Vineyard Trail - Ruta del Vino Central Spain Spain Join us on a special ride through the famous wine harvest area of Ribera del Duero in Castile. During the 1990's the region developed into one of the best wine producers of Spain and now showcases some of the country's best wines. The area has 28.000 acres in grape production and is home to over 180 vineyards- over 8000 wine producers buy their grapes from this area! Our horseback tour allows you to explore its bountiful landscapes while you taste some of these classic and delicious wines. The first two days of the program offer an intense nature experience. You cross parts of the Hoces del Río Duratón Natural Park. In addition to its beautiful nature, this park is notable for its archaeological and historical wealth. The remaining four days of the ride follow the course of the Duratón river to its mouth, in the Duero. The river gave the Ribera del Duero region its name. This region, with its riverside areas, is part of the gently rolling Castilian plateau and has sandy soils, making it ideal for horseback riding. In addition to riding, cultural experiences and culinary delights play a crucial role on this trip. Visit old monasteries and castles! Stop by the best bodegas (wine taverns and cellars) in the region, enjoy wine tastings and taste the typical regional specialties such as sheep's cheese and roast lamb!    Progressive Ride (no camping) Ride with Western Tack Meeting: Airport: Madrid Transfer: Madrid Riders: Min 4 riders Max 9 riders Trip Brochure (PDF) Trip Rating

Packages and Options

Click here for updated current rates.

 

Transfer and Other Charges:

Pick-up/ drop-off is available from Adolfo Suárez Madrid Barajas Airport (MAD). Pick-up is fixed for 5:00 pm. Drop-off around 12:00 pm on the last day.

Sample Itinerary: Standard Option - subject to changes

Day 1 (Saturday): Arrival
Arrival in Madrid, Spain and transfer to the first accommodation. It may be possible depending on the time of arrival, to visit Sepúlveda in the afternoon. It has picturesque town walls, churches and traditionally built houses.
Dinner and overnight stay in a beautiful country inn in Sebulcor, near the Las Hoces del Río Duratón Natural Park.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at Country Inn in Sebulcor

Day 2 (Sunday): Sebúlcor to San Minguel de Bernuy
We start our ride along the forest-covered banks of the Duratón, through pine forests and juniper forests. From the edge of the steep cliffs you can enjoy a wonderful view of the fertile meanders, the fields and the Duratón River, which meanders past the foot of the San Frutos Monastery. Your companions on today's riding day will be buzzards, kites, vultures, sparrow hawks and other rare birds of prey. With a bit of luck, you will also meet the only pair of large eagles in the nature park that breed here. Otters, genet cats and other mammals also populate the park.
In the afternoon, you follow the Duratón River to San Miguel de Bernuy, where you spend the night.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel in San Miguel de Bernuy

Day 3 (Monday): San Minguel de Bernuy to Rábano
Today, you continue to follow the Duratón River until it flows into the Duero River. Leisurely lunch and siesta along the river bank.
Overnight stay in a nice hotel in Rábano. There is still enough time for a stroll through the small, idyllic village.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel in Rábano

Day 4 (Tuesday): Rábano to Curiel
You ride over the mountains to Penafiel, in the heart of the Duero region, known for its castle and medieval ambience. After a delicious picnic, you will ride through the castle grounds and the bullring. You then continue through heathland to Curiel Castle, where you spend the night today.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Castillo de Curiel in Curiel

Day 5 (Wednesday): Vale de Cuco Ride
You will ride around the castle. At the foot of the mountain, there are several wineries, one of which you will visit. Enjoy beautiful views and good riding trails through the wide vineyards.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Castillo de Curiel in Curiel

Day 6 (Thursday): Curiel to Quantanilla de Onésimo
You ride back down into the Duero valley to the famous Pasquera winery, which you will visit. You will also see the monastery of Santa Maria de Valbuena. You then continue to Quantanilla de Onesimo, where you spend the night.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel in Quantanilla de Onesimo

Day 7 (Friday): Duero Vineyards
Today's ride takes you through the beautiful area of ​​the Duero with vineyards and pine forests. Picnic lunch in the shade of the trees. Afterwards wine tasting and visit to the Abadia Retuerta winery.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel in Quantanilla de Onesimo

Day 8 (Saturday): Airport transfer
Transfer to Madrid after breakfast.
Meals included: Breakfast

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Sample Itinerary: Deluxe Option - subject to changes

This route follows a similar itinerary as the standard option, but with overnight stays in selected 4-star hotels.

