Beyond the Trail: Exclusive Horseback Riding in Madeira

In a world that often rushes from one destination to the next, Equine Village offers a rare pause — a moment to connect deeply with nature, animals, and the true spirit of Madeira. Nestled in the heart of the island’s lush landscapes, it redefines what it means to be part of an equestrian experience. This is not about ticking boxes on a tourist itinerary, but about immersing oneself in a journey where every moment matters and every detail has purpose.

Whether you’re an experienced rider or a complete beginner, each ride is designed around you. No large groups, no rushed schedules — just a personalised adventure where horses are partners, not transport, guiding you through Madeira’s UNESCO Laurissilva Forest and historic levadas.

A Legacy of Ethical Riding: The Equine Village Philosophy

What makes Equine Village stand out is not only its breathtaking setting, but its philosophy: a deep respect for horses and a commitment to ethical horsemanship. Here, animals come first — not as objects of tourism, but as respected partners in a shared journey.

“Here, the animals come first. Our customers know it and love it,” says Stable Manager Paula Exposto.

All horses are trained using Natural Horsemanship principles and ridden bitless, ensuring their comfort and well-being. This creates a deeper bond between horse and rider, something guests feel from the very first ride.

Each experience is intimate, tailored to the rider’s confidence and skill. As one guest put it on TripAdvisor:

“The most authentic horse riding experience we’ve ever had — the horses are clearly loved, and the guides made us feel part of the island’s story.”

The Magic of Madeira’s Laurissilva Forest

Imagine riding through a dense forest of ancient trees, the air rich with the scent of moss and earth, the only sounds being the rhythm of hooves and the rustle of leaves. This is what guests discover in Madeira’s UNESCO Laurissilva Forest — one of the island’s most biodiverse treasures.

Equine Village offers exclusive guided rides through these trails, many of which have been used for centuries. The journey is more than scenic beauty; it is cultural immersion.

“We don’t just offer a scenic view. Every ride through Madeira’s Laurissilva Forest is a cultural immersion, a deep dive into the island’s natural heritage,” says Paulo Nunes, CEO of Equine Village. “Our guides share stories about the flora, the legends of the land, and the vital role the levadas played in shaping Madeira’s past.”

This storytelling, combined with the tranquillity of the forest, allows riders to slow down, absorb the environment, and feel a genuine connection to the island.

The Unique Role of the Belgian Malinois Dogs

Adding to the magic are the Belgian Malinois dogs who often accompany the rides. Energetic and loyal, they dart ahead along the trails, sometimes running by the levadas, their playful presence bringing joy and a sense of camaraderie.

Their role is more than playful — they embody the spirit of Equine Village, where animals and humans share the trail in harmony. Guests frequently describe the dogs as a highlight of their experience, a reminder that this is not just tourism, but a living community of animals and people.

A Commitment to Sustainability

At Equine Village, respect for animals extends naturally to the environment. Located in one of the world’s most ecologically significant regions, the retreat is deeply committed to sustainability. Trails are carefully chosen to minimise erosion, eco-friendly practices are in place across operations, and guests are encouraged to embrace conservation values.

“Environmental sustainability is something we take very seriously,” says Paula. “We work to reduce our footprint through responsible land management, sustainable products, and by educating our guests on conservation.”

This is not just about today’s riders — it is about ensuring the health of Madeira’s landscapes for generations to come.

Unmatched Recognition and Guest Satisfaction

Equine Village’s dedication to excellence has been recognised internationally. With near-perfect ratings on TripAdvisor and Google, it has consistently earned the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award, placing it among the world’s top-rated attractions.

In addition, Equine Village was honoured with the Travel & Hospitality Award for Madeira Unique Experience of the Year, further cementing its reputation as one of the leading equestrian retreats globally.

Equine Village’s Lasting Impact

For CEO Paulo Nunes, the greatest reward is not in the awards themselves but in the guests’ reactions:

“We’ve created something truly different from what’s out there in the tourism world. It’s not about mass tourism or rushing through an itinerary. It’s about offering an experience that connects you to the animals, the land, and the island’s story.”

At its core, Equine Village is a place of reflection, where the journey is as meaningful as the destination. Horses, dogs, people, and land come together in a powerful connection that stays with guests long after they leave.

A Transformative Way to Experience Madeira

For those seeking more than just another attraction, Equine Village offers a rare and transformative way to experience Madeira. With its focus on animal welfare, sustainability, and personal connection, it stands as a gem in the island’s tourism landscape.

At Equine Village, every ride is more than a journey through stunning landscapes — it is an encounter with nature, animals, and culture that lingers long after the trail ends.

For more information, visit Equine Village’s website or follow on Instagram and Facebook.