Lusitano Trail – Horseback riding for beginners

Exploring Faial Island on Horseback: A Review of the Lusitano Trail for Beginners

If you’ve ever dreamed of riding a beautiful horse through a lush, volcanic landscape, the Lusitano Trail on Faial Island offers a gentle introduction to equestrian adventures. This 1.5-hour experience, suitable for beginners or those rekindling their riding skills, provides a calm and scenic ride along the green meadows and dramatic north coast cliffs. While it’s not a high-adrenaline excursion, it’s a memorable way to see the island’s natural beauty and enjoy a peaceful connection with these graceful animals.

What I particularly love about this tour is the expert guidance provided by Diogo, who is praised for being kind, helpful, and making everyone feel confident — no matter their skill level. The horses themselves, Lusitano breed, are described as steady and well-tempered, which is a huge plus for first-timers. Also, the small group size (up to 9 riders) ensures personal attention and safety.

On the downside, the ride is limited to a walking gait, which might feel too relaxed for thrill-seekers. If you’re after a more vigorous or longer horseback experience, this might not fully satisfy your adventurous spirit. However, for those wanting a calm, scenic, and educational ride with beautiful views and a friendly atmosphere, it hits the mark.

Key points / Takeaways

• Beginner-friendly: Designed for those new to horseback riding, with simple walking gait and supportive guides.
• Stunning scenery: From lush volcanic hills to rugged north coast cliffs, the views are what make this trip special.
• Knowledgeable guides: Diogo and team not only ensure safety but also share interesting stories about Faial Island’s history and environment.
• Well-cared-for horses: The Lusitano horses are praised for their excellent temperaments and care, making the ride smooth and enjoyable.
• Flexible and convenient: Two daily departures at 9:30 am and 3 pm, with all necessary equipment provided, including helmets and insurance.
• Authentic experience: Small group size enhances the personal feel, making the experience more intimate and tailored.

Discovering Faial Island from the Saddle: An In-Depth Look

Setting the Scene: What the Tour Offers

The Lusitano Trail takes you on a gentle ride through Faial’s diverse terrain. Expect to start with a brief introduction about horses, riding techniques, and safety — a vital step for beginners or those re-starting riding after some time. The guides are dedicated to making everyone feel confident, which is reflected in reviews praising Diogo for his kindness and helpfulness.

The ride itself involves walking at a relaxed pace, which is perfect for taking in the scenery without feeling hurried or overwhelmed. You’ll either go along the coast, enjoying ocean views and crashing waves, or venture into the volcanic hills, surrounded by lush greenery. The terrain is varied but manageable, thanks to Lusitano horses known for their steady climbing ability.

The Scenic Highlights

One of the key attractions of this tour is the beautiful scenery. The trails wind through green meadows typical of Faial’s volcanic landscape, offering sweeping views of the Atlantic and rugged cliffs along the northern shore. Travel writer Melissa B. commented that “the trail was beautiful,” and her kids found the ride easily accessible, which highlights how suitable this experience is for families.

The ride’s relaxed pace allows you to truly absorb the environment, whether it’s the fresh sea breeze or the scent of wildflowers. You might find yourself pausing frequently to admire the scenery or take photos — the views are genuinely captivating.

The Horses and Guides: Making Safety and Comfort a Priority

The Lusitano horses are praised repeatedly for their temperament. Stories from reviews mention that the horses are “well cared for” and “steady climbers” that contribute greatly to a safe and enjoyable experience. Diogo, the guide, receives high marks for his kindness and attentiveness, helping even the most nervous riders feel at ease.

Having riding helmets included is a smart touch, emphasizing safety, and the small group size means individual attention is assured. You’ll also get a quick introduction to horsemanship, which most beginners find helpful.

What to Expect During the Experience

The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, including a briefing, training, and riding time. You’ll meet at Rua da Igreja in Cedros, with the activity ending back at the start point. The ride is suitable for ages 10 and up, and riders over 95 kg should check with the provider beforehand.

The experience is accessible to most travelers, with confirmation received at booking. Since it’s weather-dependent, poor conditions may cause cancellations but with flexible rescheduling or full refunds.

Who This Tour Is For

If you’re seeking a peaceful, scenic ride with easy terrain, this experience is an excellent choice. It’s particularly perfect for families, first-time riders, or those who want a relaxing way to explore Faial’s natural beauty without the adrenaline rush. Those with a keen interest in local flora, fauna, or the volcanic landscape will appreciate the guided commentary.

Practical Considerations and Value

While at $80.29 per person, the experience might seem modestly priced, it offers good value given the personalized attention, well-cared-for horses, and stunning scenery. The inclusion of safety gear, insurance, and access to the lounge and Wi-Fi adds convenience for travelers.

Booking on average 55 days in advance suggests it’s a popular activity, so plan ahead to secure your spot. The small group size enhances the quality of the experience, avoiding the crowded feeling found in larger tours.

Final Thoughts

The Lusitano Trail for beginners provides a relaxed yet authentic way to appreciate Faial Island’s diverse landscapes. It’s a thoughtfully organized tour that combines scenic beauty, expert guidance, and the chance to connect with nature on horseback. For travelers who value safety, comfort, and genuine local experiences, this ride ticks all those boxes.

If your goal is to enjoy a peaceful yet picturesque adventure suitable for all ages and skill levels, this is a solid pick. It’s less about adrenaline and more about the joy of riding and soaking in the views — a peaceful, memorable way to see the island.

Who should consider this? Families with kids over 10, beginner riders, or anyone wanting a gentle introduction to Faial’s stunning scenery.

Who might want more? Experienced riders looking for a longer, faster, or more challenging ride might find this too relaxed.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, it’s designed for beginners or those re-starting their riding skills, with a clear introduction and calm walking gait.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the guided ride, safety equipment like helmets, insurance, and access to the lounge and Wi-Fi at the meeting point.

Can I participate if I’m over 95kg?
You might need to check directly with the provider, as riders over 95kg are advised to confirm their suitability beforehand.

Are children under 14 allowed?
Yes, children over 10 can join, but those under 14 must be accompanied by a paying adult.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Helmets are provided.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In essence, the Lusitano Trail offers a peaceful, scenic, and safe introduction to horseback riding on Faial Island. It’s an experience that combines natural beauty with expert care, perfect for those wanting a relaxed yet memorable adventure in the Azores.