Horse riding on the beach, with private transfer from Lisbon

Horse riding on the beach, with private transfer from Lisbon: A Complete Review

Imagine riding a gentle horse along pristine white sands with the Atlantic waves crashing nearby. This is the promise of the horseback riding tour on Comporta Beach, just a short journey from Lisbon. While we haven’t personally saddled up, this experience has caught the attention of many travelers eager to combine scenic beaches with the thrill of riding.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the private transfer from Lisbon ensures a smooth and comfortable journey. Second, the beach ride itself promises stunning views of the Setúbal Peninsula and the Sado Estuary. Third, the small group size—limited to eight participants—give you a more personalized experience. However, some reviews mention the price might feel steep, especially considering the ride duration and some logistical aspects.

This tour is best suited for horse lovers, nature enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a memorable coastal adventure in Portugal. Keep in mind, it’s not ideal for children under 12, those with mobility issues, or travelers seeking a more intense riding experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Private transfers make the journey easy and hassle-free from Lisbon or Setúbal.
• The beach ride covers approximately 2 hours on white sands, with beautiful Atlantic views.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention, limited to 8 riders max.
• Weather dependability is a factor—poor conditions might cancel or alter plans.
• The price point reflects the convenience and scenic experience but may seem high for some.
• Riders of all experience levels can enjoy, as the horses are described as docile and comfortable.

Exploring the Experience in Detail

Starting the Day: Private Pickup from Lisbon

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from your accommodation in Lisbon or Setúbal. The air-conditioned minivan whisks you away through scenic landscapes, offering your first glimpse of the lush, rolling hills and coastal vistas of the Setúbal Peninsula. As one reviewer noted, “The driver is reliable and speaks good English,” which adds to the relaxed, friendly vibe of the trip.

The roughly 1.5-hour drive isn’t just transportation — it’s a chance to soak in the scenery and get excited about the ride ahead. The route itself offers views of the countryside and hints of the Atlantic, setting a tranquil mood that continues throughout the day.

Arrival and Meeting Your Horse

Once at Melides, you’ll meet your horse, which is described as “docile and experienced,” making it suitable even for riders with limited experience. You don’t need to be a seasoned equestrian; the horses are chosen to ensure a comfortable ride. As one review pointed out, “The horses don’t know the basics,” but they are in decent condition, and the ride is described as a walk rather than a trot or canter—perfect for a relaxed beach outing.

The guide or organizer, speaking English, Spanish, and Portuguese, will give a brief safety and riding instruction—important if you’re new to horseback riding. Some reviewers, however, mention that the English spoken by guides isn’t always perfect, so a basic understanding of riding or patience with language nuances might help.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Beach Ride: 2 Hours of Coastal Beauty

The highlight of the tour is, of course, the beach ride on Praia de Melides. As you ride along the soft, white sands, you’ll have sweeping views of the Atlantic and the chance to feel the wind in your hair. Several reviewers have called the beach ride “really great,” appreciating the combination of scenic beauty and the freedom of galloping or walking along the shoreline.

You’ll pass by the Sado Estuary—home to diverse birdlife—and enjoy the untouched, peaceful landscape. Photos, sometimes provided by the organizers, capture the serene moments, perfect for those sharing on social media or just keeping as a memory. One traveler commented, “The ride on the beach was really great,” emphasizing how enjoyable it can be to be on horseback with such stunning scenery.

However, some reviews point out that the ride itself is limited to walking, with no trotting or cantering, which might disappoint riders expecting a more dynamic experience. Still, for many, the gentle pace allows for plenty of photo opportunities and a relaxing atmosphere.

Additional Perks and Practical Details

Included in the tour are entrance fees, insurance, transport, and free Wi-Fi, making the experience seamless. During the ride, your guide may also take some pictures, giving you free riding photos as a souvenir—something appreciated by travelers.

The tour lasts about 4.5 hours, with the actual riding time being around 2 hours. The remaining time is spent on transfers and waiting, which some reviewers find slightly long. For example, one traveler mentioned, “The car ride takes 1.5 hours each way and the tour itself only 1.5 hours,” so if you’re short on time or prefer a more intensive ride, this is worth noting.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those seeking a relaxed, scenic adventure rather than an adrenaline-filled or advanced riding session. It appeals to beginners and intermediates, thanks to the gentle, well-behaved horses and laid-back pace.

