More heritage product than food, the Alter Real strain of the Lusitano horse is the single product most identified with Alter do Chão. Bred at the town's royal stud farm since 1748, these elegant, powerful horses are renowned for classical dressage and form the backbone of the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art.
For visitors, the 'tasting' is an encounter rather than a meal: watching the horses trained at the Coudelaria de Alter, seeing mares and foals in the fields, or taking a riding experience on the estate. It is the reason many travellers come to Alter do Chão at all, and the thread that ties the town's identity to its land.
⭐ Must-try:
A visit to the Alter Stud Farm
Signature dishes
- A guided visit to the Coudelaria de Alter
- An equestrian experience on the estate
Highlights
- The royal Alter Real strain of the Lusitano horse
- Bred at the town's stud farm since 1748
- Renowned for classical dressage
- Central to the Portuguese School of Equestrian Art
- The living signature of Alter do Chão
Dietary options
✓ Not applicable — heritage product
Frequently asked questions
Is this a food product?
No — it is the town's defining heritage 'product', the Alter Real Lusitano horse, included here as the thing most identified with Alter do Chão.
Where can I see the horses?
At the Coudelaria de Alter, the royal stud farm about 4 km from town, where you can watch training and see mares and foals.
Can I ride one?
The stud farm offers riding experiences and activities; some require advance booking.