Side Horse Riding – Two Hours on the Beach and Forest Tracks from a Kumkoy Ranch

Seen from a sun lounger, the coast of Side is all sand and sea. Seen from the saddle, it looks different: orchards, a quiet village road and a strip of forest just behind the beach. On this Side horse riding tour you get both. From a ranch in the Side–Kumkoy area you ride for about two hours – roughly half of the time inland among the trees, the other half along the shore, with the sea at your side.

From the orchards to the sand

After a short drive from your hotel you meet the horses and the instructors at the ranch. They explain the few rules that matter – how to sit, how to steer and how to keep a safe distance – and match every rider with a suitable horse. Then the group sets off: about an hour past fruit gardens and along a village road into the forest, followed by about an hour on the sandy beach of Side, with open views of the sea.

Riding without experience

You do not need to have ridden before: beginners are welcome, and the instructors keep the pace calm for anyone sitting on a horse for the first time. Children can ride too when an adult comes along. Back at the ranch there is time to rest and to look at the photos taken during the ride. The exact pickup time is confirmed after booking.

• About 2 hours in the saddle: roughly 1 hour inland, 1 hour on the beach
• An instructor and a guide accompany the group
• All riding equipment is provided
• A ranch close to the hotels of Side and Kumkoy – a short transfer
• Sea and forest views on the same ride

Before you book

For safety, riders may weigh no more than 100 kg, and pregnant women or anyone who has been drinking alcohol cannot take part. Drinks, snacks, photos and riding boots are not included. Fancy a bit more speed? The Side quad safari adds some adrenaline, and the Side boat tour shows the same coast from the water.