It’s perfect if you want personalized attention in a small group, enjoy natural landscapes, and value the convenience of private transfers. But if you’re after a longer or more vigorous ride, or if you prefer riding at a canter, you might find this tour somewhat limited.

The Realities Highlighted by Travelers

One reviewer shared, “The ride on the beach was really great,” but also noted the price feels a bit high for a two-hour ride, especially considering the long wait times. The quality of the horses and the English skills of the guides were also points of contention, with some feeling the horses were “moderate in condition” and the guides’ language skills “bad English” despite being labeled as English-speaking.

Another traveler pointed out that the entire experience was quite walk-focused and that the duration of the ride was only 1.5 hours, with the rest of the time spent traveling. This is important to keep in mind when planning your day—expect a leisurely pace and plenty of scenic moments.

Practical Considerations

• Timing: Tours run at 9:30 AM and 1 PM, so plan accordingly.
• Age Limit: You must be at least 12 years old.
• Weather: The experience relies heavily on good weather; poor conditions might lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
• Weight Limit: Max 90 kg, so check your weight when booking.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and appropriate clothing.
• Restrictions: No pets, weapons, smoking, or alcohol are allowed.
• Not suitable for: People with back issues, mobility impairments, allergies, or those over 200 lbs.

Comparing Value and Cost

At $275 per person, this tour offers a scenic beach ride with the added comfort of private transportation. The small group size and inclusion of insurance and photos add value, especially for those who want a hassle-free day. However, some reviews flag the price as steep relative to the ride length and what is essentially a walk-only experience.

If you’re looking for a relaxing scenic ride with beautiful landscapes, and don’t mind the price, it can be worth it. But if you’re after a longer or more vigorous ride, or want to spend more time on horseback, you might want to explore other options or expect to pay more for an extended experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This horseback riding experience on Comporta Beach offers a relaxed, scenic escape that’s perfect for those who enjoy gentle rides and stunning coastal views. Its appeal lies in the combination of easygoing horses, private transfers, and small group intimacy.

It’s particularly suited for beginners or casual riders who want to enjoy Portugal’s natural beauty without intense riding demands. The ease of transportation and the serene landscape make it a good choice for those seeking a peaceful day out rather than an adrenaline rush.

However, if you’re a more experienced rider craving a longer or more energetic ride, or if you value value for money over convenience, you might find this tour somewhat limiting. The reviews suggest that managing expectations about the ride’s pace and duration will enhance your experience.

For travelers who prioritize comfort, scenery, and a touch of adventure, this tour ticks many boxes—just be prepared for a laid-back, picturesque ride rather than a high-energy equestrian adventure.

FAQ

Is the ride suitable for beginners?
Yes, the horses are described as gentle and suitable for all experience levels, especially since the ride is at a walk.

What is the duration of the riding part?
The actual horseback riding lasts about 2 hours, with the overall tour including transfers and waiting around 4.5 hours.

Can I ride at a trot or canter?
No, the ride is described as a walk only, so don’t expect more advanced riding.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and casual clothes are recommended.

What is the maximum weight allowed?
The maximum weight is 90 kg (approximately 200 lbs).

Is there a minimum age requirement?
Yes, participants should be at least 12 years old.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to weather conditions; if canceled, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and drinks are not included in the price.

Final Verdict

This horseback riding experience on the beaches of Comporta offers a peaceful, picture-perfect way to connect with nature and enjoy the coast of Portugal. Its strengths lie in the scenic views, ease of logistics, and small group setting that fosters a relaxed, intimate environment.

While the ride itself may feel limited for some, especially considering the price, the overall experience delivers a lovely blend of comfort, natural beauty, and gentle adventure. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a hassle-free, picturesque ride and appreciate the convenience of private transfers.

If you’re after a serene day on horseback with stunning ocean vistas, this tour could be just the thing. For those seeking a more energetic or longer ride, exploring other options might be worthwhile—but for most, it’s a worthwhile, memorable outing that captures the charm of Portugal’s coastline.

You can check if your dates are available here: