Top Level Dressage in Glorious Surroundings

The Monte Velho Equo Resort is a boutique hotel located on a very successful Lusitano breeding farm and is an ideal base from which to experience world class dressage instruction with a touch of trail riding in the gorgeous countryside. Born in Monte Velho, the unforgettable bay stallion Equador MVL, was a Master figure of the Lusitano in the Dressage World. Equador was born on the farm and ridden by João Torrão. The pair was present on the 2021 Tokyo Olympics where they made a good performance, sadly Equador passed away in 2022. However, at Monte Velho, lucky guests passionate about dressage riding, can have the incredible opportunity to watch an Olympic rider train Equador's son, Maestro MVL. And even take lessons with João Torrão or his own trainer, Coralie Baldrey. Come visit this incredible studfarm with Top Lusitanos and amazing venue!

MVL: Great Results Breeding Lusitanos

Monte Velho prides itself on being a working stud farm. This breeding and training operation runs year-round and interested guests have the privilege to watch and learn about it. In the spring and summer, the mares foal out in the field. The horses are weaned, started and trained by the same trainers who also teach the lessons. All this is done in an open environment, making it easy for hotel guests to observe what goes into creating a great dressage horse! MVL horses are eventually shown locally, or internationally, for the most talented. Some are sold while others become schoolmasters for lucky guests to enjoy.

Exceptional Equestrian For All

A Beautiful Boutique Hotel

Exquisitely designed, the property blends with the surrounding countryside which one can explore on horseback, and the rooftop pool offers amazing panoramic views of the Alentejo region.The barn and hotel are a collection of elegant modern buildings built into a hill. The bottom 2 feet of each wall are bordered in stunning indigo that matches the blue of the sky on a spring day. Fountains trickle and flowers bloom in a variety of colors. The vast riding facilities include an indoor and outdoor arena, miles of trails, and a beautiful barn

Equestrian Excellence for Guests

The resort offers dressage lessons and trail rides according to your interest and level of experience. There are several packages available from intensive dressage to trail riding and everything in between. The horses here have great movement and temperament and most have been very successful in competition. If you are at or close to that level as a rider, the lesson horses can provide the thrill of passage, piaffe, flying changes and pirouettes under the careful tutelage of talented professional instructors. João lives on the farm and Coralie teaches a few days most weeks. And in the event of their absence, there are several other excellent level trainers under Coralie’s tutelage. A week with this talented and energetic team will allow riders to come home with much improved riding skills. In addition to dressage lessons, Monte Velho offers a unique setting for trail riding on a 620 acre property as well as the surrounding countryside, classified as a National Ecological Reserve. In fact one can ride through this absolutely stunning area for several hours without ever crossing paved roads. The rides go over various dams through typical Alentejo landscape, with its cork and holm trees and herds of cattle, in a totally natural environment.

Ecological Paradise

Pampering, Relaxing and Exploring too

When not riding, guests can spend their days relaxing by the rooftop pool, go on a picnic, fishing or canoeing on the lake. Bikes are available to explore the expansive property. There is also a jacuzzi, a sauna and a gym with a great view. Last but not least, guests can schedule a well deserved massage at the spa. For further exploration, the city of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is only 30 km away and well worth a visit.

Gallery

Location

Airport

Monte Velho Equo Resort is located in Arraiolos, less than a 1.5 hours drive from Lisbon airport and a transfer can be organized by Monte Velho.

Car

Monte Velho Equo Resort Herdade do Monte Velho Santana do Campo, 7040-130 Arraiolos

Food & Drink

Dining (Restaurant)

Monte Velho can organize themed meals, outdoor picnics and canoeing at the dam. Guests wishing to explore the Alentejo landscape on horseback with a guide or arrange a lesson with a specialist can make the request in advance. The rooftop pool offers panoramic views. Some seating areas with umbrellas and sun loungers are spread throughout the gardens, where guests can enjoy a spectacular sunset. The UNESCO World Heritage City of Évora is 30 km from Monte Velho Equo-Resort.