From quiet mornings overlooking the pastures of São Miguel Island to generations of Lusitano horses shaped by patience and knowledge, João Gomes de Menezes do Canto Tavares carries forward a family legacy deeply rooted in the land.
As the steward behind Canto Tavares Stud Farm and Lusitano Garden Villas, João represents a rare balance of heritage, horsemanship, and thoughtful hospitality. His story is not only about breeding horses — it’s about preserving character, respecting nature, and sharing decades of wisdom with those who step into his world.
We sat down with João to explore the journey behind the stud farm, the rhythm of his days, and the values that continue to guide his work with Lusitano horses.
“My name is João Gomes de Menezes do Canto Tavares,” he shares.
“I am the owner of Lusitano Garden Villas and the Canto Tavares Stud Farm.
The roots of the stud farm stretch back to the 1940s, when João’s father, Duarte Miguel da Silveira do Canto Tavares, began shaping what would become his life’s passion. Born in 1929, Duarte dedicated himself to breeding Lusitano horses linked closely to agricultural life at Casa Telhada, a family property in Bretanha.
“This journey began long before João took the reins himself. Raised alongside horses selected, bred, and cared for over generations, he grew into the responsibility of continuing his father’s vision".
Today, João carries that legacy forward, carefully selecting mares and stallions while remaining faithful to the essence of the Lusitano breed — calm, noble, and willing.
“My day usually begins with breakfast at Lusitano Garden Villas,” João explains, “where I enjoy speaking with our guests".
These early conversations set the tone. From there, his focus shifts to young horses — guiding their development with calmness and balance — or heading to the farm to oversee work with cattle and broodmares.
"Afternoons are dedicated to mounted sessions and hands-on moments with visitors. Activities are tailored carefully, from gentle introductions for children to more advanced riding sessions, always shaped around the rider’s confidence and ability".
“The result of breeding horses that remain true to their nature,” João says.
“Horses with excellent rideability, without compromising what makes the Lusitano unique.”
For him, resisting trends is essential. Maintaining the purity of the breed matters more than chasing modern fashion.
João reflects on the pressure placed on young riders today. Competition can sharpen skills, but it can also weigh heavily.
Finding balance — between ambition and patience — remains one of the great challenges within the equestrian world.
"Those who don’t ride often can’t truly understand what it feels like to ride the horses I breed,” he notes.
There’s a subtle connection, a dialogue between horse and rider, that can’t be explained — only felt.
He says firmly:
“The competitive mindset encouraged in children today sharpens their reactions, yet it also brings an added weight of pressure".
Witnessing the birth of a foal,” João says simply.
It’s a moment that carries hope, responsibility, and renewal — a reminder of why generations before him dedicated their lives to this work.
"Seeing people connect with Lusitano horses fuels his drive".
“When participants achieve things they’ve never managed before,” he explains, “and you see their smiles — that’s what keeps me going.”
“There isn’t a single rider,” João reflects.
“I admire many Portuguese and international riders.”
Each has contributed something different — a reminder that horsemanship is a lifelong study.
“They teach tolerance, sensitivity, and self-criticism,” he says.
Horses mirror human emotion and intention. Working with them shapes not only better riders — but better people.
Here at Canto Tavares Stud Farm, the future is guided by respect for the past. By blending agriculture with thoughtful tourism through Lusitano Garden Villas, João continues to open the door for guests to learn, observe, and connect with Lusitano horses in a meaningful way.
Each horse, each rider, and each day contributes to a living legacy — one shaped quietly, patiently, and with purpose.
“Every day brings a new challenge, but also a new reward. That’s the beauty of it.”
Inspired by João’s story?
Discover Lusitano Garden Villas on Cavago, and explore authentic Lusitano riding sessions guided by generations of knowledge.