Setubal & Comporta Trip with Horseback Riding from Lisbon

If you’re looking for a day trip that offers both scenic landscapes and a taste of local culture, the Setubal & Comporta Trip with Horseback Riding from Lisbon is a compelling choice. Priced at $296.22 per person, this 6-hour tour is designed for those who want an authentic experience without the rush of a full-day itinerary. It departs from Lisbon’s Praça Marquês de Pombal and includes small group sizes limited to 12 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed pace. The tour combines walking tours, ferry rides, and horseback riding, making it a well-rounded way to explore Portugal’s coast and countryside in one seamless experience.

This tour is especially suitable for beginners, thanks to its adapted safety measures, and it caters well to those short on time but eager to see some of Portugal’s best-kept secrets. With free cancellation policy, it offers peace of mind for travelers uncertain about weather or changing plans. A few reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the spectacular horseback riding on the beach, though some mention the lengthy drive and limited time at each stop. This tour presents a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and adventure.

Key Points

• Small group experience with a maximum of 12 travelers ensures personalized attention.
• Includes ferry transfer to Troia Peninsula to admire Portugal’s longest uninterrupted beach.
• Horseback riding on Comporta’s beach offers an accessible adventure for beginners.
• Visit to the fishing town of Setúbal highlights local food culture and history.
• Total duration of around 6 hours, making it ideal for a half-day adventure.
• Cost of $296.22 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Starting Point and Departure from Lisbon

This tour departs from HF Fénix Lisboa at Praça Marquês de Pombal at 8:30 am, with the first stop in Setúbal arriving around 9:45 am. The meeting point is easy to reach in Lisbon, and the tour includes transportation by van or minibus, making the transfer smooth. The departure time allows for a full morning of exploration, with the return to Lisbon scheduled for around 2:00 pm.

Discovering Setúbal’s Local Charm

Upon arriving in Setúbal, a walking tour begins, giving an introduction to this lively fishing town. Known for its charming streets and seafood cuisine, Setúbal offers a glimpse into authentic Portuguese life. The free one-hour visit highlights local sights and sets the tone for the day’s cultural experience. The guide explains the town’s significance, making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in local traditions and gastronomy.

Crossing the Troia Peninsula by Ferry

From Setúbal, the tour continues with a 30-minute ferry ride across the Troia Peninsula. This ferry is a highlight, as it offers spectacular views of Portugal’s longest beach, which stretches 65 km along the coast. The ride is also often accompanied by dolphin sightings, adding a special touch. The ferry transfer is free, and it provides a relaxing way to admire the coastline, making it a photo-worthy moment.

Exploring Comporta’s Scenic Landscape

Upon arriving at Comporta, travelers have 30 minutes to explore this quaint village. Comporta is renowned for its pristine beaches and laid-back atmosphere, offering a perfect setting for a quick stroll. The village’s simple charm and natural beauty make it a favorite among locals, and this stop offers a brief but meaningful chance to soak in the scenery.

Horseback Riding Along Portugal’s Coast

The core activity of this tour is the 2-hour horseback ride through Comporta’s scenic area. The ride is designed to be suitable for beginners, with guides ensuring safety and comfort. Riders go where cars can’t, along the beach and natural landscapes, making the experience feel intimate and immersive. Several reviews emphasize the spectacular views and the fun of riding on the beach, with many describing it as a highlight of the trip.

The Guide’s Role and Tour Pacing

The guides, including Flavio, are praised for their professionalism and attentiveness. They help make the horseback riding feel safe and enjoyable, even for those new to riding. The tour’s pacing balances sightseeing, riding, and transportation, although some reviews mention the long drive time—about 3 hours in total—highlighting that the drive is at times lengthy relative to the time spent on activities. Still, the scenic ferry ride and the beach riding compensate for the travel time for many.

Logistics and Practical Tips

The meeting point at HF Fénix Lisboa is centrally located, and the group size remains small for a more intimate experience. The tour is suitable for people aged 12 and above with a maximum weight of 95 kg (209 lb), to ensure safety and comfort during riding. Since the tour is adapted for beginners, no prior riding experience is necessary, making it accessible for most participants.

Cost, Inclusions, and What’s Not Included

The price of $296.22 covers transportation, the ferry transfer, the horseback riding, and the guided walk through Setúbal. It does not include food or drinks, so travelers might want to bring some snacks or plan to enjoy local cuisine afterward. Tips are optional, and the entire experience is designed for a premium small group, enhancing the quality of interaction with the guide.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

This tour is weather-dependent, with a full refund available if canceled due to poor weather conditions. Travelers can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility to adapt plans if needed. Changes made less than 24 hours prior or cancellations less than a day before are not refundable, so planning ahead is advised.

The Experience of the Guides and the Landscape

The guides are noted for their professional and attentive approach, with Flavio specifically mentioned for making the trip even more special by highlighting Portugal’s natural beauty. The landscape during the horseback ride is described as splendid, with beach views and natural scenery that appeal to both beginners and experienced riders.

Comparing Similar Tours

For travelers interested in combining cultural sights with scenic rides, similar options include Lisbon city tours on electric tuk-tuks or gourmet food experiences. However, this tour’s focus on natural landscapes, horseback riding, and the coastal scenery offers a unique blend that’s hard to match in a short trip from Lisbon.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This small-group adventure suits those who want to experience Portugal beyond Lisbon’s urban charm, especially nature lovers and beginners eager to try horseback riding. It’s perfect for travelers with limited time but who still want a memorable day of exploring beaches, coastal landscapes, and local villages.

Final Thoughts on the Setubal & Comporta Horseback Trip

The $296.22 price includes transport, ferry rides, guided tours, and horseback riding, all within a 6-hour window. The small group size and professional guides ensure a friendly, less rushed experience, although the long drives may not appeal to everyone. The horseback riding on Comporta’s beach is often described as spectacular, making this as much about scenery and adventure as it is about cultural discovery.

This tour offers a genuinely enjoyable way to see a less touristy side of Portugal, with the natural beauty of the coast, the charm of Setúbal, and the fun of riding on the beach all in one package. It’s an experience best suited for beginners, outdoor enthusiasts, and those eager to combine adventure with sightseeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
Transportation by van or minibus, ferry transfer to Troia Peninsula, group horseback riding, and a guided walk through Setúbal are included. Food and drinks are not included.

How long is the horseback riding segment?
The horseback ride lasts approximately 2 hours and is suitable for beginners with safety measures in place.

Can children participate in this tour?
Participation is open to those aged 12 and above. The maximum weight allowed is 95 kg (209 lb).

What should I wear for horseback riding?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity and shoes appropriate for riding are recommended. The tour is adapted for beginners, so you don’t need special riding gear.

Is the tour suitable for people with no riding experience?
Yes, it is adapted for beginners, making it accessible even for first-time riders.

What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

How scenic is the ferry ride?
The ferry ride provides beautiful views of the coast and the chance to see dolphins. It’s considered a highlight of the experience.

What is the pace of the tour?
The tour balances sightseeing, riding, and transportation over approximately 6 hours, with some longer drives involved.

Is this tour suitable for non-drivers?
Yes, the tour includes transportation from Lisbon, so no driving is required.

What is the main highlight of this experience?
The horseback riding on Comporta’s beach and the coastal scenery are often cited as the most memorable parts of the tour.