Manavgat Side: Horse Riding on the Beach and in the Forest

If you’re heading to Antalya Province and crave an authentic outdoor adventure, this horse riding experience near Side offers a refreshing break from typical sightseeing. For around 1.5 hours, you’ll enjoy a guided ride through lush pine forests and along a scenic beach, with no prior riding experience needed. Tours start from hotel pickups in Side and Manavgat, making it a convenient and relaxing outing.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it blends nature, tranquility, and a touch of adventure. The guides are known for their friendliness and clarity, making beginners feel comfortable and seasoned riders feel they’re in good hands. Plus, the chance to ride along the shoreline on the sand offers a satisfying mix of forest serenity and seaside fun, which is a rare find.

One possible consideration is that, since the tour includes transportation and is quite popular, timing might be a bit dependent on traffic or weather. Also, if you’re a very experienced rider, this tour might lean toward the gentle side, focusing more on the scenic experience rather than challenging riding.

This tour suits nature lovers, families, or anyone wanting to try horse riding in a relaxed setting. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with beginners or looking for a memorable photo opportunity — expect plenty of moments to capture the beauty of the Turkish countryside and coast.

Key Points

• Beautiful Scenery: Ride through pine forests, along the river, and on the beach for a variety of stunning views.
• Beginner Friendly: No experience required, with guides explaining riding basics and safety.
• All-Inclusive: Includes all equipment, helmets, and round-trip transportation from your hotel.
• Flexible Timing: Morning and afternoon departures suit different schedules.
• Authentic Experience: Small group sizes and friendly guides make it feel personal.
• Good Value: At just 1.5 hours, it offers a comprehensive taste of nature and horseback riding.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Horse Riding Tour

Starting with Convenience: Hotel Pickup and Arrival

One of the first things we appreciated is the convenient pickup service. The tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel in Side or Manavgat, which means you can relax and focus on the adventure ahead without worrying about logistics. A driver typically arrives about 15 minutes before the scheduled start time, and pickups are punctual, though delays can happen during busy traffic times.

Once at the horse riding base, you’re greeted by friendly staff, who provide a quick safety briefing. This is essential, especially for those new to riding — don’t worry, the guides are clear, patient, and eager to help everyone feel at ease. They’ll explain how to saddle your horse and what to expect during the ride.

The Forest Trail: A Peaceful Escape

The first part of your ride takes you into the pine forests of the countryside. We loved how this area felt like a quiet retreat, away from the busier tourist spots. The trail is mostly gentle, making it ideal for beginners, but still interesting for those with more riding experience. The guides often share insights about the local flora and fauna, adding an educational touch.

Several reviewers echoed our sentiments: “The guides were very experienced, and the horses were very well trained,” says Teodora, highlighting how important it is to feel safe and comfortable when riding. The ride weaves through the natural landscape, following a river and passing by lush greenery, creating a calming atmosphere.

Rest and Refresh: A Break by the River

Halfway through, the guide might suggest a short break by the river, giving everyone a chance to relax and appreciate the scenery. This pause is a nice touch, allowing riders to take photos or simply enjoy the tranquility. The horses are well cared for, and their relaxed demeanor adds to the sense of confidence you feel during the ride.

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The Beach Ride: Sand and Sea Breeze

The highlight for many is the second part of the tour — riding on the beach. After leaving the forested trail, you’ll head toward the shoreline, where the horses walk across soft sand and along the water’s edge. This stretch offers a different sensation — the sound of waves, the salty breeze, and the unique experience of riding by the sea.

Reviewers like Louise appreciated the variety: “Great ride through the forest down to the beach and back,” and the photos Yusuf took of the ride capture these moments beautifully. Keep in mind that riding on sand requires a bit more balance, but the guides ensure everyone stays safe and comfortable.

Wrapping Up: Return and Reflection

After an hour on horseback, the tour concludes at the starting point. The horses are well-behaved and seem to enjoy the outing as much as the riders. You’ll be transported back to your hotel with plenty of time left in your day to explore or relax.

The Experience: What Sets It Apart

What makes this tour stand out is its balance of nature, guided instruction, and scenic variety. The reviews praise the guides’ friendliness and professionalism, with Yusuf and Mustafa earning special mentions for their hospitality and photography skills. Several travelers mention how helpful Yusuf was in making them feel at ease, even if they had no prior riding experience.

The value for money is also notable — for just 1.5 hours, you get a well-organized, safe, and picturesque ride, plus hotel pickup and drop-off. The inclusion of helmets and equipment means you don’t have to bring much besides comfortable clothes, sunscreen, and water.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for beginners, families, or anyone seeking a peaceful outdoor activity. If you love the idea of seeing Turkish forests and beaches from horseback, this is a memorable way to do it. It’s also well-suited for those who value good guides, clean horses, and a relaxed pace.

FAQs About the Horse Riding Tour

Is prior riding experience necessary?
No, this tour is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. Guides will explain the basics, making it accessible for everyone.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes suitable for riding, a hat, sunscreen, and water are recommended. Bring clothes suitable for outdoor activity.

Are the horses well-trained?
Yes, the reviews consistently mention that the horses are well cared for and very trained, ensuring safety and enjoyment.

How long is the ride?
The actual horseback riding lasts about 1 hour, with the entire experience including pickup, briefing, and return lasting roughly 1.5 hours.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

What about group size?
The experience typically involves small groups, making it more personal and manageable, especially for first-timers.

Is it suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the gentle nature of the ride and mention of it being suitable for beginners suggests families with children could enjoy this, provided children meet basic safety requirements.

Final Thoughts

This horse riding tour near Side combines the best of nature, scenic variety, and accessible adventure. It’s a wonderful choice if you want to explore Turkey’s countryside on horseback without complicated logistics or prior experience. The guides’ friendliness and the well-trained horses ensure that everyone, from nervous beginners to seasoned riders, will find something to enjoy.

The mix of pine forests, rivers, and sandy beaches creates a versatile backdrop that turns a simple ride into a memorable outdoor escapade. Plus, the included transportation simplifies planning — just show up, enjoy, and head back with photos and memories of a unique experience.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic, and well-organized horseback adventure, this tour offers genuine value and a chance to see Side from a fresh perspective. It’s especially perfect for those who appreciate gentle rides, natural beauty, and friendly guides who make everyone feel welcome.

In brief: this tour is ideal for nature lovers, families, beginners, or anyone wanting a peaceful, picturesque ride along Turkey’s coast and forests. An authentic, enjoyable experience that balances scenery, safety, and good company — a nice addition to any Turkish holiday.

You can check availability for your dates here: