Horse Riding on the Beach and in the Forest Side
4.3 (459 reviews) from travellers who booked this experience
Overview
This guided horse ride takes you along the sandy coast and through the pine forest between Side and Manavgat on a one-hour ride at a relaxed pace. Hotel pickup and drop-off, a guide and a helmet are included, and no riding experience is needed, so beginners are welcome. Several departure times run through the day, from morning to late afternoon, which lets you ride when the air is coolest. It is a gentle activity for couples, friends and active families who want a different view of the Mediterranean coast.
Highlights
- One-hour guided ride on horseback along the beach and through the forest
- Calm, well-trained horses and a guide beside the group
- Suitable for beginners, no riding experience required
- Helmet included for every rider
- Hotel pickup and drop-off from the Side and Manavgat area
- Several departure times, from morning to late afternoon
- Quiet coastal scenery away from the busy resort strip
Full Description
Horse riding on the beach near Side
The long sandy beaches east of Side are among the quietest stretches of this coast, and riding along the edge of the water is a very different way to see the Mediterranean. The horses walk at an easy pace on firm sand, with the sea on one side and dunes and pines on the other. Your guide keeps the group together and adjusts the speed to the least experienced rider.
People often ask about horse riding in Side for beginners. This ride is built for them: you receive a short introduction, mount with help and learn how to hold the reins before leaving. The best light and the coolest air are early in the morning and late in the afternoon, so choose a departure time that matches the season.
The forest trail
Away from the shore the ride follows shaded forest tracks, where pine trees filter the sun and the air smells of resin. The ground here is softer and the horses walk in single file or in pairs, depending on the width of the path. It is a good place to relax into the rhythm of the ride and to notice birds and the quiet of the trees.
The forest section is also the reason the ride works well in summer, since the shade keeps the heat under control. If you are looking for a horse ride in the forest near Side or Manavgat, this route combines woodland and sea in just one hour, with no long transfer needed.
Side and Manavgat coast: planning your ride
Side is known for its ancient harbour, the Temple of Apollo and its long beaches, and Manavgat lies just inland along the river of the same name. Our riding centre serves hotels across both areas, so pickup is easy from most places you may be staying. The ride lasts one hour, and with transfers the whole outing takes a little longer.
The best season runs from spring to early autumn, when the sea is calm and the forest is pleasant. In the middle of summer, pick the earliest or latest departure to avoid the strongest heat. Riders wear a helmet throughout, and photos taken by the team are available to buy separately if you want a souvenir.
Itinerary
- Hotel pickupWe collect you from your hotel in the Side or Manavgat area, at the departure time you choose when booking.
- Arrival and introductionAt the riding centre you meet the guide, get your helmet and horse, and receive a short introduction to riding.
- Forest trail and beach rideA guided ride of about one hour through shaded forest tracks and along the sandy beach at a relaxed pace.
- Return to your hotelAfter the ride we drive you back to your hotel.
What's included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- 1-hour horseback ride
- Guide
- Helmet
Not included
- Food and drinks
- Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Not suitable for
- Pregnant women
- Guests with serious back or neck problems
- Very young children and guests who are afraid of horses
- Guests with limited mobility who cannot mount and sit on a horse
Meeting point
We pick you up from your hotel in the Side and Manavgat area. Departures run in the morning and in the afternoon, and your exact pickup time is confirmed after booking. After the ride we take you back to the same hotel.
Important information
- Wear long trousers and closed shoes or boots; avoid sandals.
- Bring sun cream, a hat for the waiting time and sunglasses.
- Bring water; food and drinks are not included.
- A helmet is provided and must be worn during the whole ride.
- Souvenir photos are available to buy at the centre.
- Riders may be matched to horses by weight and experience, so tell the guide about your level.
- Tell us before booking if you are pregnant, have back problems or are travelling with young children.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to what travellers ask us most, before they book.
How much does the horse riding tour in Side cost?
The price is shown in the booking panel on this page for your chosen date and time, and it is per rider.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes. Hotel pickup and drop-off from the Side and Manavgat area are included, and we confirm your exact pickup time after booking.
How long is the horse ride?
The ride itself lasts one hour. Allow a little extra time for the transfer, the introduction and putting on your helmet.
Do I need riding experience?
No. The ride is suitable for beginners, and the guide explains the basics before you set off and adapts the pace to the group.
Is horse riding suitable for children?
It depends on the child's age, size and confidence. Please contact us before booking so we can confirm what applies to your family.
What should I wear?
Wear long trousers and closed shoes, bring sun cream and sunglasses, and take water with you. A helmet is provided.
Is a helmet included?
Yes. A helmet is included for every rider, and it must be worn throughout the ride.
Are food and drinks included?
No. Food and drinks are not included, so bring some water for the day.
What is the best time of day for a horse ride in Side?
Early morning and late afternoon are the most comfortable, with softer light and cooler air, especially from June to September. Several departure times are available.
Can I book for today or tomorrow?
Choose your date and time in the booking panel. If the slot shows as available you can book it, but last-minute rides depend on availability and on the pickup schedule.
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