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Spain - Sierra Nevada Trail Rides
Explore a stunning region of Spain, the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and marvel at the natural beauty while riding on horseback

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Horse Riding Holidays Spain – Sierra Nevada Mountain Trail Rides

PRICES & DATES top

Sierra Nevada Mountain Trail Rides: Prices & Dates 2023

Rates are quoted per person sharing.

GBP, £ EUR, € USD, $
Choose your currency

  • La Alpujarra Trail
    $2,053
    • GBP: 1,625
    • EUR: 1,894
    per person
    $221
    • GBP: 175
    • EUR: 204
    single supplement
    15 – 22 April
    29 April – 6 May
    13 – 20 May
    1 – 8 July
    20 – 27 August
    9 – 16 September
    23 – 30 September
    14 – 21 October
  • La Bueno Vista Trail
    $2,148
    • GBP: 1,700
    • EUR: 1,982
    per person
    $196
    • GBP: 155
    • EUR: 181
    single supplement
    27 May – 3 June
    10 – 17 June
  • La Contraviesa Trail
    $2,053
    • GBP: 1,625
    • EUR: 1,894
    per person
    $221
    • GBP: 175
    • EUR: 204
    single supplement
    4- 11 March
    18 – 25 March
    28 October – 4 November
    11 – 18 November
    25 November – 2 December
  • El Marquesado Trail – TBC – On Request
    $1,718
    • GBP: 1,360
    • EUR: 1,585
    per person
    $196
    • GBP: 155
    • EUR: 181
    single supplement

Sierra Nevada Mountain Trail Short Breaks: Prices & Dates 2023

  • Alpujarra Trail
    5 nights
    $1,459
    • GBP: 1,155
    • EUR: 1,346
    per person
    $171
    • GBP: 135
    • EUR: 158
    single supplement
    9 – 14 April
    24 – 29 June
    2 – 7 September
    7 – 12 October
  • La Poqueira Trail Centre Based
    4 nights
    $853
    • GBP: 675
    • EUR: 787
    per person
    $82
    • GBP: 65
    • EUR: 76
    single supplement
    12 – 16 March
    1 – 5 April
    7 – 11 May & 21 – 25 May
    9 – 13 July & 16 – 20 July
    5 – 9 August
    17 – 21 September
    1 – 5 October
  • La Poqueira & El Sulayr Moving Trail Dates
    4 nights
    $1,023
    • GBP: 810
    • EUR: 944
    per person
    $126
    • GBP: 100
    • EUR: 116
    single supplement
    12 – 16 March
    1 – 5 April & 23 -27 April
    7 – 11 May & 21 – 25 May
    9 – 13 July & 16 – 20 July
    5 – 9 August
    17 – 21 September
    1 – 5 October & 22 – 26 October
    19 – 23 November
    10 – 14 December

Note Single Supplement: This should be paid in cash directly on arrival.

Note: Rates are subject to daily exchange rate fluctuations, please refer to our ‘Terms & Conditions’ for full details.

Included – All riding, full board twin accommodation except dinner on one night, and transfers from Malaga to the start of the ride and back at set times with the group.

Excluded – Flights, dinner on one night, bar bills & tips.

Sierra Nevada Trail Rides: Getting There
International flight to Malaga.

Transfer
Transfer time is 2 and a half hours from Malaga and there is a scheduled transfer pick up and drop off included in the ride rate. Arrival must be pre 4pm on the Sunday, and drop offs are no later than midday.

All our horse riding holidays hold a price guarantee. We believe in your piece of mind on price when you book one of our horse riding holidays and will refund the difference should you find the same horse riding holiday elsewhere at a lower price.

SUMMARY OF THE TRIP top

The Sierra Nevada is the highest mountain range in Spain, situated South of Granada. This horse-riding holiday in Spain gives you a chance to explore a stunning region of natural beauty on horseback, riding through an ever-changing landscape where no two valleys, ravines or summits are alike.

Little has changed in this part of Spain over the centuries, the mule and ox still pull the plough in the tiny, terraced fields, the horse and mule still provide transport and the shepherd still tends his flock of sheep on the mountainside.

Starting from Bubion, Sierra Nevada Trail Rides follow ancient Moorish drovers’ paths through steep valleys filled with Mediterranean almond and walnut groves up to high summer pastures irrigated by the snow melt. You pass through pretty white villages with narrow winding streets and ancient Moorish architecture. On some of the very steep descents it is necessary to lead the horses and these rides are not for those who suffer from vertigo.

In spring and autumn, the Contraviesa Ride goes from village to village following a route through the lower foothills of the Contraviesa range. In mid-summer, the Alpujarra Ride follows a similar route but ventures higher into the sierra and the Marquesdao Ride goes higher still, crossing right over the mountain range. The 4- & 5-night short breaks are offered on set dates throughout the season.

The horses are Andalusian and Andalusian crosses and have all been expertly schooled by their owners and your guides Dallas Love and her brother Mordecai Love. They are fit, sure-footed and responsive with the classic good nature of the breed; they enjoy their work and are real pleasure to ride over this steep terrain.

THE RIDING top

Sierra Nevada Trail Rides: Horses – Andalusians & Andalusian Crosses. All of them have been trained in basic dressage moves, therefore you can expect a really lovely responsive ride. You are expected to tack and untack your horse each day.

Sierra Nevada Trail Rides: Level of Riding & Pace – Intermediate to Advanced.
There are long days in the saddle, and we would advise a certain level of fitness to enjoy this holiday fully. There are also steep ascents & descents, which mean walking with the horses on some occasions. You should also be comfortable with heights, as some of the paths are steep, with long drops below.

Tack – English.

Siearra Nevada Trail Rides: Weight Restriction – 13 Stone / 84 kg / 182 lbs.

Sierra Nevada Trail Rides: Group Size – Maximum 10.

ACCOMMODATION top

There is a mix of small village hostels (‘Posadas’) and comfortable local hotels. The hotels vary in size and style but all of them are family run, simple and small. The rooms are clean and comfortable and have small en suite loo and shower or a bath. There’s no need to worry about luggage, this is transported from hotel to hotel by vehicle.

Breakfasts on the Sierra Nevada Trail Rides are continental style and dinners are Spanish style using fresh, local produce and eaten at the hotels, except on one evening (two evenings on the short breaks) where you are free to choose your own restaurants for dinner. Lunches are usually picnics out riding, with fresh breads, local cheeses, cured hams, and salads.

Horse Riding Holidays like our Sierra Nevada Trail Rides are part of the Zara’s Planet collection of Horse Riding Holidays Spain.

SAMPLE ITINERARY top

La Alpujjura Trail Itinerary
On this his Andalusian Horse-Riding Holiday we follow centuries-old bridle paths traditionally linking White Village to White Village in La-Alpujarra. Discover Moorish irrigation channels and forestry tracks as we ride through an ever-changing landscape. Passing through different terrain each day, varying from mountain pastures and pine forests to almond and olive groves.  Here is an opportunity not only to discover spectacular landscapes and sceneries, but also a culture where tradition remains very much part of everyday life. The average riding time per day is between five and six hours.

The Alpujarra is the name given to the South of the Sierra Nevada Mountain range, a region of much botanical and geological importance, in an area with a rich cultural and historical heritage. On some days there are plenty of opportunities to trot and canter, other days it is mainly walking (due to the rough terrain). No matter what the pace, it is a beautiful ride.

Day 1
Transfer from Malaga airport to the village of Bubion at designated time.
Welcome to our 5-Star Andalusian Riding Holiday following ancient trails through the Alpujarra from White Village to White Village. While in Bubion you will be staying in the charming Casa la Sevillana. A comfortable 19th Century townhouse, 7 bedrooms with private shower-rooms, large patio, sitting room, breakfast room. Located in the heart of the village within minutes’ walk from the local restaurants and cafes. Dinner with the rest of the riders and a briefing on the following days activities.

