From Evora: Horseback riding on comporta beach

If you’re dreaming of riding along a vast, almost empty stretch of coast and want a truly memorable experience in Portugal, this horseback riding tour on Comporta Beach might just be the highlight of your trip. While I haven’t personally done this ride, I’ve gathered enough details to give you a real sense of what it’s like—and who it’s perfect (or not) for.

What I really love about this experience is the chance to feel the thrill of riding on Europe’s biggest beach and to explore the dunes and Atlantic Forest that surround it. Plus, the fact that the horses are trained to accommodate all levels of riders, even complete beginners, makes this accessible and inviting. On the flip side, it’s not ideal if you’re over 220 lbs or traveling with very young children, which is worth noting if you’re planning a family trip.

All in all, this tour seems best suited for travelers craving a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and a bit of peace away from busy crowds. It’s not a full-day ride or a rigorous trek, but rather a scenic, relaxed jaunt that leaves plenty of room for photos and enjoying the surroundings.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Ride along Europe’s largest beach, with dunes and Atlantic Forest views.
• All levels welcome: Horses are trained for beginners and experienced riders alike.
• Includes transportation: From Lisbon to Comporta, making logistics easier.
• Duration and size: 4 hours total, with small groups limited to 10 participants.
• Price point: $176 per person—decent value for a unique beach ride.
• Important considerations: Not suitable for children under 8, wheelchairs, or people over 220 lbs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins at the Hotel M’Ar de Ar Muralhas in Evora, where your transfer to Comporta is included. This means you can leave the driving to someone else, allowing you to relax and soak in the changing scenery as you head southward towards the coast. The transfer is convenient and part of the package, which helps keep things straightforward and stress-free.

The Ride through Dunes and Forest

Once in Comporta, your tour kicks off with a 2-hour horseback ride through some truly remarkable landscapes. The horses are described as trained for all types of riders, so whether you’ve never been on a horse before or you’re a seasoned equestrian, you should find the experience comfortable and enjoyable.

The trail takes you through the dunes of Comporta Beach, which is known as the largest beach in Europe, stretching an impressive 65 kilometers. The views are often highlighted as a major draw—vast sandy expanses, gently rolling dunes, and the Atlantic Forest nearby create a stunning backdrop that’s hard to match elsewhere.

Riding the Horses

Horses are chosen from a variety of breeds, starting with Lusitanos, a native Portuguese breed renowned for their grace and strength. The horses are described as well-trained, and the guides are fluent in multiple languages—Portuguese, English, Spanish, and French—making communication easy.

Many reviews mention how accommodating the horses are for non-expert riders, which is a huge plus if you’re new to horseback riding or slightly nervous. All necessary equipment is included, so you won’t need to bring your own or worry about safety gear.

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Additional Options and Photos

You can opt to have a photographer or videographer capture your ride, which is perfect if you want to preserve the memory. The chance to record your experience adds a layer of comfort, especially if you’re not confident with taking pictures while riding.

The Return and Overall Duration

The whole experience lasts around 4 hours, including travel time back to Evora. The riding itself is about 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. You’ll return to the hotel feeling relaxed, with the images and memories of a unique ride along one of Europe’s most beautiful beaches.

What to Expect and What to Keep in Mind

The Scenic Beauty

The highlights are definitely the views—wide open beaches, dunes, and the Atlantic Forest. Many reviewers say the scenery alone makes this a worthwhile trip, and it’s easy to see why. The almost deserted beach offers a peaceful backdrop, perfect for riding without the usual crowds.

The Ride’s Pacing and Comfort

Given that the horses are trained for various riders, even complete novices may find this experience manageable. That said, the ride is relatively gentle, meant to be enjoyed at a relaxed pace. If you’re expecting an adrenaline rush or challenging Gallops, this may not be your best fit.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Limited to 10 participants, the small group size helps keep things intimate and manageable. Guides are friendly and multilingual, adding to the welcoming atmosphere.

Price and Value

At $176 per person, this ride is reasonably priced when you consider transportation, equipment, and the scenic experience. It’s not a cheap adrenaline-fueled adventure, but for the chance to ride along Europe’s largest beach with expert guidance, many will find it fair value.

Considerations and Limitations

• Not suitable for children under 8 or those with mobility issues.
• Not suitable for wheelchair users.
• Weight limit of 220 lbs (100 kg)—a common restriction for riding safety.
• The experience is purely outdoor; no food or drinks are included, so plan accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This horseback riding on Comporta Beach is ideal for travelers who love nature, scenic drives, and a touch of adventure without overly strenuous activity. It’s perfect if you want a relaxing ride with spectacular views and are comfortable spending a few hours in the saddle. Because of the small group size and trained horses, even nervous riders or beginners can enjoy this experience.

If you’re traveling with children under 8 or have specific accessibility needs, this ride likely isn’t suitable. But for those seeking a peaceful, picturesque outing with the chance to see Portugal’s Atlantic coast from a unique perspective, it hits the mark nicely.

FAQ

Is transportation from Lisbon included?
Yes, the tour includes a transfer from Lisbon to the Comporta Nature Reserve, making the logistics easier and more comfortable.

How long does the entire experience last?
The total duration is about 4 hours, including transportation and the 2-hour horseback ride.

Are the horses suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The horses are trained to be ridden by any type of rider, even those with no prior experience.

Can I bring my own camera or video device?
You can opt to have a photographer or videographer capture your ride, so yes, you can bring your camera or ask for photographs.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the experience isn’t suitable for children under 8 years old.

What should I wear?
While not explicitly stated, it’s best to wear comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor riding and closed shoes. Bring sunscreen and sunglasses for sun protection.

Final Thoughts

This horseback riding tour on Comporta Beach offers a scenic, relaxed way to experience Portugal’s Atlantic coast. The blend of expansive beaches, dunes, and forest scenery makes it ideal for those seeking a peaceful outdoor adventure with a touch of luxury. The fact that the horses are trained to accommodate riders of all levels, coupled with the small group setting, makes it a comforting choice for novices or those a bit anxious about riding.

While it’s not a full-day excursion or geared for high-intensity riding, it delivers enough stunning views and memorable moments to make it worth the price. The experience is quiet, scenic, and offers a different perspective of Portugal’s natural beauty that you won’t find in the cities.

If you’re looking for a gentle, visually spectacular way to explore the coast and enjoy some quality time on horseback, this tour could be just the ticket. It’s best suited for travelers craving a calm, picturesque adventure with good company and expert guidance. Just be sure to check the weight and age restrictions before booking, and prepare for a relaxing day immersed in nature.

You can check availability for your dates here: