Associação de Condutores de Charretes do Algarve

This association of local carriage driving enthusiasts was formed with the objectives of promoting carriage driving facilities in the Algarve area of Portugal. The association organizes both social and competitive events and holds regular meetings at the New Forest Lodge Equestrian Center. Membership is open to all residents and regular holiday home owning visitors. Details of membership and forthcoming events can be obtained by email from acca@horsesinthesun.com or by telephone: +351 913360738

The Carriage Driving experience

Imagine a sport you can take up at any age, at almost any stage of fitness, which brings exhilarating adrenalin rush, and is environmentally friendly at the same time… no, we are definitely NOT talking about golf!

Carriage driving is one of the world’s fastest growing sports. While, elsewhere, the sport may have various requirements of etiquette and training, here in the Algarve, it is wonderfully relaxed and approachable. We offer fabulous outdoor fun and games, as well as first-class food, after your ride sit down to a delicious farm house BBQ lunch, or perhaps you would prefer a lake-side picnic. There’s truly nothing like the adrenalin rush you get when you drive fast over rough ground! Equally, it’s wonderful to let the horse amble along the quiet forest trails, you are very close to wild birds and animals.

The various trails offered by the New Forest Lodge Equestrian Center can cater for individuals or small groups. Those who don’t want to drive in the carriage, can ride on horseback and can be from one hour to all day. The guides/ grooms, always accompany you with mobile phone and 4x4 backup.

Pre booking is necessary, but in the unlikely event of bad weather you may cancel or postpone on the morning of the drive.

Price per person 45 Euros ( Including lunch and drinks) available to members and residents only.
Group booking and children’s discounts available, please enquire

Program, suggested times, we are happy to alter to your convenience.
10:30 Am An introduction to your horses and their grooms, a brief demonstration of harnessing techniques and explanation of the function and history the different carriages we use.
11:00 Am Leave the stable yard, after a short time to familiarize yourself with the basic techniques you will have an opportunity to take over the reigns if you wish, or just enjoy your drive at leisure. Don’t worry about your inexperience, our modern carriages have disk breaks and you will be sitting beside an experienced coachman. Our rout will offer some spectacular views. You will have a chance to enjoy nature at its very best, we frequently spot eagles soaring above.
1:00 Pm On returning to the stable your groom will take care of the horses. They enjoy a shower after their outing and tuck into a well earned bail of hay. You will have an opportunity to freshen up after you drive, you may wish to take a quick dip in our spring water tank
1:30 Pm up to our kitchen where our ancient bread ovens, and traditional wood grills are waiting to serve you an array of mouth watering farm house treats, washed down with an excellent local vintage, or fresh pressed juice. After lunch you are welcome to stroll around the farm and meet some of the other animals.

What else would you like to know about?

The horses and their helpers

Carriage-driving courses

Short/Day adventure rides

riding holidays

other activities

Accommodation

Creating your own equestrian event

Flora and fauna

Other Horse websites

Versão Portuguesa