From Lisbon: Horseback Riding on Comporta Beach

If you’re eyeing a way to combine nature, adventure, and a bit of scenic serenity during your trip to Portugal, a horseback ride along Comporta Beach might just be the perfect choice. While we haven’t done this tour ourselves, the reviews and details paint a pretty appealing picture of a memorable experience that’s accessible even for beginners. Picture riding on one of Europe’s largest beaches, feeling the dunes beneath your horse’s hooves, and taking in the Atlantic’s endless horizon—sounds pretty dreamy, right?

What we really like about this tour is how it offers something for all: trained horses that are gentle enough for first-timers, and a landscape that’s breathtaking enough to make even seasoned travelers stop in their tracks. Plus, the fact that it’s a small group experience with knowledgeable guides makes it feel personal and safe. That said, it’s worth noting that some parts of the trail could use a little maintenance, as a few travelers have mentioned getting minor scratches. This experience seems best suited for anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic ride—whether you’re a horse lover or just eager to see Portugal from a different perspective.

Key Points

• Accessible for all levels: Horses are trained for riders of any experience, making it suitable even for beginners.
• Stunning scenery: Ride through dunes and the Atlantic Forest to reach Europe’s largest beach, with spectacular views.
• Small group vibe: Limited to 10 participants, which helps keep things intimate and personalized.
• Includes transportation: Hassle-free transfer from Lisbon ensures a smooth start and finish to your day.
• Additional options: You can choose to have photos and videos taken to capture your memories.
• Cost-effective: At $159, it offers a well-rounded experience with all essential equipment included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Breakdown of the Experience

How the Tour Begins

Starting from HF Fénix Lisboa, your adventure kicks off with a comfortable transfer to the Comporta Nature Reserve. The ride itself is part of the experience—avoiding the hassle of organizing transport and settling into a small group setting. The total duration is approximately four hours, which includes the transfer, the riding time, and returning back to Lisbon. Most travelers find this pacing perfect for a half-day escape, leaving plenty of time to explore other parts of the area or return to the city.

The Ride Through Nature

Once at Comporta, you’ll be introduced to your horse—likely a Lusitano, Portugal’s iconic breed known for its elegance and calm demeanor. What’s great is that the horses are trained for riders of any experience level. So even if you’ve never been on horseback before, you’ll be in good hands. The guides are fluent in several languages—Portuguese, Spanish, French, and English—adding to the comfort for international visitors.

The journey begins in the Atlantic Forest, a lush, green environment that provides a peaceful backdrop for the ride. As you move along the trails, some parts might need a little extra care, with a few reviews mentioning scratches from overgrown branches. It’s worth wearing comfortable clothes and being prepared for some minor brush contact—something to keep in mind if you’re particular about your attire.

Riding on Comporta Beach

The highlight comes when your trail reaches the shores of Comporta Beach, which stretches over 40 miles. Imagine riding across the dunes, feeling the sand under your horse’s hooves, and being able to pause and take in the vast Atlantic Ocean. This beach is described as almost deserted, giving a sense of exclusivity and peace—ideal for those Instagram-worthy photos or simply absorbing the scenery.

Travelers describe the views as “spectacular,” with one reviewer mentioning that the beach looked like it was out of a painting. It’s a photographer’s dream, especially if you opt for the video and photo packages offered by the tour provider. Many reviews mention how the guides made everyone feel safe and comfortable, even those who were new to riding. The horses, specifically Luna and other gentle breeds, are praised for their calm nature, making the ride pleasant rather than nerve-wracking.

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The Return Journey and Logistics

After spending around two hours riding, the tour concludes with a comfortable transfer back to Lisbon. The entire process is well-organized, with options to skip the line through a separate entrance at the start. The small group limit of 10 participants ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $159 per person covers everything you need for a safe and enjoyable ride: the transfer, all necessary equipment (helmets, riding gear, etc.), and expert guidance. Food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring water and perhaps a snack if you’d like to extend your experience on your own.

What the Tour Feels Like

Many who have taken this tour highlight how relaxed and friendly the whole experience is. The guides are not only knowledgeable but also personable, making it easy to ask questions and feel at ease. One review notes that “the guide was very nice and personable,” and that Delta the dog made the experience even better. The sense of camaraderie in small groups adds to the overall enjoyment.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $159, this tour offers a pretty good value considering everything included—transportation, a scenic ride, and the chance to see some of Portugal’s most beautiful landscapes from horseback. The reviews consistently praise the professionalism of the guides and the quality of the horses. If you’re looking for a unique, scenic outdoor activity that combines gentle adventure with stunning views, this could be a worthwhile splurge.

Potential Drawbacks

While most feedback is glowing, a few travelers mentioned minor issues like scratches from branches on the trail. Some parts of the trail may need some upkeep. Plus, if you’re pregnant or have mobility issues, this experience might not be suitable. It’s also a half-day activity, so if you’re after a more intense riding adventure, this might feel more relaxed than you’re expecting.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for beginners and riders of all levels thanks to the trained horses and friendly guides. Nature lovers and those wanting a peaceful escape from busy city life will love the scenery and tranquility of the beaches and forests. It’s also a good option for travelers wanting a hassle-free, small-group experience with photos to remember it by.

It’s less suited for those seeking high-adrenaline riding or very seasoned equestrians looking for a challenging ride. Also, pregnant women are advised not to participate, given the nature of the activity.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an easygoing, scenic horseback ride that takes you across some of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches and forests, this tour from Lisbon hits many of the right notes. The combination of well-trained horses, easy-to-follow guides, and breathtaking views makes it a memorable way to connect with nature. Plus, the small group setting means you won’t feel lost in a crowd, making it perfect for those who prefer a more personal touch.

While a few parts of the trail might need some tidying up, it’s clear that the overall experience is valued by many travelers, who walk away with stunning photos and new memories. Whether you’re a horse enthusiast or just looking to see Portugal’s coast from a different perspective, this ride offers a relaxed but visually dazzling adventure.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the horses are trained to be ridden by people at any experience level, including first-timers. Guides are friendly and helpful, making the ride accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

How long is the horseback riding portion?
The riding lasts about 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes suitable for riding. Some participants have noted that parts of the trail can cause minor scrapes, so long sleeves and pants might help.

Are the horses gentle and well-trained?
Yes, travelers praise the horses’ calm nature and the professionalism of the guides. Many mention how relaxed and friendly the horses are, especially the Lusitano breed.

Can I get photos or videos?
Absolutely. The tour offers options to hire photographers and videographers, so you can capture your ride and the stunning landscape.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes a transfer from Lisbon to Comporta and back, making the experience seamless.

Is this activity wheelchair accessible?
The information states that the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s always best to confirm details when booking if you have specific accessibility needs.

All in all, this horseback ride on Comporta Beach offers a lovely blend of scenic beauty, gentle adventure, and comfortable organization. If you’re craving an outdoor experience that’s both relaxing and photogenic, it’s well worth considering during your time in Lisbon.

You can check availability for your dates here: