There are a number of riding centers in the Lagos area that cater for all ages and levels of skill. These include:

Tiffany's Riding Center, which includes lead reins for tiny tots, beginner's rides, hacks from one to three hours and all day adventure trails through quiet scenery.

Quinta de Paraíso Alto, Bensafrim, which offers a variety of quality rides and competition horses, with lessons from qualified instructors, rides to suit all standards, individually or in small groups, through beautiful scenery with breathtaking views. Horses taken for livery and for training. Options include:

» Restaurant ride with approximately three hours riding plus lunch (€ 65 including lunch)

» One night West Coast stopover, riding through magical uninhabited countryside to Carrapateira, including restaurant lunch on the way, overnight accommodation in comfortable residençia, early morning beach ride and return ride through the hills and cork woods (€ 150 plus dinner)

»Three day beginner course with three hours per day including instruction in the care and preparation of the horse for riding (€ 90)

Horse Shoe Ranch, Mexilhoeira Grande offering an introduction to Western style horseback riding.