Day 2
Approximately 6 hours riding.
After breakfast you will be collected and driven to the stables situated 5 kilometres from the village of Bubion at an altitude of 1.650 meters. Today is a day ride local to the stables, enabling you to acclimatise slightly to the area and the altitude. Also acquainting you and your horse prior to setting out for the week. The ride takes us high into the Valley Poqueira, on a combination of bridle paths and forestry tracks. The route follows along ancient Moorish irrigation channels and summer pastures watered by the snow melt. This valley is claimed to be one of the most beautiful in the whole of Sierra Nevada with the high peaks reaching over 3,000 metres at the head of the valley, and the Mediterranean Sea at the foot. The horses will carry a full picnic lunch which we will eat beside one of the mountain streams. At 2,500 metres idyllic spots offer spectacular views. On a clear day all the way across to the mountains of Morocco. Returning to the stables you will be driven down to the village.
Set dinner in one of the local restaurants. Overnight in the Casa la Sevillana.

Day 3
Approximately 6 hours
Today we head east to the village of Trevelez, at 1,486 metres the highest municipality in Spain that is not a ski resort. During the morning we gradually descend (approx. 350 metres) on forestry tracks and bridle paths. The path passes through orchards and small terraces as it skirts Capilerilla, Pitres and Portugos, White Villages of the Alpujarra. There are a few sections where it is necessary to lead the horses on some of the steeper descents. Leaving the village of Portugos below we start the 600 metre climb to our picnic spot in the shade of the pine woods. After lunch we join the main forestry track to Trevelez, this track maintains pretty much the same altitude as it winds its way through woodlands and small mountain farms. There are some good opportunities for nice canters. At the end of the day approximately a 15-minute walk down an old stone path into the village.
Overnight and dinner in the comfortable Hotel Fragua situated in the old Berber quarter of Trevelez.
Use of pool June to September.

Day 4
Approximately 6 hours riding
The route continues east to the village of Berchules. after a 10-minute walk through the streets of Trevelez . Here we water the horses at one of the many springs, mount up and head down to the river. Once across the river, the path follows first the Moorish irrigation channel. Then we work our way through oak and pine forests to the open pasture lands of the Sierra of Juviles. We have two options, depending on the weather we continue to climb and picnic at about 2,300 meters or start a gentler descent and picnic in the oak woods above the village of Juviles. Both lovely rides with stunning views. Both slow as we are mostly climbing on mountain paths. On both options, the final descent into the village of Berchules is on foot about 30 minutes’ walk.
Overnight and dinner in the very comfortable Hotel Berchules.
Pool available June to late September.

Day 5
Approximately 7 hours
Berchules takes its name from the old Spanish word ´Berchel´ meaning literally “mountain garden”. During the morning we take the ancient Moorish bridle path, once the main trade route over the mountains to Granada. As the path passes through terraced orchards and fields, high above the cause of the river, it is easy to see how the area came by its name. Leaving the path, we stop for a picnic lunch in the shade of the pine woods. After lunch we join the main forestry track built in the early 1900s to improving access for farming and reforestation in the area. Opportunities for trots and canters.
We spend a second night in the village of Berchules.

Day 6
Approximately 5 hours.
To-day we head back to the village of Trevelez. Leaving the village of Berchules below we have a steep climb to approximately 2,400 metres. During the morning the route follows dirt tracks through farm and pasture lands up to the tree line. Some canters. Picnic lunch on the edge of the pine woods. Wonderful views over the valley of Trevelez, the sea to the south and the Mulhacen 3486 mtrs (the highest mountain on the mainland) to the north. During the afternoon we descend on the bridle path through the woods to the village of Trevelez. There are some places one needs to lead the horses for short periods.
Overnight and dinner in the comfortable Hotel Fragua, Pool June to late September.

