Andalusian Horse Journey in Spain 2017

A Journey That Exceeded All Expectations

Yoko Ito — Tsubame City, Niigata Prefecture

When I had just started horseback riding, I watched a TV program featuring Mr. Ken Utsui. Riding a horse leisurely while exploring the history and nature of a region... that was my ideal trail ride. I had always dreamed of taking such a journey. I never imagined it would become reality! Moreover, I was able to ride a horse from the same ranch as Mr. Utsui and experience the exact course he rode — it was beyond my dreams!

Ever since I received an email from Mr. Tanaka in spring saying, "Let’s go together!!", my heart had been set on November. It was a long-awaited horse journey to Spain.

**Traveling with Cosaco, the same horse ridden by Mr. Utsui**

White houses and gates that look so beautiful under the blue Spanish sky. Andalusian white horses, stunning in their beauty, tied to the white walls of the ranch. Traveling across the vast farmland stretching to the horizon on horseback. Overlooking the gentle curves of rolling hills while riding over them. Passing by herds of goats with bells jingling softly. Meeting cyclists and people walking their dogs — passing and being passed.

Dark, historical tunnels...

In tunnels so dark that the horses’ ears were barely visible, I found myself truly trusting the horse that walked steadily without changing its hoofbeats.

**Riding through the vast nature of Andalusia**

The delicious meals and drinks prepared by the ranch owner Ignacio, and the traditional treasures he generously shared with us — everything exceeded my expectations.

Although horseback riding was the main purpose of the trip, on the very first day, I was so impressed by the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art’s performance and the passionate authentic flamenco show that I said, "Even if I couldn't ride tomorrow, just today would have made this trip to Spain worthwhile!"

The history of Spain and the warmth of its people...

There were countless surprises and moving moments scattered throughout the journey — too many to list.

**First experience of side-saddle riding**

A friend once said that a trail ride at FRC Kobuchizawa was a "once-in-a-lifetime experience." Now, I have another unforgettable "once-in-a-lifetime memory" added to my life.

I sincerely thank everyone who planned and supported this wonderful journey.

Thank you so much!!

Deeply Moved by Hospitality Beyond Imagination

Taeko Gunji — Tokyo — Real Estate Rental Business

It was a truly wonderful journey. Traveling with the beautiful Andalusian horses was amazing on its own, but what moved me the most was the hospitality of the owner, Ignacio, which went beyond anything I could have imagined.

The luxurious picnic lunch felt like a scene from a movie! It started with a table full of appetizers and aperitifs, followed by a move to a beautifully set formal dining table, where we enjoyed a delicious lunch that made us feel we should have been dressed more formally.

And then, back to the delightful horse journey... (though technically everyone was riding under the influence, laughing).

At the end of the trip, we even got to experience side-saddle riding, all under the careful and attentive support of an excellent team. It was truly a luxurious experience.

I was privileged to ride a stallion who is the sire of horses performing at the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art! Blessed with good weather, I was able to thoroughly savor the happiness of riding horses.

I am filled with gratitude toward the horses of Candaú Ranch, the staff, and Ignacio himself!!