Liberty, Groundwork, and Dressage: How This 5 Day Retreat Builds Better Riders

The 5-day Liberty and Classical Dressage Retreat in Portugal is designed for riders who want more feel, more softness, and more partnership.

This is a training holiday built around refinement rather than pressure, with Lusitano schoolmasters who teach clarity, connection, and trust.

At this retreat, you train with Dr Miguel and Dr Christina, two hosts who live and breathe the well-being of horses. Christina is a veterinarian who specialises in horse-friendly training, natural horsemanship, and bitless work. Miguel is both a Visconde and a passionate cook who brings warmth, humour, and genuine hospitality to the experience. Together, they create a place where riders feel safe, seen, and invited to grow.

Why Train Here - Unique teaching style

The focus here is communication, not domination. Christina approaches every horse and rider with a medical understanding of biomechanics and a deep respect for how horses learn. You will notice her emphasis on softness, clarity, and consistency. Miguel brings ease, encouragement, and the kind of grounded energy that helps riders relax into the work.

Lessons feel personal. Corrections are subtle. Progress is steady and intuitive. You feel supported, not rushed.

 

Blog Navigation 

• Location: Alcochete And Picadeiro Quinta Da Horta

• Programme Overview

• Daily Flow

• Who This Programme Suits

• Pricing Snapshot

• How to Book

• FAQs

Location: Quinta Lusitania.

The retreat takes place at Quinta Lusitania, a rustic and charming countryside cottage outside Viseu, about one and a half to two hours from Porto Airport. The region is known for its vineyards, river beaches, and quiet farmland. It is peaceful, scenic, and perfectly suited for a reset.

The property includes a pool, garden spaces, quiet walking paths, and comfortable rooms that keep you close to the horses while giving you space to unwind.

The on-site meals feature local produce, and the hosts often include regional wine, cheese, and homemade dishes.

To find more locations for dressage training in Portugal, read our Complete Guide to Dressage Training in Portugal

What the region offers riders

• 4 days of personalized equestrian training with expert trainers.
• Flexible lesson options: 1 lesson a day (choose between dressage, liberty, or groundwork).
• Trail rides for advanced riders (beginner riders will focus on lessons).
• Personalized coaching in a small group setting (maximum of 4 riders).
• Relaxing downtime with access to a pool, spa services, and a wine & cheese tasting experience.
• Local excursions to nearby Viseu, Senhora da Riveira river beach, kayaking, and more.

What the region offers riders

• Liberty work that strengthens trust, body language, and connection.
• Groundwork foundations for communication, softness, and respect.
• Dressage lessons for balance, posture, transitions, and refinement.
• Trail rides for advanced riders who want countryside exposure.
• Daily one-to-one or small group sessions with a maximum of four riders in the programme.

You decide the blend of liberty, groundwork, or dressage so the experience becomes your own.

Packages you can book

Programme Overview 

The retreat is designed for riders of all levels. Whether you are curious about liberty work for the first time or you want to progress deeper into balanced dressage, the training adapts to you. The atmosphere is calm and personal. The surroundings do half the work.

Highlights:

• • Personalised liberty, groundwork, or dressage training.

  • Small group setting with a maximum of four riders.

  • Wine and cheese tasting.

  • Access to the pool and wellness options like massages & Meals included daily except the final day.

Daily Flow

Day 1 — Arrival and Welcome

Day 2 — Groundwork Foundations

Day 3 — Dressage Training and River Excursion

Day 4 — Advanced Riding or Liberty Work

Day 5 — Trail Ride or Final Lesson and Departure

Who This Programme Suits

• Riders who want a quiet, personalised retreat rather than a high-intensity clinic.
• Beginners who want a safe introduction to liberty or groundwork.
• Intermediate to advanced riders looking for refinement without pressure.
• Anyone who values small groups and thoughtful teaching.
• Riders who enjoy nature, good food, and slow evenings after training.

Pricing snapshot 2026

• Pricing: €1,399 per rider
• Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
• Meals included: All meals are included
• Transfers to Senhora da Riveira included.
  
  
  

Cancellation Policy:
Full refund if cancelled at least 7 days before arrival in off-peak season (1 Oct–31 Mar) or 30 days before in peak season (1 Apr–30 Sept).

How to book

1. Click here -> Dressage & Liberty in Portugal- A 5-Day retreat.
   
   
2. Select your preferred dates and click Book Now.
   
   
3. Confirm your booking. Transfers, stable logistics, and instructions will follow from the Cavago team.
   
   

FAQs

Can I choose a lesson instead of a trail ride on the final day
Yes. Riders who prefer another lesson can request it.

Are airport transfers included
No. They are optional and available only on weekdays during daytime hours.

Are massages included
No. They must be booked in advance and depend on availability.

Is this suitable for beginners
Yes. The programme adjusts to your level.

Are meals included
All meals except the final lunch and dinner. Breakfast is included on the departure day.

.