Pátio Ecolodge

"We specifically came to Patio Ecolodge to ride horses - and what a time we had! This is a facility where you get the same horse, based off your skillset and preference, for the entire week. Should the horse end up not working for you, they will gladly provide a different one. Every day we went to a different location and set of trails. We covered all paces - and I mean ALL. I've never galloped so much - ever. The scenery was beautiful, but it was all about the horses for us. Guides were great - told us all about what we were seeing and the history of the area. You do help groom and saddle and put-away. Every night at cocktail hour my husband and I kept saying, "My gosh, that was a lot of fun!" We stayed in Apartment 6, which was a beautifully appointed room. King-sized bed with mesh netting, sofa, kitchenette (could someone please write up instructions on how to use the stove? It is not intuitive to the average human) and little fridge. The views were beautiful, and it was just a lovely property. All the staff were great, and the owners are always around, greeting guests and making interesting chat. And they offer laundry service - what a treat! The restaurant on site provides breakfast and dinner with the riding packages. The breakfasts were the same every day, buffet with scrambled eggs, meat, cheeses, and the only complaint is that it was the same every day. But you won't go hungry, that's for certain. Dinner is provided at the restaurant each evening (again, this is for those who have the riding package). You don't choose off the menu - that part was a little confusing until you got the hang of it. A meal is just ... provided. There was always an appetizer, main course, and dessert. Everything was good, and again, no one goes hungry. (OK - we weren't keen on the seafood surprise.) There's a full bar service, too. The food is all fresh and beautifully presented. The atmosphere is very relaxed. There is a little grocery/sundry store easily walkable from the lodge, that although small, sure had a lot packed into it. I suspect if you forgot it, you'll find it in some nook or cranny in this store. Note that they do not take credit cards from anywhere other than Portugal, so have cash on hand. We were there in May and had clear, cool weather. There are large windows in the rooms that open to provide a serious breeze. But since the facility does not provide A/C in the summer months, I do wonder if it gets a bit warm and humid. Did I mention the horses? You'll have a great time!"