Day 7
Approximately 3 to 4 hours.
Today is a short ride. Following the forestry track through pine and oak woods we return directly to the stables high above the villages of the Poqueira. This route offers wonderful views out over the Contraviesa mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, but some good opportunities for canters. The last day of the White Village Horse Riding Holiday la-alpujarra. Late lunch in the village of Capileira or Bubion. Afternoon free for some last-minute shopping and a well-deserved siesta.
Overnight in the village of Bubion and farewell dinner.

Day 8
Breakfast & a sad farewell.

La Buena Vista Trail Itinerary
This is a stunning circular trail through the east of the Alpujarras and Sierra Nevada National Park, riding over very diverse and varied terrain, 3 days at high altitude. The first two days of this spectacular ride pass through the southern slopes of the Alpujarras following the ancient Moorish paths and forestry tracks between the picturesque white villages. The third day we climb to the Peñon del Puerto and maintaining an altitude of over 2,700 metres follow the ridge east to the Puerto del Lobo and the Altos de San Juan. Seemingly endless vista of mountains and plains give an amazing sense of space and wilderness. The fourth day keeping an altitude of between 2,000 and 2,500 metres the trail passes through the summer pastures and woodlands of the northern slopes. Day five the path crosses the high peaks at nearly 3,000 metres to the south side of Sierra Nevada and the Sierra of Trevelez. Day six head home on forestry tracks. A reasonable level of fitness is required as much of this ride is at high altitude (2 days at over 2,700 metres), on three days there are sections where it is necessary to lead your horse downhill on rough, uneven ground for up to an hour. One night we are in a high mountain refuge of Postero Also where it is necessary to share rooms. The other nights are all in comfortable hotels or guest houses.

Day 1
Transfer from Malaga airport to the village of Bubion at designated time. While in Bubion you will be staying in the charming Casa la Sevillana. A comfortable 19th Century town house, 7 bedrooms with private shower-rooms, large patio, sitting room, breakfast room. Located in the heart of the village within minutes’ walk from the local restaurants and cafes. Dinner with the rest of the riders and a briefing on the following days activities.

Day 2
After breakfast you will be driven the 5 kilometres to the stables and introduced to your horse for the week. Today we head east to the village of Trevelez. The ride starts with a leisurely morning allowing you to become acquainted with your horse. Following a combination of tracks and bridle paths through pine and oak woods we cross over into the valley of La Taha passing the villages of Pitres and Portugos. After a picnic lunch in the shade of the pines we join the main forestry track leading to the village of Trevelez. During the afternoon there are opportunities for some good trots and canters. Overnight in the village of Trevelez, renowned for its air cured ham (serrano ham) and at an altitude of 1,476m the highest village in Spain. The final descent into the village is approximately a 15-minute walk on the old bridle path.
Overnight and dinner at Hotel La Fragua. Swimming pool.

Day 3
Approximately 6 hours riding.
Continuing east we cross the river of Trevelez and follow the centuries old bridle path winding its way along the Moorish irrigation channel. Leaving the oak woods below the path climbs steeply through pine woods to approximately 2,200 metres to join a forestry track leading over into the valley of Berchules. After a picnic lunch in the shade of the woods we continue along the track passing high mountain farms and pastures. The track follows the contour of the valley deep into the mountains, maintaining an altitude of approximately 2,000 metres there are wonderful views of the high Sierras ahead and the valley below. During the afternoon some nice canters. The horses spend the night up in the mountains and the riders are driven down to the village of Berchules. Approximately 45 minutes. Overnight in the very comfortable Hotel Berchules. Swimming pool.

