If you want a wow view without a long drive, this is it. A guided horseback ride from Villajoyosa takes you into the mountains just 10 minutes from Benidorm, with plenty of chances to look out over the Mediterranean.

I especially liked how beginner-friendly it felt (patient coaching, calm horses, and clear instruction), and I loved the sea-and-mountain views that show up along the ride.

One thing to plan for: the stable area is remote, and transportation isn’t included, so you’ll likely rely on a taxi and build in extra time (and long pants matter).

Key Things to Know Before You Ride

• Small groups (up to 9) keep the ride feeling personal, even when you’re a first-timer.
• Multiple route lengths (1, 1.5, 2 hours) let you match your comfort level and how much time you want in the saddle.
• Stirring mountain-to-sea views happen close to Benidorm, so it feels like a quick escape.
• Well-trained, calm horses make it much easier to relax and focus on the scenery.
• The route can be a bit rough in places, so expect uneven footing even on a “not too intense” ride.
• No transport included means you should think about the taxi ride in advance.

Villajoyosa to Benidorm: why this ride feels close to everything

This is a horseback ride out of Villajoyosa that’s positioned for people staying in the Benidorm area. You’re looking at about 10 minutes from Benidorm, plus a short drive from the Villajoyosa highway exit. That quick access is a big deal on the Costa Blanca, where “getting there” can eat half your day.

What you’re really paying for isn’t a complicated itinerary. It’s the simple combo of a guided ride, calm horses, and that moment when the mountains open up and you can see the Mediterranean. The best part is you get to do it without needing any special riding background.

What you do before you mount at Club hípico Legend

The experience starts with meeting your guide and getting to know your horse. You’ll typically get a quick run-down on communication and riding basics before you head out, and it’s designed to work even if you’re nervous. I like that the instruction isn’t just thrown at you right as you’re mounting—there’s time to settle in first.

At Club hípico Legend, the horses are treated as part of the process, not just a means of transport. People have mentioned watching the stables and seeing the horses being prepared, which helps you understand why the ride feels organized once you’re on your seat.

Language is also useful here. The instructor can guide you in English and Spanish, and several riders specifically praised the patience and calm explanations. If you’ve been worried about not understanding commands, this setup is a comfort.

The mountain route with sea views: 1, 1.5, or 2 hours

You choose your time slot: 1 hour, 1.5 hours, or 2 hours. All versions share the same core idea—mountain scenery close to Villajoyosa, guided at an easy-to-moderate pace, and with views that can include the Mediterranean.

In the hour option, the goal is usually a gentle “first taste.” It’s long enough for the excitement to kick in, but short enough that you’re not stuck when you’re still adjusting in the saddle. More than one rider said the 1-hour ride feels manageable, with vehicles not causing big issues and the terrain staying friendly overall.

For longer routes, you’re mostly buying more time in the countryside: more riding time, more chances for views, and more time to settle into the rhythm. If you want the “sit back and look” version of this day, the 1.5 or 2-hour option makes sense.

What the trail is like (and where you should be ready)

You’re not riding on perfectly smooth pavement. Expect a mix of orchards and natural greenery, and you may ride on sand trails or uneven ground. Some riders noted that footing can get a bit rough and that horses sometimes slip in spots, but most said it didn’t turn into anything unsafe—just something to be aware of.

Cars and roads can be part of the day, but the ride is planned so the route isn’t constant highway noise. Still, you’ll want a steady mindset: even the calmest horse ride will have moments where you notice movement from vehicles. The good news is that riders reported the horses stayed steady around passing cars.

How safe and beginner-friendly is it, really?

If you’re a beginner, the biggest question is usually not the scenery. It’s: will I feel safe? In this ride, the coaching style matters. Guides have been described as patient with complete beginners, and more than one rider who was nervous about horses said the guide helped them feel at ease.

The horses also seem to be the right match for new riders. People repeatedly described them as calm and easy to ride, and there’s a sense that the stable staff pairs horses to riders’ comfort levels. If you’ve never ridden before, that pairing is often the difference between a fun memory and an ordeal.

That said, you should still be realistic about physical comfort. Saddle time can make your legs and bottom feel it. One rider joked about being sore afterward, which is normal for horse riding—even on an “easy” route.

