Setubal & Comporta Trip with Horseback Riding from Lisbon

Discover Portugal’s Hidden Treasures with a Day Trip to Setúbal and Comporta

If you’re keen to experience Portugal beyond the typical tourist spots, this Setúbal & Comporta trip with horseback riding from Lisbon offers an authentic glimpse into a part of the country often reserved for locals. For around $296.22 per person, you get a roughly 6-hour adventure that combines scenic ferry rides, charming villages, and a horseback ride on pristine beaches. It’s a well-paced itinerary designed for those who want to see a different side of Portugal without spending days on the road.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the small group size—limited to just 12 travelers—ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed experience. Second, the highlight of riding horses along Comporta’s expansive beaches is genuinely memorable. We also appreciate the focus on Portuguese food culture during a walk through Setúbal’s lively village market, giving you a taste of local life and flavors.

One aspect to consider: the tour includes a long drive with a notable amount of time in transit, so it might not suit those craving a more leisurely, seated experience. It’s best for travelers who love outdoor activities, natural scenery, and authentic cultural encounters. If you enjoy a mix of adventure and history with your day, this trip is a fine choice.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits nature lovers, horse riding enthusiasts, and curious travelers eager to explore Portugal’s less-visited coast. It’s perfect for those with a sense of adventure, an interest in local food, and a desire to see natural landscapes that most travelers miss. Families with teenagers might also enjoy the mix of scenic ferry rides and horseback riding, provided everyone can meet the minimum age of 12 and weight restrictions.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: Small group size adds a personal touch.
• Scenic ferry ride: A beautiful way to view Troia’s coast and spot dolphins.
• Horseback riding: The highlight—riding on a beach is a unique and unforgettable activity.
• Cultural immersion: Walking through Setúbal offers insight into local food and life.
• Time in transit: Long travel periods mean some may find it tiring.
• Value for money: Combines multiple activities and transport in one day.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins bright and early at the HF Fénix Lisboa, near Praça Marquês de Pombal, a central Lisbon location. From there, a van or minibus whisks you away on a roughly 45-minute drive to Setúbal. This transportation aspect is key—it ensures you’re not exhausted by a long, self-driven day and allows the group to start relaxed.

First Stop: Setúbal’s Vibrant Village

Arriving in Setúbal just after 9:45 am, you’ll join a walking tour that lasts about an hour. It’s a good way to stretch your legs and get a first taste of local life. The reviews highlight the charm of this fishing town, its lively streets, and the opportunity to visit a local market where you can see fresh seafood, regional produce, and feel the everyday rhythm of life. The tour is free, and it’s a great chance to ask your guide about local specialties, perhaps even picking up culinary tips.

Crossing to Troia by Ferry

At around 10:30 am, your group boards a ferry across the Troia Peninsula. This 25-minute ride is considered one of the most scenic parts of the day, offering views of the longest uninterrupted sand beach in Europe, stretching 65 km. It’s not uncommon to see dolphins during the crossing—an added bonus appreciated by most travelers. The ferry ride is free, and the moment provides perfect photo opportunities of the coast and sea.

Arrival in Comporta and a Short Visit

By 11 am, you’re at Comporta, a low-key, chic village known for its natural beauty and laid-back vibe. You’ll have around 30 minutes to wander, soak in the scenery, and maybe snap some photos of the whitewashed houses and rice paddies. This is where the actual magic of the area begins to sink in, especially as you prepare for the horseback riding.

Horseback Riding on the Beach

The two-hour horseback ride starting at 11:30 am is widely praised. The tour is designed to suit beginners and more experienced riders alike, making it accessible for most. As one reviewer noted, the landscape is “SPLENDID,” and riding along the beach — feeling the breeze, hearing the surf — makes this a truly stand-out activity.

Some reviews mention that the drive to the riding location is longer than expected, but once on the horses, most agree that the experience is worth the wait. One reviewer states, “The horseback riding on the beach is simply spectacular,” emphasizing how the scenery and the activity itself make the long drive worthwhile.

Return to Lisbon

After your ride, the group departs Comporta around 2 pm, heading back on a 1-hour transfer via ferry and road to Lisbon. The return journey offers time to relax, reflect, or even share photos from the day.

What the Tour Includes and What Not

The package covers transportation, ferry transfers, horseback riding, and a walking tour in Setúbal, giving you a well-rounded view of this lesser-known part of Portugal. The small group size ensures attentive guiding and a less hurried experience.

However, food and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring some snacks or plan for a quick lunch in Setúbal. Tips are optional but appreciated for guides and drivers, who are noted as personable and professional in reviews.

Authenticity and Value

While the tour offers a lot of natural beauty and some cultural insights, be aware that the long drive might not appeal to everyone, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace. The horseback riding is the primary highlight—many reviewers describe it as “spectacular,” and it’s especially appealing for lovers of outdoor activities.

The cost of around $296.22 might seem high at first glance, but considering transportation, ferry rides, guided tours, and riding—it’s a fair deal for a comprehensive day trip that immerses you in local scenery and culture.

Final Thoughts

This tour is perfect if you want to escape the city and see Portugal’s less-visited coastlines. It’s an engaging mix of natural landscapes, cultural exploration, and adventure on horseback. The guided experience ensures you learn about the area without feeling lost, and the small group setting keeps it intimate and friendly.

Travelers who love outdoor activities, scenic drives, and authentic local encounters will find this trip rewarding. It’s especially suitable for those eager to enjoy beach riding and see how locals unwind in this beautiful corner of Portugal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours from departure in Lisbon to return, including travel time, sightseeing, and horseback riding.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The minimum age for participation is 12 years old, and participants must meet the weight limit of 95 kg (209 lbs) for safety reasons.

How physically demanding is the horseback riding?
The tour is adapted for beginners, so you don’t need to be an experienced rider. It’s a relaxed ride designed to enjoy the scenery rather than intense competition.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes for riding and walking, sunglasses, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat. Since food and drinks are not included, consider bringing snacks or a water bottle.

Are tips included?
No, tips are optional but appreciated if you feel the guides and driver provided exceptional service.

Is there any free time during the tour?
Yes, there’s about 30 minutes in Setúbal and some time in Comporta to explore or take photos before and after riding.

How scenic is the ferry ride?
The ferry crossing is considered one of the most beautiful parts of the trip, offering views of Troia’s long beaches and dolphin sightings are common.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience is weather-dependent—if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund. Good weather is recommended for the best experience, especially for outdoor activities.

Final Words

If you’re looking for a balanced, authentic day trip that combines scenic beauty, cultural insights, and outdoor fun, this Setúbal & Comporta trip is a solid choice. It offers a unique chance to ride along beaches, explore charming villages, and see Portugal from a truly local perspective—all in a manageable, half-day experience. Perfect for those who want to combine adventure with culture without overextending their schedule.