History At A Canter – Riding in Spain
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7 Nights From: GBP £2,833 pp sharing
Ride Through Segovia’s Historic Landscapes On Horseback
Ride through the timeless landscapes of Segovia, where medieval villages, ancient castles and open Castilian countryside create a remarkable journey from the saddle.
This Segovia Horse Ride is a wonderful way to experience the history, culture and landscapes of central Spain from the saddle. Set in Castilla y León, this eight-day riding holiday begins and ends in the UNESCO-listed city of Segovia, travelling through medieval villages, historic castles, ancient forests and open Castilian countryside. The ride is best suited to advanced riders who enjoy an active pace and plenty of time in the saddle.
What makes this horse riding holiday in Spain so special is the combination of excellent riding and remarkable historic sites. Follow the Eresma and Cega rivers, ride through the forests of the Sierra de Guadarrama and along ancient transhumance trails that have been used for centuries. Along the way, there is plenty of Spanish heritage to discover, including the medieval village of Pedraza, the castles of Pedraza and Castilnovo, the Romanesque church at Sotosalbos and the impressive royal palace and gardens of La Granja de San Ildefonso.
The riding is varied and can be quite sporty, with around five to six hours in the saddle each day. Expect plenty of long trots and canters, with occasional gallops and the chance to tackle small cross-country jumps if you wish. Riders should be confident and balanced at all paces and fit enough to enjoy active days in the saddle. The horses are predominantly Anglo-Hispanos, well-trained sport horses with plenty of experience and are carefully matched to each rider.
Beyond the riding, the journey is a chance to discover a fascinating part of Spain, with characterful hotels, excellent regional cuisine and historic towns adding to the experience. From the Roman Aqueduct and Alcázar in Segovia to the quiet country trails between villages, this is a riding holiday that brings together great horses, varied terrain and some of the best of Spanish history and culture.
Quick Facts
Location:
Segovia, Spain
Airport:
Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas International Airport (MAD)
Month:
March – June / August – October
Duration:
7 Nights
Group Size:
Max 10 Riders + Non-riders
Riding Level:
Advanced + Non-riders
Weight Limit:
90kg / 198lbs
Accommodation:
Posadas, Hotels
Solo Traveller Friendly:
Great for solo travellers who are willing to share. A single supplement applies if you prefer your own room.
AN IDEA ON WHAT TO EXPECT
This itinerary is intended as a guide rather than an exact timetable. The route, pace and daily riding may vary depending on the weather, ground conditions and abilities of the group. Your experienced guides will make any necessary adjustments to ensure you get the best possible riding experience. This is a sporty ride with plenty of long canters, so a flexible attitude is all part of the journey.
You’ll be collected in Madrid at 15H00 for the approximately 1 hour 15-minute transfer to Segovia. After your journey, settle into the 4 Star Parador with its impressive views across the city. Later, transfer to the equestrian centre to meet the horses and visit the stables. You’ll then enjoy a panoramic drive through Segovia before stopping for a welcome drink in the main square. Return to the hotel for dinner and your first night in Segovia.
Your first full day in the saddle begins in Segovia, following the Eresma River and skirting the Pontón Reservoir. Stop along the way for an aperitivo in the countryside, with views towards the Royal Site of La Granja de San Ildefonso and the Sierra de Guadarrama.
Continue through the Cambrones River valley, climbing towards Loma de las Peñas Lisas before stopping for a picnic lunch near the Pirón Reservoir. In the afternoon, ride along the ridge before descending to the historic Cañada Real, where the horses will stay overnight near Caserío de la Torre. Transfer to La Granja and check into the 4 Star National Parador of La Granja. There will be time to visit the Baroque palace and gardens, built during the reign of Felipe V, before dinner and an overnight stay at the Parador.
Leave La Granja and rejoin the Cañada Real at Caserío de Gamones, riding along the slopes of the Sierra de Guadarrama towards Sotosalbos. Stop for an aperitivo and a visit to the village’s 13th-century Romanesque church before continuing through the countryside dotted with holm oaks.
Ride through the small village of Requijada before stopping for a picnic lunch near the Cega River. In the afternoon, follow the river towards Pedraza, one of the region’s most beautiful medieval villages, known for its imposing castle, cobbled streets and atmospheric main square. Dinner and overnight at the 3 Star Hotel de la Villa, located in the heart of the village.
Today’s ride is a shorter half-day route, following ancient bridle paths through quiet rural villages, many featuring traditional stone and timber architecture. Stop for an aperitivo in the countryside before continuing across open farmland towards the plains surrounding the Castle of Castilnovo, where the ride ends.
Transfer to the medieval town of Sepúlveda for lunch at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy the region’s famous roast lamb. After lunch, relax at the charming Posada de San Millán, admired for its beautiful wooden porticoed courtyard. In the afternoon, visit the Duratón River gorges and the impressive Ermita de San Frutos before returning to Sepúlveda.
Continue along the Duratón River, riding through the valley and across the hills of Los Cortos. Stop for an aperitivo in one of the surrounding villages before climbing towards the Sierra and rejoining the Cañada Real, a wide and open route historically used for transhumance.
