Santorini: Horseback Riding Tour on the Beach

A horseback riding tour in Santorini offers a different way to explore this iconic Greek island, blending natural beauty, charming pathways, and a touch of adventure. This 1.5-hour excursion, rated nearly perfect with a 4.9 out of 5 from over 110 reviews, takes you through vineyards, local pathways, and along the island’s famous beaches, all while riding well-trained horses led by friendly guides.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is its intimate small-group setting, with a maximum of five participants, making it ideal for couples, small families, or friends seeking an authentic and relaxed activity. One of the standout features is the combination of land and sea—riding through lush vineyards before feeling the sea breeze during a beach gallop. The only point to consider is that this activity isn’t suitable for children under five, pregnant women, or those with back problems or allergies to animals.

If you’re looking for a memorable, active way to appreciate Santorini’s natural scenery and local lifestyle, this tour is especially suited for those who enjoy gentle adventure, beautiful landscapes, and picturesque moments on horseback.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Ride through vineyards and local paths, connecting you deeply with Santorini’s land and traditions.
• Beach Ride Highlight: Feel the sea breeze and listen to waves while riding along the sands—perfect for romantic or peaceful moments.
• Professional Guides: Guides like Maria and Vaggelis are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making beginners feel confident.
• Good Value: At $107, this tour offers a meaningful combination of scenic beauty, expert instruction, and memorable moments.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with the option to reserve now and pay later adds flexibility.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups ensure personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere, enhancing safety and enjoyment.

An In-Depth Look at the Santorini Horseback Riding Tour

Starting Point and Accessibility

The tour begins just before the village of Akrotiri, at a convenient large parking lot next to the Sea-Caldera. From there, you’ll walk approximately one kilometer to the horse facilities, making it easy to reach whether you have your own transport or opt for a private transfer, which can be arranged at an additional cost.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Scenic Departure from Akrotiri
The ride kicks off with a gentle introduction to the horses and the surrounding area. Guides like Maria make sure everyone is comfortable, especially if it’s your first time riding. The initial stretch takes you through lush vineyards and quaint local paths—quiet, peaceful, and filled with fragrant aromas of grapes and herbs. These routes are praised for their authenticity and serenity, offering a glimpse into the local lifestyle away from tourist hustle.

Stop 2: Sightseeing, Photo Stops, and the Ride to the Beach
The highlight for many is the journey along the coast. As you near the beach, the landscape opens up to stunning views of the Aegean Sea and dramatic cliffs. Guests often mention how knowledgeable guides share insightful stories about the island’s heritage and environment, enriching the experience. The ride along the sand is especially popular—reviewers like Katie and Marybeth rave about the peacefulness and beauty of the beach, with Marybeth noting how her family loved galloping along the shore.

Stop 3: Beach Gallop and Return
Once at the beach, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a relaxed, scenic ride along the sands, feeling the cool sea breeze and listening to the waves. The horses, praised for their calm temperaments, follow the commands of guides like Vaggelis, making even beginners feel safe and confident. The return journey brings you through more vineyards and local paths, completing a full, enriching loop.

What’s Included and What to Bring

The tour includes all necessary equipment, an experienced instructor, and photo stops—perfect for capturing memories. You might want to bring a sun hat, comfortable clothes, and shoes suitable for riding. Since shorts and short skirts are not allowed, opt for longer trousers or capris. The guides are accommodating and will keep safety top of mind, making it suitable for first-time riders.

The Guides and Atmosphere

From the reviews, guides like Maria and Vaggelis stand out for their friendliness, professionalism, and ability to put nervous riders at ease. Reviewers frequently mention how knowledgeable guides share interesting facts about the island, making the ride both enjoyable and educational. Many describe guides as gentle, helpful, and patient—especially those new to horses.

The Horses and the Environment

The horses are described as well-behaved, calm, and friendly. The family-run farm takes pride in caring for their animals, which shows in the horses’ temperament and the overall atmosphere. Guests also appreciated the chance to interact with some adorable farm dogs accompanying the tour, adding to the relaxed and welcoming vibe.

Timing and Group Size

The 1.5-hour duration is well-paced, providing enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The small group size (up to five participants) ensures personalized guidance and plenty of opportunity for questions or photo moments.

Value for Money

At $107 per person, this tour offers good value, considering the personalized experience, scenic diversity, and professional instruction. Many reviews highlight how it surpasses expectations in quality and friendliness. It’s a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, making it an accessible activity for various ages and riding levels.

Weather and Flexibility

The tour’s timing can be affected by weather phenomena such as heat waves, so it’s wise to check availability and potentially adjust your plans. Cancellation is flexible, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This horseback riding experience is ideal for travelers wanting a peaceful, scenic adventure that’s a little bit different from typical sightseeing. It’s particularly suited for couples, small groups, or families with children over five who are comfortable around animals. If you’re open to trying horseback riding—regardless of experience—you’ll benefit from the patient guidance and well-trained horses. Those with mobility issues, back problems, or allergies might want to skip this activity, as safety and comfort are prioritized.

The Sum Up

This Santorini horseback riding tour offers a memorable blend of natural beauty, local charm, and gentle adventure. The small-group format, friendly guides like Maria and Vaggelis, and the opportunity to ride along the beach make it a standout activity for those seeking a relaxing yet engaging experience. You’ll enjoy scenic vineyards, quiet paths, and the calming sound of waves—all from the back of a well-trained horse. The inclusion of photos and the flexible booking options add to the overall value, making this tour accessible and appealing.

For couples looking for a romantic outing, families wanting a fun activity, or anyone eager to see Santorini from a different perspective, this tour hits the right notes. It’s a authentic taste of the island that combines nature, culture, and a touch of adventure—an experience that will leave you with lasting memories and a genuine appreciation for Santorini’s landscape.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, many reviews mention that guides make beginners feel confident, and the calm temperament of the horses helps ensure a comfortable ride for newcomers.

What should I wear?
Long pants or capris are recommended, as shorts and short skirts are not allowed. Bring a sun hat, comfortable clothes, and shoes suitable for riding.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your planning.

Is transportation included?
Transportation is not included but can be arranged at an additional cost. Otherwise, you can arrive by your own vehicle or walk from the parking area.

How long is the ride?
The activity lasts approximately 1.5 hours, enough for a scenic experience without feeling rushed.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, it’s not suitable for children under 5 years old, pregnant women, or those with back problems or allergies.

What is the group size?
The experience is limited to small groups of up to 5 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

What is included in the tour?
The fee covers horse riding, an experienced instructor, and photo stops to capture your memories.

Will I get to see the beach?
Absolutely. The highlight is riding along the sandy shores, where you can enjoy the sea breeze and tranquil views—many guests describe it as a peaceful, almost magical moment.

This horseback riding tour in Santorini combines scenic beauty, expert guidance, and the chance to experience the island from a truly unique perspective. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just looking for a memorable adventure, it’s a journey worth considering.