Paulo Vieira, 2017
Paulo Vieira, 2017
Paulo Vieira, 2017
Paulo Vieira, 2017
Paulo Vieira, 2017
Paulo Vieira, 2017
Three Municipalities United by a Pioneering Vision for Equestrian Tourism
The municipalities of Viana do Castelo, Caminha and Ponte de Lima have joined forces to create a distinctive equestrian destination, positioning themselves at the forefront of the strategic development of equestrian tourism in Portugal. Working in close partnership with regional tourism businesses, they have established a coordinated and innovative approach that enhances the quality and visibility of the destination.
Through the "Your Horse Is Our Guest" Quality Label network, presented on this website and through the dedicated mobile app, equestrian travellers can easily discover the best horseback riding trails, as well as restaurants, accommodation and other tourism services offering facilities and amenities designed to meet the needs of both horse and rider throughout their journey.
The growing success of equestrian tourism in the municipalities of Viana do Castelo, Caminha and Ponte de Lima reflects the commitment of local businesses and organisations. The increasing demand for riding schools, equestrian centres, guided horseback experiences and equine-assisted therapy demonstrates the sector's strong potential and continued growth.
The intermunicipal strategy to strengthen equestrian tourism is built around four key priorities:
• Integrating equestrian tourism with other strategic tourism products, particularly rural tourism, nature tourism, and cultural and scenic touring, creating complementary experiences that showcase the diversity of the region.
• Developing an intermunicipal network of signposted and interpreted equestrian trails, connecting the Serra de Arga mountains with the Lima Valley through almost 100 kilometres of carefully designed routes.
• Establishing a certified network of tourism businesses specifically equipped to welcome equestrian travellers, including accommodation providers, restaurants, mountain villages, outdoor activity operators and other tourism services committed to delivering high-quality facilities for horses and riders.
• Promoting the Garrano horse, an indigenous breed of outstanding natural and cultural value, while preserving its habitat and celebrating its historical and ethnographic importance to the rural communities of Alto Minho.
Equestrian tourism represents a unique opportunity to enhance and diversify Alto Minho's tourism offer. By extending visitor demand beyond the traditional peak season, it contributes to the sustainable development of rural and nature tourism while creating new opportunities for local communities and businesses. Travelling on horseback encourages meaningful connections with local people and offers an authentic way to discover the region's cultural and natural heritage.
Equestrian tourism also creates strong links with a wide range of complementary tourism experiences. Whether through horseback tourism—travelling and exploring the landscape on horseback—or horse tourism, centred on equestrian activities and events, visitors can enjoy an integrated and distinctive experience rooted in the unique character of each territory. These experiences naturally complement rural tourism, adventure tourism, nature tourism, sports tourism, cultural and scenic touring, as well as the outstanding gastronomy and wines for which Alto Minho is renowned.