Crete: Plakias Panorama Horse Riding Trip

Exploring Crete’s natural beauty through a horseback riding adventure

If you’re after a way to see the scenic beauty of Crete beyond the typical tourist spots, the Plakias Panorama Horse Riding Trip offers a charming, relaxed experience. For just $124 per person, you get around two hours of riding that takes you through rugged countryside, with sweeping vistas of the Mediterranean Sea and dramatic mountain ranges in the distance. The tour is designed to be accessible for all skill levels, making it a great choice whether you’re a seasoned rider or someone who’s never sat on a horse before.

One thing we love about this experience is the panoramic views you’ll be treated to — every twist in the trail offers another stunning photo opportunity. Plus, the small group size (limited to six participants) ensures personalized guidance and a more intimate connection with the landscape.

However, one potential consideration is the schedule — since the tour duration is only about two hours, it’s a brief but sweet escape. Travelers who adore authentic outdoor adventures and picturesque scenery will find this trip particularly appealing. If you’re interested in a relaxed yet scenic activity that combines the thrill of riding with the beauty of Crete, this trip fits the bill well.

Key Points

• Stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and mountain ranges
• Suitable for all skill levels, with experienced guides to assist
• Small group sizes ensure personalized attention
• Ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic horseback ride
• Includes well-trained horses and safety gear
• A two-hour experience fitting into a flexible travel schedule

You can check availability for your dates here:

An in-depth look at the Plakias Panorama Horse Riding Trip

What makes this tour stand out?

The core appeal of this horseback riding excursion is the chance to view Crete’s landscapes from a different perspective — on horseback, with wide, unobstructed views of the coast and mountains. Unlike more active or lengthy excursions, this two-hour ride prioritizes comfort and scenic enjoyment, making it accessible for everyone.

The experience is hosted by Crete Horse Riding, a provider known for professional guides and well-trained horses. Reviews highlight that guides like Michalis and Christina are friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, ensuring riders feel confident regardless of their experience level.

The route and scenery

The tour begins at the Plakias Horseriding Center, where you’ll meet your guide and be assigned a suitable horse. We loved the way guides tailor the ride to individual skill levels, offering reassurance for beginners and a gentle pace for those wanting to soak in the views.

You’ll ride through serene countryside, where lush foliage contrasts with the rocky terrain typical of Crete’s inland areas. The highlight is the panoramic vista of the Turquoise Mediterranean Sea, stretching out in the distance, paired with views of rolling hills and rugged mountain peaks. The scenery is so picturesque that many guests pull out their cameras repeatedly, especially at vantage points marked along the trail.

The riding experience

The ride itself is a gentle trek, with most of the trail being easy to moderate in difficulty, so you don’t need previous riding experience to enjoy it. Reviewers appreciated that the guides matched horses to skill levels, making the ride comfortable and enjoyable for all.

The Horses are described as well-trained and calm, which is comforting even for first-timers. Safety gear is provided, and guides give clear instructions, so you can focus on the experience rather than worrying about handling the horse.

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Timing and group size

With a duration of about two hours, the tour is a manageable addition to a day’s itinerary, perfect for those looking to combine land-based activities with beach or cultural visits later. The small groups (up to 6 participants) create a more relaxed environment and allow for more personal interaction with guides, which many reviewers found helpful.

Practical details and what to bring

The tour starts at the Plakias Horseriding Center, from where you’ll be taken on a scenic ride that ends back at the starting point. The experience is available in Greek and English, accommodating most travelers.

What to bring? Since you’ll be outdoors, comfortable shoes (avoid sandals or flip-flops), a hat, sunscreen, and light, comfortable clothing are recommended. The weather can affect the ride, so it’s wise to check the forecast beforehand.

Cost and value

At $124 per person, this tour offers good value considering the personalized service, scenic beauty, and expert guides. It’s not a lengthy ride, but the quality of the experience — stunning views and relaxed pacing — makes it a worthwhile investment for nature lovers and those seeking a gentle adventure.

Additional insights from reviews

Guests appreciated the stunning views, often mentioning how the vistas of the sea and mountains made each moment special. Several reviewers noted that the guides went out of their way to ensure everyone was comfortable and safe, with one mentioning that “the guide was very patient and friendly, making sure everyone enjoyed the ride.”

A few reviews mentioned that the experience might be best suited for those with some light physical activity ability, as the terrain can be uneven, but overall, the ride is accessible.

Who is this trip best for?

This horseback riding experience is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed outdoor activity that provides fantastic scenery without requiring extensive riding skills. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who enjoy nature and want to capture memorable photos of Crete’s landscapes.

It suits those who appreciate a personalized experience with attentive guides and small group sizes. However, it’s not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or those over 120 kg (264 lbs), so a bit of planning is advised.

This activity is a great choice if you’re looking for a gentle, scenic adventure that adds a special touch to your Crete visit, especially if you love outdoor pursuits and striking views.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed for all skill levels. Guides match horses to your experience and provide instructions, making it accessible even if you’ve never ridden before.

How long does the ride last?
The horseback riding experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including travel time to and from the riding center.

Are safety gear and horses provided?
Yes, well-trained horses and safety gear are included in the price, ensuring a secure and comfortable ride.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes (avoid flip-flops or sandals), a hat, sunscreen, and light clothing are recommended. Dress for the weather and outdoor conditions.

Can I join if I have no riding experience?
Absolutely. The guides tailor the experience for beginners, and the ride is at a relaxed pace suitable for all.

Is transportation included?
No, transfers from and to the riding center are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.

What is the maximum group size?
Limited to 6 participants, making for a personalized, friendly experience.

Can children participate?
Children under 8 are not allowed, as the activity isn’t suitable for very young kids.

Final thoughts

The Crete: Plakias Panorama Horse Riding Trip offers a lovely chance to see some of the island’s most spectacular scenery without the hustle of larger tours or lengthy commitments. It’s a fantastic option for those seeking a peaceful, scenic ride with breathtaking views of the sea and mountains.

The small group size and experienced guides make it a safe and personalized experience, while the moderate duration fits conveniently into a busy travel schedule. Whether you’re an experienced rider or a complete novice, this tour delivers a relaxed, memorable escape into Crete’s natural beauty.

If stunning landscapes, a gentle pace, and a touch of adventure sound appealing, this horseback riding trip is sure to add a special highlight to your Crete holiday. It’s perfect for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to combine outdoor fun with spectacular vistas.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby