Melides: Horse Riding on the Beach with Wine Tasting

Imagine galloping across endless, golden beaches, riding through pine forests, and spotting unique coastal wildlife—all wrapped up in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. That’s what the Melides horse riding tour offers. This experience combines riding on some of Portugal’s most beautiful natural landscapes with tasty regional wines or a hearty BBQ afterward. Perfect for those wanting to connect with nature without sacrificing comfort or a sense of adventure, this tour is a delightful way to spend a few hours in the Lisbon District.

What really makes this experience stand out? It’s the combination of accessible, gentle horse riding for all levels, the peaceful scenery of beaches and lagoons, and the authentic regional wine tasting. However, it’s worth noting that, since it’s weather dependent, your plans could be affected by rain or strong winds—so a flexible attitude helps. This activity caters well to nature lovers, amateur riders, or anyone seeking a leisurely, scenic day out with a delicious local twist.

Key Points

• Gentle Horse Riding: No prior experience needed; horses are calm and easy to handle.
• Stunning Natural Scenery: Ride along beaches, through dunes, and pine forests near Melides’ protected areas.
• Wildlife & Flora: Learn about local coastal plants and spot bird species around the lagoon.
• Flexible Options: Add a wine tasting or BBQ lunch for extra indulgence or enjoy a private instructor for a more personalized experience.
• Accessible Location: About 1 hour and 20 minutes from Lisbon, suitable for a day trip.
• Weather Dependent: Canceled due to bad weather? Full refunds or alternative dates are available.

The Experience in Detail

How the Day Unfolds

The adventure begins with a scenic drive from Lisbon, taking roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes. Once you arrive at the designated meeting point in Melides, you’ll pass through charming rural roads before reaching the farm and riding area. The instructions are straightforward, with a sign for “Passeios a Cavalo na praia” guiding you to the parking spot, and the friendly staff welcoming you on arrival.

Your ride lasts about 105 minutes, offering plenty of time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed. The tour is suitable for all ages and experience levels since the horses are described as docile and easy to ride. A local guide, fluent in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, will accompany the group, offering insights into the local flora and fauna along the way.

The Ride Along the Beach and Dunes

The highlight? Riding along a 60+ kilometer stretch of pristine beach with the ocean just a few steps away. The experience of cantering across soft sands is truly memorable, especially given the expansive views and the sound of waves. To one side, you’ll traverse the dunes and pine forests of the protected Melides area, which add a cool, shaded contrast to the sunny beach.

What makes the scenery even more special is the chance to spot local wildlife, especially around the freshwater lagoon near Melides. As one reviewer mentioned, “Our guide Filipa was very friendly and helped us with a brief explanation on how to interact with the horses. The animals are very docile and easy to ride.” This indicates a well-organized, friendly approach that keeps beginners comfortable.

Learning About the Local Environment

The tour isn’t just about riding; it’s also an educational journey. You’ll learn about the coastal flora and fauna, gaining a greater appreciation of this protected natural area. Bird-watchers, in particular, will enjoy spotting various species around the lagoon, which adds a peaceful, almost meditative layer to the experience.

Post-Ride Options: Wine Tasting or BBQ

The experience can be customized with regional wine tasting—featuring three different local wines—or a hearty barbecue lunch. According to reviews, the wine selection is excellent, with guests appreciating the variety and quality of the regional drinks. If you prefer a more relaxed meal, the BBQ option offers a casual way to savor local flavors after your ride.

For groups or families, there’s also the choice to book a private instructor, which can make the experience more tailored and enjoyable, especially for less confident riders.

Practical Details & What to Expect

• Meeting point: Located near Melides, accessible via a dirt road from the main highway. GPS coordinates are provided for convenience.
• Duration: 1.5 hours (105 minutes) of riding, plus additional time for preparation and optional tastings/lunch.
• Price: At $85 per person, this provides a good balance of value considering the inclusion of the ride and optional extras.
• Included: Horseback ride, wine tasting or BBQ (if selected), and private instructor (if booked).
• Languages: Guides speak Portuguese, English, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication.

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews paint a picture of a friendly, well-organized experience. One reviewer, Rui, praised Filipa’s friendliness and the gentle horses, emphasizing how easy they were to ride for beginners. They mentioned, “I recommend it,” which suggests high satisfaction among first-timers and seasoned riders alike.

Another strength noted is the authenticity of the regional wines, widely appreciated by guests. The overall 4.3-star rating from over 100 reviews indicates that most visitors find this experience enjoyable and worthwhile.

Considerations and Tips

• Weather can impact the activity. If rain or strong winds are forecast, the tour might be canceled, with options for refunds or rescheduling.
• Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothes. The activity involves outdoor exposure, so layers and sunscreen are recommended.
• No prior riding experience is necessary, but bringing shoes with a closed heel (like boots or sturdy sneakers) helps with safety.
• Since the activity is in a rural setting, expect some dirt roads and natural terrain—comfortable shoes are best.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This horseback riding tour is ideal for nature lovers who want a relaxed, scenic adventure. It’s perfect if you’re seeking a gentle introduction to horse riding in a stunning coastal environment. Families with children, couples, or groups of friends will appreciate the chance to share a laid-back outdoor activity combined with regional wines or a BBQ.

It also suits travelers looking for something authentic and off-the-beaten-path, enjoying the quiet beauty of Portugal’s less commercialized beaches and lagoons. If you’re keen on wildlife, birdwatching, or simply want a memorable way to experience Melides’s natural charm, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $85, this excursion offers more than just a ride; it’s a full sensory experience that balances scenic beauty, gentle adventure, and regional flavors. The combination of riding on beaches and through pine forests provides a rare opportunity to connect with Portugal’s coastal landscapes in a relaxed way.

While it’s weather-dependent, the flexibility of refunds or rescheduling helps ensure you won’t lose out entirely if conditions aren’t perfect. The presence of a knowledgeable guide and the presence of a private instructor option add to the personal touch, making it suitable for different comfort levels.

Overall, if you’re after a peaceful yet engaging outdoor activity, with the bonus of regional wine or hearty food, this ride in Melides is a great choice for an authentic, memorable day.

FAQ

Do I need prior riding experience?
No, the horses are described as very calm and gentle, making this experience accessible for beginners and non-riders alike.

How long does the horseback ride last?
The ride itself lasts approximately 105 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Can I choose between wine tasting and a BBQ?
Yes, you can select either the wine tasting of three regional wines or a barbecue lunch after your ride. Both options are popular among guests.

What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothes are recommended. Bring sturdy shoes with a closed heel, like boots or sneakers, and sun protection.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the activity is weather dependent, if canceled due to adverse conditions, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Is this suitable for families or groups?
Absolutely. The option to book a private instructor makes it ideal for families, friends, or groups wanting a customized experience.

In essence, this horseback riding trip in Melides offers a taste of Portugal’s natural coast, combined with the simple pleasure of riding along endless beaches and enjoying regional wines or a BBQ. It’s a balanced, authentic escape worth considering if you’re craving outdoor serenity mixed with regional flavor.