Manavgat Side: Horse Riding on the Beach and in the Forest

If you’re dreaming of a peaceful escape into nature while enjoying a gentle horseback ride, this tour in Side, Turkey, might just be the thing to add to your travel list. We’ve had a look at this experience through plenty of glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, and it seems like a well-rounded adventure suitable for a mix of travelers, whether you’re new to riding or more experienced.

Two things we really appreciate? First, the scenic combination of forest and beach riding gives a uniquely varied backdrop, and second, the friendly, professional guides seem to make everyone feel comfortable—even if you’ve never been on a horse before. A possible downside? The ride lasts just an hour, so if you’re craving a longer adventure, you might find it a bit brief. Still, for those seeking a quick, scenic, and relaxing break, this tour hits the spot.

This experience seems great for anyone wanting a taste of Turkish countryside with easy accessibility, including those who prefer guided, beginner-friendly rides. It’s particularly good if you’re staying in Side or Manavgat and want a straightforward, enjoyable outdoor activity that offers some lovely photo opportunities and a peaceful vibe.

Key Points

Ideal for beginners: No prior riding experience is required, and guides provide basic instruction.

Beautiful scenery: The ride covers pine forests and a scenic stretch along the beach, perfect for nature lovers.

Convenient logistics: Round-trip transportation from your hotel makes the experience stress-free.

Well-trained horses: The horses are described as well-behaved and cared for, making the ride smooth and enjoyable.

Flexible scheduling: Morning and afternoon departures allow you to fit it into your day easily.

Good value: For roughly an hour of guided riding including equipment and transportation, many find it offers solid value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is a quick but charming way to experience Turkey’s natural beauty through horseback riding. It starts with a convenient pickup from your Side or Manavgat hotel—just about 15 minutes before your scheduled departure. The transportation is included, which means one less thing to worry about amid your busy travel days.

Once at the horse club, you’ll receive a short safety and riding instructions briefing. This ensures everyone, regardless of experience level, feels comfortable handling their horse. The guides are noted for being friendly and attentive, often explaining what to do and how to do it, which helps nervous riders relax. As one reviewer said, “guides was very nice and explained what to do and how to do it,” making the entire experience approachable and fun.

The riding itself takes place in a beautiful setting, with paths winding through pine forests, occasionally crossing a river, and offering peaceful scenery away from bustling streets. The pace is gentle, suitable for most ages and fitness levels, and you can enjoy the quiet sounds of nature, the rustling trees, and the occasional bird song.

Forest and Countryside Riding

The first part of the ride is through the woods, which many reviews highlight as a relaxing break from city life. You can soak up the fresh air, surrounded by towering pines, while your guide shares interesting tidbits about the local landscape or the horses. If you’re lucky, you might even get some great photos—many guests mention that guides like Yusef take nice pictures, capturing the fun moments of the ride.

Beach Riding

After the forest, the ride continues toward the coast for the highlight—riding along the sandy beach. Walking your horse through the soft sand with the sea just a few steps away offers a special kind of calm and a chance to enjoy the beauty of Turkey’s shoreline. The beach ride is described as a peaceful stroll, perfect for those who want a gentle trot or walk with stunning views of the water.

Duration and Pace

The entire ride lasts about one hour, which many see as a sweet spot. It’s enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed or exhausted. The tour typically lasts 1.5 hours total, including pickup, safety briefing, riding, and return transfer. This makes it a manageable activity for a half-day outing.

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Additional Considerations

• All equipment is included, including helmets, so you don’t need to worry about bringing anything special.
• Weather and safety are taken seriously; guides are attentive and prioritize rider safety.
• The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or visually impaired travelers, so plan accordingly.
• Comfortable shoes, hats, sunscreen, and water are recommended to stay comfortable during the ride and avoid sunburn or dehydration.

The Experience in Real Life: What Visitors Say

Reviews consistently praise the professionalism of the guides and the quality of the horses. One guest shared, “The guides were very experienced and the horses were very well trained,” emphasizing how much confidence this inspires, especially for first-timers.

Many reviews mention the friendliness of the hosts and the excellent communication, even when weather conditions (like storms) required changing plans. “Communication was good, and pick-up from the hotel was on time,” noted one traveler, which can make a big difference when coordinating activities on a tight schedule.

The photos taken during the ride are another highlight—many rave about how good the guides are at capturing moments and creating memories to take home. This adds a nice touch, especially for those who want to preserve their adventure.

Real-World Tips from Reviewers

• Listen carefully to instructions—safety details matter, especially near roads or uneven terrain.
• Wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for riding—nothing too tight or restrictive.
• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water to stay comfortable, especially in the hotter months.
• Expect a peaceful, scenic ride that’s more about enjoying the surroundings than adrenaline.

Pricing and Value

The tour lasts about 1.5 hours including transportation and all equipment, which many travelers feel offers good value, especially given the scenic variety and professional guides. Compared to other outdoor activities in the area, it’s a straightforward choice for those looking for a relaxed outdoor experience that doesn’t require a long commitment or a steep price.

The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off is a key perk, removing logistical hassles. Plus, the short duration makes it an easy fit into a busy holiday schedule, whether you’re on a packed sightseeing day or looking for a relaxing break.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This horseback riding experience is best suited for beginners and casual riders who want to enjoy a scenic, guided trek without the pressure of advanced riding skills. Nature lovers will appreciate the peaceful forest trails and the chance to see Turkey’s coastline from a different perspective.

If you’re traveling with someone who’s not keen on the more energetic or lengthy excursions, this ride offers a gentle and manageable introduction to horse riding with the added bonus of stunning scenery.

While not specifically designed for families with very young children or those with mobility issues, older children and teenagers who are comfortable around horses may enjoy this outing.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for beginners? Yes, the tour is designed for both beginners and experienced riders. Guides provide safety briefings and instructions, making it accessible to all.

How long does the ride last? The actual horseback riding takes about one hour, with the total tour including pickup, briefing, and return approximately 1.5 hours.

What should I wear? Comfortable, casual clothes suitable for riding and walking are recommended. Bring a hat, sunscreen, water, and comfortable shoes.

Are the horses well-trained? Yes, reviewers consistently mention that the horses are well-behaved and cared for, making for a smooth ride.

Can I participate if I have health issues or am pregnant? No, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women, or those with back problems or visual impairments.

Is transportation included? Yes, roundtrip transportation from Side and Manavgat hotels is included, making it easy to join the activity without extra planning.

What is the cancellation policy? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Can I buy photos of my ride? Yes, souvenir photos are available for purchase if you want to keep the memories.

This horseback riding experience in Side offers a relaxed, scenic escape into nature, with the added convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. It’s especially appealing if you’re new to riding or looking for a peaceful outdoor activity that offers diverse views—forest, river, and beach—all in a manageable timeframe.

Many visitors note the professionalism of the guides and the quality of the horses, making it a trustworthy choice for a gentle adventure. The combination of natural beauty, friendly guides, and easy logistics makes this tour a dependable option for those wanting a memorable, scenic outing.

If you’re eager to enjoy Turkey’s countryside without a long or strenuous activity, and you’re okay with a ride that’s more about the experience than adrenaline, this horseback tour fits the bill nicely. Just remember to dress comfortably, bring your sun protection, and enjoy the peaceful pace of riding through lush forests and along the shimmering shoreline.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or as part of a small group, this experience has the potential to become a highlight of your trip—full of relaxing moments, great photo ops, and the kind of scenic beauty that sticks with you long after you leave.

Happy riding!

You can check availability for your dates here: