brochure offers the most comprehensive range of riding holidays to date including 20 new rides in Europe, Asia, South America and Africa, and features Zambia, Cyprus and Peru for the first time. As an extra incentive, Equine Adventures now offers savings of up to £100 p/p for returning customers through its new Chameleon Club loyalty scheme, plus discounts on any tours featured in the 2009 brochure if booked before 24th December 2008 – there’s never been a better time to pack up the jods and head off for adventure!

Examples of NEW riding holidays include:

CYPRUS – The Drapia Ride: 7-days, daily departures from Larnaca throughout 08/09
Costs £441 p/p (normally £490) if booked before 24th December 08
Based at Drapia Farm, set amongst a beautiful valley of orange groves and surrounded by gentle hills, the holiday is suitable for non-riders, beginners and experienced riders. Explore the beautiful Cypriot countryside on horseback across gentle hills, through remote valleys or along pristine beaches and rocky coastlines, develop riding skills during intensive lessons, or relax in the pool.

PERU – Peru’s Sacred Valley of the Incas: 12-days, next departs Cuzco 16th April 09
Costs £2,965 p/p
Discover Peru’s ancient history and impressive scenery on purebred Peruvian Paso horses. Follow secluded mountain trails, pass isolated Quechua and Q’enco Indian villages and visit Inca ruins including Machu Picchu. Spend nights in hotels near some of the world’s most spectacular sites, and camp by lakes with breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains.

ZAMBIA – Kafue Horse Safari: 8-days, next departs Lusaka 10th March 09
Costs £2,715 p/p
Explore Kafue National Park, Zambia's oldest and largest NP and one of Africa’s newest riding destinations, offering a vast and impressive range of scenery and wildlife. Ride through huge teak forests, across endless open plains and along the shoreline of Lake Itezhi-tezhi, enjoy an optional guided safari walk and spend a night under the stars.

USA – Tanque Verde Ranch: 8-days, daily departures from Tucson beginning 16th December 08
Costs £1,287 p/p (normally £1,430) if booked before 24th December 08
Located in the lush desert foothills of the Rincon Mountains, the ranch offers riding for all abilities with plenty of additional activities ideal for non-riders, families, or for those wishing to combine riding and relaxation. Ride amongst the pristine Sonoran desert, enjoy guided hiking and mountain biking, or relax in the outdoor spas.

Click here to see the full range of horseriding holidays.

FOOTSTEPS OF CONQUISTADORS

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. Equine Adventures’ 7-day Pacific Coast and Andes Ride, led by former Spanish Olympic team equestrian trainer, Rodolfo Coombs, next departs Temuco 4th January and 1st March 2009.

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 custom. 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 returning to Temuco for homeward flights.

The tour costs £1,190 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.

Click here to see more South American riding holidays.

RAJASTHAN’S NAGAUR FAIR

British Summer Time has ended and only short winter days and frosty mornings are on the UK’s itinerary for the foreseeable future. However, before hibernation and the January sales set in, head for some winter sun in the princely state of Rajasthan for an alternative ‘sale’ at the region’s famous Nagaur Fair. Ride beautiful Marwari horses through the Thar Desert, visit the spectacular sights of Delhi, Jaisalmer, Jaipur and Jodhpur, stay in luxury desert camps, forts and palaces along the way and perhaps bid for a beast! Equine Adventures still has availability on its 16-day Nagaur Fair Ride, departing Delhi 23rd January 2009.

Nagaur Fair is one of the largest cattle fairs in the country, held annually between late January and early February – depending on the full moon. Situated half way between Bikaner and Jodphur, the quaint town of Nagaur fills with throngs of cattle, horses and camels, accompanied by their colourfully turbaned owners. There is earnest bargaining between owners and buyers, and plenty of fun and festivity including a tug-of-war, camel races and performances by folk musicians and dancers. The Mirchi Bazaar (Red Chilli Market) is one of the main attractions, with local crafts, cloth and jewellery for sale.
The tour starts with an initial night in Delhi, before travellers take a sleeper train to Bikaner from where the horseback safari commences. 5-nights are spent exploring remote regions of the Thar Desert on locally bred Marwari horses – notable for their characteristic inward-curling ears. Descendants of the splendid war horses that served the ruling families and warriors of feudal India, mounts come from stables at Dundlod Castle, home of Kanwar Raghuvendra Singh, AKA Bonnie, the ride’s host. A full day is spent at Nagaur Fair, enjoying the festivities on foot and horseback. Other highlights include visits to the 12th century desert stronghold of Jaisalmer, the ‘Blue City’ of Jodhpur (home of the riding breeches!) and the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur. Accommodation varies from impressive forts and palaces, once the private residences of Rajput rulers, to nights spent in luxury safari-style tented camps, fully furnished and carpeted, in the Thar Desert.

