VIANAEQUESTRE
About Us
An equestrian association with the Atlantic at the door and the Minho at heart — since 2009.
Our story
VIANAEQUESTRE — the Equestrian Association of Viana do Castelo — was born in September 2009 with a simple mission: to promote horse riding, equestrian tourism and all equestrian sports in our region.
We started with a handful of horses and plenty of stubbornness, in Areosa, between the sea and the mountains. Today we are a complete equestrian centre: guided rides that have shown the Minho to visitors from dozens of countries, a riding school where riders of all ages grow, hippotherapy sessions in partnership with local institutions, carriages that bring colour to the region’s festivals, and a boarding stable where every horse is known by name.
We are a non-profit association: everything we do goes back to the horses, the facilities and the community. When you ride with us, you are supporting this project.
16+
years of experience
8
max. per group
4
landscapes: beach, mountain, pines, fields
100%
levels welcome
What guides us
Horse welfare first
Rested, well-fed, happy horses — non-negotiable. Our animals work in moderation and live with dignity.
Safety without compromise
Certified instructors, checked equipment, groups of 8 riders maximum and routes we know inch by inch.
Minho authenticity
We don’t sell catalogue experiences. We show you our Minho — the beaches, the trails, the wine, the traditions — the way you’d welcome friends.
Inclusion
From hippotherapy to school programmes, we believe the horse is for everyone. No one is left out.
Come and meet us
The door is open and the horses love visitors. Book a ride or drop by to see the facilities.