Day 4
Approximately 8 hours riding.
A spectacular route taking us up to approximately 2,800 metres, following the ridge forming the very backbone of the east mountains of Sierra Nevada. After breakfast drive back up the mountain to the horses. The first 4 kms of the ride continues on the main forestry track until picking up the path leading cross country high into the mountains, picnic on route. On reaching the summit we leave the path to follow the vast open ridge east to the peak of San Juan. It is difficult to convey in words the grandeur, space and wilderness of these mountains. From San Juan a steep and stony descent on foot of approximately 40 minutes. After which we mount up and ride the final hour down to the edge of the pine woods where the horses spend the night, and we are driven to the village of Yegen. Approximately an hour. Overnight in Yegen.

Day 5
Approximately 6 hours riding.
Today we pass over to the north face of Sierra Nevada and another day of spectacular views and unspoilt nature. The terrain today is very varied as we make our way west crossing numerous steep summer pastures and snow fed mountain streams. Following small and often steep cattle paths we cross deep gullies and ravines, mountain streams and old irrigation channels passing through small summer farms now just used for cattle and sheep. Dropping down to the tree line we follow the path through the shade of the pines to reach the mountain refuge of Postero Alto (1,900metre) where we will spend the night. Picnic on route. Overnight and dinner in refuge, shared rooms, blankets are provided but you need to bring your own sheets or a sleeping bag and towel.

Day 6
Approximately 8 hours riding.
The morning starts with a climb of nearly 1,000 metres to cross over the Puerto de Trevelez to the south of Sierra Nevada. Near the summit we often skirt round snow drifts, stopping to rest the horses at the snow fed streams. Once on the south side we follow small cattle and sheep trails maintaining an altitude of approximately 2,500 metres. Spectacular view across the valley to the snow-capped peaks of the Mulhacen and Alcazaba. Late morning, we ride along an old Moorish irrigation channel for about 30 minutes, often the channel is running, and horses and people enjoy the cool splashing water. Early afternoons commence the descent to the tree line where we will picnic. The later part of the afternoon we follow a steep and narrow path down to the river of Trevelez. The descent takes approximately two hours of which at least an hour and a half is on foot. Overnight in Hotel La Fragua. Swimming pool.

Day 7
Approximately 3 to 4 hours.
Today is a short ride. Following the forestry track through pine and oak woods we return directly to the stables high above the villages of the Poqueira. This route not only offers wonderful views out over the Contraviesa mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, but some good opportunities for canters. Late lunch in the village of Capileira or Bubion. Afternoon free for some last-minute shopping and a well-deserved siesta. Overnight in the village of Bubion and farewell dinner.

Day 8
Breakfast & a sad farewell.

The Contraviesa Trail Itinerary

This runs in Spring and Autumn and takes you through the lower Contraviesa mountain range which lies between the Sierra Nevada and the Mediterranean. Due to the proximity of the coast the climate is warmer and more arid than higher up in the Sierra Nevada. On this trail you ride through the mountains to a new village each day, including spending a night in Trevelez, the highest village in Spain.

Day 1
Transfer from Malaga airport to the village of Bubion at designated time. While in Bubion you will be staying in the charming Casa la Sevillana. A comfortable 19th Century town house, 7 bedrooms with private shower-rooms, large patio, sitting room, breakfast room. Located in the heart of the village within minutes’ walk from the local restaurants and cafes. Dinner with the rest of the riders and a briefing on the following days activities.

Day 2
Approximately 6 hours
After breakfast you will be collected and driven to the stables situated 5 kilometres from the village of Bubion at an altitude of 1.650 meters. Today is a day ride local to the stables enabling you to acclimatise slightly to the area and the altitude. Also acquainting you with your horse prior to setting out for the week. Leaving the stables, we take a small path up through summer pastures to join the main forestry track into the National Park. Here there are opportunities to canter. We will follow the track to approximately 2.300 metres where it joins a bridle path. Following this path through the pine woods we come out on the ridge of Barranco Habali at approximately 2,100 metres. Here we will stop for a picnic lunch. On a clear day fantastic view can be had down the valley across to the Contraviesa, the Mediterranean and finally Africa! After lunch the route descends through oak woods and open pasture lands to meet the main forestry track leading back to the stables. Overnight in the Casa Sevillana Bubion and a Set dinner in one of the local restaurants.

