Quick answer: The mountains behind Benidorm are full of outdoor adventures within 30–45 minutes of the beach. You can go horse riding along the Guadalest river from about €50, canyon through river gorges from about €35, bungee jump 60 m into the Mascarat gorge near Altea from about €40, or fly a tandem paraglider over the coast from around £103. Most operators collect from or meet near Benidorm and run in English.
Activities compared
| Activity | Where | Length | Price from |
|---|---|---|---|
| Horse riding | Guadalest river, inland from Benidorm | 1 hour 10 minutes riding, about 1 hour 45 minutes in total | €50 |
| Canyoning, Estret de les Penyes | Near Benidorm | 3 hours | €35 |
| Canyoning, La Mela or Abdet gorge | Near Benidorm | 4 hours | €40 |
| Bungee jump, Mascarat gorge (60 m) | Near Altea | 1 hour | €40 |
| Tandem paragliding | Coast between Benidorm and Santa Pola | 30-minute flight; 4–5 hours with transfers | About £103 |
| Coasteering | Villajoyosa | Half day | Varies |
Sources: Manawa – horse riding, Manawa – Benidorm activities, Yumping – paragliding, Expedia – Prorider Tour.
Horse riding
Club Hípico El León Dormido runs a ride of about 1 hour 10 minutes along the reed-lined course of the Guadalest river to a reservoir, where the horses can wade in on hot days. It suits complete beginners and experienced riders, who can trot and canter. Groups are small, up to four riders, and you can help groom your horse afterwards. There is a weight limit of 95 kg on horses and 55 kg on ponies.
Tandem paragliding
No experience is needed: you fly strapped to a licensed pilot. Flights take off from sites along the coast, including El Palomaret and near Santa Pola, with views over Benidorm's beaches. A 30-minute flight is listed with GoPro video included on Yumping. Prorider Tour's tandem experience starts at 16:00, lasts about 4 hours with transfers and meets in Agost, inland from Alicante; video costs about €30 extra. Flights depend on wind, so keep a spare day.
Canyoning
Canyoning means walking, scrambling, jumping and swimming down a river gorge with a guide. Near Benidorm, the Estret de les Penyes trip takes about three hours from €35, and La Mela or the Abdet gorge take about four hours from €40. Wetsuits and helmets are supplied. It is best from late spring to early autumn, when the water is warmer.
Bungee jumping
The Mascarat gorge between Altea and Calpe has a 60 m bungee jump from a bridge, from about €40. Expect a weight check and a short safety briefing; book ahead in summer.
Coasteering and more
Coasteering trips at Villajoyosa combine rock scrambling, cliff jumps and swimming along the coast. Buggy excursions into the hills also run from Benidorm. For more driving, see jeep safaris, go karting and quad bike hire. For the sea, see water sports and scuba diving.
Tips
Book with licensed operators and check that insurance is included.
Tell operators about health conditions and check weight and age limits.
Go in the morning in July and August to avoid the inland heat.
Group activities like canyoning are popular daytime options for a stag do.
Adventure activities near Benidorm: FAQs
Can you go horse riding near Benidorm? Yes. Guided rides along the Guadalest river start at about €50 and suit beginners.
Can you go paragliding in Benidorm? Yes, tandem flights with a licensed pilot along the coast, from around £103.
Where is the bungee jump near Benidorm? At the Mascarat gorge between Altea and Calpe, a 60 m jump from about €40.
Is there canyoning near Benidorm? Yes, at Estret de les Penyes, La Mela and the Abdet gorge, from about €35.
Are these activities suitable for children? Some are: horse riding and tandem paragliding take older children. Check each operator's minimum age.