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

A Genuine Horseback Adventure in Side: Beach and Forest Ride

If you’re visiting Side or Manavgat and looking for a memorable outdoor activity that combines nature, scenery, and a touch of adventure, a horseback ride might be just what you need. From what I’ve gathered, this tour offers a chance to trot through pine forests and then stroll along the shoreline, all in a relaxed, guided setting. What makes it particularly appealing is the focus on beginners and casual riders—no prior experience required—and the included roundtrip transportation from your hotel.

Two things really stand out: first, the expert guides, like Yusuf, who are praised for their friendliness and ability to explain riding basics clearly—an important detail if you’re nervous or new to horses. Second, the scenic diversity, transitioning smoothly from lush woods to the tranquil beach, is a highlight I appreciate because it offers more than just a ride; it’s a mini nature escape.

One consideration to keep in mind is that weather can affect the schedule. Some reviews mention changing times due to storms, so flexibility might be necessary. Also, the experience is quite short—about an hour on horseback—so if you’re craving a longer or more intense riding experience, this might feel a bit quick. Still, for most, that’s a perfect taste of Turkish countryside and coast.

Key points / Takeaways

• All skill levels welcome: The tour is suitable for both beginners and seasoned riders, thanks to introductory guidance and well-trained horses.
• Beautiful scenery: Ride through pine forests and enjoy the scenery and tranquility away from busy tourist spots.
• Beach riding: The finale includes a stroll along the sand, giving a refreshing coastal twist to the ride.
• Professional guides: Guides like Yusuf and Mustafa are highly praised for their friendliness, explanations, and photos—adding a personal touch.
• Roundtrip hotel transfer: No fuss about logistics—your pickup and drop-off are included, making it easy to enjoy without renting a car.
• All equipment provided: Helmets and saddles are included, so you just need to bring comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for riding.

Horse riding in the lush surroundings of Side offers an inviting way to see Turkey’s natural beauty without the fuss of traditional tours. I love the way this experience balances ease and adventure—perfect for first-timers, yet enjoyable for those who know horses. The fact that no experience is necessary means everyone from solo travelers to families can give it a shot.

The journey begins with hotel pickup, usually about 15 minutes before the scheduled start. This transportation is a real plus, especially if you’re staying outside the main town or want to avoid fiddling with directions. Once you arrive at the horse club, you’ll receive a brief safety and riding instructions—easy to understand and delivered by guides like Yusuf, who is praised for his professionalism and patience. From that point, you’ll saddle up and head out into the countryside.

The trail itself is thoughtfully designed to showcase the best of the environment. The first half weaves through pine forests, where the smell of pine and the gentle sounds of nature create a calming atmosphere. Riders can enjoy a relaxed pace, soaking up the peaceful surroundings. Many reviews mention that the guides are attentive—Yusuf, in particular, takes great photos and helps beginners feel confident. One reviewer noted, “Yusuf took some great photos of the ride that we will keep for memories forever.”

The river stop is another highlight—an opportunity to pause, take in the scenery, and perhaps snap some photos. It’s a peaceful moment that adds depth to the experience. For those opting for the beach riding, the trail then leads you along the shoreline. Here, you’ll get a chance to stroll through the sand, feeling the cool ocean breeze, which is an unexpected treat and a nice variation from the forest ride.

The Ride Itself: What to Expect

The entire horseback ride lasts about an hour, which is generally enough to see a good slice of the countryside without feeling hurried. The tour is designed to be accessible, so beginners will find it manageable and fun, while more experienced riders may appreciate the scenery and the chance to ride in a new setting.

Your guides will give clear instructions on how to saddle and ride your horse, making it a stress-free introduction. Most reviews highlight the well-trained horses and friendly guides who explain everything from safety to riding tips. One guest mentioned that Yusuf was very helpful from start to finish and explained all aspects of the ride, easing any nerves.

The Guides and Group Dynamics

The guides are clearly a strong point. They are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, with Yusuf often singled out for praise. They take the time to help guests, answer questions, and even take photos. This personal touch helps create a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. The maximum group size is not specified, but reviews suggest a comfortable, manageable number of riders, ensuring everyone gets attention.

Transportation, Price, and Value

Round-trip transportation from Side or Manavgat hotels is included in the price, which adds significant value. It saves you from the hassle of arranging your own transport, especially in an area where taxis might not be readily available or cost-effective. The entire activity lasts around 1.5 hours, including pickup, briefing, riding, and return, making it a solid half-day outing.

Pricing is reasonable considering the included services—an hour of guided riding, safety equipment, and hotel transfers. Many reviewers feel they received good value, especially with the quality of the horses, the scenic variety, and the professional guides. Plus, the opportunity to get good photos—some reviewers mention excellent shots taken by Yusuf—adds a nice keepsake to the experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This horseback riding tour is perfect for beginners and families, thanks to its simple approach and friendly guides. It’s also suitable for travelers who want a gentle outdoor activity that doesn’t require strenuous effort. If you’re short on time but craving an authentic taste of Turkish nature, this ride provides a satisfying overview without feeling rushed.

However, if you have back problems or are pregnant, this activity isn’t recommended. It’s a relaxed ride rather than an intense equestrian adventure, but comfort and safety are key. Also, the ride’s short duration might not satisfy those looking for a full-day or deep-dive riding experience.

• Wear comfortable shoes—closed-toe shoes are best, especially to protect your feet when saddling the horse.
• Bring a hat and sunscreen—the sun can be strong, particularly along the beach.
• Carry a bottle of water—staying hydrated is always wise.
• Dress in comfortable, casual clothes suitable for riding and moving in nature.
• Remember, smoking is not allowed during the tour for safety reasons.
• Arrive a bit early for pickup, as delays can happen in busy traffic.

For travelers seeking a straightforward, scenic horseback ride near Side, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. You’ll enjoy the calming atmosphere of the pine forests, the refreshing stroll on the beach, and the personal attention of guides like Yusuf. All this, combined with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, makes it a good value for a half-day escape into nature.

It’s especially suited for families, casual riders, or anyone curious about horses but hesitant to commit to a full riding day. This tour doesn’t aim to be an adrenaline rush but rather a peaceful, authentic encounter with Turkey’s countryside and coast. If you’re after a memorable, well-organized outdoor activity that emphasizes safety, scenery, and friendly guides, this ride is worth considering.

FAQs

Is prior riding experience necessary? No, this tour is designed for beginners and experienced riders alike, with guides providing basic instructions.

What should I wear? Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and casual clothes suitable for riding and outdoor activity.

How long is the ride? The horseback riding itself lasts about one hour, with the entire experience including pickup and return lasting around 1.5 hours.

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Side or Manavgat are included in the price.

Can I ride on the beach? Yes, after the forest trail, the tour includes a ride along the beach where you can stroll through the sand.

Are helmets provided? Yes, helmets are included for safety.

What if the weather is bad? The tour can be rescheduled or canceled up to 24 hours in advance, depending on weather conditions.

Is this suitable if I have back problems? No, it’s not recommended for those with back issues, as the activity involves riding for about an hour.

Can I buy photos of my ride? Yes, professional photos taken by guides like Yusuf are available for purchase, making great souvenirs.

In the end, if you’re after an authentic taste of the Turkish countryside, friendly guides, and a relaxed ride that combines forest and beach scenery, this horseback outing near Side is a solid choice. It’s a memorable, family-friendly way to enjoy nature and get a little horseback experience—without any stress or fuss.