Salty Saddles

This trip is for nature and animal lovers who want an active, adventure-driven week in Portugal. You’re drawn to the outdoors — whether that’s riding along empty beaches, catching waves, or simply being in a peaceful natural setting.

All levels are welcome — both for horseback riding and surfing. You don’t need experience in either. What matters is your openness to try, connect, and be part of a small group sharing the adventure together.

This is a great fit if you value simplicity, health, local culture, and meaningful connection over luxury and entertainment. Not for you if you’re looking for a resort experience, nightlife, or a fully structured holiday. We run our trips rather spontaneously on purpose — we go with the flow and embrace the art of getting lost. Adaptability is part of it.

A week of surfing, horseback riding, sailing, and time in nature with a small group of like-minded people. Days are shaped by the tides and weather.

Some mornings you’ll ride along the beach at sunrise. Other days you’ll surf, explore the nearby town of Ovar, or simply enjoy the peace of the land. One day we’ll sail together on a traditional Portuguese sailboat on the Aveiro Lagoon.

You’ll stay at Bonanza the land — a tranquil, off-the-grid property with a cabin, yurt, or spacious bell tent. Shared compost toilets, a warm shower with filtered groundwater, and a shared kitchen. Everything is simple, natural, and designed to make you feel connected to the land.

Meals are included — breakfast is prepared as a team, lunch and dinner are provided by a local vegan Portuguese chef, and we’ll enjoy one evening out together at a local restaurant.

This is not a passive holiday. It’s hands-on, community-driven, and rooted in the Ocean Nomads and Bonanza the land slow living philosophy — simplicity, health, local food, active adventure, and sustainability mindset.

The trip takes place at Bonanza the land, located in Ovar on the Atlantic coast of Northern Portugal. Ovar is at the northern edge of the Ria de Aveiro (Aveiro Lagoon), roughly 40–60 minutes south of Porto by car or train.

The closest airport is Porto (OPO). From there you can reach Ovar by train, bus, or car.

We meet at the property on Day 1 (20 September) in the afternoon. Exact arrival time and directions will be shared after booking. Transport to and from Bonanza the land is not included — you arrange your own travel. We encourage transport options such as train, bus, ferry, and car sharing. If you need help coordinating with other participants, we’re happy to connect you.

Pack for an active outdoor week in a warm coastal climate.

Essentials: comfortable clothes for riding and surfing, swimwear, layers for cooler mornings and evenings, a rain jacket, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, and sandals.

Wetsuits are available for rental (3 days: €40 / 1 week: €60). Surfboards are included.

You’ll be staying in simple, off-grid accommodation — bring a head torch and a water bottle. Bedding is provided.

A detailed packing list will be shared before the trip.

Make your deposit through this page to reserve your spot. Current Ocean Nomads members get their next annual membership on us.

With just one date available, this trip is likely to fill up. If you’re considering joining, don’t wait too long.

After booking, you’ll receive confirmation with practical details, payment schedule, and next steps. Cancellation terms will be shared with your booking confirmation. We understand plans change — we just ask for as much notice as possible so we can offer the spot to someone else.

Our horses are carefully trained, lovingly handled, and live in a natural herd environment. They are looked after by a dedicated team of veterinarians and equine specialists. When you ride with us, you can feel confident knowing you’re partnering with horses who are truly cared for.

Surf sessions are guided by local experts with the right equipment provided.

You are responsible for being honest about your physical health, fitness level, and any conditions that may affect your participation in riding, surfing, or other activities. Proof of travel or local health insurance is required in case of injuries.

Additional wellbeing options are available on request: massage, horse therapy sessions, private riding lessons, acupuncture, Qi Gong, and TRE sessions (body work for nervous system regulation).