Vila Galé strengthens its commitment to equestrian tourism

27 February, 2025

The Group thus plays a central role in this initiative, reinforcing its commitment to integrating equestrian heritage into its tourism offer

In Alter do Chão, a cooperation protocol was signed between the Vila Galé Group, Companhia das Lezírias, and the Alter do Chão Professional Rural Development School (EPDRAC), with the aim of promoting equestrian tourism and enhancing the value of the Lusitano horse in the region. The partnership includes regular equestrian demonstrations, support for the preservation of indigenous breeds and the promotion of tourist activities related to the Lusitano horse.

The Vila Galé Collection Alter Real hotel, located on the former premises of the Stud Farm, is already a centre of attraction for equestrian and rural tourism. The aim of this partnership is to broaden the range of experiences on offer to guests and visitors, making Alter do Chão a benchmark destination for lovers of equestrian culture.

Jorge Rebelo de Almeida, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Vila Galé Group, emphasised: “Equestrian tourism has enormous potential, and Alter do Chão meets all the conditions to establish itself as a benchmark destination. Our aim is to provide differentiating experiences, enhancing the territory and its culture”.

A day dedicated to equestrian tourism and culture

The partnership between the public and private sectors is crucial to valorising heritage and qualifying tourist services, especially in the equestrian segment, broadening the visitor experience. The recent protocol between Companhia das Lezírias, the Vila Galé Group, and the Alter Professional School aims to strengthen tourism in the Alentejo and Ribatejo, with a focus on professional qualifications, the promotion of equestrian tourism and service excellence. This development model, based on collaboration between public and private organisations, has boosted the region’s sustainable growth, making it a benchmark destination for equestrian tourism and other segments, both nationally and internationally, said José Santos, President of the Alentejo and Ribatejo Regional Tourism Authority.

The guests were welcomed at the entrance to the Alter Stud Farm by EPDRAC students on horseback, who accompanied the delegation to the Vila Galé Collection Alter Real hotel, where the day’s programme began with a demonstration of falconry, highlighting the importance of this practice as an intangible heritage of humanity, observation of the Eguada (mare and foal herd) galloping to the field for pasture, a visit to the Wine Press and Wine Shop, a visit to the facilities of the Vila Galé Collection Alter Real hotel, and a number of demonstrations at the D. José de Athayde horse riding ring.

“EPDRAC’s project is very much based on collaboration with the community, as this is the only way we can guarantee excellent teaching and adequate preparation for the labour market, training good professionals, but also good and upstanding individuals”, explained Vera Tita, EPDRAC’s director.