Enjoy a picnic lunch near Enebralejo, with the opportunity to visit its prehistoric caves before continuing on horseback towards Prádena. This typical mountain village will be your base for the night. Dinner and overnight at Posada del Acebo, a traditional family house dating back to the 18th century.
Ride through the foothills of the Sierra de Guadarrama, following the Cañada Real and passing through the oak forests around Prádena. Stop for an aperitif along the route before continuing towards Navafría, a mountain village with a long tradition of timber production.
Enjoy a picnic lunch beside the Cega River before riding on towards Collado Hermoso. Continue through the countryside to Torrecaballeros, where you’ll spend the night at the boutique Hotel Fuente Plateada or Hotel El Rancho de la Aldehuela. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Your final day of riding begins with some exciting canters across the open countryside. Stop for an aperitivo at the well-preserved remains of an old ranch, once used by shepherds travelling with their flocks during the long transhumance journeys.
From here, enjoy a shorter, fun ride back towards the stables in Segovia, crossing the Eresma River along the way. After a late lunch at the riding centre, transfer to Hotel San Antonio El Real, a 4 Star hotel housed within the cloisters of a 15th-century monastery, just a short walk from the Roman Aqueduct.
The afternoon is free to explore Segovia at your own pace before a farewell dinner at the renowned Mesón de Cándido, famous for its traditional Segovian roast suckling pig.
Transfer to Madrid Airport for your return flight home after an amazing few days making memories with your fellow riders and amazing horses! Scheduled transfers are arranged for the group, although private transfers at alternative times can be arranged on request and at an additional cost.
ACTIVITIES ON SEGOVIA HISTORY AT A CANTER RIDE
Here are some of the unforgettable activities you can do while on the History at a Canter ride in Segovia, Spain.
HORSES & TACK ON THE SEGOVIA HISTORY AT A CANTER RIDE
THE HORSES
The horses used on the History at a Canter Ride are predominantly Anglo Hispanos, a cross between Andalusian and Thoroughbred. They are valued for their balanced combination of endurance, agility and surefootedness, making them well suited to the varied terrain of the Sierra de Guadarrama. Their good temperament and experience on the trails make them willing and dependable partners, whether riding through mountain tracks, forest paths or open countryside.
THE TACK
You ride in general purpose English leather saddles with deep knee rolls, carefully fitted to each horse and checked regularly for comfort. Each horse has its own bridle, which is cleaned and inspected daily, while horses are shod as needed to cope with the mixed terrain of mountain tracks, forest paths and open fields. Riders are matched with horses according to their experience and confidence to ensure a comfortable partnership on the trail.
GET INSPIRED TO RIDE THE SEGOVIA HISTORY AT A CANTER RIDE
RATES & DATES
This ride operates on set departure dates from March to June and again from September to October each year, with two to three departures per month. Please enquire about exact dates and availability, as group sizes are small and bookings are recommended well in advance.
2026 SEASON:
30 August – 06 September 2026
20 – 27 September 2026
7 Nights From: GBP £2,833 per person sharing + transfers
Note: Prices are quoted in Euros. In the case of strong exchange rate fluctuations, the price can be adjusted up to 3 weeks before departure.
2027 SEASON:
07 – 14 March 2027
04 – 11 April 2027
11 – 18 April 2027
09 – 16 May 2027
30 May – 06 June 2027
19 – 26 September 2027
26 September – 03 October 2027
17 – 24 October 2027
24 – 31 October 2027
7 Nights From: GBP £2,962 per person sharing + transfers
Note: Prices are quoted in Euros. In the case of strong exchange rate fluctuations, the price can be adjusted up to 3 weeks before departure.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
Single Room Supplement if not willing to share From:
GBP £283
per person for the duration of the trail
NON-RIDER COMPANION
From:
EUR €2,300
per person sharing
Non-riding companions travel with the support vehicle, join every aperitif, picnic lunch and dinner, and share the sightseeing, hotels and cultural visits.
TRANSFERS (Subject to change)
Scheduled group transfers to and from Madrid Barajas Airport on Day 1 and Day 8 are included. Private transfers outside the scheduled times are available on request at extra cost.
The ride begins with a 15H00 pick-up at Madrid Barajas Airport on Day 1. Guests arriving earlier, or flying in the day before, are welcome to do so at their own expense and a suitable Madrid hotel can be recommended.
On Day 8 the group is dropped off at approximately 23H00, so flights departing before 13H00 are not recommended.
Arriving a day early is recommended, allowing time to explore Ljubljana’s Old Town before the ride begins. This additional night is at your own expense.
GRATUITIES
Tips of
GBP £13
–
GBP £17
per day are optional but appreciated, and should be given to the ride leader rather than directly to individual staff so they can be shared fairly among the team.
WHERE YOU'LL STAY ON THE SEGOVIA HISTORY AT A CANTER RIDE
HOTEL SAN ANTONIO EL REAL
Set within a beautifully preserved 15th-century monastery, this characterful 4-star hotel offers a comfortable stay in the heart of Segovia. Rooms are available as doubles or twins, with triple rooms also available, while the distinctive Cloister rooms are accessed directly from the monastery’s historic cloister and feature a double bed. Superior rooms offer additional space and a large double bed. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, heating, Wi-Fi, a safe, minibar and television. The hotel retains many of its original features and is just a short walk from Segovia’s famous Roman Aqueduct, with a restaurant serving traditional Segovian and Mediterranean cuisine.
