In the saddle - Kukutana and Andalusia's horse heritage

Adventure Family Horses Nature Wildlife Aug 9. 2023

Horses are central to Spain's - and Andalusia's - cultural identity and are woven into the country’s history and rural life

Wild horses were depicted millennia ago in cave paintings, and humankind has had a bond with horses stretching back as far as we can see. Nowadays, Andalusian culture is awash with equestrian traditions; carriage rides through the centre of Seville are a testament to a way of life that in some ways hasn’t changed in centuries.

Closer to home, Kukutana is an equestrian’s dream, with rides through the towering pine forests, tracks, marshlands and beaches of Donana National Park and the surrounding area some of our very favourite and most popular excursions.

What’s more, a visit to El Rocio, the whitewashed Andalusian town that is the destination of the Romeria de El Rocio, one of Spain’s largest pilgrimages, illustrates just how strong a hold horses have on local culture; streets are unpaved – all the better for riding in to town – whilst bars still have hitching posts and even raised tables so thirsty riders don’t have to dismount to enjoy their cerveza or sherry.

Indeed, Andalusia even has its own breed, the Andalusian horse or Spanish Thoroughbred, a breed renowned for its elegance, strength and reliability.

The Conquistadors and the Iberian Horse

Andalusia’s relationship with its horses peaked, perhaps, during the time of the Spanish conquest, when hardy soldiers and explorers sailed across the ocean to seek fame and fortune in the New World. Many voyages departed from Andalusia; indeed Christopher Colombus’ voyage departed from Sanlucar De Barrameda, marking the Southern edge of the Donana National Park.

Iberian horses – different to the Andalusian breeds we know today – were introduced to the Americas by Columbus and subsequent expeditions included these strong, hardy and sure-footed creatures. Many of the conquistadors had grown up on ranches and farms and ridden horses all their lives; experience that would prove useful for men and horses alike during gruelling, often violent, expeditions in Latin America. The noble horses survived the tough four month voyage across the Atlantic, withstanding cramped conditions and restricted diets. Upon arrival, the horses were required to swim to land before tackling rugged terrain, jungles and swamps.

These brave and resilient horses did more than just carry heavy loads. The tribes of the New World were in awe of them and the Conquistadors took full advantage, using their horses to frighten and subdue the natives. The Hernan Cortés invasion of the Aztec Empire in 1519 was a disaster for the Aztecs. The Spaniards may not have had as many soldiers, but they arrived armed with cannons and their trusty horses, overwhelming the Aztecs and eventually conquering their empire.

Without their Iberian equine companions, the Conquistadors would may well have struggled to conquer the New World at all. As Bernal Diaz del Castillo – a conquistador who served under Hernan Cortés in the conquest of the Aztecs – noted in 1569; “For, after God, we owed the victory to the horses.”

Kukutana’s horses – part of the family

We have many fantastic horses available to ride here at Kukutana, all looked after by the incredibly dedicated David. Keen riders are invited to saddle up and venture into neighbouring forests and grasslands for an exhilarating horse safari, exploring ancient woodland once enjoyed by Spanish royalty and traversing the acres of sandy trails on offer. Horse riding on the beach, or a morning ride through the pines to El Rocio, are a brilliant way to discover the landscape that makes this part of Andalusia so wonderful.

Polo lessons can be taken for those interested in this exciting sport, but for younger guests and those seeking a more relaxed excursion, how about being transported through the magnificent surroundings of Kukutana, and the woodlands beyond, in a horse-drawn carriage?

We are also always delighted to welcome equine enthusiasts to the stables, steading and paddocks, where guests can meet, feed and groom the horses.

Meet the Team

The Anglo-Arabs

The Anglo-Arab is a crossbred, part-Arabian horse that is now recognised as its own breed. These horses are intelligent, robust and athletic, energetic, calm and well behaved – our go to horses for riders, experts and beginners alike.

Dr Celso is a seven year old grey, sired by an Anglo Arab father of the same name. Born and bred at Kukutana, Dr Celso has a calm and loving nature and is a lovely ride.

Ageing gracefully, fifteen year old grey Viejo is a veteran of the Kukutana stables. Solid and dependable, Viejo is the perfect mount for younger or less confident riders.

Enthusiastic Dr Jason is seven years old and full of beans – a fun and vibrant ride that’s sure to be a thrill.

At five years old, Creida is full of life; young, lively and spirited in equal measure. Host Pedro and the Kukutana team are bringing Creida on and more experienced riders can be sure of an exciting time in her company.

The oldest of the family here at Kukutana at over 20 years, trusty and dependable Fogonero is our go to option for children looking for their first experience on horseback, with led walks around the corral and the grounds.

The French Trotters

The French Trotter is a cross between the muscular Norman stock horse and the English Thoroughbred and Norfolk Trotter.

Over time the thoroughbred genes have given this breed an increasingly refined form. French trotters tend to be gentle and easy to train. They are one of the most popular breeds in France and Pedro brought them to Kukutana several years ago after falling for the classic French Trotter personality, discipline and determination. These are the horses we use to pull our lovely carriage; the perfect outing for a picnic in the woods.

Fifteen year old Bolaño is bay in colour with white socks. Calm and dependable, he has never let us down.

At seven years old, Declic Boy is another bay French Trotter with white socks – he pulls carriages like a pro alongside his close friend Bolaño.

The Mules

The mules (Romero and Pastora) happily coexist with the horses at Kukutana. In days gone by, the mules would have pulled carriages, but now they are happy just to provide companionship.

The Young Ones

In February 2022, 25 year old mother Mulata, who is no longer ridden on account of her age but enjoys the surroundings and nurture we provide here at Kukutana, gave birth to a gorgeous foal; a much-loved and fast-growing addition to the team.

Bienvenida is our other youngster, at just four years of age. She is already showing great promise and is coming on well.

If you would like to come to ride our horses yourself, please feel free to get in touch with the team and you will be in the saddle in no time!

I’m struggling to put into words everything that we have experienced these past days, from the very first moment it has all been exceptional. The team and the hosts are marvellous, the experiences unforgettable - we will cherish these days forever.

Guest, Madrid

A unique experience surrounded by friends and hosted by this wonderful family who have poured their dreams and love into this project. The most memorable G&T in history! We will be back soon.

V.U. Madrid

The magic of southern Spain and the warmth with which we have been received have made these days unforgettable. What an incredible project you have created!

A.L. Germany

Thank you for the most magical few days in this piece of Paradise! It was the most memorable time and holiday that we have ever had. The food was delicious, the horses were beautiful and cannot believe that we saw a Lynx! We cannot thank you enough for all you have done. Hope to see you again soon and best luck for the creation and adventures that you plan.