Day 1 (Saturday): Arrival
Arrival in Madrid, Spain and transfer to the first accommodation. It may be possible depending on the time of arrival, to visit Sepúlveda in the afternoon. It has picturesque town walls, churches and traditionally built houses.
Dinner and overnight stay in a beautiful country inn in Sebulcor, near the Las Hoces del Río Duratón Natural Park.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at Country Inn in Sebulcor

Day 2 (Sunday): Sebúlcor to San Minguel de Bernuy
We start our ride along the forest-covered banks of the Duratón, through pine forests and juniper forests. From the edge of the steep cliffs you can enjoy a wonderful view of the fertile meanders, the fields and the Duratón River, which meanders past the foot of the San Frutos Monastery. Your companions on today's riding day will be buzzards, kites, vultures, sparrow hawks and other rare birds of prey. With a bit of luck, you will also meet the only pair of large eagles in the nature park that breed here. Otters, genet cats and other mammals also populate the park.
In the afternoon, you follow the Duratón River to San Miguel de Bernuy, where you spend the night.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel in San Miguel de Bernuy

Day 3 (Monday): San Minguel de Bernuy to Rábano
Today, you continue to follow the Duratón River until it flows into the Duero River. Leisurely lunch and siesta along the river bank.
Overnight stay in a nice hotel in Rábano. There is still enough time for a stroll through the small, idyllic village.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel in Rábano

Day 4 (Tuesday): Rábano to Curiel
You ride over the mountains to Penafiel, in the heart of the Duero region, known for its castle and medieval ambience. After a delicious picnic, you will ride through the castle grounds and the bullring. You then continue through heathland to Curiel Castle, where you spend the night today.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Castillo de Curiel in Curiel

Day 5 (Wednesday): Curiel to Valcavado de Roa
From the Castillo de Curiel, you ride back into the valley towards Bocos, to follow the banks of the Duero. The path takes you to another well-known Ribera growing region: Roa. Your destination is a winery with a modern hotel surrounded by vast vineyards.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel in Valcavado de Roa

Day 6 (Thursday): Valcavado de Roa to Pradorey
You continue riding through the beautiful region of Roa to La Ventosilla, which you reach at midday. In the afternoon, you will visit the local Pradorey winery, where you will spend the night in a beautiful hotel. The winery was already highly valued in the 17th century and hosted many well-known guests, including King Felipe III and the painter Rubens. The estate was built in 1601 by the Duke of Lerma in a pompous style.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel in Pradorey

Day 7 (Friday): Valduero Winery
The last day offers you once again special culinary delights with a visit to the Valduero winery, one of the best for Ribera wine. After a great lunch at the estate, in the afternoon you will head back to the Pradorey Hotel and Winery in great spirits, where you can enjoy the beautiful gardens and pool again.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel in Pradorey

Day 8 (Saturday): Airport transfer
Transfer to Madrid after breakfast.
Meals included: Breakfast

                                                Valladolid area

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Average High Temperature (°F)	47	52	59	62	70	80	87	86	78	66	54	47
Average Low Temperature (°F)	33	34	37	41	46	53	57	57	53	46	39	35
Average High Temperature (°C)	8	11	15	17	21	27	30	30	26	19	12	9
Average Low Temperature (°C)	1	1	3	5	8	12	14	14	11	8	4	2
Average Precipitation (days of rain)	6	5	5	7	7	4	2	2	3	7	6	6

Source: NOAA


Seasons
The overall climate of Castilla is similar to Southern California. It benefits from a continental Mediterranean climate with hot summers, pleasant and moderate temperatures in the spring and fall, and fairly cool temperatures in the winter.

Rain is possible anytime of the year, but rare in summer. The main rainy season is from the end of October to of May.

Rain gear suitable for riding should be carried along, particularly during the months from November through April
A belt pack in which to carry your camera and other small valuables during the ride is handy.
Attire is strictly informal throughout, though if you are planning to visit other cities on your own later you may wish to bring a jacket and tie. Regular film can be obtained locally, but special sizes may not be available-bring plenty. It is a good idea to bring your own soap, since not all hotels supply it.
Also, please bring comfortable walking boots as you have to walk with the horses downhill on a rocky surface on the second day for at least one hour.

This list is only a guideline for you

Travel documents and Voucher

Flight tickets

Passport

Visa (check with your consulate)

RIDING GEAR

English or Western riding attire

Comfortable/riding boots

A hard hat is not required, but recommended for safety

Riding gloves

Hat (with chin strip) for sun protection

Rain coat/Wax jacket

PERSONAL CLOTHING

Jacket or sweater for cool evenings

Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts

Jeans

Shorts

Underwear and socks

Pyjama

Light summer jacket

Warm jacket

Trekking boots/ comfortable shoes

Swimsuit

Bandana

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING

Personal Toiletries

Insect protection

Personal medications

Sore cream (for the emergency)

Sewing kit

Handkerchiefs

Adapter for electric appliances

Camera and enough extra films

Belt pack

Sun glasses with strap

Sun tan lotion and lip balm

Small bar of soap

Flashlight

Average ratings from 3 tour feedbacks (see details below) Horses: (5) Excellent (4) Very Good (3) Good (2) Satisfactory (1) Not Satisfactory Saddle/Tack: Accommodations: Meals: Host/Guide: other Riders: Name Date steven polkow 2/29/2024 sabine etter 8/3/2019 anna nilsson 9/26/2010

Accommodations
This is a progressive ride so nights are spent in different locations

Description
Overnights are in 3 and 4-star hotels and country inns with private bathrooms. Wi-Fi connection is available in all accommodations.

