HORSE RIDING 1.5 hours mountains from area Hersonissos CRETE

Introduction

Our review takes a close look at the Horse Riding 1.5 hours in the mountains from Hersonissos, Crete, a popular activity for those eager to explore the island’s natural beauty on horseback. This tour offers a relaxing yet visually captivating ride that takes you along ancient trails, through olive groves, and provides some of the best views Crete has to offer.

What we love most about this experience is how intimate it feels—small groups, friendly guides, and the chance to enjoy the landscape away from crowded tourist spots. However, there’s one thing to keep in mind: this activity is best suited for those comfortable with riding, and weight restrictions are in place to ensure the health and wellbeing of the horses.

This tour is ideal for travelers craving authentic outdoor adventures, animal lovers, or those wanting a peaceful way to see Crete’s mountainous terrain. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, it promises to be a memorable part of your Crete trip.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: Small-group rides with friendly guides help create a personalized adventure.
• Stunning scenery: Expect breathtaking mountain views and peaceful trails through olive groves.
• Good value: For around $17.45, you get a 1.5-hour guided horseback ride, including pickup, making it affordable.
• Limited participation: The tour is capped at 8 travelers, ensuring quality and attention.
• Weight restriction: Riders must weigh less than 90 kg (198 pounds) to safeguard the horses.
• Additional costs: You only pay a deposit online; the rest is cash on arrival, including entrance fees and optional transfers.

An In-Depth Look at the Horse Riding Tour in Crete

The Booking Process and Cost Breakdown

Starting with cost, this tour is attractively priced at $17.45 per person, which includes the pickup service within Hersonissos to Malia and the guidance of an English-speaking guide. The booking process is straightforward—you pay a small deposit upfront ($15) online, with the remaining balance (including entrance fees and optional transfers) payable in cash on the spot.

This pay-as-you-go approach helps keep initial costs low while giving flexibility for travelers to decide on additional extras, like transfers to areas outside the standard pickup zone. It’s an especially convenient option for travelers who want to keep things flexible and avoid pre-paying the entire fee upfront.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The adventure begins at the riding school, where riders are greeted and given a brief explanation about riding basics and safety. This session is especially helpful for beginners or those a bit rusty on horseback riding. Riders are fitted with equipment, which is provided on-site, ensuring everyone is comfortable before setting off.

Once ready, the small group (max 8 riders) departs along ancient mountain paths that have been used since antiquity. As you follow these old routes, you’ll experience the tranquility of the Crete hills, surrounded by olive groves and panoramic views. The route is approximately 1.5 hours long, blending riding with plenty of opportunities to take in the scenery.

What Makes This Ride Special

The views are a major highlight—reviewers mention astonishing vistas from the mountains and the thrill of descending from heights towards the beach. One reviewer (Isaline_I) notes the “astonishing” view while riding from the mountain down to the beach, highlighting how the landscape’s natural beauty is the real star.

The route is designed to take riders through less touristy, more authentic parts of Crete, adding to the charm. The friendly horses are described as “sweet and friendly”—a reflection of the small family-run business that emphasizes genuine care for their animals.

Guides and Quality of the Experience

The tour is led by Nico, who is praised for being “lovely and chatty,” providing ample information about the surroundings and history, which enhances the overall experience. Guests appreciate guides who are knowledgeable and attentive, making the ride accessible for all levels.

From reviews, it’s clear that guidance quality and the personal touch are high points. Nico’s friendly demeanor and the small-group setting help create a relaxed, personalized ride.

Suitability and Practicalities

Most travelers can participate, with the key requirement being that riders weigh less than 90 kg (198 pounds). Children from age 6 can join but must be accompanied by an adult. It operates in most weather conditions, though proper attire—trousers and closed shoes—is recommended for safety and comfort.

Participants should be aware that there are additional costs for transfers outside the main pickup zone—€5 for Anissaras and Analipsi, and €10 for Gouves—payable on-site. Entrance fees are also paid on arrival, adding to the overall cost but ensuring transparency before booking.

Authentic Experiences and Real Guest Feedback

The reviews provide valuable insights. One guest (Sophie_G) highlights the “amazing” experience, praising Nico’s friendliness and the route’s scenic views. She emphasizes that it was “well worth” the price, describing it as an unforgettable adventure.

Another reviewer (Joris_V) mentions that they “got much more than expected,” with effective riding sessions lasting around two hours and a route that included many viewpoints. This indicates that while the advertised 1.5 hours is typical, some riders might find themselves enjoying a slightly longer experience.

On the flip side, one less favorable review describes a rude host and some confusion over dress code requirements—though this seems to be an outlier and possibly due to miscommunication about attire and expectations.

The Practicalities of the Tour

The duration is approximately 1.5 hours, making it an accessible half-day activity. The group size is limited, ensuring a more personalized experience. The pickup service covers Hersonissos to Malia, making logistics smooth, especially if you’re staying in those areas.

What you wear matters—closed shoes and trousers are recommended, and you should dress appropriately for mountain weather, which can be cooler or windier than the coast.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This horse riding tour is best suited for those who want a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path look at Crete’s mountain landscapes. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate natural scenery, small-group adventures, and engaging guides. If you’re a beginner or casual rider, the experience is accessible, provided you’re under the weight limit.

It’s an activity that combines light physical activity with scenic sightseeing, ideal for those who enjoy being outdoors and want to see less touristy parts of the island. However, if you’re looking for a high-adrenaline ride or have mobility concerns, this might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

This horseback riding tour from Hersonissos offers a genuine glimpse into Crete’s rugged landscape. With friendly guides, stunning mountain views, and a relaxed pace, it’s a wonderful way to connect with the island’s natural beauty. The small-group format ensures a personalized experience, and the overall cost provides solid value—including pickup and guidance.

It’s particularly well-suited for travelers seeking an authentic, scenic adventure in a less crowded setting. The combination of gentle riding, breathtaking vistas, and hospitable hosts makes this a memorable addition to any Crete itinerary.

While not the most adrenaline-filled activity, the genuine atmosphere, friendly horses, and tranquil environment make it a worthwhile choice for many. Just ensure you’re comfortable with the weight restriction and dress appropriately for mountain riding.

FAQ

• What is the duration of the horse riding experience?
  The ride lasts approximately 1.5 hours, providing ample time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

• Is pickup included?
  Yes, pickup and drop-off are offered within Hersonissos to Malia.

• Can children participate?
  Children from 6 years old can join, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

• What should I wear?
  Dress in trousers and closed shoes for safety and comfort during the ride, especially in mountain areas where weather can change.

• Are there weight restrictions?
  Yes, to protect the horses’ health, riders should weigh less than 90 kg (198 pounds).

• What about transfers outside the main pickup zone?
  Transfers to Analipsi and Anissaras are available for €5 per person, and to Gouves for €10, payable on the spot.

• How is the guide?
  Guides like Nico are praised for being friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, enhancing the overall experience.

• Is the experience weather-dependent?
  It operates in most weather conditions, but bad weather might lead to rescheduling or refunds.

Embark on this scenic horse ride to experience Crete’s mountains and ancient paths in a way that’s both relaxing and visually rewarding. Whether you’re a horse lover or just seeking a peaceful escape into nature, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic adventure.