Terms and Conditions

These Terms and Conditions ("Terms") govern all bookings, visits, activities, and services at Marchanta Riverside Estate, located in Ribatejo, Portugal ("the Estate", "we", "us", "our"). By making a reservation or accessing any service offered by the Estate, you ("Guest", "Client", "you") agree to be bound by these Terms.

These Terms apply to all guests, day visitors, corporate clients, and event organisers. Please read them carefully before confirming your booking.

Chapter 1

Definitions

  • "Estate" refers to Marchanta Riverside Estate and all facilities, grounds, stabling, and services therein.

  • "Guest" refers to any individual making a personal reservation for accommodation or activities.

  • "Client" refers to any corporate entity, event organiser, or group booking on behalf of multiple persons.

  • "Booking" refers to any confirmed reservation made via the Estate's website, booking platform (RoomRaccoon), or direct communication.

  • "Services" refers collectively to accommodation, equestrian activities, dining, conferencing, and private events offered by the Estate.

Chapter 2

Reservations and Booking

2.1 How to Book

All reservations are made through the Estate's official booking platform (RoomRaccoon) or by direct written communication with the Estate. A booking is confirmed only upon receipt of written confirmation from the Estate.

2.2 Booking Accuracy

You are responsible for ensuring that all booking details provided are accurate, including names, dates, number of guests, and activity requirements. The Estate accepts no liability for losses arising from incorrect information supplied at the time of booking.

2.3 Payments, Deposits and Cancellations

All matters relating to payment terms, deposit requirements, and cancellation conditions are governed by the policies applicable on the RoomRaccoon booking platform at the time of booking. Guests and Clients are advised to review these terms carefully before confirming any reservation.

Chapter 3

Equestrian Activities

3.1 Participation

Equestrian activities are available to guests of all experience levels. Prior to participation, all guests must complete a rider assessment and declare any relevant medical conditions, physical limitations, or previous riding experience. The Estate reserves the right to assign horses and activities based on this assessment.

3.2 Health and Fitness

By participating in any equestrian activity, you confirm that you are in good physical and mental health and are not aware of any medical condition that would make participation inadvisable. The Estate reserves the right to refuse participation to any guest who, in the reasonable opinion of Estate staff, appears unfit to ride safely.

3.3 Safety Rules

All guests must comply with the safety instructions provided by Estate staff at all times. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Wearing approved riding helmets and appropriate footwear at all times when mounted or in proximity to horses

  • Following all directions from qualified equestrian staff

  • Not approaching horses without the supervision or authorisation of a member of staff

  • Refraining from loud noises, sudden movements, or behaviour that may startle the horses

  • Keeping children under the age of 16 under direct adult supervision at all times

3.4 Liability Waiver

Horse riding is an inherently risky activity. By participating, you acknowledge and accept these risks. The Estate strongly recommends that all guests sign a formal liability waiver prior to participation. The Estate, its staff, and its agents shall not be liable for any injury, loss, or damage arising from equestrian activities, except where such liability cannot be excluded by law.

Note to client: A formal waiver document should be introduced for guests to sign, either digitally at the time of booking or physically upon arrival. We recommend consulting a Portuguese legal adviser to ensure the waiver is enforceable under local law.

Chapter 4

dining

4.1 Reservations

Dining at the Estate is available to resident guests and, subject to availability, to day visitors and external guests. Reservations are recommended and may be required during peak periods.

4.2 Dietary Requirements

Guests with dietary requirements, allergies, or intolerances must inform the Estate at the time of booking or no later than 48 hours prior to the dining experience. While the Estate will make every reasonable effort to accommodate requests, it cannot guarantee that dishes are entirely free from specific allergens.

4.3 Conduct

The Estate reserves the right to refuse service or require a guest to leave the dining area if their conduct is disruptive, offensive, or in breach of these Terms.

Chapter 5

Conferences and Private Events

5.1 Enquiries and Proposals

All conference and private event bookings are subject to a separate written agreement between the Client and the Estate. These Terms apply as a baseline; any bespoke agreement will prevail where terms conflict.

5.2 Client Responsibilities

The Client is responsible for the conduct of all attendees during the event. Any damage caused to Estate property, facilities, or grounds by event attendees will be the financial responsibility of the Client. The Estate may require a security deposit prior to the event, the amount of which will be specified in the event agreement.

5.3 External Suppliers

Any external suppliers, contractors, or entertainers engaged by the Client must be approved in advance by the Estate. The Estate reserves the right to refuse access to any third-party supplier it deems unsuitable or not compliant with safety requirements.

5.4 Capacities and Noise

All events are subject to the Estate's maximum capacity limits and noise restrictions in compliance with applicable Portuguese municipal regulations. The Estate will advise the Client of applicable restrictions at the time of booking.

Chapter 6

General Estate Rules

  • Smoking is permitted only in designated outdoor areas.

  • Pets are not permitted on the Estate without prior written consent.

  • The Estate is a private property. Access is limited to confirmed guests, Clients, and their authorised guests.

  • The use of drones or recording equipment on the Estate requires prior written authorisation from management.

  • The Estate operates quiet hours between 22:00 and 08:00. Guests are expected to be respectful of other guests and neighbours during these hours.

  • Guests are responsible for any damage caused to Estate property during their stay. The cost of repair or replacement will be charged to the guest.

Chapter 7

Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, the Estate shall not be liable for:

  • Any loss, theft, or damage to personal belongings on Estate grounds

  • Any indirect, incidental, or consequential loss arising from your use of the Estate's services

  • Any disruption to services caused by circumstances beyond the Estate's reasonable control, including but not limited to severe weather, utility failures, or force majeure events

Nothing in these Terms limits the Estate's liability for death or personal injury caused by its negligence, or for any other liability that cannot be excluded under Portuguese or EU law.

Chapter 8

Privacy and Data Protection

The Estate processes personal data in accordance with its Privacy Policy, which forms part of these Terms and is available on the Estate's website. By making a booking, you consent to the processing of your personal data as described therein.

Chapter 9

Governing Law and Disputes

These Terms are governed by the laws of Portugal. Any dispute arising out of or in connection with these Terms shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Portuguese courts, without prejudice to any rights you may have as a consumer under applicable EU law.

The Estate is committed to resolving disputes amicably. If you have a complaint, please contact us directly in the first instance so that we may address the matter promptly.

Chapter 10

Amendments to These Terms

The Estate reserves the right to update or amend these Terms at any time. The version published on the Estate's website at the time of booking shall apply to that booking. Continued use of the Estate's services following any update constitutes acceptance of the revised Terms.

Chapter 11

Contact US

For any questions relating to these Terms and Conditions, please contact: into@marchanta.pt