A horse riding experience on Comporta Beach offers a unique way to enjoy Portugal’s beautiful coastline. This private tour, priced at $275 per person and lasting approximately 4.5 hours, combines scenic transportation with an exhilarating horseback ride along the white sands of Melides Beach. It’s perfect for those who love horses or want a memorable outdoor adventure near Lisbon, though it’s best suited for participants comfortable with moderate physical activity and no mobility issues.

While the tour boasts impressive scenery and convenience with hotel pickup, some reviews highlight that the horse riding itself lasts only 2 hours, with additional waiting time and travel duration. This is worth considering for those seeking a longer riding session or a more intensive equestrian experience.

Key Points

Private transfer handles pickup and drop-off from Lisbon or Setúbal.
Horse riding on Melides Beach lasts 2 hours along white sands and by the Atlantic Ocean.
Tour duration is about 4.5 hours, including transportation and scenic drives.
Suitable for ages 12 and above, with a maximum weight limit of 90 kg.
The tour includes free wifi, Bluetooth, and insurance.
It operates at 9:30 AM or 1 PM, depending on the day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Scenic Horseback Ride on Comporta Beach’s White Sands

The highlight of this tour is the chance to ride a docile, well-trained horse along the sandy shores of Praia de Melides. The horses are experienced and comfortable for riders of all skill levels, making it an accessible activity even for beginners. The beach ride takes you past crystal-clear waters and the Sado Estuary, offering stunning views of the Setúbal Peninsula.

The ride itself lasts about 2 hours, during which you’ll follow a guide along the virgin-white sands. The experience is described as a majestic way to see the coast, with the waves and open sky creating a memorable backdrop. Since the horses are described as moderate in condition and easy to handle, this tour is suitable for most who are comfortable with horses and prepared for the physical activity.

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Pick-up and Transportation Details

The private transfer is a key part of the appeal, with pickup directly at your accommodation in Lisbon or Setúbal. The air-conditioned minivan ensures comfort during the 1.5-hour drive each way. The scenic route along the Setúbal Peninsula adds to the adventure, giving travelers the chance to enjoy Portugal’s countryside views en route to Melides.

The transfer and scenic drives are included in the 4.5-hour overall experience, which means you’ll spend a significant part of the day traveling, but the convenience is appreciated. The tour operates at two daily times: 9:30 AM and 1 PM, so you can choose a time that best suits your plans.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the $275 price are entrance fees, a driver, hotel pick-up and drop-off, a horse ride, transport by air-conditioned minivan, mandatory insurance, fuel, tools, free wifi, and Bluetooth. This makes for a hassle-free experience with many amenities provided.

However, the tour does not include meals or drinks, so consider bringing snacks or water if needed. Also, note that pets, weapons, smoking, alcohol, and food in the vehicle are prohibited, in addition to certain mobility and age restrictions.

Practical Tips for Participants

Participants should wear comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and bug repellent. The tour is not suitable for children under 12, individuals with back problems, mobility impairments, or those over 200 lbs (91 kg).

It’s also important to mention that all passenger weights must be provided at booking, to ensure rider safety. The weather can impact the ride’s schedule, with cancellations possible if conditions are unfavorable, but an alternative date or full refund is offered.

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The Experience for Horse Enthusiasts and Newcomers

This tour caters well to horse lovers seeking a scenic ride on the beach, but some reviews note that the horse riding may only involve walking, with no trotting or cantering. The quality of the horses is described as moderate, and some riders may find the price a bit steep for the duration.

Guides are multilingual (Spanish, English, Portuguese), and the driver is noted as reliable and friendly. Despite some comments about English language proficiency, the overall experience emphasizes breathtaking views, nature, and the chance to connect with horses in a scenic setting.

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The Setting: Melides Beach and the Setúbal Peninsula

The beach of Melides is a focal point of this tour, offering white sands that stretch along the Atlantic coast. The scenery includes crystal-clear waters and the Sado Estuary, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed yet scenic horseback ride. The route is designed to maximize natural beauty, with the beach environment providing a refreshing escape from city life.

Participants get a taste of the Virgin-white sands and the peaceful ocean, with plenty of opportunities for photos. The setting makes for a calm, scenic escape that highlights Portugal’s coastal charm.

The Group Size and Overall Atmosphere

This experience is designed for small groups limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention from the guides. The small group setting helps keep the atmosphere intimate and relaxed, which is ideal for riders of all experience levels.

The guided nature of the tour means you’ll follow the leader along the beach, with a focus on safety and enjoyment. The group size and private transfers contribute to a comfortable and exclusive feel.

Considerations and Limitations

While the scenic beauty and easy-going ride are definite advantages, some reviews highlight that the actual riding time might be shorter than expected, and the horses may not be in prime condition. The tour duration includes transport and waiting times, which could make the riding feel brief for some.

The price point may seem high for a 2-hour ride, particularly given the long travel times. Participants should weigh their interest in beach riding against these considerations to determine if it matches their expectations.

Final Thoughts on the Comporta Beach Horse Ride

This tour offers a beautiful setting to enjoy Portugal’s coastline from the back of a horse, with the convenience of private transfers and a small-group environment. It’s best suited for horse lovers or those interested in scenic beach outings, especially if the relaxed pace and stunning views appeal to you.

However, riders looking for more intensive riding or longer horseback excursions may find the 2-hour ride somewhat limited, and the cost may seem high relative to the experience’s duration. The scenic drive and easy ride make it a relaxing choice, though not necessarily a demanding equestrian adventure.

Ready to Book?

Horse riding on the beach, with private transfer from Lisbon

4.3

(6)

“- The driver is reliable and speaks good English. – You get free riding pictures. – The horses don't know the basics. – The horses are generally in…”

— GetYourGuide traveler, October 14, 2023

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the minimum age is 12 years.

What should I wear for the ride?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent are recommended.

Can I participate if I have no riding experience?
Yes, the horses are described as docile and suitable for all skill levels, making it accessible for beginners.

How long does the horse riding last?
The actual riding time is about 2 hours.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes transport, horse riding, insurance, wifi, Bluetooth, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Are there any restrictions I should know?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for those with back problems, mobility issues, over 200 lbs, or certain allergies.

Experience the scenic beauty of Portugal’s Atlantic coast on horseback with this well-organized, small-group tour. Keep in mind the ride duration and consider whether the overall experience aligns with your expectations for a beach horseback adventure.