Melides: Horse Riding on the Beach with Wine Tasting

Discover Melides: Horse Riding on the Beach with Wine Tasting

This horseback riding tour in Melides offers a unique chance to connect with nature along Portugal’s stunning coastline. For $85 per person, you enjoy 105 minutes of riding across expansive beaches, dunes, and pine forests, with the option to enhance the experience with regional wine tasting or a barbecue lunch. The tour is suitable for all experience levels, as the horses are described as very calm and gentle.

Located about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Lisbon, this experience combines outdoor adventure with regional tasting sessions. It’s a fantastic option for those seeking a relaxing yet invigorating day immersed in Portugal’s natural beauty, especially for groups or families wanting a mix of riding, wildlife spotting, and local flavors.

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Key Points

• Price: $85 per person for 1.5 hours of horseback riding
• Duration: Approximately 105 minutes, with flexible starting times
• Location: Melides, Lisbon District, Portugal, about 1 hour 20 minutes from Lisbon
• Highlights: Riding along beach, dunes, pine forest, exploring a freshwater lagoon, and wildlife observation
• Additional Options: Wine tasting of regional wines or a BBQ lunch at the end of the ride
• Ease of Riding: No prior experience needed, as horses are gentle and calm
• Accessibility: Guided by instructors fluent in Portuguese, English, and Spanish

Starting Point and How to Find It in Melides

The tour begins at a clearly marked meeting point on a dirt road just outside Melides. To reach the location, travelers pass the Melides exit, continue straight on a dirt path for about 5 km, and follow signs indicating “Passeios a Cavalo na praia”. After passing a 20 km sign, continue straight, then turn right after seeing the sign, pass through a gate, and park nearby. The precise GPS coordinates are 38°08’20.7″N, 8°46’49.1″W.

This straightforward route ensures easy access, and the scenic drive through the countryside sets the tone for a memorable day.

The Unique Coastal Landscape of Melides

The horseback ride takes participants through dunes, pine forests, and the Melides protected area. The ride offers sweeping views of the over 60-kilometer-long beach, with the Atlantic Ocean constantly close by. You’ll experience the fresh sea breeze and vast open skies, fostering a sense of peace and freedom.

The protected area emphasizes the importance of preserving local flora and fauna, making this experience both scenic and educational. Riders can observe local wildlife and appreciate the natural environment that characterizes this stretch of coast.

Riding Along the Beach and Dunes

The main highlight is the beach ride, where the horse trots along sandy shores that stretch for over 60 kilometers. The gentle surf and soft sands make for a serene riding experience, suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike.

Passing through dunes and pine forests adds variety and interest to the ride. The dunes provide a sense of adventure, while the pine woods offer shade and a contrast to the open beach landscape. Riders are encouraged to breathe in the sea air while enjoying the rhythmic motion of the horses.

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Spotting Wildlife at Melides Lagoon

After the beach, the tour guides riders close to the Melides freshwater lagoon. This spot is notable for its birdlife, with a variety of bird species visible, making it a favorite for birdwatching enthusiasts. The lagoon’s calm waters and lush surroundings provide a peaceful backdrop for wildlife observation.

This part of the ride emphasizes nature appreciation, with guides sharing knowledge about the local flora and fauna. It’s a quiet, scenic area that feels like a natural sanctuary.

Optional Wine Tasting and Barbecue Lunch

At the end of the riding session, guests can opt for a regional wine tasting featuring three different wines produced in the area. The wine tasting is praised for showcasing local varieties and offering a relaxing conclusion to the adventure.

Alternatively, a barbecue lunch can be booked, offering a hearty meal to complement the day’s activities. Both options add a culinary dimension to the experience, making it suitable for those looking to indulge in regional flavors.

The Experience of the Guides and Horses

The tour is led by skilled instructors fluent in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication. The horses are described as very calm and gentle, making the ride accessible even for those without prior experience.

A review highlights the friendly support of guides like Filipa, who provides helpful explanations on how to interact with the horses. This supportive environment helps visitors feel comfortable and confident throughout the ride.

Practical Information on the Logistics

The activity lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, with flexible start times available. Travelers should dress in comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor riding and weather conditions. Since the activity is weather-dependent, cancellations due to adverse weather will be fully refunded or rescheduled.

Group sizes are not explicitly mentioned, but the possibility of booking a private instructor suggests options for more personalized guidance or private groups. Parking is straightforward at the designated meeting point, making it convenient for those arriving by car.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This horseback ride is suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike, thanks to the calm nature of the horses. It’s ideal for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and those wanting a leisurely outdoor activity combined with regional flavors.

Families or friends can book as a group, especially since a private instructor option is available. The relaxed pace and scenic setting make it perfect for a peaceful day outside Lisbon.

Final Thoughts on Melides Horse Riding and Wine Tasting

This tour offers a well-rounded experience of Portugal’s coast, combining horse riding, wildlife spotting, and regional wine or food. The value is strong at $85, especially considering the length of the ride and the optional extras.

While weather conditions can affect the activity, the flexible scheduling and professional guides ensure a smooth experience. Suitable for all levels, this journey blends adventure and relaxation in a scenic coastal environment that’s hard to match.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prior horse riding experience required?
No, the horses are very calm and gentle, making this experience accessible for beginners.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the horseback ride, with optional wine tasting and BBQ lunch if selected, and the possibility to book a private instructor.

How long does the tour last?
The ride lasts approximately 105 minutes, with flexible starting times available.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is on a dirt road near Melides, with clear signage and GPS coordinates provided.

Can I do this tour if the weather is bad?
If canceled due to adverse weather, an alternative date or full refund is offered.

Is transportation included?
Transportation from Lisbon is not included; the activity starts at the designated meeting point outside Melides.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve now and pay later, with full cancellation possible up to 24 hours in advance.

Who leads the tour?
Experienced guides fluent in Portuguese, English, and Spanish organize the ride.

What should I wear?
Dress in comfortable outdoor clothes suitable for riding and weather conditions.

Is it suitable for families?
Yes, especially with the private instructor option and gentle horses, making it a family-friendly activity.

This horseback riding tour in Melides promises a peaceful ride across Portugal’s beautiful coast, topped with options to savor regional wines or a hearty barbecue—perfect for a memorable day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby