The Lusitanian horse is bred to roam the Alentejo plain, which is green or gold depending on the season.

The dry, warm climate is ideal for long horse rides, perhaps around the Maranhão dam and the huge fields of the region. A holiday on horseback is an excellent opportunity to try out one of these magnificent Lusitanians for yourself.

A great place to start your tour is the Alter stud farm, founded by king João V in 1748, the oldest in the world. The horses here are bred to form the centrepiece of the royal cavalry, in keeping with tradition.

Enjoy the mares being released out to pasture or the young colts at play in the paddock, or time your visit to coincide with one of the impressive demonstrations of falconry, another link to horses and hunting.

While out in the countryside, enjoy the best of country cooking Alentejo style, with dishes such as game soup or the renowned bread ‘migas’ with pork. Finish up with an Elvas plum ‘sericaia‘ dessert, just one highlight from the rich range of regional sweets.