Day 3
Approximately 6 hours
Today on the 5-Star Horse Riding Holiday we head east to the village of Trevelez. At 1,486 metres the highest municipality in Spain that is not a ski resort. During the morning we gradually descend (approx. 350 metres) on forestry tracks and bridle paths. The path passes through orchards and small terraces as it skirts the villages of Capilerilla, Pitres and Portugos. There are a few sections where it is necessary to lead the horses on some of the steeper descents. Leaving the village of Portugos below we start the 600-metre climb to our picnic spot. With stunning views to the Med, we picnic in the shade of the pine woods. After lunch we join the main forestry track to Trevelez. This track maintains pretty much the same altitude as it winds its way through woodlands and small mountain farms. There are some good opportunities for a nice canter. At the end of the day there is approximately a 15-minute walk down an old stone path into the village. Overnight and dinner in the comfortable Hotel Fragua situated in the old Berber quarter of Trevelez. Use of pool June to September.

Day 4
Approximately 6 hours
The route continues east to the village of Berchules. After a 10-minute walk through the streets of Trevelez we water the horses at one of the many springs. Then mount up and head down to the river. Once across the river the centuries-old bridle path follows firstly a Moorish irrigation channel. Then working its way up through evergreen Holm oak and pine forests to the open pasture lands of the Sierra of Juviles. Descending across the open hillside we have great views towards the coast of Almeria and the Contraviesa mountains. We climb again before stopping for our picnic in the oak woods. After lunch we join a dirt track leading us to the village of Berchules. The final descent into the village is on foot, followed by a 15-minute walk through the streets to the stables and our hotel. Overnight and diner in the comfortable Hotel Berchules. Pool June to end September.

Day 5
Approximately 6 to 7 hours.
Today we do a circular ride dropping down to the Contraviesa foothills riding through very different and rapidly changing terrain. The morning starts with approximately a 15 walk down to the riverbed. Here we will mount up and ride through small, cultivated terraces and orchards to the tiny village of Narila. After a steep climb out of the village the terrain becomes much more arid and eroded. Green cultivated land gives way to wild rosemary, thyme, almonds and fig trees. Ten minutes on a small secondary road will take us to the village of Golgo. We will then join the path leading us to the bottom of the valley. After an early lunch by the stream in the shade of tall poplar trees the path climbs steeply through the deeply eroded hills to join a dirt track which will take us down to the valley of Yator. Late afternoon we join one of the dry riverbeds which offers opportunities for some great canters and short gallops. The end of the day we cross and recross the river of Cadiar. We will pass through orchards and small holdings to rejoin the bridle path leading back to the village of Berchules. Second night in the charming hotel Berchules. Pool June to late September.

Day 6
Approximately 5 hours riding.
Today is a slightly shorter ride heading down to the Contraviesa range. The trail will take us down to the river Cadiar. We follow the river for about 20 minutes before starting the steep climb through almond and fig farms. On the higher slopes we pass through vineyards reaching an altitude of approximately 1,500 metres. From where there are wonderful views of the Alpujarras and the high peaks of Sierra Nevada. Picnic lunch in the almond groves. To-night we stay in the attractive hotel Alqueria de Morayma situated in the orchards above the river Cadiar. Pool late May to late September.

Day 7
Approximately 8 hours
Our final day of the trek we return to the village of Bubion, a long climb for the horses. Crossing the river Guadalefao we follow a steep bridle path west to the villages Lobras and Timar. From here the route follows a small local road for approximately 7 kilometers. Afterwards beginning a descent into the spectacular gorge of Trevelez. Descending on an ancient Roman path cut into the sides of the gorge we lead the horses on foot. It is approximately a 30-minute walk down to the bridge from which we will ride up past the pretty village of Busquistar and continue to Portugos for a well-earned lunch. In the late afternoon we continue northwest along paths and dirt tracks to Bubion. Overnight in Casa la Sevillana and farewell dinner, last day of this 5-Star Horse Riding Holiday.

Day 8
Breakfast & a sad farewell.

El Marquesado Trail Itinerary
This ride circles the Sierra Nevada Mountain range following some of the highest bridle paths on the Spanish Peninsula at an altitude of 1,600 to over 3,000 meters. Accessible only by horse or foot you will be riding through some of the most spectacular, varied and often demanding terrain in Sierra Nevada and El Marquesado.

Following a combination of forestry tracks, bridle paths, old droving routes and Moorish irrigation channels you will cover approximately 30 to 40 kilometres per day. Riding for between 7 to 9 hours per day.

During the ride one night is spent in a high mountain refuge, the other 6 nights in comfortable village hotels (3 with pools). Each day there will be sections where it is necessary to lead your horses due to very steep and rough terrain. On 2 days there are downhill walks on foot of up to an hour and a half.

Day 1
Transfer from Malaga airport to the village of Bubion at designated time. While in Bubion you will be staying in the charming Casa la Sevillana. A comfortable 19th Century town house, 7 bedrooms with private shower-rooms, large patio, sitting room, breakfast room. Located in the heart of the village within minutes’ walk from the local restaurants and cafes. Dinner with the rest of the riders and a briefing on the following days activities.

Day 2
Approximately 8 hours.
Setting out from the stables we cross the river Poqueira and climb steeply west on little-used paths through small, terraced farms and woodland. This morning offers wonderful views of the Mulhacen and the 3 villages of the Poqueira valley. The first part of the afternoon follows an ancient irrigation channel through oak woods to join one of the forestry tracks where we stop for a picnic lunch. After lunch this track leads high into the valley of Lanjaron, where it joins a narrow path leading down and across the river Lanjaron. Horses camp out at about 1,800 m and riders transfer by vehicle to the village of Lanjaron (approx. 1 hour’s drive).
Overnight in comfortable 3-star hotel with pool and air conditioning.

Day 3
Approximately 9 hours.
Continuing west we start the morning with a steep climb to the ridge of El Caballo at approx. 2,500mts. From here we descend cross country on foot and horseback to the head of the river Niguelas where we join a dirt track leading to the source of River Durcal. In the River Durcal we join an old droving route which we follow for the rest of the afternoon. For the first 20 minutes there is a steep climb on foot. The rest of the afternoon we ride until a final descent of approx. 30 minutes. During the course of the day the landscape changes dramatically and there are amazing views. Horses camp out and riders are driven to the town of La Zubia on the edge of Granada. 30-minute drive.
Overnight in comfortable hotel.

Day 4
Approximately 7 hours.
Heading North to the town of Güéjar Sierra, the path takes us through a wide variety of terrain: pine woods, high summer pasture, oak woods and snow fed streams. After a picnic lunch we join a dirt road where it is possible for some canters. Late afternoon we have a 6-kilometre descent on a secondary road to the town.
Overnight at a hotel with pool.

Day 5
Approximately 8 hours.
Leaving the town way below we climb during the day to 2,300 m The path follows the contours of the ridge offering spectacular views to our right of the highest peaks in Sierra Nevada and to the left the plains of Guadix  and Zenet del Marquesado. After a picnic by one of the mountain springs the path descends through pastureland and pine woods to the Mountain refuge of Postero Alto at 1,900 m. Here we share rooms, and you need a sleeping bag or sheets. The refuge provides blankets.
Dinner is basic and plentiful.

Day 6
Approximately 9 hours.
Following the foot and bridle paths across the open mountain side, we climb to 3,000 m. From where the descent starts to the valley of Trevelez on the southern side of Sierra Nevada. Spectacular views of the Mulhacen and the Alcazaba, 2 of the highest peaks.
Overnighting in the village of Trevelez.

