An Unforgettable Horse Riding Adventure in Alanya

Right then lads and lasses gather round and put down that lukewarm pint for a second because I am about to save you from turning into a sun lounger vegetable. If you have been in Turkey for a few days you have probably done the standard routine of pool beach buffet and repeat. It is cracking for a bit but eventually you start to feel like a bit of a sloth. If you are itching for a bit of adventure but you cannot be bothered with the crowds on the boat trips I have got the perfect solution for you. I am talking about horse riding in Alanya. Now before you start rolling your eyes and thinking this is only for posh people who own country estates let me tell you that horse riding in Alanya is one of the most chilled out and accessible things you can do here and it is an absolute laugh.

Let me set the scene for you. You are away from the noise of the main strip where the music is thumping and the traffic is mental. Instead you are out in the sticks breathing in the smell of pine trees and orange groves. Horse riding in Alanya takes you into the foothills of the Taurus Mountains or along some quiet trails that you would never find on foot. It is a proper escape. I have been coming to this part of the world for donkey’s years and I reckon seeing the landscape from the back of a horse is the best way to do it. You feel like a bit of an explorer rather than just another tourist with a wristband.

Now you might be thinking but I have never sat on a horse in my life I will fall off and look like a sack of potatoes. Do not worry about it. The ranches that run the horse riding in Alanya tours are used to beginners. In fact most of the people who go have never ridden before. The horses are usually plodders. They know the route better than the guides do and they are not going to bolt off into the sunset with you screaming for your mum. They match you up with a horse that suits your size and your confidence level. If you are a total novice they will give you a horse that is basically a sofa on legs.

However I need to give you some serious advice about the logistics of horse riding in Alanya so you do not have a nightmare. First off clothing is crucial. I know it is forty degrees and you want to be in your swimmers but do not wear shorts for horse riding in Alanya. I repeat do not wear shorts. If you do your inner thighs will be rubbed raw against the saddle and you will be walking like John Wayne for the rest of your holiday. Wear long trousers or leggings and closed shoes. You will sweat a bit but it is better than having no skin on your legs.

Another thing to watch out for is the transfer. Most reputable companies offering horse riding in Alanya will include a pick up from your hotel. This is essential. The ranches are usually miles out of town in the middle of nowhere. If you try to get a taxi there yourself the driver will rub his hands together with glee. The meter will tick up faster than you can blink and it will cost you an absolute fortune. Plus trying to explain to a taxi driver where a random farm is in the mountains is a recipe for getting lost. Stick to the organised transfer that comes with your horse riding in Alanya booking.

Let us talk about the heat because this is a big one. Horse riding in Alanya is an outdoor activity obviously. If you book a slot at midday in July you are going to roast. You will be sitting on a warm animal under the baking sun. It is not pleasant. My top tip is to book the early morning slot or the sunset slot. The sunset horse riding in Alanya tours are particularly mint because it is cooler and the light is cracking for photos. Speaking of photos be prepared for the hard sell. The guides will take pictures of you looking heroic on your steed and then try to sell them to you at the end. It is standard practice. If you want them haggle the price. If you do not just say a polite no thank you.

Also keep in mind that horse riding in Alanya is a slow paced affair. If you are an experienced rider expecting to gallop across the beach with the wind in your hair you might be a bit disappointed unless you book a specific private tour. The standard group tours walk at a steady pace so nobody falls off. It is about enjoying the scenery and the peace and quiet. It is therapeutic. You just sit there and let the horse do the work while you look at the views.

If you are looking for something a bit more educational some places do offer horse riding lessons in Alanya but that is usually a separate thing from the trail rides. For the average holidaymaker the standard horse riding in Alanya tour is the way to go. It usually lasts about an hour or two which is plenty of time before your bum starts to go numb.

So there you have it. Horse riding in Alanya is a brilliant way to break up your holiday and see a different side of Turkey. It is safe it is fun and it gets you out of the hotel for a few hours. Just remember to wear long trousers bring some water and do not try to race the guide.

Right I am turning this over to you lot now. I know loads of you have tried this. Did you feel like a cowboy on your horse riding in Alanya trip or did you just cling on for dear life. Did you manage to walk normally the next day or were you waddling to the buffet. Drop a comment below and tell us your funny stories. Your experience helps the next lot of Brits decide if they are brave enough to saddle up so do not be shy. Cheers.