Meet Portugal's wild horses

Did you know that Portugal, with its rich natural and cultural heritage, is home to some of the most fascinating horse breeds in the world? Whether wild or domesticated, these horses embody raw beauty, endurance, and a deep connection to Portuguese traditions. Among them, the Garranos and Sorraias hold a special place. Another notable breed is the Puro Sangue Lusitano, an elite horse renowned for its elegance.

Garranos: the wild horses of the north

Garranos are one of the oldest breeds in Portugal, originating from the Minho and Trás-os-Montes mountains. These small and robust horses are perfectly adapted to the steep terrain and sometimes harsh climate of these regions. Due to their small size, Garranos are considered more like ponies.

Garranos are considered direct descendants of prehistoric European horses. Once used for agriculture and as mounts, they are now mainly wild. They can still be seen roaming the mountains of Portugal, where they play a vital ecological role by preventing fires through grazing.

Features:

• Height: between 1.20 m and 1.40 m at the withers.
• Coat colour: generally bay, with brown or black nuances.
• Temperament: resilient, docile, but independent.

Where to see them?

Garranos are particularly present in the Peneda-Gerês National Park, where they live in semi-freedom. This park is an ideal place to observe them in their natural habitat.

Lusitanos: the pure-blood elite horse

Features:

• Height: approximately 1.55 m to 1.65 m at the withers.
• Coat colour: often gray, but also bay or chestnut.
• Temperament: Intelligent, courageous and loyal.

Where to see them?

There are many Lusitanos farms located in the Ribatejo region and the Tejo Valley. Some quintas offer guided tours to discover these majestic horses.

Sorraias: the wild horses of the plains

The lesser known but equally fascinating Sorraias are a rare breed of wild horses originating from the Sorraia Valley in southern Portugal. Sorraias are considered a primitive breed, close to prehistoric horses. Discovered in the early 20th century, they were nearly extinct before conservation efforts began. Today, they are protected and live in semi-freedom in nature reserves.

Features :

• Height: between 1.35 m and 1.50 m at the withers.
• Coat colour: mouse gray or bay, often with a black dorsal stripe.
• Temperament: hardy, robust and independent.

Where to see them?

You can observe Sorraias in reserves such as the Sorraia Valley Nature Reserve, where conservation projects aim to preserve this unique breed.

Alter Real: the royal horse

The Alter Real is another Portuguese breed, created in the 18th century for the Portuguese Royal Court. These horses, descended from Lusitanos, were intended for royal carriages and cavalry schools. The Alter Real takes its name from the town of Alter do Chão in Alentejo, where the Coudelaria de Alter (royal stud farm) was founded in 1748. These horses are mainly used for classical dressage, especially at the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art.

Features :

• Height: approximately 1.55 m to 1.65 m at the withers.
• Coat colour: generally bay.
• Temperament: noble, obedient and elegant.

Where to see them?

The Royal Stud Farm of Alter do Chão, located in Alentejo, offers tours to discover the Alter Real breeding and attend equestrian shows.

A unique equestrian heritage

Portugal is a true sanctuary for horses, with breeds that embody both the power of nature and the elegance of human work. The Garranos, Lusitanos, Sorraias and Alter Real are much more than animals; they are living symbols of the country's history, culture and landscapes. Seeing these horses in the wild mountains or in the prestigious stud farms is an unforgettable experience that connects you to the soul of Portugal.

Whether you are passionate about horse riding, a nature lover or simply curious, come and meet these exceptional breeds and discover a fascinating aspect of Portuguese heritage!