Half-Day Lusitanian Horses & Photography Museum Private Tour

Discover the enchanting world of the Lusitano horse and the captivating legacy of pioneering Portuguese photographer Carlos Relvas on this immersive private tour. Embark on an equine adventure, learn about the breed’s history, and step into Relvas’ 19th-century residence to uncover the stories behind his groundbreaking work. Explore the charming town of Golegã, marveling at its Manueline-style architecture and vibrant local life. This curated experience blends the natural beauty of the Lusitano with the rich cultural heritage of Portugal, offering a unique glimpse into the country’s enduring traditions.

This experience made our list of the 2 Best Photography Experiences In Portugal.

Key Points

• Explore an active agricultural estate and interact with Lusitano horses, including an optional horse riding ‘baptism’ experience.
• Visit the 19th-century photographer’s residence, Casa-Estúdio Carlos Relvas, and learn about his pioneering contributions to Portuguese photography.
• Wander through the charming town of Golegã and admire its Manueline-style architecture, including the Church Matriz and Largo do Arneiro.
• Witness the Lusitano Horse Festival as part of the immersive cultural experience.
• Enjoy a private half-day tour with transportation and a guide, priced at €270 for a group of up to 3 people.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Details

This private half-day tour lasts approximately 5 hours and costs €270 for a group of up to 3 people. The tour includes pickup and drop-off from Oeiras or Lisbon.

During the tour, visitors will have the chance to explore an active agricultural estate and interact with horses. There’s also an optional opportunity to go horse riding for an additional fee.

The tour also includes a visit to the Casa-Estúdio Carlos Relvas, a 19th-century photographer’s residence, and an exploration of the town of Goleglã, featuring the Manueline-style Church Matriz and Largo do Arneiro.

Pickup and Drop-off

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from either Oeiras or Lisbon, providing convenient transportation for participants.

Guests can be picked up from their location in Oeiras or Lisbon and then dropped off at the same places after the tour. This service is included in the tour price, so there’s no need to worry about arranging your own transportation.

The tour operator will handle all the logistics, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the experience.

Whether you’re starting your tour from Oeiras or Lisbon, the pickup and drop-off service ensures a seamless and hassle-free journey throughout the day.

Horse Interaction

A highlight of the tour is the opportunity to visit an active agricultural estate and interact with the Lusitanian horses.

Visitors can expect to get up close and personal with these majestic animals, learning about their history and observing their daily routines on the estate.

The tour provides an immersive experience, allowing participants to witness the Lusitano Horse Festival and even partake in an optional horse riding activity for an additional fee.

Guests can enjoy a unique ‘baptism’ horse riding experience, where they’ll have the chance to mount and ride one of these noble creatures under the guidance of experienced handlers.

This equine encounter promises to be a truly memorable part of the tour.

Optional Horse Riding

For those interested in a more immersive equine experience, the tour offers an optional horse riding activity for an additional fee.

During this baptism of sorts, participants can take a short ride on one of the Lusitano horses found on the active agricultural estate. The Lusitano is a breed renowned for its athleticism, intelligence, and gentle temperament, making it an ideal choice for both experienced and novice riders.

This optional add-on allows visitors to not only observe the majestic horses but also interact with them directly, further enhancing their understanding and appreciation of these magnificent animals.

The extra fee for the horse riding experience is €60.

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Carlos Relvas’ Residence

Embedded within the tour is a visit to Casa-Estúdio Carlos Relvas, a 19th-century photographer’s residence that offers insights into the life and work of this pioneering Portuguese artist.

Relvas was a trailblazer in the field of photography, and his former home-studio provides a unique window into his creative process. Visitors can explore the carefully preserved rooms and equipment that Relvas used to capture his iconic images.

The tour also delves into Relvas’ technical mastery and his contribution to the development of photography in Portugal. This stop on the itinerary promises to be a highlight for anyone interested in the history of the medium and the legacy of one of its most influential figures.

Exploring Golegã

After exploring the historic residence of Carlos Relvas, the tour now shifts its focus to the charming town of Golegã.

Visitors will have the opportunity to wander through its picturesque streets, taking in the architectural highlights that have earned the town its reputation as a cultural gem.

One of the main draws is the Church Matriz, a Manueline-style structure that exemplifies Portugal’s rich architectural heritage.

The Largo do Arneiro, a lively town square, also offers a glimpse into the local way of life.

Throughout the exploration of Golegã, travelers can expect to gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s history and the enduring traditions that shape its identity.

Highlights of the Tour

The tour offers a multifaceted experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Guests can embark on a captivating horse-riding venture, known as a ‘baptism,’ gaining firsthand insights into the renowned Lusitano breed.

Plus, the tour provides an in-depth exploration of the life and work of the 19th-century Portuguese photographer, Carlos Relvas, through a visit to his historic residence, the Casa-Estúdio Carlos Relvas.

Architectural enthusiasts will delight in the opportunity to explore the Manueline-style Church Matriz and the charming Largo do Arneiro in Golegã, showcasing the region’s impressive architectural legacy.

The tour culminates with the chance to witness the captivating Lusitano Horse Festival, offering a truly immersive cultural experience.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, a guide/driver, and an entry ticket to the Casa-Estúdio Carlos Relvas, priced at €4.50.

Plus, the horse experience, costing €60, is also part of the inclusions.

However, the tour doesn’t cover personal expenses, meals, or tips. These items are excluded from the tour price.

The half-day private tour is priced at €270 per group up to 3 people.

Pickup and drop-off locations are available in Oeiras and Lisbon, with transportation to and from these locations included in the tour package.

Guests will have the opportunity to experience the highlights of the tour, including a horse riding baptism and insights into the life and work of the 19th-century Portuguese photographer Carlos Relvas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Private Tour?

The maximum group size for the private tour is 3 people. The tour price is €270 per group up to 3 people, indicating that the tour can accommodate a maximum of 3 individuals.

Is the Horse Experience Suitable for Children?

The horse experience is suitable for children, as it includes a "baptism" or introductory horse riding session. The tour provider offers this experience for all participants, regardless of age or previous experience.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Meet Specific Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to meet specific interests. The private nature of the tour allows for flexibility to adjust the itinerary and activities based on the preferences of the group. Additional fees may apply for customized experiences.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Horse Riding Activity?

The tour does not have any age restrictions for the optional horse riding activity. However, the horse experience is recommended for adults and children aged 12 and above who are comfortable around horses and able to ride safely.

Does the Tour Include Transportation Within Golegã?

The tour includes transportation within Golegã, including visits to the Church Matriz and Largo do Arneiro. The transportation is provided by the air-conditioned vehicle and guide/driver included in the tour price.

Recap

This half-day tour offers a captivating blend of equine interaction, photographic history, and cultural discovery.

Guests can engage with the majestic Lusitano horses, learn about pioneering photographer Carlos Relvas, and explore the charming town of Golegã.

Whether through an optional riding experience or simply observing the horses, visitors will delight in this immersive exploration of Portugal’s equine heritage and artistic legacy.

You can check availability for your dates here: