The Atatürk Forest Farm maintains an equestrian centre with lessons and trail rides for beginners and experienced riders. Forested farm trails make for pleasant riding terrain.
The AOÇ Equestrian Centre at the Atatürk Orman Çiftliği (Atatürk Forest Farm) in Yenimahalle district, approximately 10 km northwest of central Ankara, operates within the grounds of a functioning agricultural estate established in the early years of the Turkish Republic. The facility maintains a stable of trained horses and offers structured lessons and guided trail rides through the farm's forested lanes, orchard blocks, and open paddock terrain — a distinctive setting that distinguishes it from typical urban riding schools.
Riding programmes accommodate all experience levels. Complete beginners receive instruction in mounting, seat and posture, rein control, and basic walk-pace commands in the enclosed arena before progressing to the outdoor ring or farm tracks. Experienced riders can request trot and canter work, and longer guided trail rides along the farm's tree-lined perimeters are arranged by appointment. Children from approximately five years of age are accepted for lead-rein lessons under close staff supervision. Horse allocation is at the stable's discretion based on stated experience and an initial assessment during warm-up.
Equipment requirements are minimal for visitors: long trousers and closed-toe shoes are mandatory as stated at the stable entrance. Helmets are provided on site and must be worn at all times. Riders arriving with personal helmets may use them if they meet standard equestrian safety ratings. The centre does not accept personal horses.
The farm's grounds — poplar-lined lanes, orchard rows, and open green areas — make for pleasant riding terrain that changes character through the seasons. Spring and autumn are particularly enjoyable for trail components, with mild temperatures and the farm's trees in full leaf or turning. Summer lessons in the shaded indoor arena remain comfortable during Ankara's hottest afternoons. The centre is closed on Mondays for routine stable maintenance.
Lessons are priced at 300–600 TRY per hour depending on session type and group size. Private lessons are at the higher end; group and family sessions are available at reduced rates. Advance booking on weekends is strongly advisable as demand from Ankara families peaks during school holidays and spring weekends.
Activity facts
- Where
- Atatürk Orman Çiftliği, Yenimahalle, Ankara
Equipment
- Stables with maintained horses
- Indoor and outdoor riding arenas
- Long trousers and closed-toe shoes required
Location
Atatürk Orman Çiftliği, Yenimahalle, Ankara
39.9600, 32.7900 View on map
Highlights
- Equestrian lessons and trail rides within the historic Atatürk Forest Farm in Yenimahalle, Ankara
- Horses suited to all levels from complete beginners through to experienced riders
- Both indoor and outdoor arenas plus forested farm lanes for trail riding
- Children's lead-rein lessons available from approximately five years of age
- Year-round operation with spring and autumn trail rides through poplar and orchard terrain
Tips for visiting
- Wear long trousers and closed-toe shoes — these are mandatory and the centre will decline entry to riders without them.
- Book weekend slots at least a few days in advance; demand from Ankara families is high in spring and during school holidays.
- Arrive 15 minutes early for a first visit to complete any formalities and meet the horse before the lesson clock starts.
- Children under 10 should be accompanied by a parent or guardian throughout the session.
- The centre is closed on Mondays — confirm opening hours by calling +90 312 211 7800 before making the trip.
When to visit
Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer the most pleasant trail-riding conditions on the farm grounds. Indoor arena lessons are available and comfortable year-round.
Accessibility
The AOÇ Equestrian Centre involves gravel and compacted-earth paths between the car park and stables that may be difficult for wheelchair users. Mounting a horse requires the ability to step up with assisted support; the facility does not currently advertise an adaptive riding programme.
Frequently asked questions
Is prior riding experience required?
No. The equestrian centre offers structured beginner lessons starting with mounting and basic walk-pace control in the enclosed arena. Staff assess each rider before moving to outdoor or trail environments.
From what age can children participate?
Children from approximately five years of age are accepted for lead-rein lessons under close staff supervision. All riders must wear helmets, which are provided on site.
What clothing is required for a riding session?
Long trousers and closed-toe shoes are mandatory. Helmets are provided and must be worn. Avoid loose scarves, open-toed footwear, or clothing that could catch on saddle or stirrup fittings.
How long is a standard lesson or trail ride?
Standard lessons and trail rides run for one hour. Longer trail experiences through the farm grounds can be arranged by contacting the centre directly, subject to horse and instructor availability.
Is the facility open throughout the year?
Yes, the centre operates year-round except Mondays, which are reserved for stable maintenance. Summer lessons in the indoor arena provide shade during the hottest part of the Ankara day.