Welcome to the Equestrian Travel Association Newsletter

Who is the Equestrian Travel Association?

The Equestrian Travel AssociationTM (ETA) is a professional organization dedicated to the betterment of the equestrian travel industry as a whole. Its membership consists of equestrian travel providers, outfitters, camps, clinics, ranches, and other businesses throughout the world that are involved in the industry. The ETA functions as the united voice of equestrian travel companies, groups and facilities while raising public awareness of the industry and setting uniform standards of high conduct for all approved members.

The ETA strives to promote equestrian travel and the various businesses of its membership, as well as increase overall equestrian travel market share within the travel and vacation marketplace. This entails sharing the fun and excitement of horseback travel and vacations with the public through various forms of media and public events. The association also encourages and facilitates various opportunities for networking and business relationships among its membership to increase profitability for all association members.

Professional standards required of all ETA members include honest business methodology, exceptional care and treatment of horses, and the finest quality in customer service. ETA members are recognized by customers within the equestrian travel trade as those with the highest standards in all aspects of their operations. When the emblem of the ETA is displayed on a website or in a place of business, it signifies that the business has been approved by the association and is currently in good standing.

From guided horseback riding tours to equine transportation providers, the ETA works with equestrian businesses across the globe.

Our Mission:

1. To raise awareness of and promote the equestrian travel industry.
2. To establish “best practices” and operating standards in the equestrian travel industry.
3. To increase the quality of horse care, training and equestrian facilities.
4. To raise the bar regarding the quality of guest services.
5. To provide a unifying voice that promotes and facilitates knowledge sharing, publicity and networking among ETA members.

Equestrian Travels: Embracing the Spirit of Portugal

By: Meghan Brady, Member Liaison

As the member liaison and founder of the Equestrian Travel Association, my recent journey through the heart of Portugal was a remarkable experience that I am eager to share. In a land where golden sunlight dances upon rolling hills and the air is rich with the scent of adventure, I embarked on a beautifully crafted tapestry of experiences that I will treasure forever.

My first stop was Dom Cavalo, nestled just outside of Leiria. From the moment I arrived, I was captivated not only by the breathtaking landscapes but also by the warm embrace of a vibrant community. The individuals I met welcomed me as family, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie that is essential for any equestrian. Here, the horses—majestic, spirited, and full of grace—became my guides, leading me through the enchanting world of equestrianism with their gentle wisdom.

As I toured the stunning facilities, I felt a sense of pride representing the Equestrian Travel Association. The warmth of the people and the elegance of the horses created an uplifting environment. Each moment was filled with joy as I participated in my first working equitation lesson. Learning new skills ignited a passion within me, and riding along the picturesque coastline, I was serenaded by the sound of waves crashing against the shore—a true symphony of freedom. This experience underscored the deep connection between horse and rider and highlighted the profound relationship we share with these magnificent creatures.

Following this unforgettable experience, I journeyed by train to the serene Wild View Retreat Center in Faro. Here, time slowed down, allowing me to immerse myself in meditation, yoga, and self-discovery. Surrounded by an extraordinary group of women who quickly became my sisters in spirit, we shared laughter, stories, and moments of reflection. Each sunrise brought a renewed sense of purpose, and the quiet whispers of the sunsets promised more adventures to come. Although horses were not part of this retreat, the essence of equestrian life was ever-present in our conversations as we drew parallels between our personal journeys and the grace we find in the equestrian world.

My travels continued to Beja, where Herdade da Malhadinha Nova awaited, exuding elegance and charm. Being treated like royalty in this luxurious five-star resort was a true delight, especially with the culinary wonders of a Michelin-starred restaurant at my fingertips. Touring the vineyards on horseback was a dream realized; every step revealed the exquisite beauty of the land and its people. Riding through the vineyards, I marveled at the vibrant colors and intoxicating scents, feeling an exhilarating sense of freedom as I connected with the landscape in a way that only horseback riding can provide. The evenings were filled with meaningful connections as I dined with the owners, engaging in heartfelt conversations that resonated deeply within me, each story reflecting their passion for life and dedication to their craft.

This journey through Portugal was more than just a trip; it was a life-altering odyssey that awakened my soul and illuminated my path. Every lesson, every ride, and every heartfelt conversation was infused with magic, leaving an indelible mark on my heart. The connections I forged, the experiences I embraced, and the beauty I witnessed will forever be cherished, serving as a reminder that the world is vast and full of wonder, waiting for each of us to explore its depths. Portugal, with its charm and warmth, has forever changed me and inspires me to carry this magic into every corner of my life and the Equestrian Travel Association. As I reflect on this transformative journey, I am deeply grateful for the experiences that await us within the Equestrian Travel Association. Stay tuned for more features about our new members and the incredible stories that will emerge as we continue to explore the world of equestrian travel together!

