ALTER REAL AUCTION

Countdown ON: your guide to the 2025 Annual Auction

Apr 17, 2025

Text: Lusitano World · Photos: Carlos Hernâni

Every spring, all eyes turn to Alter do Chão — the charming village in Portugal’s Alentejo region — for one of the most iconic events on the Lusitano calendar: the Annual Alter Real Auction. This year’s event takes place on April 24, at the world’s oldest stud farm still operating in its original location. A total of 26 horses — 13 stallions and 13 mares — have been carefully selected for the occasion. The auction kicks off at 3:00 PM (Portugal time), and you can join the action in person, surrounded by history and tradition, or online, via real-time livestream — making it easy for buyers worldwide to take part.

The Alter Real bloodlines are known for their athletic ability, rideability, and noble character. Many of the horses in this year’s lot descend from Lusitano greats like Rubi AR (London 2012 Olympics) and Viheste AR (Rio 2016 Olympics). With starting bids from €4,500 for mares and €7,000 for stallions, and several piro-free horses available, this is a rare opportunity to secure top-tier Lusitano genetics at a competitive price point.

With international buzz already building, the 2025 Alter Real Auction is a must for anyone looking for a riding horse or top-quality broodmare. With just one week to go, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to help you get ready — from horse profiles to bidding info and event details.

Here is Your Guide to the 2025 Auction

🐴 Meet the Horses – Find Your Match

The full profiles for all horses are now available online, complete with photos, videos, pedigrees, and starting bids. You can explore the official catalogues here:

🔗 Stallions Catalogue
🔗 Mares Catalogue

With starting bids from €4,500 for mares and €7,000 for stallions, and several piro-free horses included, this auction offers a rare chance to secure top-tier Lusitano genetics at a highly competitive price point.

Want to see them in person? Visits can be scheduled by appointment until April 22 at 5:00 PM. You may also request X-rays and piroplasmosis test results directly from the stud. Thinking of placing a bid? A pre-purchase veterinary exam can be booked until April 17, with at least 48 hours’ notice.

📝 How to Register and Bid

To take part — whether you're attending in person or joining online — you’ll need to register by 12:00 PM on April 24 via email: geral@alterreal.pt. The registration form is available online, and there’s a €25 fee — fully deducted from your purchase if successful, or refunded if you don’t buy. Here’s how it works once you’re registered:

Online bidders will receive access to the auction’s real-time livestream platform.
In-person bidders will collect their numbered paddle at the welcome desk — your essential pass to place a bid.

After the auction ends, successful bidders will be contacted by 9:00 PM on April 24 to finalize their purchase. Before bidding, don’t forget to read the full Auction Rules & Regulations to ensure a smooth process.

What's on the Agenda for the Auction Day?

More than just a sale day, the Annual Alter Real Auction is a celebration of centuries of history and tradition. It’s an open day to the public, giving all visitors the chance to connect with the stud farm and experience its rich legacy firsthand. Curious to know what’s on the agenda for April 24?

Here’s the full program:
🐶 10:30 AM – 11th Regional Serra de Aires Dog Show (Parada in front of Casas Altas)
🏇 10:30 AM – Show jumping demo by EPDRAC students
💫 11:30 AM – Team presentation: Alter’s competition horses
🔨 3:00 PM – Start of the Annual Auction
🌿 6:00 PM – Traditional Mare Release

If you are wondering about lunch options, you can grab a bite at the food stands at Tapada do Arneiro, or head over to the Vila Galé Hotel Restaurant for a sit-down meal.

The team at Coudelaria de Alter is happy to help with registration, appointments and any questions you may have: 📩 geral@alterreal.pt; 📞 +351 245 610 060

Whether you're a seasoned breeder, a passionate rider, or simply a fan of the Lusitano breed, the 2025 Alter Real Auction is an unmissable moment on the equestrian stage. Don’t miss your chance to be part of it — join us in Alter or bid online to take home your next equine partner.

About Us

Lusitano World offers a combination of services dedicated to promote the Lusitano Horse worldwide and to highlight the richness of Portuguese equestrian culture. Visit our website and follow our social media platforms to find out what we can offer.