The holiday costs £2,805 p/p (ride only) including transfers, hotel and deluxe-tented accommodation, most meals, horse, tack and expertly guided activities.


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AUTUMNAL ANDALUSIA

Want to postpone the donning of ‘thermals’ for winter rides a little longer? Get tacked-up ready to canter through the surf, explore the beautiful Andalusian countryside, learn new equestrian skills and develop haute ecole techniques during Equine Adventures’ 7-night Train & Trail horse riding holiday in Spain. Holidays depart Seville every Sunday throughout 2008.

From Seville, guests are transferred to the impressive 16th century, family-run Epona hacienda, offering a high level of equestrian tuition and facilities. Spend the evening strolling around the narrow streets of Carmona, Europe’s oldest continually inhabited village, before savouring the delights of local cuisine under an indigo sky. After breakfast, trail-rides allow riders the opportunity to explore stunning Andalusian countryside, passing impressive 16th and 17th century haciendas and cortijos, which have stood since Cervantes rode these same trails collecting olive oil taxes. Return to Epona for lunch followed by a refreshing swim in the pool or an afternoon siesta. Improve flatwork or jumping skills and techniques during equitation lessons, which take place late afternoon when the air is cooler. Visit Jerez de la Frontera, the world-famous centre for sherry production where the main attraction of the day is the Real Escuela Andaluza del Arte Ecuestra, a classical equestrian show 'How the Andalusian Horses Dance'. Watch the magnificent Andalusian stallions at their best, in the beautiful 18th century riding hall, performing piaffe, passage and 'airs above the ground' such as courbette and capriole. Later, canter through surf during an unforgettable beach ride at Donana Natural Park bordering the National Park of the same name, one of Europe's last true wilderness regions and one of the largest wildlife reserves in Spain. Finally, a visit to Seville for an evening of classical Flamenco, including over twenty dancers of national and international fame, traditional singers and flamenco guitar, is a fitting conclusion to the holiday.

The tour costs from £920 p/p (land only) including transfers, accommodation, most meals, free wine with meals at Epona, guided visits to Jerez and Donana, and all riding.
Tickets for the Real Escuela Andaluza del Arte Ecuestra in Jerez, Flamenco Show in Seville and two meals, (one in Carmona and the other in Seville) are not included and are paid for locally.

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DRESSAGE, JUMPING & TRAIL IN PORTUGAL

The world’s most famous equestrian event, The Horse of the Year Show, has celebrated its Diamond Jubilee with a mix of prestigious showing and show jumping championships plus an exclusive Dressage to Music demo from Katie Price – aka Jordan, to the sounds of her husband Peter Andre’s hit Mysterious Girl… If you’re not quite ready for the ‘big time’ (along with burning spotlights, 56,000 spectators and musical accompaniment), Equine Adventures’ offer two centre-based, Portuguese horse-riding holidays combining trail rides with expert equitation tuition from internationally renowned dressage rider Miguel Magalhaes, João Silva - an accomplished eventing rider/instructor, Francisco Fleming - one of Portugal's top ten show-jumpers, and David Alves.

Portugal has a strong equestrian tradition dating back to pre-Roman times producing 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, owned by Olympic Show Jumper Antonio Vozone, riders explore the beautiful Costa Verde of Portugal’s northwest whilst learning classical dressage or improving show jumping skills. During dressage lessons, ride skilfully trained horses, most of them world-famous Lusitanos, that are able to do flying changes (tempi changes), lateral work (half pass, leg yielding, shoulders in), extended trot, canter pirouettes, piaffe, passage, Spanish walk and work on the 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 (2007 Vice-Champion of Portugal) 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.

Show Jumping & Trail Riding - 7 days, departs Porto every Sunday.
The programme is run by João Silva, an accomplished eventing rider / instructor and Francisco Fleming, who consistently ranks as one of Portugal's top ten show-jumpers. 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.

Holidays costs from £1,099 p/p (ride only) including return transfers, guesthouse accommodation, most meals and all riding.

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