Accommodations Itinerary for Standard option - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1: Country Hotel in Sebúlcor (2 options)
Night 2: Hotel in San Miguel de Bernuy
Night 3: Hotel in Rabano
Night 4 & 5: Castillo de Curiel
Night 6 & 7: Hotel in Quintanilla de Onésimo

Accommodations Itinerary for Deluxe option - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1: Country Hotel in Sebúlcor (2 options)
Night 2: Hotel in San Miguel de Bernuy
Night 3: Hotel in Rabano
Night 4: Castillo de Curiel
Night 5: Hotel in Valcavado de Roa
Night 6 & 7: Hotel in Pradorey

Country Hotel (option 1) in Sebúlcor
This small country hotel is composed of different buildings built with local materials and set around a large patio. The rooms are simply furnished and all feature a TV, ensuite facilities and free Wi-Fi access.

Country Hotel (option 2) in Sebúlcor
This charming country hotel is surrounded by nature and offers tastefully decorated bedrooms. All rooms come equipped with a TV, heating, a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi access. There are also 2 lounges with fireplaces where guest can relax.

Castillo de Curiel
This beautiful castle-like accommodation offers comfortable bedrooms each decorated with a unique historic style. The bedrooms have a TV, individual air conditioning, a safe, free Wi-Fi and private facilities. There is a small outdoor pool on the rooftop, from which you have a beautiful view over the valley below.

Hotel in Quintanilla de Onésimo
This accommodation is set in a former flourmill that has been entirely refurbished to ensure a comfortable stay to its guests. The rooms are modern and elegant and all come fitted with a private bathroom, air conditioning, a TV and free Wi-Fi access. The property also has a terrace and a lounge with a fireplace.

Hotel in Valcavado de Roa
This small hotel is surrounded with vineyards and offer 6 comfortable guest rooms. Each room features air conditioning, heating, private facilities and free Wi-Fi.

Hotel in Pradorey
This luxurious hotel was built in the Herrerian style by the Duke of Lerma in 1601 to serve as a hunting palace for King Philip III. Today, it offers 18 beautiful rooms with wooden furniture. Each room includes air conditioning, central heating and an ensuite bathroom.
There is an outdoor pool where you can relax in the evening.
 
Room Occupancy
If we are unable to find another rider to share the room with you, the single supplement fee applies.



Meals
All meals are included with this trip.
We serve mainly Spanish dishes.

Lunches are at local bodegas along the way or picnic along the trail.
Dinners are in local restaurants with delicious local specialties.

Wine is included with dinner.

Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to all dietary restrictions with prior notice.

This trip includes some wine with dinner and can accommodate special dietary requests.

Tack:		Spanish (Vaquero) and some English
Horses:		Pura Raza Española, Hispano Arab, Lusitanos, Cruzados con Español Arab
Pace:		Moderate with nice canters | Walk | Trot | Canter |
Level:		(3 to 4 out of 5)    Intermediate
Riders:		Min 4 riders	Max 9 riders

Riding Experience
You should be a reasonably experienced rider who is comfortable, secure and in control on a well-schooled horse at a walk, trot and canter in open country and over varied terrain. You should also have a fairly good level of general and riding fitness.

Pace
The pace is moderate overall but it varies each day. One day in particular, includes some steep ascents, descents and narrow trails to negotiate; other days are on more open terrain, which allows faster riding.

Horses
We currently have around 20 horses, mainly locally Andalusian, Andalusian crosses and Spanish breeds. They average between 15hh and 16hh and are a forward going, responsive and thoroughly enjoyable ride. They are also good natured, nimble and sure-footed.
The stables where horses live are fully equipped and designed for the comfort and well-being of our horses.

Passports

Passport valid for at least three months beyond length of stay required by all nationals referred to in the chart except:

(a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.

Note: EU nationals are only required to produce evidence of their EU nationality and identity in order to be admitted to any EU Member State. This evidence can take the form of a valid national passport or national identity card. Either is acceptable. Passports held by EU nationals need only be valid upon entry to and exit from Spain. Possession of a return ticket, any length of validity on their document, sufficient funds for the length of their proposed visit should not be imposed.

Passport Note

Spain is a signatory to the 1995 Schengen Agreement.



Visas

Not required by nationals of EU countries regardless of purpose and/or length of stay; 2. not required by nationals of other countries referred to in the chart above for stays of up to 90 days.

Visa Note

Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements 

 

This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult the embassy or consulate for updated info.