If you’re thinking about adding a touch of adventure and relaxation to your trip in Portugal, this horseback riding experience in Melides could be just what you need. It’s a mix of natural beauty, gentle riding, and regional wine — a combo that promises to be memorable without requiring previous riding experience.
What we really like about this tour is how it offers a genuine connection with untouched nature — riding along endless sandy beaches and through pine forests. Plus, the optional wine tasting lets you wind down after your ride and savor local flavors. On the flip side, it’s weather-dependent, so those sunny days are the best days for this outing.
This tour suits travelers who love outdoor adventures, scenic landscapes, and trying regional wines. It’s also a good fit if you’re traveling with friends or a small group looking for something laid-back yet special. If your idea of a perfect day includes fresh air, gentle horses, and a glass of fine wine, this could be just the ticket.
Key Points
- Beautiful natural setting: Ride through dunes, pine forests, and along a 60km stretch of beach.
- No riding experience needed: The horses are calm and friendly, making it suitable for beginners.
- Flexible options: Choose between a wine tasting or BBQ lunch after your ride.
- Authentic regional experience: Learn about local flora, fauna, and regional wines.
- Weather dependent: Activities are canceled or rescheduled in case of bad weather.
- Price reflects quality: At $85 per person, it’s a decent value for a scenic, guided experience with added tasting options.
An In-Depth Look at the Melides Horseback Riding Tour
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Setting the Scene: The Location and Its Natural Charm
Melides is a small, peaceful spot in Portugal’s Lisbon District, about an hour and twenty minutes from Lisbon. It’s an area where nature feels largely untouched — and that’s exactly what this tour takes advantage of. From the moment you arrive, you’re welcomed into a landscape of dunes, pine woods, and a long, quiet beach.
The ride itself begins with a gentle introduction to horses that are described as very calm and easy to handle. No prior riding experience is necessary, which makes this accessible to most travelers. Even if you’ve never been on a horse before, you’ll find the guiding staff helpful and patient, ensuring everyone feels comfortable.
The Itinerary: What Does the Day Look Like?
The core of this experience is a 1.5-hour horseback ride through some of Portugal’s most scenic coastal landscapes. You start with a short briefing — mostly about safety and how to interact with the horses — before heading out. Then, the fun begins: riding across dunes, through pine forests, and along a sprawling beach that stretches over 60 kilometers.
The route takes you close to the Melides freshwater lagoon, which is a favorite spot for birdwatchers. Here, you might spot various bird species, adding a touch of wildlife discovery to your ride. The scenery is varied and peaceful — perfect for slowing down and soaking in the sights and sounds of nature.
The Beach Experience
The highlight for many is the stretch of beach where you’ll ride with the ocean on one side. The beach is wide, quiet, and ideal for a relaxed gallop or a stroll, depending on your preference. The sound of the waves and the feel of the soft sand beneath your horse’s hooves create a calming atmosphere that’s hard to match.
More Great Tours NearbyPost-Ride Relaxation: Wine Tasting or BBQ
Once your ride concludes, you have the option to unwind with a regional wine tasting session — a highlight praised by many visitors. You’ll sample three different wines produced locally, which pairs beautifully with the scenic setting. Reviewers have especially enjoyed the “excellent wine selection,” noting it’s a genuine taste of the region’s best.
Alternatively, if you’re more hungry than thirsty, a BBQ lunch is available, offering another way to enjoy the flavors of the area. Both options add a nice touch to the day, turning an outdoor activity into a full sensory experience.
The Experience Provider and Logistics
The tour is operated by Melides Almargem Lda, with guides speaking Portuguese, English, and Spanish. The meeting point is accessible by car, with clear directions provided, including GPS coordinates. The activity lasts about 105 minutes, but check availability for different start times.
You can reserve your spot with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is handy if your plans are uncertain or weather-dependent. The cost is $85 per person, which covers the ride and your chosen post-ride activity.
What Do Travelers Say?
Most reviews are positive, giving an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 from 106 reviews. One reviewer, Rui, shared, “The tour was very good, 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. I recommend it.” This highlights the quality of guiding and the suitability for beginners.
Another review emphasizes the scenery: “Enjoy horse riding on the dunes and through the pine forest of Melides,” and mentions the “peaceful, spacious beach” as a stunning highlight. It’s clear that many find the natural environment the biggest draw.
Potential Drawbacks
While the experience is charming, it’s weather-dependent. If rain or strong winds hit, the activity could be canceled, and you might need to reschedule or seek a refund. Also, at just over an hour and a half, it’s a relatively short activity, so don’t expect a full day of riding.
Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?
This experience is perfect for those who want a relaxing outdoor adventure, especially if you’re interested in scenery, wildlife, and regional wines. It’s suitable for beginners, given the calm horses and easy pace. Travelers who enjoy small-group experiences or unique regional activities will also appreciate the authenticity and relaxed vibe.
If you’re traveling with friends or a small group, booking a private instructor might add that extra special touch, making the experience more personalized.
The Sum Up
This horseback riding experience in Melides offers a wonderful way to get outside, breathe fresh sea air, and enjoy some of Portugal’s most beautiful coastal landscapes. With gentle horses, scenic routes, and the option to indulge in regional wines or a tasty BBQ, it manages to be both relaxing and engaging.
For travelers who love nature, scenic drives, and good regional flavors, this tour hits many right notes. It’s particularly appealing if you’re looking for a laid-back day that offers genuine local charm without the fuss. The overall value is fair, especially considering that it includes not just the ride but also tasty tasting options that complement the scenery.
However, keep in mind the weather dependency and the fact that it’s a shorter activity — perfect for a half-day getaway but not a full-day adventure. The friendly guides and tranquil environment make it a reliable choice for those seeking a peaceful experience infused with regional culture.
Melides: Horse Riding on the Beach with Wine Tasting
“The tour was very good, our guide Filipa was very friendly and helped us with a brief explanation on how to interact with the horses. The animals a…”
FAQ
Is prior riding experience required?
No, you don’t need prior experience. The horses are described as very calm and gentle, making it suitable for beginners.
What should I wear?
Bring comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor riding. Layers are a good idea, as weather can vary.
How long does the activity last?
The horseback ride is about 1.5 hours (105 minutes). Check specific start times when booking.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes. This activity is weather-dependent, and cancellations due to bad weather will be rescheduled or refunded if necessary.
What’s included in the price?
The price covers the horseback ride and your choice of either a wine tasting or BBQ lunch. Private instruction is optional and may require an additional booking.
Where do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is about 5 km from Melides village, with clear directions and GPS coordinates provided.
Is it suitable for families?
While not explicitly stated, the calm horses and beginner-friendly approach suggest it could be suitable for families with children comfortable around animals.
Can I join with a group of friends?
Absolutely. You can book as a group, and private instruction is available if you prefer a more personalized experience.
How much does it cost?
The experience is priced at $85 per person, which includes the ride and your chosen post-ride activity. It’s a reasonable price for a scenic, guided experience with regional tasting options.
If you’re craving a relaxed day of riding along Portugal’s beautiful coast, topped with good wine or a tasty meal, this tour could be just the thing. It combines nature, culture, and a touch of adventure in a manageable package — perfect for a memorable day outside the city.
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