Classical Art of Riding Retreat

An exclusive riding retreat with a limited number of participants and access to highly trained school horses.

We focus to develop balance, lightness, and pride in our horses.

Through private lessons, rider-focused yoga, and a clear training system, you’ll learn how to truly influence your horse’s body and mind — use soft aids and ride with a partner.

Rooted in the teachings of Manuel J. de Oliveira and the old masters like François Baucher and La Guérinière, this exclusive retreat is built on one clear principle:

We develop balance.

You’ll step into the school of balance and vertical riding — where true lightness emerges through the correct development of the horse’s body and mind.

Through private, one-on-one riding lessons, in-hand work, and a deep dive into biomechanics, you’ll learn how to develop your feel for the horse and its body and mind. We dive into the understanding of the horses spirit and anatomy and you learn how to ride the horse up, in order to free your horses shoulder and develop lightness.

At the same time, this experience offers the full depth of a true retreat.

Each day is intentionally designed to create space for focus, integration, and meaningful progress. Mornings begin with yoga to refine your body awareness and bring clarity into your riding. Training sessions are complemented by time to reset and experience Costa Rica beyond the arena, including a visit to the luxury hot springs of Orosi.

Your learning continues long after your stay. A structured online course is included, providing you with a clear system, practical exercises, and the confidence to keep developing your horse at home.

This experience remains personal and exclusive. Staying in our wonderful lodge, with homemade meals, enjoying comfort and space throughout the retreat. A professional photoshoot with one of our highly trained horses is included — capturing a moment of connection, presence, and expression.

This retreat creates a lasting shift in how you see, feel, and develop the horse —
one that stays with you every time you ride.

🌿 Retreat Booking Terms & Conditions

Please read the following carefully before confirming your booking:

1. Payment & Booking Policy

• A 25% non-refundable deposit is required to secure your booking.
   
• The remaining 75% balance is due 10 days prior to your arrival and must be paid via bank transfer or online payment.
   
• Once your booking is confirmed, your registration is considered binding and supports our long-term planning and preparation for your stay.
   

2. Non-Refundable Policy

• All payments are strictly non-refundable.
   
• This includes cancellations, early departures, no-shows, or termination of participation for any reason—including if you are asked to leave due to a breach of our house or community rules.
   
• The full fee for the period you booked remains due upon arrival, regardless of any changes to your plans.
   

3. Rescheduling Option

• If you are unable to attend your booked dates, we are happy to help you reschedule your stay within one year, subject to availability.
   

👉 By placing your booking, you agree to these terms and conditions. 

Packing List

🌿 What to Pack for Your Retreat

Here’s a list of essentials to help you feel prepared, comfortable, and connected during your time with us:

🐴 For Riding

• Riding pants (at least one comfortable pair)
   
• Closed shoes or boots suitable for riding
   
• Riding helmet (we have plenty available on the farm if you don't have your own)
   

🧘 For Yoga & Daily Comfort

• Yoga clothes
   
• Comfortable, layered clothing for cooler evenings
   
• Clothes suitable for day trips or excursions
   

👟 Footwear

• Sneakers or hiking boots (for nature walks or hikes)
   
• Flip-flops, sandals, or other easy shoes for relaxing
   

🌞 Sun & Insect Protection

• Light long-sleeve shirts (great for sun and bug protection)
   
• Cap or sunhat
   
• Sunscreen (eco-friendly if possible)
   
• Insect repellent
   

🧼 Toiletries & Essentials

• Shampoo
   
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and your usual personal care items
   

🌊 Other Useful Items

• Swimsuit
   
• Flashlight or headlamp
   
• Reusable water bottle
• Small backpack (for day trips)
   
• Bum bag or belt pouch (optional, but handy)
   

🩹 Personal Extras

• Basic personal first-aid kit (plasters, ointment, charcoal tablets, etc.)
   
• Notebook and pen (for theory lessons, journaling, and reflection)
   

📞 Contact

• Save our number: +506 8369 4339

Book your flight to SJO - Juan Santamaria San Jose, Costa Rica. 

Look out for the Finca Soley sign at the airport!
We recommend arriving in the morning or around midday if possible.

If you're flying in from overseas, you might want to consider arriving a day before the retreat begins to give yourself time to settle in. You can book extra nights with us or choose to stay at a nearby hotel in San José or close to the airport.

For the well-being of our horses and to ensure a safe and harmonious riding experience, we have the following weight guidelines:

Beginner riders should not exceed 80 kg (170 lbs).

Fit and experienced riders may be accepted up to 90 kg (190 lbs), depending on riding level, balance, and overall physical condition.

As every rider and horse combination is individual, we reserve the right to assess suitability on a case-by-case basis to ensure the safety and well-being of our horses.

Thank you for your understanding and respect for our animals.

Our Retreats are designed to be combined. If you like to book an extended stay, please contact us to receive a special offer on staying for both retreats.

Contact s if you wish to book the retreat on a different date. 

Book your Stay for 2027 here.

By 2:00 PM (latest arrival at the airport) → Arrival at San José International Airport (SJO) and transfer to Finca Soley

• 3:00 PM → Farm Tour: Get to know the horses, the farm, and the surroundings

• 4:00 PM → Time to settle into your room and relax

• 5:00 PM → Tea Circle: Welcome gathering with the group

• 6:00 PM → Dinner: Fresh, nourishing meal and introduction to the retreat program

 6.15 am: Tea

6:30 am: Yoga 

8 am: breakfast

9:15 am: Introduction Workshop

What is Classical Horsemanship?

Learn how to mobalize and do flexions with your horse

12:00 am: lunch

2 pm: Riding Lessons

Schedule handed onside 

6:00: Dinner

 6.15 am: Tea

6:30 am: Yoga 

8 am: breakfast

9 am: Classical Horsemanship Lessons

Private Riding Lesson, schedule will be handed on site

12 am: lunch

2 pm: Anatomy & Spirit

Theory Lesson

6 pm: dinner

6.15 am: Tea

6:30 am: Yoga

8 am: breakfast

9 am: Classical Horsemanship Lessons

Private Riding Lesson, schedule will be handed on site

11:00 am: lunch

12:00 pm: Orosi Hot Springs

We take the rood down passing the beautiful lake of Cachi to the volcanic thermal springs of Orosi. The installations also host a coffeetour included.

6 pm: dinner

 6.15 am: Tea

6:30 am: Yoga 

8 am: breakfast

9 am: Classical Horsemanship Lessons

Private Riding Lesson, schedule will be handed on site

12 am: lunch

Free Time by the pool or book an extra riding lesson or massage

6:00 pm: Dinner

6.15 am: Tea

6:30 am: Yoga 

8 am: breakfast

9 am: Classical Horsemanship Lesson

Group Riding Lesson, we share movement and rhythm

12 am: lunch

2 pm: Trail Ride

6:00 pm: Dinner at Restaurante

6.15 am: Tea

8 am: breakfast

9 am: Summary - closing

If your flight is later there is the option for extra lessons