Day 7
Approximately 3 to 4 hours.
Today is a short ride. Following the forestry track through pine and oak woods we return directly to the stables high above the villages of the Poqueira. This route not only offers wonderful views out over the Contraviesa mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, but some good opportunities for canters. Late lunch in the village of Capileira or Bubion. Afternoon free for some last-minute shopping and a well-deserved siesta.
Overnight in the village of Bubion and farewell dinner.

Day 8
Breakfast and a sad farewell.

Ride & Chill

This short break offers a relaxing and varied getaway, combining riding, leisure, nature and history. The first two days enjoy a morning ride, and in the afternoon explore the charming whitewashed terraced villages of Berber origin. You are about an hour and 15 minutes from the coast allowing during the summer months an afternoon on the beach. Visit the historic Alhambra Palace and explore the narrow Moorish streets of Granada with some shopping added. Experience a two-day trail ride staying overnight in Trevelez, Spain’s highest village.

Day 1
Transfer from Malaga airport to the village of Bubion at designated time. While in Bubion you will be staying in the charming Casa la Sevillana. A comfortable 19th Century town house, 7 bedrooms with private shower-rooms, large patio, sitting room, breakfast room. Located in the heart of the village within minutes’ walk from the local restaurants and cafes.  Dinner with the rest of the riders and a briefing on the following days activities.

Day 2
After breakfast you will be driven the 5 kilometers to the stables where you will meet the horses. The stables are situated at 1,650 metres elevation, possibly the highest stables in Europe!!.A circular ride takes us along the west side of the spectacular valley Poqueira.To the north of the valley is the Mulhacen (3,486metres) the highest mountain on the Spanish Peninsular and to the south the Mediterranean Sea. The trail follows centuries old Moorish bridle paths and irrigation channels as they wind their way through the small, terraced farms. Picnic lunch on route. Approximately 3 hours riding. During the afternoon a 10-minute drive (or if you prefer 40-minute walk) down to the picturesque, terraced village of Pampaneira. Visit to the local weaving workshop, small chocolate factory, and a selection of shops selling local produce. Return to Bubion. Dinner.

Day 3
Morning ride with picnic lunch, approx. 3 hours. The trail today will take us up through the high summer pastures and pine woods to approximately 2,200 metres on a combination of bridle paths and forestry tracks. The forestry tracks provide some good canter places for those who want a faster ride. During the afternoon in the summer months (June, July, August, September) drive down to the beach for a swim. Colder weather a walk through the attractive village of Capileira and an opportunity to sample some of the local wines, cheeses, etc..Return to Bubion.

Day 4
Today after an early breakfast you will be driven (approximately one hour and 15 minutes) into Granada. You will be taken to the Alhambra car park in time for the morning tour starting at 10.30. Entrance tickets can be purchased direct at www.alhambra-ticket.es ,at the time of booking you will need your passport number.
Afternoon free to explore the old historical quarters of the city. Meet the driver at the Alhambra car park for the return trip to Bubion. If you prefer to spend the day in Bubion we are happy to take you out for a ride, or you may prefer to just relax in the village.

Day 5
To-day we ride to the village of Trevelez, famous as the highest village in Spain and national renowned for its ‘Jamon Serrano’.  The ride is 5 to 6 hours duration through the National and Natural Park following a combination of ancient bridle paths and forestry tracks. During the morning a leisurely ride following the bridle paths that traditionally linked the villages of Capileira, Pitres and Portugos. Leaving the villages below the path climbs approximately 400 metres through small farms and orchards to join the pine woods in whose shade we will enjoy a picnic lunch. In the afternoon we follow the main forestry track through pine and oak woods. Here there are plenty of opportunities to canter. Those who prefer can follow at a more leisurely pace. Overnight and dinner in the comfortable Hotel Fragua. June – September swimming pool open.

Day 6
A half day ride returning to Bubion by a shorter route. For those who wish some good canter opportunities. Lunch in the village and the afternoon free to relax. Farewell dinner.

Day 7
Breakfast and depart for Malaga airport.

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