Alghero: Guided Horseback Ride at Lake Baratz & Porto Ferro

If you’re considering a way to enjoy Sardinia beyond its beaches and towns, a horseback ride through its stunning countryside might just be the perfect choice. This tour, offered by Escursì, promises a relaxed, two-hour journey through some of the island’s most picturesque spots — from the only natural freshwater lake to a captivating stretch of beach with towering sand dunes. While we’ve not experienced it firsthand, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a memorable outing suited for many travelers.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how accessible it seems, even for folks without previous riding experience. Plus, the scenery—think pine forests, sea breezes, and expansive dunes—is bound to leave you feeling refreshed. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t designed for everyone: children under 6, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues should probably look elsewhere. If you’re someone who loves gentle outdoor adventures and beautiful landscapes, this ride could be a highlight of your trip to Sardinia.

One potential consideration is the ride’s pace and accessibility—expect a relaxing, slow-paced trek mainly suited to beginners or those wanting a gentle outdoor experience. For more seasoned riders, it might feel a bit tame, but the scenery and the overall vibe tend to make up for that. Overall, it’s best for travelers seeking a laid-back, scenic activity that combines nature, history, and a touch of adventure.

Key Points

• Scenic Beauty: Ride through Sardinia’s countryside, pine forests, and along sandy beaches.
• Unique Locations: Only natural freshwater lake on the island and towering sand dunes at Porto Ferro.
• Accessible for Beginners: Well-trained, calm horses and helpful guides make it suitable for first-timers.
• Cultural Touches: See historic Spanish watchtowers and learn about the local tradition of coral harvesting.
• Relaxed Pace: The ride is slow and steady, ideal for taking in the views without rushing.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for those over 6 years old, not for pregnant women or mobility-impaired travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Meeting the Horses

Your adventure begins at the local riding school, where you meet your guide and your equine companion. Many reviewers note the friendly, welcoming atmosphere and the attentive staff, which immediately puts first-timers at ease. Michelle, who runs the operation, appears to be a standout—rescuing horses from difficult circumstances and caring for them like family. This care shines through in how calm and well-trained the horses are, making the entire ride feel secure and relaxed.

The Ride Around Lake Baratz

Once mounted, you’ll start your journey around Lake Baratz, Sardinia’s only natural freshwater lake. The reviews mention how the scent of pine trees and fresh air fill the senses—it’s a peaceful way to begin. The lake itself is a highlight, offering a scenic backdrop for photos and a chance to appreciate Sardinia’s natural diversity. This part of the ride is perfect for beginners, with helpers always nearby to assist if needed.

Into the Forest and Dunes

After circling the lake, the trail winds deeper into the forest, where you’ll notice the quiet beauty of the pine woods. As the path opens up, you’ll encounter expansive sand dunes that tower over five meters in height. Several reviewers emphasize how impressive these dunes are, adding an almost surreal element to the landscape. Riding on these soft sands changes the usual forest ride, giving a different texture to the experience.

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Down to Porto Ferro Beach

From the dunes, the journey descends toward Porto Ferro Beach, a stretch of coast famed for its natural beauty. Here, you’ll see the famous sand dunes once more and continue along the shoreline. According to reviews, the views are fantastic, with the blue waves rolling in and the gentle ocean breeze in your hair. The beach itself is a picture-perfect spot, with three old Spanish watchtowers watching over the coast—an interesting historical touch.

Riding Along the Beach

The ride along the beach spans about two kilometers, giving you a chance to feel the sand beneath your horse’s hooves and enjoy some of Sardinia’s most iconic scenery. The atmosphere is calm and leisurely, perfect for taking photos or just soaking in the moment. Many visitors mention how the horses are relaxed and well-trained, making the experience enjoyable for even first-time riders. As one review puts it, “the horses are so well looked after you can tell the minute you arrive,” which adds to the sense of trust and comfort.