PARADOR DE LA GRANJA
Set within the historic Casa de los Infantes, an 18th-century residence built for the sons of King Carlos III, the Parador de La Granja combines its royal heritage with comfortable, contemporary accommodation. The hotel offers a range of spacious rooms, including double and twin configurations, with some rooms also available as superior options. Rooms are individually styled and feature en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, television, minibar and complimentary Wi-Fi, with many overlooking the hotel’s courtyards or surrounding gardens.
HOTEL DE LA VILLA
Located in the heart of the medieval village of Pedraza, Hotel de la Villa is housed in a traditional building just a short walk from the Plaza Mayor. The comfortable rooms have private bathrooms, air conditioning, Wi-Fi and views towards the surrounding mountains. There is also a restaurant, bar and shared lounge, making this a lovely place to unwind after exploring the village’s cobbled streets and historic castle.
POSADA DE SAN MILLÁN
Casa Rural El Acebo is a traditional village house dating back to 1752, restored while retaining its simple, rustic character. The seven rooms include both double and twin options, all with private bathrooms and heating. Two comfortable sitting rooms provide a welcoming place to relax at the end of the day, while the house’s traditional style gives you a feel for the mountain villages of the region.
POSADA DEL ACEBO
The final two nights are spent in Ljubljana, staying in a centrally located hotel close to the Old Town and riverside cafés. Comfortable rooms provide a relaxing base for discovering the city on foot, with plenty of time to explore the historic centre, browse the local shops and enjoy the atmosphere before your journey comes to an end.
HOTEL EL RANCHO DE LA ALDEGÜELA
Set at the foot of the Sierra de Guadarrama, Hotel El Rancho de la Aldegüela is housed on a historic finca that was once a Castilian sheep-shearing ranch. The 4 star hotel offers comfortable accommodation alongside a restaurant known for traditional roast lamb and suckling pig. Guests can relax in the piano bar or seasonal swimming pool, with the surrounding countryside providing a peaceful setting after a day on horseback.
THE DESTINATION
SEGOVIA
Segovia sits between the Eresma and Clamores rivers, around 90 kilometres north-west of Madrid in Castilla y León. Its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, centred around the spectacular Roman Aqueduct, which has stood for almost 2,000 years. The city’s rich history reflects the influence of Romans, Arabs, Jews and Christians, with highlights including Spain’s last Gothic cathedral and the impressive Alcázar, said to have inspired Disney’s fairytale castle.
SIERRA DE GUADARRAMA NATIONAL PARK
The Sierra de Guadarrama forms a dramatic mountain range between Castilla y León and Madrid and was declared a national park in 2013. Its slopes are covered in extensive Scots pine forests, including the historic Valsaín woods, which have long been associated with the Spanish crown. With peaks rising above 2,400 metres, the landscape offers a striking contrast of mountain forests, open valleys and wide skies, creating varied terrain for riding.
HOCES DEL RÍO DURATÓN NATURE RESERVE
The Duratón River has carved a series of dramatic meanders through the limestone plateau north-east of Segovia, creating gorges that reach up to 100m deep. Protected as a nature reserve since 1989, the area is known for its impressive cliffs and large griffon vulture colony. Perched above the river on a rocky spur are the remains of the 12th-century Ermita de San Frutos, reached by crossing a narrow natural bridge with the gorge dropping away on either side.
HORSE CARE & WELFARE IN SLOVENIA
Our horseback adventures are hand-picked for their quality and care of their horses. Here’s how the horses on the History at a Canter ride are kept in tip-top shape for your safaris. The horses are on top of the hierarchy and receive very special care:
- The horses are groomed and checked over before and after every riding day, with close attention paid to any signs of fatigue, rubbing or injury
- They are fed hard feed two to three times a day as required and have access to grazing or hay and fresh water when resting
- Between trails the horses work daily at the riding school, following a varied programme of trail work, schooling, dressage and jumping that keeps them fit, willing and mentally fresh
- All the horses have dedicated rest days and time off between rides, and the yard keeps enough horses in work that none is over-used across the season
- When not working, the horses live out in a herd environment, allowing them to express their natural behaviours and social interactions
- The horses are shod as needed to suit the mixed terrain of the Sierra de Guadarrama, from stony mountain tracks and forest paths to open grain fields
- Saddles are general-purpose English leather with deep knee rolls, well fitted to each horse and checked regularly
- Each horse has their own bridle which is checked and cleaned daily
- Riders are matched to horses on the basis of the riding experience and confidence declared at booking, so please describe your riding honestly when you book
- The horses used on this ride are predominantly Anglo-Hispanos, a cross between Andalusian and Thoroughbred, selected for good temperament, endurance and sure-footedness across varied terrain
Please get in touch if you have any more questions about horse care
History At A Canter – Riding in Spain
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