Price and value: what $47 buys you (and what can add up)

The posted price given here is $47 per person for a 1-hour duration. That price is reasonable when you consider what’s included: an experienced instructor and the small-group structure (limited to 9 participants). You’re not just renting an animal and hoping for the best—you’re paying for guidance, horse care, and time with trained staff.

The bigger financial variable is transportation. The activity doesn’t include transport to or from the site. Multiple riders said they used taxis from the Benidorm area, and costs can vary based on where you’re staying. A couple of reviews mentioned around €25–€30 each way from the Benidorm/Finestrat/nearby hotel area, and one rider noted a taxi drop-off that left a short walk to the destination.

Here’s the practical way to think about value: if you’re already in the Benidorm area and you budget for a taxi, the ride itself can feel like a fair deal for a guided mountain experience that also includes great photo moments.

What to wear and bring: long pants are non-negotiable

This ride comes with a simple rule that affects everyone: long pants are necessary. If you show up without them, you may be asked not to ride. It’s worth packing or buying them ahead of time, even if you assume you can wing it.

Beyond that, keep it practical:

• Wear long, comfortable pants you can ride in.
• Closed-toe shoes with a decent grip will help on uneven trail surfaces.
• Bring sunscreen and water, since you’re outdoors and the route isn’t fully shaded.

If you want photos, you’ll like the fact that guides can help with taking pictures. Riders described getting plenty of photos and enjoying the stop-for-photos vibe along the viewpoints.

Group size and vibe: why small feels better here

This is a small group experience, limited to 9 participants per route. That size matters because you get more attention at the start, and the guide can adapt if someone is hesitant or needs extra instruction.

It’s also useful for mixed experience levels. The ride is listed as suitable for all levels, and reviews repeatedly mentioned complete beginners feeling supported. If you’re riding with a partner who is less confident, the guided pacing makes a big difference.

One more personal note: because the setting is more remote than a city tour, the vibe feels more like a rural outing than an activity line. You’ll likely remember it as a calm break from beach crowds.

Who this Villajoyosa horseback ride suits best

This is a great fit if you want:

• A guided first ride with patient instruction
• Mountain scenery with sea views near Benidorm
• A short-to-medium outing (1 to 2 hours) rather than a full-day tour

It’s also a nice option if you’re traveling with kids, as long as they meet the minimum age: not for children under 10. For family planning, that age rule is crucial.

Weight and physical limits

There’s a hard limit: maximum weight is 110kg (243 lbs). If you’re above that, you’ll need a different activity.

If you’re afraid of horses

The ride has helped riders who were genuinely nervous. The key is to arrive ready to listen, communicate any fears early, and take instruction seriously. If you do that, you’ll likely leave feeling proud, not shaken.

Should you book this horseback ride with sea views?

Book it if you want a real countryside horseback experience with sea views and you’re staying near Benidorm. The combination of small group size, calm horses, and beginner-friendly guidance makes it a strong choice for first-timers who still want something memorable.

Skip it (or choose a different style of tour) if you don’t want to deal with getting to a remote meeting point, or if you can’t comply with the long pants requirement. Also, if you’re over the 110kg limit, you’ll need another option.

If you match those basics, this ride looks like a solid value: guided, scenic, and just long enough to feel like an escape without wrecking your whole day.

FAQ

How long is the horseback riding experience?

You can choose routes of 1 hour, 1.5 hours, or 2 hours.

Where does the ride take place?

It runs through the mountains of Villajoyosa, about 10 minutes from Benidorm, and roughly five minutes from the Villajoyosa highway exit.

What’s the price?

The price provided here is $47 per person (the duration listed with that price is 1 hour).

Is it suitable for beginners?

Yes. It’s listed as suitable for all levels, and instruction is provided by an experienced instructor.

What language will the guide speak?

The instructor guides in English and Spanish.

What are the age and weight limits?

It’s not for children under 10 years old, and the maximum weight is 110kg (243 lbs).

What should I wear?

Long pants are necessary for the ride.

How big is the group?

It’s a small group, limited to up to 9 participants per route.

Is transportation included?

No. Transportation to/from the activity is not included.

What’s included in the ticket price?

You get an experienced instructor plus free parking service.

You Might Also Enjoy

Seville: Guadalquivir Boat Tour with Optional Lunch/DinnerBarcelona: Sagrada Familia Entry Ticket with Audio GuideMorro Jable: Sailing Boat Excursion with Food and DrinksLanzarote: Full-Day Island Highlights Tour