Costa Alentejana: Horse tour in Serra de Grândola

Travelers seeking a taste of Portugal’s peaceful countryside combined with an exciting horseback riding adventure will find plenty to love in the Costa Alentejana tour in the Serra de Grândola. Set in the Lisbon District, this experience offers a wonderful mix of scenic beauty, local flavor, and gentle adventure. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a complete beginner, the tour promises a memorable day exploring Alentejo’s lush landscapes and rugged coastlines.

What makes this tour stand out are the breathtaking ocean vistas, the chance to sip on authentic Portuguese wine, and the friendly, knowledgeable guides. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour is relatively short—about 1 hour and 30 minutes of riding—so those craving a full-day excursion might want to consider the longer options. This experience is fantastic for nature lovers and those wanting a relaxed yet enriching outdoor activity.

Good To Know

• Stunning scenery: Ride through cork oak woods, with views of the sea, lagoon, and Serra de Arrábida.
• All levels welcome: Designed for both experienced riders and beginners.
• Authentic Portugal: Enjoy a welcome drink of local Portuguese wine or soft drinks.
• Memorable souvenirs: Receive a Polaroid photo and a unique keepsake.
• Small group size: Limited to five participants for a more personal experience.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with full refund.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Overview of the Experience

This horseback riding tour offers a gentle exploration of the Montado Alentejano, a characteristic landscape of cork oak trees, rolling hills, and coastal views. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to combine a scenic outdoor ride with a taste of Portuguese culture.

The tour kicks off at CostaXtreme’s facilities in Courela da Pereirinha. From there, you’ll start with a brief safety briefing—about 10 minutes—that ensures everyone feels comfortable, whether you’re a seasoned rider or a complete novice. The guides are described as friendly and knowledgeable, with reviews mentioning Tiago as an outstanding instructor who created a relaxed atmosphere for all participants.

The core of the tour is approximately 35 minutes of horseback riding, divided into two parts with a stop at a viewpoint to take photos and enjoy the scenery. During the ride, you’ll pass through wooded cork oak areas, offering a chance to feel the wind and smell the fresh countryside air. On clear days, you’ll be able to gaze across the Serra da Arrábida and the Atlantic Ocean, with a chance to see the Costa Vicentina coast from a vantage point.

The Itinerary in Detail

• Start at CostaXtreme: The meeting point where you’ll be greeted and prepared for your adventure. If needed, transportation can be arranged from your hotel—making it flexible for travelers staying in nearby areas.

• Safety briefing: This 10-minute orientation covers riding tips and safety measures, crucial for beginners and reassuring for first-time riders.

• Horse riding stops: Two main riding segments—each around 35 minutes—allow you to soak in the landscape without feeling rushed. The ride is tailored for those without experience, making it accessible for all.

• Photo stops at scenic viewpoints: These are perfect moments to capture the gorgeous coastline, lagoon, and Serra mountains. One reviewer mentioned how the view from the viewpoint, especially with good visibility, allows for fantastic photos of the sea from Costa Alentejana to Arrábida.

• Return to base: After your ride, you’ll head back to CostaXtreme, where a Polaroid photo is waiting along with a souvenir, so you leave with tangible memories of your adventure.

What to Expect

This tour is designed to offer a relaxed but enriching experience. Expect to feel the breeze and the sun on your face as you ride through cork oak woods and open countryside. For those curious about the local environment, the Santo André Lagoon and Sancha Nature Reserve are visible from certain vantage points, providing a glimpse into the region’s natural diversity.

The welcome drink—either Portuguese wine or soft drinks—is served at the start or during a break, adding a cultural touch. The tour is suitable for people without prior riding experience, which is a major plus for beginners or nervous riders.

Participants can anticipate a mix of riding and sightseeing, with enough breaks to enjoy the views and take photos. The small group size ensures personalized attention, which enhances the overall experience and allows guides to tailor the ride to the group’s comfort level.

Highlights That Make It Special

• Riding through woods of cork trees, with the chance to feel the wind and enjoy the quiet beauty of the landscape.
• The opportunity to taste Portuguese wine, which adds a cultural flavor to the outdoor experience.
• The viewpoints offering stunning panoramic views of the ocean, Serra de Arrábida, and the lagoon.
• The Polaroid photo as a charming keepsake, capturing a moment of your adventure.
• The chance to observe the outstanding natural beauty of the region, including the Santo André lagoon and nearby coast.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Who Will Love This Experience?

This horseback riding tour is best suited for nature lovers, small groups, and travelers seeking an authentic connection with Portugal’s countryside. It’s perfect for those who want a gentle adventure without the physical demands of longer treks or technical riding skills.

Families with children over a certain age (depending on the guide’s discretion) and first-time riders will find this activity approachable. Plus, if you’re interested in tasting regional products or simply want a photo memento, this tour ticks those boxes too.

However, travelers should consider that the tour lasts about 1.5 hours of riding, so those looking for a full-day adventure might prefer longer options. Also, since the ride is designed for non-experienced riders, those expecting a rigorous equestrian experience might find it too tame.

The Value of the Tour

At $74 per person, this experience offers significant value considering the inclusive elements—guided horseback riding, scenic vistas, wine, and a Polaroid photo. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, and the flexibility with booking and cancellation adds peace of mind.

Compared to other outdoor activities in Portugal, this tour balances affordability with quality, especially given the scenic variety and cultural elements. It’s not just a ride—it’s a chance to see a part of Portugal that many visitors overlook, with the bonus of expert guidance and authentic regional flavors.

Final Thoughts

This horseback riding tour in Serra de Grândola combines stunning scenery, cultural tastings, and a relaxed riding experience into a compact and memorable package. It’s especially suited for those wanting a serene outdoor activity that’s accessible to all levels, with small group intimacy and personalized attention.

The chance to enjoy panoramic ocean views, ride through cork oak woods, and sip on regional wine makes it a well-rounded outing. The addition of a Polaroid keepsake and a souvenir emphasizes that this is about creating lasting memories without the overhyped “tourist trap” feel.

If you’re after an authentic slice of Alentejo’s natural beauty, appreciate gentle adventures, or simply want to try horseback riding in Portugal, this tour should be on your list.

FAQ

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
Transportation isn’t included, but you can arrange collection with the activity provider by phone. Otherwise, you’ll need to get there yourself, so plan accordingly.

What should I wear for the tour?
Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for outdoor activities. Bringing insect repellent, sunscreen, and water is also recommended.

Is the ride suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed for people without prior riding experience, making it accessible for all.

How long is the horseback riding itself?
The guided riding portion lasts about 35 minutes per session, with two sessions during the tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is accessible for wheelchair users.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers guided riding, a Polaroid photo, a souvenir, and a welcome drink (wine or soft drinks).

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, participants over 115 kg (254 lbs) should consider this activity carefully, as it’s not suitable for higher weights.

What about the weather?
Activities are subject to weather conditions. It’s best to check the forecast and confirm the tour status before heading out.

In essence, this horseback riding tour offers a tranquil yet adventurous way to experience Portugal’s natural beauty, local culture, and stunning coastlines—all at a reasonable price. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to horseback riding, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in this thoughtfully curated tour.

You can check if your dates are available here: