The Classical Progression Retreat
"Discover how the classical masters developed balance, lightness, and harmony — from the ground up."
The Classical Progression Retreat offers a rare opportunity to study the complete classical pathway with Master Trainer Nuno Cavaco. Through a carefully structured blend of in-hand work, ridden lessons, theory, and rider awareness practices, participants gain a deeper understanding of how the horse develops balance, strength, collection, and lightness.
For centuries, classical horsemen developed horses from the ground before asking for advanced work under saddle. In-hand training improves balance, straightness, suppleness, understanding, and collection while allowing the rider to observe and understand the horse’s development from a new perspective. When combined with ridden work, it creates a deeper partnership and a clearer understanding of the classical system.
Learn with Classical Trainer Nuno Cavaco
Former rider and teacher within the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art tradition, Nuno Cavaco brings over 35 years of experience studying, riding, and teaching the classical principles of horsemanship. Having worked alongside some of Portugal’s most respected masters, his teaching combines technical precision with quiet sensitivity, helping riders develop feel, balance, harmony, and confidence both in-hand and under saddle.
For over three decades Nuno has studied, performed, and taught within Portugal’s living classical tradition, bringing together practical horsemanship, in-hand mastery, and ridden refinement.
"Classical horsemanship is not about force. It is the art of balance, timing, and communication." — Nuno Cavaco
What You Will Experience
An immersive journey through the classical pathway from groundwork to riding.The Classical Progression Retreat offers a rare opportunity to study the complete classical pathway from groundwork to riding. Through in-hand work, ridden lessons, observation, theory, and rider awareness practices, participants develop a deeper understanding of balance, collection, lightness, and partnership within the Portuguese classical tradition.
We maintain small group numbers to preserve quality, focus, and individual attention.
In-Hand Mastery
Learn directly from horses at different stages of training, from foundations to advanced work, developing an eye for balance, straightness, collection, and communication.
Riding Integration
Translate classical principles into the saddle through daily ridden lessons focused on feel, timing, softness, and partnership.
Theory & Observation
Observe multiple horses, analyse training progression, and deepen your understanding through discussion, demonstrations, and video review.
Rider Presence
Breath-work, awareness practices, and mindful preparation help riders develop clarity, focus, and a deeper connection with their horses.
THE 4-DAY CLASSICAL PROGRESSION
Our signature programme is designed to allow space for true integration — where subtle shifts in feel, posture, timing, and understanding become embodied rather than purely intellectual.
INCLUDES –
- 5 Days / 4 Nights
- Maximum 4–6 Riders
- Daily In-Hand Sessions
- Daily Ridden Lessons
- Theory & Discussion Sessions
- Organic Lunches
- Refreshments Throughout The Day
- Accommodation Options Available
- Transfers Between Accommodation and Farm Included
INVESTMENT – 2,300 euros per person
(Prices held until April 2027)
Join The Classical Progression Retreat
For riders seeking more than technique — for those seeking feel, understanding, and true partnership.
Where you Stay :
We are located just 35 minutes from Lisbon airport and really close to some of Portugal’s magical coastline. You can stay in Ericeira a charming fishing and surfing town. It is packed with charm, cobbled streets , cafes, restaurants, shops, the fishing port and 8 beaches. The hotels are available to suit all travellers.
We can book you accommodation for you or you can select your own from the extensive choices. AirBnB to 5 star luxury spa hotels. Details are on the booking platform.
This is a programme for riders who understand refinement takes time.
REAL CONNECTION. REAL HORSEMANSHIP BEGINS WITH SELF AWARENESS AND SELF WORK