Faial Island: Horseback Riding (3 hrs – Experienced Riders)

If you’re considering adding a horseback riding adventure to your trip to the Azores, this 3-hour tour on Faial Island could be just what you’re looking for. Designed for experienced riders, it promises a scenic journey along the island’s north coast, combining natural beauty with a touch of local history. While this isn’t a beginner’s ride, it offers enough for seasoned equestrians to truly enjoy the landscape at a relaxed but engaging pace.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the expert guidance ensures you’re riding safely and learning about the region’s history and flora along the way. Second, the spectacular views of the Atlantic from the cliffs and countryside are genuinely breathtaking — perfect for those who love scenery and a bit of adventure. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour is weather-dependent, and some may find the moderate trail a bit challenging if they’re not used to riding over uneven terrain. But overall, this tour suits seasoned riders who want to experience Faial’s natural charm in a manageable, well-organized outing.

If you’re an experienced rider craving a scenic escape with knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas, this tour might be just the right fit. It’s also a good pick if you prefer small groups for a more personal experience. Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty, so you know exactly what to expect.

Key Points

• Designed for experienced riders comfortable with all gaits, including canter and trot.
• Includes scenic views of the Atlantic and picturesque villages, perfect for photography lovers.
• Small group size (1-9 riders) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Two daily departure times (morning and afternoon) provide flexible planning options.
• Weather does not cancel the tour, so come prepared for rain or shine.
• Cost is $113 per person, offering a good value for a guided, scenic adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience Overview

This horseback riding tour on Faial Island is specific to those who already have some riding experience. It’s not a beginner’s trip, but rather a moderate trail that explores the northern coast, including cliffs, old farmhouses, and small villages. The tour lasts about three hours, which is a solid chunk of time that allows you to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

Starting from the quaint village of Cedros, you’ll meet your guide and learn a little about the horses and the trail ahead. The horses are Lusitano, a breed known for their calmness and stamina, making them perfect for moderate terrain. Your guide will do some initial riding exercises and give an introduction to the trail course — a nice touch that helps you settle in, especially if you’ve been on horseback recently.

Once underway, you’ll enjoy a relaxed pace with all gaits included — walk, trot, and canter. The emphasis here is on enjoying the landscape rather than galloping wildly. As you traverse the trail, you’ll pass by old farmhouses and small villages, listening to your guide share stories about Faial’s history, customs, and natural features.

What You’ll See and Experience

The highlight of the ride is undoubtedly the views of the Atlantic Ocean from the cliffs. You’ll truly feel like you’re on the edge of the world, watching the waves crash below. The trail itself isn’t overly difficult but does involve some riding along moderate terrain, which is ideal for experienced riders who want a bit of a challenge without it being strenuous.

Your guide will point out natural features and share insights into the local flora and fauna, making this more than just a scenic ride — it’s also an educational experience. Riding alongside old farmhouses and through small villages, you get a glimpse of local life and history, adding context to the natural beauty surrounding you.

After the ride, you’ll return to Cedros for a quick debrief, where you can discuss your favorite moments and ask questions. There’s also access to the PÁTIO Lounge and WiFi, so you can unwind with a coffee or snack after your adventure.

The Horses and the Guides

The Lusitano horses are calm and well-trained, making them perfect for experienced riders who appreciate a smooth, controlled ride. According to reviews, guides are attentive and knowledgeable, always prioritizing rider and horse safety. One rider even said, “Lots of galloping and in between, he explained a lot about the country, people, and fauna,” highlighting how engaging and informative the guide was.

This tour isn’t just about riding — it’s about connecting with the landscape. The guide’s expertise enhances the overall experience, making it more insightful and memorable.

Practical Details

Pricing is $113 per person, which for a 3-hour guided trail ride in a small group, represents good value, especially considering the included insurance and riding helmet. The small group size (1-9 riders) ensures you get personal attention, and the tour is available twice daily — at 8:45 am and 2:00 pm — giving flexibility to fit into your itinerary.

What to bring? Long pants and comfortable shoes are a must. Shorts, skirts, sandals, or flip-flops aren’t suitable and might compromise your comfort or safety. Since the tour goes rain or shine, pack a rain jacket if the weather forecast isn’t clear.

Restrictions: Riders should weigh less than 209 lbs (95 kg) and be over 10 years old. Riders under 14 must be accompanied by an adult, which makes this less suitable for families with young children. Pregnant women and those over the weight limit should consider other options.

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The Value of This Adventure

At $113, you’re paying for a well-organized, small-group experience that combines natural beauty with local insights. The inclusion of all gaits, the expert guidance, and the stunning views make this a memorable outing for experienced riders. It’s not a tour for complete beginners, but if you’re comfortable on horseback, it offers a rewarding way to see Faial’s landscapes from a unique vantage point.

Many past participants, like Vivien, have raved about the guide’s attentiveness and the scenery: “Absolutely fantastic experience! Experienced guide, always concerned about the well-being of riders and horses… my personal highlight.” This kind of feedback underscores the quality of the guiding and the overall experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This horseback riding experience is ideal for seasoned riders seeking a scenic and peaceful outing on Faial Island. It’s perfect if you want to combine your love of riding with spectacular views and local culture. If you prefer more adventurous, high-speed rides, this might feel a bit too tame, but for those who appreciate gentle, well-paced rides with a view, it’s a winner.

It’s also a good choice if you want a small group setting, as it keeps the experience intimate and personalized. However, if you’re traveling with children under 15 or pregnant, this tour won’t be suitable.

Final Thoughts

If you’re an experienced rider eager to explore Faial’s stunning northern coast on horseback, this tour offers a blend of natural beauty, expert guidance, and cultural insight that’s hard to beat. The views of the Atlantic from the cliffs are truly memorable, and the horses are gentle and well-trained, making for an enjoyable ride.

The tour’s small-group setting ensures you won’t feel rushed, and the flexibility of two departure times helps fit it neatly into your schedule. While weather can be a factor, it’s worth noting that the tour runs rain or shine, so come prepared.

This is a well-rounded horseback experience that provides excellent value, especially if you love riding and want to see Faial from a distinctive perspective. Whether you’re a serious rider or just looking to enjoy the landscape in a relaxed way, it’s likely to leave you with some great memories.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, this experience is designed for experienced riders who are comfortable with all gaits, including canter and trot.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs $113 per person, which covers the guided ride, insurance, and riding helmet.

What should I wear?
Long pants and comfortable shoes are recommended. Avoid shorts, skirts, sandals, and flip-flops for safety and comfort.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

Are children allowed on this ride?
Children under 15 aren’t suitable for this tour, and riders under 14 need to be accompanied by an adult.

What if it rains?
The tour runs rain or shine, so it’s best to come prepared with rain gear if necessary.

To sum it up, this horseback riding tour on Faial Island is a wonderful way for experienced riders to see some of the most scenic parts of the island while enjoying a relaxed, guided ride. With knowledgeable guides, beautiful views, and a small-group atmosphere, it’s a memorable addition to any Azores itinerary. Just be sure you’re comfortable on horseback and prepared for the weather — then, saddle up for a truly scenic adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: