Side Horse Riding On Beach And Through The Forests For 2 Hours

Side Horse Riding On Beach And Through The Forests For 2 Hours
Rating: 3.5/5 (34 reviews)
Location: Side, Turkey
Price: $35.00 per person
Duration: Approximately 4 hours (including pickup)
Features: Hotel pickup, mobile ticket, guided ride

Traveling to Side, Turkey, and craving a relaxed, authentic experience that combines natural beauty with animal companionship? This two-hour horse safari offers an accessible way to enjoy the area’s stunning landscapes, from pine forests to famous beaches. For just $35, you’ll be picked up from your hotel, given a safe and friendly introduction, and then spend a peaceful couple of hours riding through lush forests and along the shoreline.

What we love most about this tour is how it blends scenic views with gentle adventure — whether you’re new to riding or just looking for a calming escape, this experience can fit the bill. The guides are praised for their helpfulness and knowledge, making the ride accessible and enjoyable. Plus, the opportunity to meander through pine forests and soak up the seaside breeze provides a genuine taste of the Turkish countryside.

A potential drawback? Some reviews hint at varying levels of horse care, with a few travelers expressing concerns over the horses’ condition. While the tour emphasizes safety and training, it’s worth considering if you’re particularly sensitive to animal welfare. Also, the group size is limited to 15, which helps keep the experience intimate but might mean some waiting during busy times.

This tour appeals especially to families, first-time riders, or nature lovers who want a relaxed, scenic outing. If you’re seeking a more adventurous or fast-paced ride, you might find this experience a bit gentle. But if your goal is to enjoy peaceful views and bond with horses in a tranquil setting, this tour is well-suited.

Key Points

• Scenic Diversity: Combines forest trails, river crossings, and beach riding for a varied experience.
• Guided and Safe: Professional guides provide thorough instructions, making it suitable for first-timers.
• Authentic Landscapes: Offers stunning views of pine forests, orange orchards, and the Turkish coastline.
• Inclusive for Beginners: Horses are trained and the pace is gentle, catering to all comfort levels.
• ** Hassle-Free:** Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so you don’t have to worry about transportation logistics.
• Animal Welfare Concerns: Some reviews mention the condition of the horses, so consider this if animal treatment matters to you.

A Closer Look at the Experience

What the Tour Entails

Once your hotel pickup is arranged, the journey to the horse farm is straightforward and stress-free. Upon arrival, the instructors take time to explain everything about the horses and safety procedures. The horses are described as specially trained and safe for riders of all abilities, which is reassuring for those new to riding. The guides are noted for being helpful, ensuring even beginners can feel confident before heading out.

The first hour of riding takes you through the lush forests, orange orchards, and quaint hamlets. As you pass rivers and the quiet countryside, you’ll enjoy the calm atmosphere and beautiful scenery. The trail is designed to be accessible and relaxing, rather than challenging or hurried, which is perfect for those seeking a peaceful nature escape. One reviewer even mentioned, “It was a lovely trek throughout the forest and beach on an autumn evening, very enjoyable overall.”

After a short break, the group heads toward the coast for the second hour of beach riding. Riding along the shoreline, you’ll likely feel the sea breeze, hear the gentle waves, and see the Turkish coastline stretching out on either side. This part of the experience is often highlighted as a highlight, with travelers appreciating the unique combination of forest and beach.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to incorporate into your day without extra planning. You also get helmet use and the guiding service, which provide both safety and local insight. As with most guided tours, souvenirs like photos are available for purchase but are not included.

The Authenticity and Limitations

While most reviews are positive, some travelers express concerns about the horse welfare and tour organization. A few reviews mention poorly maintained horses or less-than-ideal conditions, which is worth noting if animal care influences your decision. Conversely, several travelers praised the friendly guides and the beautiful scenery, emphasizing the tranquil and authentic nature of the ride.

Practical Considerations

• Duration and Group Size: The tour lasts about 4 hours total, with 2 hours of riding. The group is capped at 15 riders, ensuring a manageable and friendly atmosphere.
• Physical Fitness: Moderate fitness is recommended; the ride is gentle, but some walking and riding are involved.
• Restrictions: Not suitable for pregnant women, those over 110 kgs, or individuals with limited mobility or health issues.
• Booking: Book 12 days in advance on average, so plan ahead during peak seasons.

Value for Money

At $35, the tour offers a reasonable price for a two-hour guided horse ride including hotel transfers. Given the scenic variety and the professional guidance, it provides good value—though it’s wise to be aware of animal welfare concerns raised by some reviews. For those seeking a casual, scenic, and family-friendly activity, this tour presents an enjoyable, if sometimes imperfect, option.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This ride is ideal for beginners, families, and anyone looking to relax amid nature. If you’re eager for stunning views combined with a gentle ride and appreciate the opportunity to see the Turkish countryside from horseback, you’ll find this experience rewarding. However, if you prefer more adventure or are concerned about animal welfare, it might be worth researching other options or reading recent reviews carefully.

The Sum Up

In the end, the Side Horse Riding On Beach and Through The Forests tour offers a charming glimpse into Turkey’s beautiful landscapes, with the added delight of riding along the shoreline and through pine forests. The guides’ helpfulness and the beautiful scenery are often praised, making it a relaxing activity suitable for a wide range of travelers.

However, some reviews raise questions about the condition of the horses, so if animal welfare is a primary concern, you might want to do extra research or consider other options. But for those simply seeking a peaceful, scenic ride with friendly guides, this tour provides a memorable and authentic way to enjoy Side’s countryside.

This experience is best suited for families, first-timers, and nature enthusiasts who want a calm, scenic ride and are okay with the modest pace and occasional organizational quirks. It’s a wonderful way to savor the natural beauty of the area without too much effort or expense, adding a special touch to your Turkish holiday.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from all Side hotels, making it very convenient.

How long does the entire tour last?
The total experience is approximately 4 hours, including transportation and riding time.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The horses are trained, and guides provide instructions, making it suitable even for first-time riders.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothes and closed shoes are recommended. Helmets are provided, but wearing a hat or sunglasses for sun protection can be helpful.

Are there age or weight restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not recommended for pregnant women, those over 110 kgs, or travelers with limited mobility or health issues.

Can I take photos during the ride?
Photos are available for purchase after the tour but are not included. You might want to bring your own camera or phone.

What if I’m afraid of horses?
Considering the calm nature of the ride and professional guidance, many nervous riders find it manageable, but if you’re very uneasy, check reviews or perhaps choose a different activity.

What is the condition of the horses?
Some reviews mention concerns about horse welfare, with comments about the horses’ condition. It’s wise to be aware and possibly ask about the horses’ well-being beforehand.

How do I book this tour?
It’s recommended to book at least 12 days in advance, especially during peak seasons, via the linked booking platform.

This horse safari in Side, Turkey, offers a gentle, scenic escape that can become a highlight of your trip—if approached with a bit of awareness about the horses’ welfare and organization. For anyone wanting a peaceful ride with beautiful views, it’s a charming choice.