Explore the stunning coastal region of Melides, Portugal with a captivating horse riding adventure. Enjoy the natural beauty as you trot along the pristine beach, dunes, and tranquil lagoon. After your scenic ride, indulge in a delightful wine tasting experience featuring the local flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, this unique excursion promises an unforgettable journey through Melides’ enchanting landscapes. Discover why this hidden gem is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Key Points
- Explore Melides’ beach, dunes, and lagoon on a 1.5-hour horseback ride, with an optional wine tasting experience afterward.
- Venture into the Grândola woods, dunes, and pine forests, while spotting local wildlife and bird species.
- No prior riding experience required, as the horses are calm and gentle.
- Activity is weather-dependent, with alternative dates or full refunds offered if canceled.
- Prices start at €75 per person, with options for a private instructor and a BBQ lunch.
Activity Overview
This horse riding experience in Melides offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature along the region’s picturesque beach, dunes, and lagoon.
The 1.5-hour ride allows you to explore the Grândola woods, dunes, and pine forests, while observing local wildlife and bird species near the Melides lagoon.
Discover the natural wonders of the Grândola woods, dunes, and pine forests, and spot local wildlife and birds near the Melides lagoon.
The activity is available in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, and you can choose to include a BBQ lunch or wine tasting.
With no prior riding experience required and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this is an ideal way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
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Experience Highlights
The horse riding experience allows visitors to connect with nature while riding along a 60-kilometer stretch of beach.
Explorers can venture into the Grândola woods, dunes, and pine forests, taking in the local wildlife and various bird species near the Melides lagoon.
Options include a BBQ lunch or wine tasting at the end of the ride, allowing guests to further enjoy the surrounding region.
No prior horseback riding experience is required, as the horses are calm and gentle.
The activity is weather-dependent, with alternative dates or full refunds offered if canceled due to adverse conditions.
Included Options
The included options allow visitors to tailor their horseback riding experience.
The standard package includes the horseback ride along the scenic Melides beach, dunes, and lagoon. Guests can upgrade to add a wine tasting, featuring three regional wines.
There’s also an option to enjoy a BBQ lunch after the ride. For those who want more guidance, a private instructor can be arranged.
All the included activities let visitors fully enjoy the natural beauty of the Alentejo region while trying local flavors.
Regardless of the selections, each guest is guaranteed an unforgettable day on the Melides coast.
Meeting Point & Directions
Located approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes from Lisbon, the horseback riding activity in Melides can be accessed by passing the Melides exit, taking a right at the Cemitério, and continuing on a dirt road for 5 km, following the signs for "Passeios a Cavalo na praia".
The GPS coordinates are 38°0820.7N, 8°4649.1W. This ensures guests can easily find the meeting point and start their beach riding experience through the Grândola woods, dunes, and pine forests, with the opportunity to observe local wildlife and various bird species near the Melides lagoon.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information
No prior horseback riding experience is required for this activity, as the horses are calm and gentle.
The experience is weather-dependent, so alternative dates or full refunds are offered if canceled due to adverse conditions. Comfortable clothing is recommended for the ride.
Participants will explore Grândola woods, dunes, and pine forests, observe local wildlife and bird species near Melides lagoon, and have the option to enjoy a BBQ lunch or wine tasting after the ride.
With a duration of 1.5 hours and prices starting at €75 per person, this is an ideal way to connect with nature in the stunning Melides region.
Preparing for the Ride
Although no prior horseback riding experience is required, it’s recommended that participants arrive prepared for the activity.
Wear comfortable, athletic clothing that allows for ease of movement. Closed-toe shoes or boots with a slight heel are ideal to ensure a secure fit in the stirrups.
Bring sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, as the ride takes place primarily outdoors. Plus, bring a light jacket or sweater in case the weather is cooler.
The Ride Through Melides
After arriving at the meeting point, guests are introduced to their gentle, well-trained horses. The guides provide a safety briefing and ensure everyone is comfortable before setting off.
The ride takes guests along Melides’ 60-kilometer beach, allowing them to connect with nature. They’ll explore the Grândola woods, dunes, and pine forests, observing local wildlife and bird species near the Melides lagoon.
The pace is leisurely, giving riders ample time to soak in the stunning coastal scenery. The experienced guides are on hand to provide assistance and share insights about the local environment throughout the relaxing ride.
Enhancing the Experience
Guests can further elevate their experience with optional add-ons. They can indulge in a BBQ lunch featuring local specialties after the ride.
Or they can cap off the adventure with a wine tasting, sampling three regional vintages. For a more personalized experience, riders can request a private guide to lead them through the picturesque landscapes.
These extras allow visitors to truly enjoy the natural beauty and culinary delights of the Melides region.
With flexible options to cater to various preferences, the horse riding experience can be tailored to create an unforgettable day.
Since You Asked
Can I Bring My Own Horse to the Ride?
No, you can’t bring your own horse. The activity requires using the horses provided by the tour operator. They ensure the horses are calm and gentle, and prior riding experience isn’t necessary.
Is There a Weight Limit for the Horseback Riding Activity?
The activity doesn’t mention a specific weight limit. However, it states the horses are calm and gentle, so riders should check with the provider about any weight restrictions to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.
Can I Book the Activity for a Large Group?
Yes, the activity can accommodate large groups. The experience allows for booking options for groups, and provides a private instructor if selected. Advance reservations are recommended to ensure availability for the desired group size.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Horseback Riding?
The activity has no age restrictions. Children can participate, but they’ll need to be accompanied by an adult. The horses are calm and gentle, suitable for both experienced and beginner riders.
Can I Customize the Duration of the Horseback Riding Experience?
The duration of the horseback riding experience can’t be customized. It’s a fixed 1.5-hour (105-minute) tour. However, there are options to add a wine tasting or BBQ lunch at the end of the ride.
The Sum Up
Melides offers a unique horse riding adventure that combines the natural beauty of the beach, dunes, and lagoon with a delightful wine tasting experience. This 1.5-hour ride through the enchanting woods and forests provides an opportunity to spot local wildlife and learn about the region’s charm. With no prior experience required, it’s an accessible adventure for nature lovers and wine enthusiasts alike.
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