Alanya: Horseback Ride Through Nature near Syedra Ruins

Horseback Ride Through Nature near Syedra Ruins: An Authentic Escape from Alanya

Exploring Alanya on horseback offers a unique way to enjoy Turkey’s stunning landscapes and ancient history. This tour takes you high into the Taurus Mountains, offering spectacular views and a glimpse into the past at the Syedra ruins. We’ve looked into what makes this experience special, from its picturesque scenery to its caring guides, and also noted a few points to consider before booking.

What we really like about this ride is how it combines natural beauty with cultural sights, all while supporting rescued horses. The tour’s small-group setup ensures a personal feel, and the knowledgeable guides make the experience engaging. Plus, the chance to see the Alanya Peninsula from above or cool off in the old town pool adds extra perks. The main drawback might be the physical requirement—long pants and comfortable shoes are a must, and it’s not suitable for children under six or pregnant women.

If you love outdoor adventures, appreciate history, or simply want a peaceful escape from the busy town, this tour fits well. It’s especially ideal for those who want to support a good cause while exploring Turkey’s countryside in a relaxed, intimate setting.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Scenic Mountain Views: Ride through the Taurus Mountains for unforgettable panoramas of Alanya and the Mediterranean.
• Caring Guides and Horses: Guides are experienced and the horses are rescued, well-cared-for, and friendly.
• Cultural & Historical Sights: Visit the ruins of Syedra Castle with superb vistas and a sense of ancient history.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 11 participants, ensuring a personalized, engaging adventure.
• Flexible & Transparent: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve now/pay later options add convenience.
• Additional Perks: Optional hotel pickup, free bottled water, and all taxes included provide good value.

The Itinerary in Detail: From Alanya to the Taurus Mountains

The ride begins with a convenient transfer from a central meeting point in Alanya, making it easy to join without hassle. The pickup service is optional and covers key areas like Oba, Kestel, Tosmur, Mahmutlar, and Kargicak, which is perfect for visitors staying in those neighborhoods.

Once at the Alanya Horse Club, you’ll meet your guides—who are not only friendly but also passionate about their horses and the environment. From here, you’ll receive a brief orientation on safety and riding techniques, which is especially helpful if you’re new to horseback riding.

The adventure kicks off with a gentle trek out of the outskirts of Alanya. The landscape here is stunning: lush greenery, banana gardens, and sweeping views of the sea. The horses, all rescued from neglect or mistreatment, are well cared for and clearly loved by the staff. Several reviews highlight how much guests appreciated seeing these horses happy and healthy, with some sharing that the staff, especially a lady who explained the horses’ stories, added a personal touch.

Riding Up to the Taurus Mountains

The main highlight is reaching the top of the Taurus Mountains. Here, you’ll enjoy a series of breathtaking views, with the landscape stretching across the Alanya Peninsula and beyond. Expect to see the castle walls that surround Alanya and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea below.

The ride is leisurely, with plenty of stops for photos and to admire the scenery. One reviewer, Robert, praised the care for the horses, noting they weren’t overworked and enjoyed breaks along the route. The guides are attentive, ensuring both human and equine comfort.

Descending to Syedra and Exploring the Ruins

After the mountain views, the route takes you down to Syedra, an ancient site with ruins of a castle overlooking the sea. This is a quieter spot where history meets tranquility. Guests can wander around the remnants of the castle walls and get a sense of the area’s past.

From here, travelers can enjoy the panoramic views of Alanya, capturing some fantastic photos. Many appreciate the opportunity to combine nature, history, and a bit of adventure in one trip.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Optional Swimming and Relaxation

One of the best surprises is the optional visit to the local pool in Syedra, where you can cool off after the ride. The review from Lauren mentions how the guides shared information about the horses and ensured everyone had a comfortable, enjoyable time. Some guests even take the chance to relax in the shade or take a quick swim, adding a fun twist to the day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Spectacular Views and Natural Beauty

The ride’s highlight is undoubtedly the scenery. From the mountains, you’ll see the sprawling Alanya Castle, the lush banana gardens, and the shimmering Mediterranean. The views from the Taurus Mountains are especially striking, providing a peaceful escape high above the town.

Support for Rescued Horses

The guides and staff are passionate about their rescue horses, which lends a heartwarming element to the experience. Robert’s review emphasizes how well cared-for the horses are, and how you’re supporting a good cause while riding.

Knowledgeable Guides and Personal Touch

Guests consistently praise the guides for their friendly attitude and informative commentary. Lauren appreciated the horses’ stories and the care taken to ensure the animals’ well-being during the stops.

Flexibility and Convenience

The option to reserve without paying upfront, combined with free cancellation up to 24 hours before, makes planning stress-free. The optional hotel pickup adds a layer of convenience, especially for travelers not based in the immediate town center.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Duration: The tour lasts around 3 hours, which is a perfect half-day outing that leaves room for other activities. Be sure to check the availability for your preferred time slot.

Group Size: Limited to 11 participants, ensuring you get personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Price and Value: While the exact cost isn’t specified here, reviews suggest it’s a fair value considering the scenic highlights, the care provided to the horses, and the inclusion of transfers and insurance.

What to Bring: Wear comfortable shoes and long pants for riding. The terrain can be uneven, so proper footwear helps.

Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or individuals over 220 lbs (100 kg). This ensures safety and comfort for all participants.

Languages: Guides speak English and German, catering to a wide range of travelers.

Authentic Reviews: What Past Guests Say

Many reviewers found this experience to be a memorable highlight of their trip. Lauren called it a “great morning riding and seeing views,” and Said described it as a “fantastic experience for anyone wanting to enjoy time in nature.” Amanda shared that the land was beautiful, and the staff were “wonderful,” emphasizing the well-being of the animals.

Robert, in particular, appreciated the care for rescued horses, noting how they were not overworked and enjoyed plenty of breaks. The photos taken during the ride also added value, costing only 5, which many guests saw as a bargain.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

This horseback riding tour near Alanya is a wonderful way to combine adventure, scenery, and a feel-good experience supporting rescued horses. The stunning mountain vistas and ancient ruins make for a memorable outing, especially if you love nature and history.

It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable in the saddle, appreciate small-group settings, and want a relaxed yet active half-day. The inclusion of optional swimming, flexible booking, and caring guides makes it an excellent choice for those seeking genuine, wholesome fun.

If you’re after an authentic experience that blends scenic beauty with meaningful support, this tour is a great pick. It offers a peaceful escape into Turkey’s natural and historical treasures, leaving visitors with lasting memories—and perhaps a new appreciation for rescue horses along the way.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, there is an optional pickup service from central hotels in areas like Oba, Kestel, Tosmur, Mahmutlar, and Kargicak, making it convenient for many travelers.

How long does the horseback riding last?
The entire tour lasts around 3 hours, including stops for photos and rest, making it manageable for most fitness levels.

What should I wear for the ride?
Comfortable shoes and long pants are recommended to ensure safety and comfort during the riding portion.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 6 years old, mainly due to safety considerations with horseback riding.

Can pregnant women participate?
No, the tour is not recommended for pregnant women.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transfer, insurance, experienced guides, and all taxes. You might want to bring extra cash if you plan to buy souvenirs or additional photos.

This horseback adventure offers a unique way to see Alanya and support a caring community of rescue horses. With breathtaking views, historical sights, and kind guides, it’s a memorable experience for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

You can check if your dates are available here: