Spain Andalusia Tour Experience

We’ve gathered feedback from participants of the recent “Spain Andalusia Tour.” Please take a look at FRC’s activities.

November 13 (Wednesday) – November 20 (Wednesday), 2024 By Maiko Wakui

Andalusia, Spain is a place that holds a special place in my heart, as I stayed there for extended periods twice during my student days. Captivated by the people and culture, this trip was destined to be special even before it began.

From Haneda, I flew to Madrid via London. After arriving in Madrid, I took the AVE (high-speed train) to Seville. The view of the dry, green land and the strong sunlight from the train windows, combined with the familiar taste of café con leche (Spanish latte) served on board, brought back fond memories of the Spain I love.

Upon arrival in Seville, we visited the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art in Jerez. While Vienna’s Spanish Riding School is widely known, this one in Jerez is considered the original. Its relaxed and distinctly Spanish atmosphere was endearing, and it gave me a glimpse of the national character—whether to prioritize the horse’s comfort or the perfection of the performance. Also memorable was the sight of the Spanish and Andalusian flags in the arena’s center adorned with mourning ribbons, a tribute to the flood victims in Valencia.

The equestrian journey began the next day. After an initial session to pair horses and riders, we embarked on our ride, taking an alternative route due to the recent floods. As we traversed the ranch owner Ignacio’s pride-worthy landscapes, we navigated large puddles and muddy stretches. Each time, horse and rider worked together, gradually building trust. From the summit, we saw a magnificent horizon and the Andalusian sunset. Riding through a village under the night sky and passing through a long dark tunnel accompanied by the rhythmic sound of hooves made for an immersive experience.

What stood out most on this trip was witnessing how horses are integrated into daily life in Spain. Long, leisurely lunches and dinners, filled with conversation, guitar music, and singing. Ignacio’s hunting lodge and a hotel converted from a mansion. These were experiences that simply wouldn’t be possible on a typical sightseeing tour.

The fellow participants were all warm, easygoing people who made the journey even more enjoyable.

[Postscript] A friend from London and I originally planned to extend our trip by three days to explore other places. As it happened, the Seville Horse Fair (SICAB) was taking place, and our guide Veronica was set to compete. Changing our plans, we accepted Ignacio’s invitation to visit the venue. From dressage and jumping to side saddle competitions and conformation classes judging the horses’ movements and physiques, we witnessed events and numerous horses that we could never see in Japan. The atmosphere was thrilling, and the gathering of equestrian gear shops from all over Spain meant my wallet experienced a thrill of its own.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　November 23, 2024 (Saturday)