Quinta do Rol - Portugal

Quinta do Rol

5 star rating   16 April 2026

Cathy who has been on 54 In The Saddle rides. Dancing with Horses | The stables were immaculate as were the horses for every lesson. In 9 lessons I rode 8 different horses. What a joy they were to ride, soft mouthed, bendable, sensitive to the rider's aids. I was pushed to achieve in the lessons which is what I had asked for, my thanks to João and Joanna. As a non horse owner who rides once a week at a riding school to be able to work on collection and extension, to achieve Shoulder in and out, Halfpass, Passage, and (with help) Piaffe, this was a real treat and such a privilege. You have the same saddle throughout your stay, it was very comfy and fitted all the horses well. I learnt to ride in spurs and mostly with double reins. The indoor school is large and has mirrors, the outdoor has a roof to keep the sun off. The rider's lounge is a pleasant way to watch the other riders.

[Abbie from ITS replies: Thank you for your lovely feedback. We are so pleased that you enjoyed your stay at Quinta do Rol. It sounds as though you made fabulous progress!].


The Riding

How well were you matched with the right horse for your ability?
5 star rating
How would you rate the variety of riding, pace or terrain?
5 star rating
How would you rate the overall standard of the horses, tack and stables?
5 star rating

The Accommodation

How would you rate your room(s) for comfort and facilities?
4 star rating
How would you rate the standard of the food?
5 star rating

Do you have any comments about the accommodation and food?

Light meals that were delicious. The staff took great care over any dietary requirements. One criticism is if you're on the first lesson of the morning it's too much of a rush (8.30 breakfast, walk to stables 7+ minutes, 9 ride).
Lovely swimming pool that owing to the shelter was at a good temperature even in early April.


Before Your Holiday

Did you have all of the information you needed to:

Plan and prepare for your holiday?
5 star rating
Feel comfortable about your transfers and what to expect?
5 star rating

How could we improve the quality of pre-holiday information that we send?

As always everything is well thought out, through and accurate.


Do you have any other feedback for us?

I thoroughly enjoyed my stay. The stables are situated in a vineyard and it's very relaxing to be there. The walk to the stables ca 7 mins is on a dirt track, should it rain this becomes very muddy. You can leave belongings safely at the stables. If you decide you want extra lessons these are easy to book on a day by day basis.
The pick up and drop off worked very well.
Lisbon airport was very busy so leave plenty of time for check in.