A dressage holiday in Portugal is more than a training escape. It is a structured, immersive journey into classical riding, grounded in the expertise of Gilberto Filipe, one of the most respected equestrians in the country. Riders who come for a dressage training holiday in Portugal often want clarity on what a complete week looks like. This itinerary gives you that full picture, from the first lesson to the last morning in the arena.
The five day programme combines progressive dressage training, cultural discovery in Lisbon, and the kind of coastal riding that makes Portugal a favourite destination for riders who want both technical development and a true sense of place.
Below is the complete day by day structure of this Portuguese dressage itinerary.
Morning:
Arrival at Lisbon Airport followed by a taxi or rental car transfer to your accommodation at Quinta Praia das Fontes or a similar countryside estate. After check in, the morning is yours to unwind and settle into the peaceful surroundings.
Afternoon:
Your first dressage lesson with Gilberto Filipe. This introductory session is designed to familiarise you with the horses, Gilberto’s training philosophy, and your baseline for the week ahead. Every detail is adapted to your riding level.
Evening:
Relax at the hotel and enjoy an easy first night before training intensifies.
Meals included: Breakfast on following mornings
Accommodation: Quinta Praia das Fontes or similar
To find more locations for dressage training in Portugal, read our Complete Guide to Dressage Training in Portugal
Morning:
Breakfast followed by your second dressage session with Gilberto at his stables. This lesson deepens your work on precision, feel, posture, and the classical foundations that define dressage training in Portugal. Depending on your level, elements of Working Equitation may be incorporated to enhance timing and straightness.
Afternoon:
After lunch, the afternoon is free for independent exploration. Wander through the town, enjoy local cafés, or simply rest.
Evening:
Dinner options nearby include Petisqueira Pinto, Churrasqueira Cafreal, and Pereira’s. This evening is intentionally relaxed so you can recover well between sessions.
Meals included: Breakfast on following mornings
Accommodation: Upon Vila Hotel or similar
Morning:
After breakfast, visit the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art in Belém. This is one of the most significant institutions in Europe for classical dressage and Lusitano tradition. You will observe behind the scenes training, walk through the stables, and gain rare insight into the daily rhythm of the school.
Note: Entry tickets are sent to you in advance. Visiting hours are from ten to one.
Afternoon:
Lunch at your leisure followed by a half day Tuk Tuk tour of Lisbon. You will travel through historic districts, viewpoints, and iconic landmarks, experiencing the city beyond the arena.
Evening:
Return to your hotel and unwind after a full cultural day.
Meals included: Breakfast on following mornings
Accommodation: Upon Vila Hotel or similar
Morning:
Breakfast followed by another dressage session with Gilberto. By now your posture, seat, and feel have improved, allowing you to consolidate the work of previous days..
Afternoon:
After lunch, enjoy a scenic beach ride along the shoreline. This moment is always a highlight for riders on dressage holidays in Portugal. The transition from arena precision to open coastlines gives a new dimension to your rhythm and balance.
Timing is provided in advance.
Evening:
Final evening at the hotel, perfect for reflecting on progress and celebrating the week.
Meals included: Breakfast on following mornings
Accommodation: Upon Vila Hotel or similar
Morning:
Your last dressage session with Gilberto. This closing lesson brings together the entire programme and gives you a clear sense of your next steps as a rider.
Afternoon:
Final lunch near the hotel or early departure for the airport. Your five day Portuguese dressage itinerary concludes here with both skill development and memorable experiences.
Meals included: Breakfast on following mornings
What is Included
Four shared dressage lessons with Gilberto Filipe
One beach ride
Visit to the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art
Four nights at Hotel Upon Vila or similar with breakfast
What is Included
A complete dressage training holiday in Portugal built around structured lessons, Lusitano horses, cultural immersion, and coastal riding. This programme suits intermediate and advanced riders who want a premium learning environment supported by one of Portugal’s most accomplished equestrians. It blends discipline, discovery, and the relaxed charm that makes Portugal one of the best destinations for dressage riders worldwide.
Note: Training with Gilberto Filipe is exclusive to this specific programme, and all other Cavago packages follow their own individual itineraries and inclusions.