Naomi (this is their first In The Saddle holiday) An amazing experience | The instructor Ivan, was exceptional in his instruction and riding ability. We not only had the pleasure of being taught by such a knowledgeable and talented instructor but we also had the pleasure of being able to watch him school the horses from youngster's to schoolmasters. He was gentle, understanding and displayed a great level of horsemanship.
The horses welfare and wellbeing was clearly a top priority.

Rosamund who has been on 4 In The Saddle rides. Intensive and fun to work on new riding skills | I keep coming back to Alcainca for a full on riding experience. The latest Introduction to Working Equitation was no exception. Mario and Ivan break down exercises and build confidence with incredible attention to detail. Each lesson was different and aimed at improving technique. I totally recommend for a huge feeling of achievement and ideas to take home.

Vivienne (this is their first In The Saddle holiday) A dedicated week of instruction in Portuguese equitation (dressage) | Alcainça Equestrian provides a relaxing and picturesque environment to receive intensive instruction for improvement in equestrian ability and knowledge. The horses are stunning, all proficient and responsive schoolmasters who are clearly well cared-for. There is no doubt that the welfare of the horses takes precedence in all activities at the school.

Two lessons per day were scheduled; a one-to-one in the morning, and then a 3-rider group lesson in the afternoon, which allowed us to perform some drill work. With personalised guidance delivered by experienced instructors who are passionate in their craft, my riding skills improved rapidly and I found myself performing complex lateral movements and certain collected movements which would otherwise have taken years to achieve!

Harriet (this is their first In The Saddle holiday) Great Experience | Mario and Ivan taught slightly differently but both gave excellent instruction.
The horses were very well schooled and able to execute lateral work, passage, Spanish walk and changes as long as you asked correctly.
I rode 3 different horses through the week and all were very capable.
More than met my expectations but feel you do need some previous experience at higher level dressage to get the most from this holiday.
Would not hesitate to go back.

Rosamund who has been on 4 In The Saddle rides. Riding Lusitano horses in the classical Portuguese style | This was my third visit to Equitação de Alcainca. The horses are well trained as schoolmasters, however, they do test the rider if incorrect aids are used. I find this the perfect way to improve my own riding as I aim to become a better equestrian.
Our instructor, Ivan, has excellent English and gradually builds on the lessons. I completely trust his relationship with the horses and I felt confident that he knew my ability and how to push me that bit further.
The trip to Golega was really special with a genuine insight into Portuguese culture. It was well organised and we enjoyed the carriage ride with Telmo’s two stallions. There was plenty to see in the main arena and also the indoor arena where there were ‘clinics’ training young horses.

Cathy (this is their first In The Saddle holiday) Dressage and Golega | Lovely place to stay as well as ride…comfy bed and wonderful food and wine. Excellent instruction and overall a very friendly place

Linda who has been on 8 In The Saddle rides. Very comfortable but tuition could be better | This is certainly not 4* accommodation but it's all so cosy and welcoming. I always think it feels like my second home. And I love the fact that the horses are so nearby that you can hear them shuffling about from your room.

My main criticism is of the tuition. Both Mario and Paolo do an awful lot of shouting which is really not the best way to get a message across.

Also, Mario's teachings were very different from what I've been taught and they didn't work. At least what Paolo shouts at you enables you to do what you're trying to do.

They're both really nice people with very good intentions but their teaching methods really need to be improved.

[In The Saddle response – we are sad that you didn’t enjoy the teaching on this visit. We forwarded your feedback to the instructors at Alcainca. They have responded to say that with best intentions, they perhaps got a bit too enthusiastic with their teaching at times. They are very sorry this has left you feeling you would prefer to go somewhere else next time]

Rosamund who has been on 4 In The Saddle rides. Perfect for classical riders | This was my second visit to Escola de Equitacao Alcainca and I hope to go again. I find it the perfect opportunity to focus on improving my overall riding and to learn in the classical Iberian tradition. Mario gives clear instruction and really helps me aim for a partnership with the horse, not only working within my abilities but also offering the challenges that build confidence.

Rosamund who has been on 4 In The Saddle rides. Classical riding on exceptional Lusitano horses | A game changer for me, expert riding instruction from Mario. He tuned into how I ride and how I want to improve, the teaching was detailed and wonderfully challenging. A very satisfying sense if achievement and ideas to think over after each lesson.
The Lusitano horses were beautifully trained and besides riding them, I enjoyed watching the staff schooling them.

Linda who has been on 8 In The Saddle rides. Brilliant! | I learnt so much on this holiday. It was necessary to get the aids exactly right which, although difficult at the time, has very noticeably improved my riding at home.

The instructor, Mario, gave me very useful advice about the position of my legs and hands which, when I remembered to do it all, was brilliant.

[Abbie from ITS replies: Thank you for your feedback on Alcainca. We're so pleased that you enjoyed your visit.]

Eva (this is their first In The Saddle holiday) Everything we expected and more | Excellent

Kelly (this is their first In The Saddle holiday) What an incredible trip! | This was an unbelievable experience and Lois and the team were able to tailor it to my needs and timeframe! The location, riding and horses were all fantastic and Mario was an excellent instructor who adapted to my level and needs.

Birger who has been on 4 In The Saddle rides. Excellent teaching from experienced people in a small riding hall who made it intensive. And easily hear commands and comments. Good with completely basic lessons in basic riding. Very satisfied.