Guided horse ride with a Basque snack in Gipuzkoa

Tuck your helmet in, cross streams on horseback and round off the ride with freshly fried chistorra and Basque cider: that’s how you beat stress.

Head to Usurbil for a 2-hour horse ride through meadows, woods and along the River Oria. You’ll be accompanied by qualified guides who’ll adapt the pace to your ability — from a leisurely stroll to trying a trot or a gallop — before rounding off the adventure with an irresistible traditional snack.

What we will do

We’ll meet at least 5 minutes before the agreed time at the meeting point in Usurbil, Gipuzkoa. There, we’ll be welcomed and shown into a cosy lounge with sofas and a fireplace, where we’ll put on our approved helmets (and protective vests for children) whilst we meet up with the rest of the group.

We will then head to the stables to receive a brief explanation of the basics of handling and steering the horse. We’ll take about 10 minutes to get into the saddle and adjust the reins and stirrups to suit each person, to ensure we’re 100 per cent comfortable.

Once we’re off, we’ll set out on a circular route, descending the first 700 metres along the estate’s private track, passing by the chapel of San Esteban and its centuries-old trees. Depending on the group’s preferences and experience, the guides will choose between two alternative routes: a flatter, gentler one , or one with more stretches of countryside through wooded areas and the approach to the River Oria. During the ride, the instructors will share interesting facts about the world of horses and invite us to try a trot or even a few metres of a gallop if we fancy it. They’ll also take photos of us at the most picturesque stops along the way to capture the day’s memories.

After a two-hour horse ride, we’ll return to the estate via a different route, leave our riding boots in the lounge and head to the kitchen. There , we’ll be served an afternoon snack: freshly fried chistorra, bread and traditional Basque cider (or a soft drink for children) . We’ll have plenty of time to relax and enjoy ourselves for a while, share the best stories from the ride and even get to know the other participants before calling it a day.

Who it is aimed at

This activity is suitable for children aged 8 and over.

Minors must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

To take part, participants must weigh no more than 100 kg.

For safety reasons and due to the nature of the terrain, this activity is not recommended for pregnant women and is not accessible to people in wheelchairs or with reduced mobility.

The experience is easy and suitable as a first horse-riding excursion.

Pets are not permitted.

Other information

Important: Please note that tour times may vary depending on weather conditions or the number of participants in each group; therefore, once you have made your booking, you will need to contact the guides to arrange the exact departure time.

The experience runs all year round.

Options are available for people with food allergies and intolerances: please contact the guide using the contact details provided in your booking confirmation email to let them know of any dietary requirements.

Free parking is available on site.

The meeting point is also accessible by public transport.

Recommended clothing

• Long trousers
• Closed-toe sports shoes
• Comfortable clothing suited to the season