Horse Riding on the Beach in Side

Horse Riding on the Beach in Side: An Authentic Turkish Adventure

Imagine riding a horse along the shimmering coastline or through lush pine forests, feeling the breeze and hearing only the hoofbeats and waves. That’s the essence of the Horse Riding on the Beach in Side tour offered by Tourmania. While I haven’t personally saddled up on this excursion, I’ve looked into what makes it a popular choice for visitors seeking a blend of adventure, nature, and Turkish hospitality. It’s a well-priced outing at just under $92, with a solid 4-star rating from six reviews, and the opportunity to choose between a scenic forest trail or a beach ride.

Two things stand out about this experience. First, the professional guidance and congenial atmosphere—many reviewers highlight how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, making even beginners feel comfortable. Second, the diverse scenery—with the option to ride through pine forests or along the coast—offers a refreshing break from typical sightseeing, paired with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off.

A potential consideration is the variability in experience, especially since one reviewer described the trip as “trash,” citing shady booking practices. That said, most feedback is positive, emphasizing the personal attention and the beautiful environment. It’s worth noting that children under 6 are not recommended, and riders should have moderate physical fitness to enjoy the ride comfortably. Overall, it’s a straightforward, well-run excursion that suits both novice and experienced riders alike, provided expectations are aligned.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Scenic routes: Choices between forest trails and beach riding mean you get to enjoy diverse landscapes.
• All-included: The tour provides safety equipment, round-trip transport, and guidance—no hidden costs.
• Flexible timing: Morning and afternoon departures help fit this adventure into your travel schedule.
• Group size: Limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Authentic setting: The farm and trail environment give an authentic feel, away from overly commercialized rides.
• Guides: The professional guides, like Reitausflug zum Strand, are often praised for their friendliness and expertise, making the ride more enjoyable.

Entering the Turkish Countryside and Coastline

The adventure begins with hotel pickup, which is a huge perk if you’re staying in Side. The transport is arranged for you, so no need to worry about navigating or haggling for taxis. Once at the horse club, you’ll receive a brief safety overview—think of it as a quick pre-flight check for horseback riding. This sets the tone for a smooth experience, whether you’re a seasoned rider or a complete beginner.

The guides are key to making this trip a success. Several reviews praise guides like Reitausflug zum Strand for their professionalism and accommodating attitude. Their insights help you feel safe and confident, and they often go beyond the basics to make the ride memorable. One reviewer mentioned that “they seem legit when they contact you through WhatsApp,” which is reassuring when booking an activity in a foreign country.

Forest or Beach – Your Choice

Once saddled up, you’ll follow your guide into the peaceful pine forests for around an hour or two. Expect to soak in the sounds of nature, with some riders noting how relaxing it is to move at a horse’s pace through the woods. As Michaela shared, “We could get used to the horses at the ranch before riding through the pine trees to the beach with a photo shoot,” highlighting the charming photo opportunities along the way.

If you opt for the beach ride, you’ll head toward the water’s edge, where you can trot along sandy shores with the waves crashing nearby. The coastal ride offers a different perspective—views of the Turkish coast that are both calming and invigorating. The experience of riding through sand is a novelty for many and adds a fun, tactile element to the hour or so on horseback.

The Ride Itself: What to Expect

Expect a relaxed pace with plenty of moments to enjoy the scenery and snap photos. The guides will ensure your safety with helmets and instructions, but remember this is a moderate physical activity—so good health and some riding experience help. The entire trip lasts about two hours, including the transfer and briefing, making it an easy half-day activity.

Authentic and Personal Experience

This isn’t just a touristy horse ride—it’s infused with a genuine countryside atmosphere. Reviewers like Katarina note that “it was a great experience in the forest, suitable for both seasoned riders and complete beginners,” emphasizing the flexible approach of the guides and the welcoming farm staff. You’ll get a chance to observe local life up close, especially if you take the forest route, which showcases the natural beauty surrounding Side.

Price, Value, and Practical Tips

At approximately $92 per person, the tour offers good value considering the included hotel transfer, equipment, and guided riding. It’s particularly attractive for travelers who want a hassle-free way to experience Turkish nature on horseback without renting or organizing their own trip. The tour runs on a mobile ticket basis, adding a layer of convenience.

One review points out some shady booking practices—Luis from the U.S. expressed disappointment, feeling it was “a scam,” citing difficulties with the company’s communication and access to hotels. This highlights the importance of booking through reputable providers and clarifying details beforehand.

The two-hour ride is ideal for those wanting a meaningful experience without committing an entire day. The tour’s small group size means you’ll likely get more attention and tailored guidance, making it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a relaxing outdoor activity that combines scenic beauty with the chance to try horseback riding, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for beginners and those with moderate fitness levels who want a guided experience in natural surroundings. Riders with prior experience will appreciate the forest route, while newcomers will benefit from the calm guidance.

It also works well for travelers who prefer a structured, well-organized outing—thanks to the included transport, safety gear, and professional guides. If you’re after a quick, authentic taste of Turkish countryside with the bonus of coastal views, this is a solid choice.

Price and Logistics: What You Need to Know

The tour’s price of $91.92 per person is reasonable given the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off, safety equipment, and guided riding for about two hours. Booking tends to be done 41 days in advance on average, indicating good popularity but also enough flexibility. The tour operates with morning and afternoon departures, allowing you to fit it into your schedule easily.

It’s worth noting that this experience is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, which ensures a more intimate atmosphere. The tour is not recommended for children under 6, so families with young kids should consider other options.

Final Thoughts

Horse riding in Side offers a lovely way to explore Turkey’s scenic landscapes, whether you prefer galloping along the beach or trotting through pine forests. The experience is made all the more enjoyable by guides who are knowledgeable and friendly, helping you feel comfortable regardless of your riding skill level. With all safety equipment provided and round-trip transportation included, it’s a hassle-free activity that adds a memorable outdoor element to your trip.

Most travelers will find this tour delivers good value—especially if you’re eager to combine adventure with tranquility in a beautiful natural setting. The mix of guided instruction, scenic stops, and the chance to ride a horse along the coast makes this a worthwhile addition to your Side itinerary, particularly for those wanting a break from more traditional sightseeing.

Overall, if you’re open to a moderate outdoor activity and appreciate authentic experiences, this horseback ride is likely to leave you with lasting memories of your time in Turkey.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off in Side, making it very convenient and saving you the hassle of finding transportation.

How long does the horseback riding last?
The actual riding time is approximately two hours, depending on whether you choose the forest or beach route, with the entire experience including transfer and briefing.

Can beginners participate?
Absolutely. The tour is suited for both beginning and experienced riders. Guides are professional and friendly, ensuring everyone feels comfortable.

What should I wear or bring?
While the tour provides safety helmets and equipment, comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity and closed-toe shoes are advisable. Sun protection and a water bottle are also recommended.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children under 6 years old are not recommended for this activity, mainly due to safety considerations.

What is the best way to book this tour?
Booking in advance (around 41 days ahead on average) is recommended, and ensure you do so through reputable channels to avoid any shady practices noted in some reviews.

In the end, Horse Riding on the Beach in Side offers a genuine taste of Turkish countryside and coast, paired with friendly guides and a flexible schedule. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic outdoor experience that’s accessible to all riding levels and delivered with good value. Just keep realistic expectations and enjoy the ride!