Horse Riding in Turkey

The glistening south-west coastline, strewn with remnants of ancient civilisations; the unique backdrop of marvellous, mystical, Cappadocia; the panoramic, verdant, rolling hills and picturesque seaside towns of the Black Sea region. What better way to explore the vast and varied landscape of Turkey than on horseback.  There are a handful of specialist centres across Turkey that cater specifically for equestrian tourism, details of which can be found below.

Aegean

Perma Ranch, Fethiye

Address: Perma Ranch, Kayaköyü, Fethiye/MUĞLA.
Getting There: Dalaman Airport, transfer approximately 1½ hours.
Tel / Fax : +90 (0)252 618 0182
Web: http://www.permaranch.co.uk/
E-Mail : booking@permaranch.co.uk

Situated in the beautiful Kaya Valley, 3km from the resort of Hisarönü and just 6km from the famous lagoon of Ölü Deniz, the Perma Ranch is ideally situated for visitors to enjoy the very best that the Turquoise coast has to offer.

The Ranch caters for riders of all abilities, with professional tuition available at all levels. A typical trek will take in imposing mountains, fragrant pine forests and traditional Turkish villages where the way of life has remained unchanged for centuries.

On-site accommodation comprises a luxury ranchhouse, with four ensuite, air-conditioned double bedrooms, all with tea making facilities and and refrigerator. There is also a lounge area, with TV, video and DVD player, and a fully fitted kitchen at your disposal. The house has its own private walled gardens, shaded terrace with aviary and large jaccuzi.

Mediterranean

Berke Ranch, Kemer

Address: Akçasaz Mevkii Çamyuva Kemer/ANTALYA.
Tel: +90 (0)42 818 03 33 (Pbx)
Fax: +90 (0)242 818 05 60
Web: http://www.hotel-berkeranch.com/
Email: info@hotel-berkeranch.com

Along the beautiful Mediterranean coast, within close proximity to both Kemer and Antalya, and situated in the foothills of the Taurus Mountains, Berke Ranch offers an alternative holiday destination for nature and horse-lovers.

Located on a 18.000 m² site, the Ranch with its marvellous view of volcanic Twin Rocks, is situated 1.5 km from the nearest town, The nearest beach is just 2.3km away.

Hotel Berke Ranch has 26 standard rooms and 2 apartments. All of the rooms are equipped with air conditioning, radiators, TV, telephone ,hairdryer, shower, toilet, balcony or verandas. As well as horse riding, you can enjoy walking, cycling, or swimming in the Ranch's 1.60 m deep and 90 m2 wide pool.

You can sample the fine regional cuisine  either at the Horseback Bistro Bar, facing the manege, or in the restaurant with its magnificent view of the surrounding countryside.

Riding lessons are available from professional instructors. For more experienced riders, there are a choice of seven different tracks in the surrounding forests at the base of the mythological Mount Olympos. Routes can encompass the ancient sites of Lycia and Myra, the stunning beach of Phaselis City, along with evidence of Hellenistic and Roman civilisations.
 

Bagana Horse Club, Antalya

Address: Yukarikaraman, Düzlerçami, Antalya.
Tel: (90) 242 425 2270
Fax: (90) 242 425 2055
Web: http://www.baganahorseclub.com/
Email: info@baganahorseclub.com

The Bagana Horse Riding Club is situated directly next to the old Lycian silkroad, not far from the ancient city of Termessos. The Club is surrounded by endless pine forests (National Park) and framed by the 2000m (1700 ft) high Bey Mountains.

The City of Antalya is close at hand, for shopping or bathing in the blue waters of the Mediterannean sea. Known for its ancient sites and its breathtaking nature, Antalya provides the ideal holiday place for all the family.

On-site accommodation is provided, with 8 air-conditioned double rooms, Shower/WC, TV and Minibar.

Club facilities include an outdoor pool, Sauna, Massage (on request), a garden restaurant with riding ring view, and an indoor restaurant with a comfortable corner  fireplace .

Central Anatolia

Akhal Teke Horse Riding Centre, Cappadocia

Address: Camikebir Mah., Kadi Sok. No. 1, 50500 Avanos/CAPPADOCIA.
Tel: +90 (0)384 511 51 71
Fax: +90 (0)384 511 33 70
Web: http://www.akhal-tekehorsecenter.com/index.htm
Email: mail@akhal-tekehorsecenter.com

The Akhal Teke Horse Riding Centre enables visitors to experience the incredible and unusual beauty of the region of Cappadocia on horseback. This part of Turkey boasts some of the worlds most spectacular landscapes, with its fabulous  "fairy chimneys", cities and houses of worship that extend many metres deep into the earth. Exploring the numerous valleys and mountains in this unique way brings riders in touch with the breathtaking beauty of the area.

Although the Centre does not have accommodation on-site, there is ample tourist accommodation throughout the region to suit all budgets and tastes. Please visit http://www.hotelguide.com.tr/for further information. Alternatively, Akhal Teke offers a range of horse riding tours throughout the year, with hotel or camping accommodation along the various trekking routes.

If an entire holiday dedicated to horse riding is your idea of heaven, Interest & Activity Holidays are offering one and two week packages to Antalya with prices starting from £605 for half board accommodation and 28 hours riding (ATOL 9073). Visit www.iah-holidays.co.uk for more information.