Train within a living classical lineage on refined Lusitanos
Lusitano Heritage offers classical dressage riding holidays and Lusitano training retreats in Portugal, with private lessons focused on balance, lightness, collection and partnership with the horse.Classical Riding Retreats
For riders drawn to depth, feel, and classical partnership
Rooted in the Portuguese classical tradition, our retreats are guided by the principles of balance, lightness, and clear communication.
The Lusitano Heritage training philosophy is led by classical teacher Nuno Cavaco, whose 35+ years of experience shape the way we work with every horse and rider.
Alongside Nuno, our carefully selected riders and trainers support each guest’s journey — developing confidence, precision, timing, and a deeper understanding of classical horsemanship.
This is a space to refine your riding without force, pressure, or performance-driven agendas — and experience true partnership with the Lusitano horse.
Classical Teacher Nuno Cavaco
Former rider and teacher within the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art tradition, Nuno Cavaco brings over 35 years of experience working alongside classical masters and Lusitano horses. His teaching combines technical precision with quiet sensitivity, helping riders develop clarity, feel, balance, and confidence in the saddle.
Mike Ferreira
A talented Portuguese rider and trainer, Mike Ferreira brings a calm, thoughtful approach to classical riding and the development of the Lusitano horse.
With experience producing young horses, teaching riders and competing in dressage, Mike combines technical knowledge with patience and respect for the individual horse. His work reflects the values at the heart of Lusitano Heritage — correct foundations, harmony and a partnership built on trust.
“A living classical tradition”
OUR COMMITMENT TO OUR HORSES
At Lusitano Heritage, the wellbeing of our horses comes first.
Classical riding is founded on trust, patience and partnership — and this begins with respecting the horse as an individual.
Our horses enjoy:
- carefully managed workloads
- a maximum five-day working week
- daily care, turnout and enrichment
- regular rest periods throughout the year
- the month of August as their annual holiday
During August, our horses step away from teaching to enjoy time to simply be horses.
We believe a happy, healthy horse is the foundation of true classical horsemanship.
Your Journey at Lusitano Heritage
A private and immersive training experience shaped around you and your horse journey.
Each stay combines one-to-one classical instruction, ridden and in-hand work, and a deeper understanding of balance, lightness, collection, and communication.
During your stay:
Private lessons on trained Lusitano horses
Individual feedback and technical guidance
Work on balance, seat, feel, timing and collection
Introduction to advanced movements where appropriate
Time to observe, ask questions, deepen your understanding
THE 5 ⭐ CLASSICAL EQUITATION IMMERSION
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.
YOUR EXPERIENCE INCLUDES –
- 10 Private classical riding lessons
- 6 Nights accommodation in nearby Ericeira
- Daily nourishing lunches
- Immersion within Portugal’s living equestrian heritage
- A complimentary 50% follow-up online classical lesson
- Priority access to the Lusitano Heritage Circle
From 1,750 euros per person
Flexible Retreat Durations | One Classical Standard
We maintain small group numbers to preserve quality, focus, and individual attention.
Every stay includes access to the Lusitano Heritage Circle, so you can keep learning after you’re home: articles, interviews with master horsemen, and stories from the yard.
2 Days · 3 Nights
4 private lessons
3 nights accommodation
Daily lunches, wifi & drinks
Heritage Circle access
From €700
3 Days · 4 Nights
6 private lessons
4 nights accommodation
Daily lunches, wifi & drinks
Heritage Circle access
From €1050
4 Days · 5 Nights
8 private lessons
5 nights accommodation
Daily lunches, wifi & drinks
Heritage Circle access
From €1400
6 Days · 7 Nights
12 private lessons
7 nights accommodation
Daily lunches, wifi & drinks
Heritage Circle access
From €2100
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 charming coastal guesthouses and boutique stays to five-star spa hotels. Details are on the booking platform.
What Our Riders Have To Say
*****
“Lusitano Heritage is a place for exploring possibilities, expanding knowledge and dreams. My horsemanship is forever changed.”
Val Littfin, USA, Feb 2026
“The horses, instruction and the facilities are wonderful. The Tai chi was special. The entire experience was positive and fulfilling. Highly recommended!”
Robynn Smith, USA, Feb 2026
“A week of learning and growth filled with lots of laughter and delicious food. We even extended our stay. We will be back for sure.”
Lara Calagham, SA, Oct 2025
Planning Your Classical Riding Retreat
Everything you need to know before your visit
Do you offer classical dressage holidays in Portugal?
Yes. Lusitano Heritage offers private classical riding retreats near Lisbon, Portugal, focused on Portuguese classical equitation, Lusitano horses, balance, lightness and partnership.
What level of rider is suitable?
Our retreats are personalised for each rider. We welcome riders seeking deeper understanding of feel, timing, seat, balance and communication with the horse.
Will I ride Lusitano horses?
Yes. Guests train on carefully selected Lusitano horses educated within classical principles.
Can I learn in-hand classical work?
Yes. Depending on your retreat, riders can explore classical in-hand work to understand communication, collection and the development of the horse
Where are you located?
Lusitano Heritage is located around 35 minutes from Lisbon airport, close to Ericeira on Portugal’s Atlantic coast.
Who teaches the classical riding retreats?
The Lusitano Heritage training philosophy is led by classical teacher Nuno Cavaco, supported by selected riders and trainers working within the same principles.
Do you offer piaffe, passage or advanced movements?
Riders may experience advanced classical exercises where appropriate for the horse and rider. Our focus is always correct preparation, understanding and harmony rather than performing movements.
Do you offer piaffe, passage or advanced movements?
Riders may experience advanced classical exercises where appropriate for the horse and rider. Our focus is always correct preparation, understanding and harmony rather than performing movements.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. All guests are required to have their own travel insurance that specifically includes horse riding activities.
Lusitano Heritage operates with the appropriate insurance required under Portuguese regulations; however, personal travel, medical cover, cancellation protection and riding activity cover remain the responsibility of each guest.
Do I need to bring my own riding helmet and equipment?
For comfort and correct fit, we recommend guests bring their own riding helmet, riding boots and preferred riding equipment.
Approved riding helmets must be worn when riding. We do have a limited selection of helmets available if required.
Is there a rider weight limit?
The welfare of our horses is always our first priority. Our Lusitano horses are strong, athletic and carefully conditioned, but we believe every horse should carry a suitable weight for their size, age and workload.
For this reason, our general maximum rider weight is 90kg. If you have any questions, please contact us before booking so we can advise honestly and ensure the best match between horse and rider.
This is a programme for riders who understand refinement takes time.
REAL CONNECTION & HORSEMANSHIP BEGIN WITH SELF AWARENESS AND SELF WORK.