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.
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.
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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
What the region offers riders
You decide the blend of liberty, groundwork, or dressage so the experience becomes your own.
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.
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.
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
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).
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.
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