Wrapping Up and Disembarking

After the scenic ride, your guide will escort you back to the starting point, where you’ll dismount and reflect on the experience. Most reviews note how friendly the staff are, making the whole outing feel personal and caring. Snacks and beverages are available at the riding school, giving you a chance to refresh after your ride.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Scenic Variety and Natural Beauty

The combination of freshwater lake, pine forests, sand dunes, and ocean coast makes this tour a visual feast. You get a real sense of Sardinia’s diverse landscapes in just two hours — a perfect quick escape into nature.

Friendly, Expert Guides

Many reviews praise Michelle and her team for their warm attitude and knowledge. They seem genuinely passionate about their horses and the environment, which translates into a safe, enjoyable ride for all levels.

Suitable for Beginners

The well-trained horses and attentive helpers make this a good choice if you’ve never ridden before or if you’re traveling with someone who’s a beginner. It’s a gentle experience that emphasizes safety and fun over speed or technical riding skills.

Authentic and Relaxed Atmosphere

From the reviews, the atmosphere is described as “perfect” and “very nice,” with a calm, welcoming vibe. It’s not an adrenaline rush but rather a leisurely way to connect with nature and enjoy Sardinia from a different perspective.

What Could Be Better?

While many travelers find this experience delightful, some note that it’s not suited for those seeking a fast-paced or challenging ride. The ride is deliberately slow and relaxed, which might feel a bit too tame for seasoned equestrians. Plus, those with mobility issues, pregnant women, or travelers over 200 lbs (91 kg) should consider alternative activities, as the tour has some restrictions.

The duration of two hours includes the entire outing—from meeting the horses to returning—so it’s a manageable chunk of time, but it’s worth planning around the weather, as the tour can be affected by rain or strong sun. Food and drinks are available at the riding school, but you might want to bring your own snacks, especially if you prefer specific items.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

Considering the glowing reviews and the inclusiveness of the experience—riding across diverse landscapes with knowledgeable guides—the cost seems reasonable. You’re paying not just for the ride but for the access to Sardinia’s natural beauty and the care taken of the horses. If you value a calm, scenic outing that’s accessible even to beginners, you’re likely to find this ride to be a good investment in your trip.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for first-time riders, families with older children, and nature lovers. It’s especially suited for those who want a relaxed, scenic activity that offers something different from typical sightseeing. If you’re looking for an activity that combines gentle adventure with scenic beauty and a friendly atmosphere, this is a great pick.

Final Thoughts

The Alghero Guided Horseback Ride at Lake Baratz & Porto Ferro offers a balanced, enjoyable way to see Sardinia’s stunning landscapes without needing prior riding experience. The combination of gentle terrain, beautiful surroundings, and attentive guides makes it a memorable activity for many travelers.

While it’s not an adrenaline-filled ride, it’s a wonderful way to slow down, breathe in fresh air, and connect with nature. If you’re traveling with friends or family and want a calm, scenic outing, this tour will likely check all your boxes.

For those who love the idea of riding through forests and along beaches, and appreciate thoughtful, caring hosts, this experience is well worth considering. Just remember to bring comfortable clothes, long pants, closed-toe shoes, and your sense of adventure—this is a genuine, friendly trek into Sardinia’s natural charm.

FAQ

Is prior horse riding experience necessary?
No, this ride is suitable for beginners. Many reviews highlight how helpful and friendly the guides are, making first-timers feel comfortable.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, snacks, water, comfortable clothing, long pants, and closed-toe shoes.

Are children allowed?
Children over 6 years old can participate, but under 6s are not suitable.

Can pregnant women join the ride?
No, pregnant women are advised against joining.

What about pets?
Pets are allowed at the riding school but not on the ride itself.

How long is the ride?
The ride lasts approximately two hours, including preparation and return.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the timing may vary slightly depending on the weather. It’s good to check ahead if rain or strong sun are expected.

Whether you’re after a peaceful ride through nature or a novel way to experience Sardinia’s varied scenery, this horseback tour offers a relaxed, scenic adventure that many find well worth it.

You can check availability for your dates here: