Packing List

Some riding helmets are very lightweight and are vented, which means they are more comfortable in hot weather, we have only a limited supply of basic helmets so we advise that you bring your own.

A pair of comfortable boots with a good grip is very important. There are boots on the market which you can use for riding but are also excellent if the terrain dictates that you walk beside your horse for a while. We recommend an ankle boot with half-leg chaps as they are a favourite for comfort both while riding and walking. For the Trail of Bandits, Paths of Herdsmen and Sweet & Saltwater Trails you should bring good walking boots and half-chaps. In the mountains, you will need to lead your horse downhill on rocky terrain!

Riding trousers or jodhpurs together with half-leg chaps will ensure you are comfortable for long hours in the saddle. Two pairs of trousers or jodhpurs are usually enough.

Riding gloves protect the hands from blisters - remember that you may be sitting longer than usual in the saddle and contrary to usual habits you may prefer to use a pair.

Personal care products (towels are usually provided in the accommodation).

Each rider gets a saddle bag, in which you can stow personal things for the way. For quick access, a hip/ abdominal bag has proven itself useful, in which you can accommodate, for example, your camera. A small zoom lens ensures that the most beautiful impressions also inspire at home. For the camera, you should not forget additional batteries or the charger for the battery.

A headlamp could be useful, but is not essential.

Please remember to bring a water bottle (1L) for daily filling and transport!

Plastic bags can protect your personal belongings from water damage caused by rain or river crossings.

Sun protection is especially important! We recommend that you also have a small bottle of sunscreen during the day so that you can freshen up the protection at any time.

A remedy for insects is also recommended. It should be noted that some agents have a particularly high proportion of DEET and the handling of a spray or a pen is often more pleasant than is the case with a lotion.

It is advisable to travel with a small medical kit that includes any basic remedies you may need such as antacids, painkillers, anti-inflammatories such as Ibuprofen, antihistamines, and cold remedies. It might be wise to take anti-diarrhoea medication such as Imodium. If you wear prescription glasses or contact lenses you might want to take some spares.

You will need long sleeved shirts to protect against the sun as well as a couple of cotton t- shirts.

Remember that the Spanish (mountain) sun is strong and you can burn quickly. Wide brimmed hats are preferable to baseball caps for sun protection at the picnic. Both sunglasses (elastic is useful to keep them in place whilst riding) and a good quality sunscreen (rated SPF15 or higher) should be used including lip salve. For that fair skinned it may be wise to take a complete sun-block.

A pair of flip flops, swimming costume and shorts for when you get a chance to relax. It may get chilly in the evening even on hot days, so a fleece is necessary and a lightweight jacket may be useful.

You should expect any kind of weather in any season and on any trail! A waterproof poncho or rain jacket will not take up much space, but can provide a high level of comfort!

For trails where the weather is inclement, it is vital that you pack correct clothing to keep you warm and dry. Silk vests and thermal underwear will be a good base followed by layers of warm clothes. A good waterproof/windproof coat will prove a good investment. Waterproof trousers and waterproof gloves are light to pack and will be invaluable if it is really wet. Plenty of socks and a spare pair of boots are a good idea.

Please do not forget to bring the documents of your travel insurance with you. That way, in case of need of a medical assistance, a quick settlement with your insurance will be possible.