Hi Christel,

Since horses are often very playful and curious, it sounds to me that the mare you mention might simply enjoy being nosy--unless she tied and therfore knows she can't insert herself into the 'goings on' of the breaks you take to eat, etc. Or--perhaps the mare is used to having the bridle removed at break times--which is a break for her as well (no bit in mouth) and her antics are her way of reminding you to remove it.
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One solution might be to bring a halter and lead with you on your ride (in a saddle bag or by other means) and when you stop for a break you could slip the halter on this mare--over top of the bridle--and then tie her as you normally would.
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Without knowing more about this mare and her habits--as well as what you expect of her--it's not easy-- for me at least-- to offer you any additional suggestions other than the halter idea which is a quick fix that should suit your 'break time' purposes. But if you want the mare to ground tie, mind her business and stand still on command, that will require quite a bit more 'partnership' training via Monty's methods.
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I'm sure others will chime in here and offer great suggestions.

Hi Christel,
From what you describe, I gather that the breaks you take when out with several horses, are a real time to relax. I've made such tours in Italy, starting early in the morning, stop for a long lunchbreak and come back when the sun is less hot.
Give your mare the chance to really enjoy this intermission and take off the bridle, she can graze, drink and find new energy for the rest of the tour. What you might do is put a ropehalter under the bridle, use your saddle to tie a leadrope to it, so you're equiped for the break.
Your mare shows you she's not comfortable with the bridle, did you check it? Be kind to your horse's mouth, it's the only one she has! If you're not sure it fits well, ask your vet to take a look. It might be that the Spanish ride with sharper bits, make your own choice, use a gentle bit and kind hands with soft signals, she's your partner on your rides, be her partner in choosing the equipment that makes her happy.
Let us know how you're doing,
Miriam

Hi Christel, can I check something please....when you stop for a break what do you do with her? Do you tie her up, if so how? Or do you sit down holding the reins in your hand or some other arrangement? How long after you stop/sit down does all the fidgeting start? Thanks...just trying to get a clearer picture of what is happening :-)

I sit eith the reins in my hand. And she starts immediately. Thank you for the advices tovremove the bridle. I will try:-)

Hi Christel - all good advice from everyone but please bear in mind that horses are claustrophobic and it may be that there is too much tension between your hands and the bit which would be irritating to her and she is trying to tell you this :-)
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I suspect that having her on a headcollar as everyone suggests with the rope loosely held will make a big difference. Equally, teaching her to ground tie, be tied for longer periods and to stand still will pay dividends. However the most important thing is to listen to what she is telling you. Let us know how you get on