Discover the Lusitano Trail – Horseback Riding for Beginners on Faial Island
If you’re looking for a relaxing way to connect with nature on Faial Island, the Lusitano Trail offers an accessible horseback riding experience tailored for beginners and those wanting to take it easy. For approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, you’ll explore the island’s green meadows and wild cliffs along the northern coast, all while riding beautiful Lusitano horses. At just over $80 per person, this tour packs in scenic views, engaging guides, and a chance to try horseback riding without prior experience.
What we love most about this experience are two key points. First, the guides’ knowledge and friendliness make all the difference—they’re not only safety-conscious but also eager to share stories about Faial’s history and landscape. Second, the calm, steady Lusitano horses are perfect for beginners; their temperament ensures you feel secure, even if you’ve never been on a horse before.
A possible consideration is the limited group size and scheduled times—this tour runs twice daily and is capped at six riders, which is great for personalized attention but requires booking well in advance. It’s best suited for families, first-timers, or anyone seeking a gentle, scenic ride in a small-group setting.
If you enjoy outdoor adventures that prioritize safety, authenticity, and a touch of adventure, this horseback ride is a wonderful option. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who want a relaxing, scenic experience with knowledgeable guides and well-cared-for horses.
Key Points
- Beginner-friendly: Designed for newcomers, with easy walk gait trails.
- Scenic routes: Ride through lush meadows or along the rugged north coast cliffs.
- Expert guides: Friendly guides provide safety, history, and local insights.
- Small groups: Limited to 1-9 riders, ensuring personalized attention.
- Includes: Insurance, riding helmets, and a briefing on horses and trail.
- Extras: Free access to the PÁTIO Lounge and Wi-Fi at the meeting point.
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An In-Depth Look at the Lusitano Trail Experience
Location and Setting
Faial Island, also called the “Blue Island,” is a volcanic outcrop offering dramatic landscapes, lush greenery, and volcanic hills. The Lusitano Trail begins in Cedros, a small village that serves as the perfect starting point for this scenic adventure. The trail takes in two distinct environments: meadows filled with native grasses and wildflowers and cliffs overlooking the Atlantic, providing a visual feast for nature lovers.
What the Tour Entails
This 1.5-hour experience includes a friendly briefing where guides introduce you to the horses, explain the trail course, and review riding safety. It also features training, so even if you’re a total novice, you’ll have a solid understanding of riding basics before heading out. The actual horseback riding portion is at a gentle walk, making it suitable for all ages over 10, and for riders weighing more than 95kg.
What to Expect During the Ride
You’ll be riding steady Lusitano horses, renowned for their calm temperament and natural ability to climb volcanic hills. Depending on the day, your guide might choose to lead you along the coastline, offering spectacular views of the Atlantic and cliffs, or through verdant hills, exposing you to Faial’s lush volcanic landscape.
Authentic Insights from Other Riders
One traveler, Lisa, shared, “Who doesn’t want to horseback ride on a beautiful island with beautiful cliff views? We didn’t want to miss this, and neither should you. Clean facility, well-cared-for horses.” This highlights the well-maintained stables and the quality of the horses. Melissa emphasizes how accessible the experience was for her children, aged 12 and 15, calling it “the most fun I’ve ever had riding horses,” emphasizing that the trails are suitable for younger riders.
Guides and Safety
Angela recalls, “Diogo was an excellent guide who was kind and helpful. We felt confident despite being beginners, thanks to the temperament of the horses and the thorough briefing.” This reassures us that safety is a priority, and guides are experienced in making sure everyone feels comfortable.
Booking and Practicalities
The tour costs $80.29 per person, which reflects good value considering the personalized experience, safety gear, and a scenic outdoor activity. It runs twice daily at 9:30 am and 3 pm, making it easy to fit into most travel schedules. Pre-booking is highly recommended, as it’s booked on average 55 days in advance, and the small group size enhances the overall quality of the experience.
Meeting Point and Accessibility
The tour begins at Rua da Igreja, Cedros, and you’ll return there after your ride. The activity includes free Wi-Fi and access to the PÁTIO Lounge, making it a pleasant spot to relax before or after your ride.
Weather and Cancellation
Since the experience depends on good weather, the tour can be canceled if conditions are poor—rescheduling or a full refund is offered in such cases. You have the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, ensuring peace of mind.
Why This Experience Works for Travelers
This horseback riding tour is ideal for those who want a gentle introduction to riding amidst Faial’s beautiful scenery. It’s perfect for families with children over 10, couples seeking a romantic outdoor activity, or solo travelers eager to experience the island’s natural beauty in a relaxed way. The small group size and knowledgeable guides mean you’ll get plenty of personal attention and insight, enhancing your appreciation of Faial’s landscape and history.
Who Should Consider This Tour
If you’re a total beginner or someone who hasn’t ridden a horse in years, this tour offers a safe and supportive environment. Nature lovers who appreciate stunning coastlines and volcanic landscapes will find the scenery unforgettable. It’s also suitable for travelers who value small-group experiences and want to avoid crowded tourist attractions. The fact that it’s a half-day activity makes it a manageable addition to your itinerary without feeling overly taxing.
However, if you’re looking for an adrenaline-fueled horseback adventure or a longer trail, this might not be the right fit. Its focus on ease and safety makes it more suitable for a tranquil, scenic outing.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 10 years old who weigh more than 95kg can participate. Riders under 14 need to be accompanied by an adult.
What is included in the price?
The price covers a briefing, training, riding, insurance, a riding helmet, and guided scenic trail.
How long is the horseback ride?
The ride itself lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including briefing and training.
Are the horses well cared for?
Yes, travelers have praised the well-maintained, calm Lusitano horses that are suitable for beginners.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity, along with closed-toe shoes. Helmets are provided.
Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, tours are weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How many people are in each group?
Groups are small, with a maximum of 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
What if I have no prior riding experience?
No problem—this tour is designed for beginners, with a thorough introduction and calm horses to ensure confidence.
When should I book?
Booking early is recommended, especially since the tour is booked on average 55 days in advance.
Is there a dress code?
No strict dress code; just wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes.
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Final Words
For anyone seeking a peaceful yet scenic outdoor activity on Faial Island, the Lusitano Trail offers a perfect blend of gentle riding, stunning views, and expert guidance. It’s a great way to experience Faial’s natural beauty without the need for riding experience or strenuous effort. The small-group setting means you’ll receive personal care, making it an ideal choice for families or first-time riders.
Whether you want to add a touch of adventure to your trip or simply enjoy the island’s landscapes from a different perspective, this horseback riding experience provides a memorable, authentic taste of Faial’s wild coastline and volcanic hills. It’s a gentle journey that leaves plenty of room for awe and relaxation—a ride you’ll remember long after you leave the island.