Portugal 2026

Hybrid Training & Competition Experience

Unlock the magic of Northwest Portugal

Get ready for a GAT experience like no other, where the colorful tiled streets of Esposende meet the sparkling Atlantic coastline. In April 2026, join us for an exclusive 10-day training and competition adventure designed for riders of all ages and skill levels, set against the stunning backdrop of northern Portugal.

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Train daily on top-quality sport horses at the world-class facilities of Hipico Norte, featuring three indoor arenas, two outdoor arenas, and an on-site restaurant and bar. Whether you're passionate about dressage, show jumping, or working equitation, you'll sharpen your skills with expert coaching from an internationally renowned team. 

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This incredible experience includes five days of training, participation in a local competition, rider fitness sessions, educational seminars, course preparation, and so much more. Beyond the arenas, you'll explore the world-famous city of Porto, explore the National Park on horseback, visit a prestigious Lusitano breeding stud, plus enjoy optional activities like wine tours, surfing, canyoning, golf, and kayaking!

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Esposende is the perfect blend of laid-back beach vibes and rich cultural heritage, with endless dining, shopping, and sightseeing opportunities for riders and supporters alike. It's also the ideal launchpad to explore Portugal’s breathtaking northern coast and the UNESCO-listed city of Porto, just 25 minutes away.

Stay in comfort just minutes from the stables at a welcoming hotel offering a pool, bar, restaurant, and easy access to the city center.

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Tour Details

Location: Esposende, Northwest Portugal
Date: April 2026 (exact dates TBC)
Duration: 10 days

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Tour Highlights

• 5 days of elite training

• Participation in a local competition to put your skills to the test

• Full-day sightseeing tour

• Trail ride through the National Park

• A working equitation demonstration

• Visit to a Lusitano stud

• Seminars with leading experts

• Rider fitness sessions

• Recreational activities available such as golf, surfing, kayaking, and canyoning

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Age criteria: Any
Experience level: Any 

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The Trainers

Ensuring that you get the absolute most out of your time spent with us here, we have put together an international team of top instructors and support staff offering lessons in English, French, Chinese, Portuguese and Swedish/Norwegian.

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This includes Portugal Equestrian Director Bruno Barros - a two-time national champion and former coach of the Portuguese Youth Olympic Games team. Bruno is joined by head dressage instructor Miguel Santos, Swedish showjumper Anna Lindberg and Swedish dressage and working equitation rider Astrid Hedman, who represented Sweden at the 2018 World Championships in Germany.

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The Facilities

Daily training will be held less than 10 minutes from your accommodation at the meticulously maintained state-of-the-art facilities of Hipico Norte. Their facilities offer an unparalleled environment for both horse and rider, and feature

• 3 indoor arenas

• 2 outdoor arenas

• On-site bar & restaurant

• Recreation areas

The Horses

• Dressage Horses up to Prix St. George level

• Show Jumping Horses up to 1.30m

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The Location

Located in the north of Portugal, just 30 minutes away from the famed city of Porto and one hour from Vigo in Spain, Esposende is a serene beachside village that offers a unique blend of tranquility and cultural heritage. 

Famous for its culinary diversity and stunning sandy beaches, Esposende offers a wealth of activities and culture all year round for non-riding partners and families, with many traditional restaurants famous for their seafood, bars, and live music. There is truly something for everyone!

The village is also an excellent base for exploring the larger region. The Natural Park of the North Coast – a large area covering around 1,200 hectares and is famous for its wetland areas and beautiful coastal dunes. Porto, one of the oldest cities in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site, lies just 25 minutes south and is a remarkable tangle of historic streets and alleys. The traditional barcos rabelos (flat-bottomed boats) bob at the foot of the hillside, down which medieval buildings, Rococo façades, and Gothic churches tumble.

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The Accommodation 

The tour begins with one night in the heart of the world-famous city of Porto—a vibrant UNESCO World Heritage site where you can wander historic streets, enjoy riverside views, and experience the city's rich food, wine, and culture. After soaking up everything this magnificent city has to offer, you’ll be transported up the scenic northern coast to the charming beachside village of Esposende.

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Your main accommodation is located in Esposende, just a short drive from the stable and a short walk to the city centre. The hotel features an excellent on-site restaurant, bar, and swimming pool, offering a comfortable and convenient base for both riders and non-riders to relax and enjoy the surrounding region.

Upgrade Options for an Elevated Experience

For those seeking an added touch of elegance, both hotels offer the opportunity to upgrade from standard rooms to beautifully appointed suites, each designed with comfort and sophistication in mind. In addition, bespoke pre- and post-tour packages can be curated to perfectly complement your journey, whether it's a serene escape, a cultural immersion, or a taste of indulgence. Let us tailor every detail to ensure your stay is as unforgettable as the tour itself.

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​We also offer bespoke pre- and post-tour packages — whether you're dreaming of a spa retreat, historic exploration, or indulgent local experiences, we’ll tailor everything to ensure your journey is as unforgettable as your time in the saddle

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The logistics

The base package includes hotel-style accommodation in a standard twin-share room (single and superior options available at additional cost) 

Our tour Chef d'equipe will assist the selected riders throughout the trip. The GAT team and our official travel partners can provide administrative support with flights, pre and post-tour accommodation, insurance, and anything else you might need to make your trip both streamlined and enjoyable.  ​

Rider cost:

• USD $8499 ($8199 Early Bird Rate**)

• The price estimate excludes flights and travel insurance and includes accommodation, horse lease, horse transport, training competition entry, stabling, airport and venue transfers, any included sightseeing, some meals (daily breakfast, lunch on training days, welcome and farewell dinner), plus accompanying Chef d'equipe.

• This cost is based on current charges and exchange rates and is an estimate only

Supporter cost:

• USD $4599 ($4299 Early Bird Rate**)

• The price estimate excludes flights and travel insurance and includes accommodation, some meals (daily breakfast, lunch on training days, welcome and farewell dinner), airport and venue transfers, any included sightseeing activities plus accompanying Chef d'equipe. 

• This cost is based on current charges and exchange rates and is an estimate only

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Terms and conditions

• Riders under 18 at the time of the tour must be accompanied by an adult

• A full list of tour terms and conditions can be provided on request. This will form part of your pre-travel documentation to be signed before departure

• Dates are approximate and subject to change

• All selections for the tour are at the discretion of the Global Amateur Tour

• ** Early bird pricing is available to those who apply before August 31st, 2026. 

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If you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to contact the GAT Team or check our FAQ PAGE.  

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We also offer a range of other training and competition tours. Check out the full tour program HERE.