Discover a whole new way to connect with horses – both in the saddle and on the ground – based on trust and harmony. In two distinctive courses, Sandra and Lysette invite you to experience the philosophy of Sundance Ranch and immerse yourself in their world.
Foundation Course
Experience a special connection with the horse in our Foundation Course in a small group of max 5 participants. This course is ideal for beginners and those returning to riding who are seeking a mindful approach to the world of horses.
Candid Equitation Week
Enhance your horsemanship skills with Lysette from Candid Equitation through thrilling trail rides in stunning landscapes and engaging lessons in both riding and groundwork, all in small groups of up to four experienced riders.
Dates & Prices
Temperatures in Portugal are most comfortable in spring and fall. Therefore, we offer courses from April until June and again in September and October each year.
Our philosophy
Our philosophy is based on the idea that riding should be enjoyable for both human and horse. We strive for horse-friendly riding by using the principles of Natural Horsemanship, with a special emphasis on Freedom Based Training® inspired by Elsa Sinclair. When horses are free to decide if they want to be with us or not, we really have to try hard to fulfill the need for connection in us and the horse.
Volunteers
We do accept volunteers for longer stays of at least a month. You should know that we do plan these stays many months ahead of time and very rarely have space to take in volunteers spontaneously.
Our Team
A small and dedicated team supports Sandra in her mission to help her guests enjoy their stay and maximize their learning with the horses.
Our Horses
Our herd of riding horses includes a few quarters, a few Portuguese and the odd warmblood, but all of them are excellent teachers.
Are you ready to learn with us?
Join us for a week-long course of horsemanship, including lessons on the ground and in the saddle as well as trail rides in the unspoiled nature of South-West Portugal.
Sundance Ranch by Bruno Barata
Kursablauf
First lesson - the Making of a Cowboy
River Crossing
Foundation Course at Sundance Ranch
Sundance area
What's Candid Equitation Week like?