NEW MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Welcome Dom Cavalo: Our Newest GOLD Member!

We are thrilled to welcome Dom Cavalo to the Equestrian Travel Association family! Nestled in the picturesque countryside just outside of Leiria, Portugal, Dom Cavalo is a hidden gem that offers an unparalleled equestrian experience for riders of all levels.

At Dom Cavalo, the philosophy revolves around fostering a deep connection between horse and rider, emphasizing the importance of harmony, understanding, and mutual respect. With stunning facilities and a team of passionate instructors, guests can immerse themselves in a diverse array of equestrian disciplines, from traditional riding to working equitation. The retreat’s breathtaking landscapes serve as the perfect backdrop for riding lessons, trail rides, and equine workshops, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

In addition to their exceptional equestrian offerings, Dom Cavalo is committed to creating a warm and welcoming community. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure every guest feels like family, providing personalized attention and support throughout your stay. Whether you are a seasoned equestrian or a beginner eager to learn, Dom Cavalo promises to ignite your passion for horses and adventure.

We invite our members to explore all that Dom Cavalo has to offer. From picturesque rides along the coastline to engaging workshops that delve into the nuances of equestrianism, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Join us in celebrating this exciting addition to our Equestrian Travel Association family!

For more information about Dom Cavalo, visit their website at www.domcavalo.com and start planning your next equestrian getaway!

Featured Experiences

Cosmic Cowgirl Camp

We are excited to spotlight the unique experiences offered at Cosmic Cowgirl Camp this summer! Set against the backdrop of nature, these immersive retreats are designed to connect you with your inner cowgirl and the wisdom of horses.

The Wild One (July 12-13) Reclaim your wild spirit with an overnight stay in cozy canvas tents. Engage in transformative horse wisdom soul medicine focusing on connection, and reconnect with nature. You'll have the opportunity to learn essential cowgirl skills, tend to the herd through acts of service, and discover your unique cowgirl archetype. This experience promises to be a rejuvenating escape into the wild!

The Mystic Range (July 25-27) Join us for two nights of discovery and adventure! This experience includes guided meditation and movement sessions, diving into the horse wisdom soul medicine of conscious compassion. Enjoy campfires and learn essential buckaroo knots while participating in acts of service like mending fences. You'll also explore your cowgirl archetype in a supportive environment that fosters growth and connection.

The Soul Stirrup (August 7-10) Dive deep into your soul with three nights in our canvas tents, focusing on conscious compassionate contribution. This retreat features the Sisterhood Hoedown, storytelling around cowgirl archetypes, and acts of service like blazing trails. Additionally, you can participate in a cowgirl hat-making workshop, where creativity meets tradition, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience.

News and Announcements

Tune into Our Latest Podcast: Cosmic Cowgirl Camp

In this inspiring episode of Galloping Getaways, we sit down with Lola Michelin to explore her transformative Cosmic Cowgirl Camp. Lola shares her passion for rewilding the inner cowgirl, encouraging women to reconnect with nature, embrace their authentic selves, and embark on a soulful journey of self-discovery—all without needing horse experience. Tune in to discover how Lola’s innovative retreat empowers women to rediscover their wild spirit and foster deeper connections with nature and themselves.

Advertise with Us!

Horse Radio Network is the premier destination for equestrian podcasting, offering effective and affordable advertising solutions tailored to businesses like yours. With an active and engaged listenership, our platform is the ideal place to connect with your target audience.

With over 12,000 episodes available globally and airing on the 4th Thursday of each month on the Horses in the Morning feed, we boast an impressive average of 10,000 downloads per episode and over 45,000 followers across our social media channels.

Join us to connect with a dedicated community of equestrian enthusiasts! If you're looking to reach a passionate audience of equestrian lovers and travel aficionados, "Galloping Getaways" provides unique advertising opportunities for brands that align with our mission.

From targeted ad spots to flexible sponsorship packages, we can help you effectively promote your brand to our engaged listeners eager to discover equestrian destinations around the world. For more information about advertising opportunities, please reach out to us at meghan@RideETA.com, and let’s gallop into a partnership together!

We hoped you enjoyed discovering the world of equestrian travel. We look forward to bringing you more exciting content and equestrian travel highlights in the future. Until then, may your journeys be filled with thrilling trails, breathtaking landscapes, and the companionship of our beloved four-legged friends. Wishing you endless equestrian travel dreams come true!

To learn more about joining the Equestrian Travel Association or to find your next equestrian travel experience visit www.RideETA.com​

Embark on a quest with hooves and wanderlust,

Meghan

🐴🌎🐴🌎

The Equestrian Travel Association