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

Experience a 2-Hour Horse Ride in Side, Turkey: Beaches and Forests

This horse riding tour offers a relaxed and scenic way to enjoy the natural beauty of Side, Turkey. For about two hours, you’ll traverse both peaceful forests and stunning beaches, all while riding trained, safe horses suitable for beginners and families alike. The tour is designed to give you a gentle escape into nature, with plenty of photo-worthy views along the way.

What really shines about this experience is the calming, unhurried pace combined with the chance to see diverse landscapes—from pine forests to the famous beaches of Side. On the flip side, some reviews hint at concerns over animal care and the quality of the horses, so it’s wise to keep your expectations balanced. If you’re after a fun, family-friendly activity that offers memorable scenery without requiring advanced riding skills, this tour could be a great fit.

Key Points
– Scenic diversity: Ride through forests, orange orchards, and along the coastline for a varied landscape.
– Suitable for beginners: Horses are trained and instructors provide thorough guidance.
– Family friendly: Ideal for all ages, especially if you’re seeking a relaxed outdoor experience.
– Hassle-free logistics: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Side, making it convenient.
– Mixed reviews: While many praise the guides and views, some express concerns about horse welfare.
– Duration: Around four hours total, with two hours on horseback and additional time for transportation.

An Overview of the Tour

This Side Horse Riding tour is a straightforward, largely scenic outing that lets you enjoy Turkey’s natural surroundings on horseback. The experience lasts approximately four hours, with the main riding experience lasting two hours divided into two distinct parts: one hour along the beach and another through lush forests. The tour is marketed as family-friendly and suitable for all riding abilities, which makes it accessible for novice riders or those who’ve never been on a horse before.

The tour begins with hotel pickup, which is included, so you don’t need to worry about transportation logistics. Once you arrive at the horse farm, the staff—who are described as helpful and knowledgeable—will provide safety instructions and introduce you to the trained horses. This initial briefing is especially reassuring for beginners, as the horses are described as totally safe and well-trained, although some reviews suggest that animal welfare might be a concern elsewhere.

What to Expect on the Ride

After the briefing, you head out for a scenic two-hour trek, guided closely by instructors. The route promises a peaceful journey through pine forests, orange groves, and small hamlets, with the chance to observe rivers and other natural features. The first hour typically takes place in the woods and countryside, offering a calm, shaded environment ideal for relaxing rides.

The second hour is dedicated to a beach ride. Riders will enjoy trotting along the shoreline, feeling the sea breeze, and soaking in panoramic views of the turquoise coast. Many reviewers enjoyed this part, describing it as a “lovely trek” that was especially enjoyable in the autumn evening light, adding a touch of magic to the experience.

The Horses and Guides

The horses are described as specially trained and safe for novice riders. Instructors are on hand to give instructions, which cater to riders of all skill levels. Reviewers like Anuoreoluwa_A appreciated how helpful the guides were, especially for first-timers, calling the staff “really nice” and “helpful.” This direct attention to safety and guidance makes the experience accessible, even if you’ve never ridden before.

However, the reviews are not all glowing. Some guests expressed concerns about the welfare of the horses, citing neglect and poor conditions at the farm. Comments like “thin and exhausted horses” and “poor treatment, with horses standing around neglected” highlight the importance of choosing reputable providers. While the official description emphasizes trained horses and safety, it’s worth noting that animal welfare can be a point of contention.

The Scenic Value

The highlights of this tour are undoubtedly the stunning natural scenery. Riding along the beach at sunset or through forests full of pines offers a peaceful break from the busy tourist spots. The views of Side’s famous beaches and pine forests are what make this trip special. The combination of forest trails and seaside riding gives you a taste of Turkey’s diverse landscapes, perfect for photos and peaceful reflection.

One reviewer, Michael_D, described the trek as “lovely,” especially during an autumn evening, which adds a certain romantic charm to the experience. The scenery is not only picturesque but also provides a comfortable environment to relax and enjoy nature without a rush.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour costs around $35 per person, which is a reasonable price for a two-hour ride plus transportation. Considering the cost of similar activities elsewhere, this provides decent value—especially given the hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off included in the price. The tour lasts about four hours in total, including transportation, safety briefing, riding time, and a chance to soak in the views.

Participants should have a moderate physical fitness level; the tour isn’t suitable for those over 110 kg or with mobility issues. Pregnant women are advised against participation, and the experience involves some walking and riding in variable terrain. The maximum group size is 15, ensuring a manageable and personal experience, but this can also mean booking well in advance, especially during peak seasons.

The activity is weather-dependent, with a full refund if canceled due to poor weather. Be prepared for potential changes if the forecast predicts rain or storms.

Authentic Experiences and Real-World Insights

From reviews, it’s clear that guides like “really nice” and “helpful” make a significant difference in creating a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere. Many guests found the guide’s explanations and assistance reassuring, especially for first-time riders. This adds value, especially if you’re traveling with kids or nervous about horseback riding.

However, some reviews raise red flags about the treatment of the horses. Several guests commented on the poor condition of the animals, mentioning that the horses appeared thin, exhausted, and poorly cared for. These criticisms serve as a reminder to do some research or ask about animal welfare standards if that concerns you.

Another point to note is the discrepancy in ride duration reported by some guests. While the tour officially lasts for two hours, some guests felt their ride was cut short—riding only about 1 hour and 15 minutes—and encountered issues like poorly fitting helmets that slipped during the trot. These practical aspects can influence overall satisfaction.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for families, beginners, and those seeking a relaxed outdoor activity. If you enjoy scenic rides and want a break from more intense adventure activities, this is a gentle, enjoyable option. It’s particularly appealing if you want a combination of forest and beach scenery, with the convenience of hotel pickup.

However, if animal welfare concerns are important to you, it might be worth exploring other providers or asking deeper questions before booking. Likewise, if you’re looking for a longer, more challenging ride, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

This Side Horse Riding tour offers a unique way to experience Turkey’s natural beauty—combining forest treks with beachside trots in a peaceful setting. The guides’ friendliness and helpfulness, along with the scenic views, make it a memorable outing for novices and families. The inclusion of hotel pickup simplifies logistics, and the relatively affordable price adds to its appeal.

That said, the mixed reviews about horse welfare warrant a bit of caution. If you choose this tour, it’s worth arriving with a balanced expectation—ready to enjoy the scenery but aware of the potential pitfalls regarding animal treatment.

This tour is a solid choice for those looking for a laid-back, scenic horseback ride that offers authentic views and a relaxing pace. It’s especially suitable for travelers wanting a gentle, family-friendly activity that’s easy to fit into your holiday plans.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from all Side hotels are included, making it easy to start and end your day without extra planning.

How long is the total experience?
The total duration is about four hours, which includes transportation, safety instructions, and the two-hour ride.

Is this activity suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The horses are trained and guides provide instructions, so it’s perfect for first-timers or those with limited riding experience.

Are the horses well cared for?
Reviews are mixed. Some guests noticed the horses appeared neglected or thin, so if animal welfare is a concern, it’s worth asking questions beforehand or doing further research.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities, and a helmet (provided) for safety. Helmets should fit well, as some guests experienced them slipping during rides.

Can children participate?
Yes, it’s family-friendly and suitable for all ages, provided they meet the physical requirements and don’t have mobility issues.

What is the weather policy?
The activity is weather-dependent. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Always check the forecast before booking.

In the end, if scenic views, gentle riding, and a family-friendly atmosphere appeal to you, this tour in Side offers a straightforward way to enjoy Turkey’s outdoors. Just keep in mind the reviews regarding animal care and set your expectations accordingly.