SoulRide: Horseback & Mindful Escape in Kissamos

SoulRide: Horseback & Mindful Escape in Kissamos

This six-hour journey in Crete offers a chance to slow down and reconnect with nature through a peaceful horseback ride in Kissamos. What makes this experience truly special is the focus on mindfulness and serenity — a gentle escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The tour combines scenic trails, stunning vistas, and optional meditation by the sea, making it ideal for travelers seeking calm, authenticity, and a touch of nature’s quiet magic.

One of the things we love most is how it balances adventure with tranquility. The ride itself is designed for all levels, including beginners, and the surrounding landscapes seem to invite reflection rather than adrenaline. However, a consideration is that this tour is quite laid-back — so if you’re after a high-energy, fast-paced experience, this might not be your best fit. Still, for those craving genuine peace and scenic beauty, it’s a perfect choice. This tour suits nature lovers, couples, solo travelers, and anyone wanting a soulful break in Crete’s countryside.

Key Points

• Gentle, beginner-friendly horseback ride through olive groves and hills.
• Stunning panoramic views of the White Mountains and Aegean Sea.
• Optional meditation session by the tranquil Falasarna Beach.
• Private experience that emphasizes calm, presence, and connection.
• Authentic local setting at a family-run stable ensuring personalized care.
• Includes safety gear, light snacks, and bottled water — no hidden extras.

A Peaceful Journey through Kissamos: The Experience in Detail

Imagine stepping into a quiet corner of Crete, where the land whispers stories of olive trees, wild herbs, and distant mountains. That’s exactly what this SoulRide experience offers. It’s less about adrenaline and more about being present in the moment — a chance to breathe deeply and enjoy the simple pleasures of riding a well-trained horse across scenic trails.

Starting Point & Logistics

The adventure begins at a local family-run stable, where you’ll be greeted by your guide, who’s often multilingual (Greek, English, Dutch, German). After an introduction to ensure safety and comfort — especially for beginners — you’ll be paired with a calm, well-behaved horse. This initial step is crucial, as it sets the tone for a relaxed and enjoyable ride, regardless of your prior experience.

The ride itself lasts about 1.5 hours, with the whole experience spanning roughly six hours including transportation. The tour includes pickup and drop-off from Chania, making it easy to integrate into a wider Crete itinerary. Expect a 45-minute drive to Kissamos, during which you can sit back and enjoy scenic views of Crete’s countryside.

The Scenic Trails

Once in Kissamos, you’ll set off along trails winding through ancient olive groves and golden fields, with gentle hills rolling around you. This isn’t a high-speed trek; instead, the focus is on slow, mindful riding. The gentle creak of the saddle, the scent of wild herbs carried by the breeze, and the warm sunlight filtering through olive branches create an atmosphere of calm.

Guides are attentive and experienced, ensuring both safety and enrichment during the ride. Several reviewers mention how the guides, like Maria and Nikos, make everyone feel comfortable, even those new to horseback riding. The stunning vista of the White Mountains in the background and glimpses of the sea in the distance enhance the sense of being in a truly special place.

Why the Views Matter

The views are a highlight for most travelers. The combination of mountains and sea, often visible from vantage points along the trail, offers photo-worthy moments. One reviewer noted that “riding through olive groves with the White Mountains behind was both peaceful and breathtaking,” which captures the essence of the experience.

The Optional Meditation & Sea Time

After the ride, you can choose to unwind further at Falasarna Beach, renowned for its raw natural beauty and tranquil energy. Here, an optional guided meditation session led by a local mindfulness facilitator helps deepen your sense of calm. Surrounded by the gentle sounds of the sea, you’ll have space to reflect, relax, or just sit in silence.

This segment adds a layer of mindfulness that elevates the experience beyond just a scenic ride. Several reviews mention how peaceful and centering the meditation was — a perfect way to end the day.

The Regional Stop & Free Time

The tour includes a stop at a “secret” location — a regional restaurant or scenic spot where you can stretch, take photos, or enjoy regional cuisine. This two-hour break is flexible, offering time for a leisurely lunch, a swim, or a short walk. One guest remarked, “The regional food was lovely, and I appreciated the chance to relax before heading back.”

Transportation & Group Size

The tour operates with private groups, which means no large crowds or noisy fellow travelers. The vehicle is comfortable, and timing is flexible, with starting times checked upon booking. The entire journey is about six hours, making it a manageable half-day activity that leaves plenty of time for other explorations.

What’s Included & What You Should Know

This experience is inclusive of a local guide, safety equipment, and a brief riding instruction to put beginners at ease. Bottled water and light snacks are provided, which is perfect for rehydration and a quick energy boost. The tour is insured for liability, adding peace of mind.

You can reserve with confidence — free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, and there’s the flexibility to book now and pay later. However, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those over 287 lbs (130 kg), so check your comfort and safety first.

The Value of the Experience

At about 6 hours, this tour offers a balanced blend of adventure, relaxation, and culture. The private nature of the experience ensures a tailored, intimate outing that feels special without being rushed. The focus on mindfulness and authenticity makes it stand out among more conventional Crete excursions.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This horseback and mindful escape is perfect for those who want to slow down and really connect with Crete’s nature. It’s ideal for beginners or riders seeking a gentle, soulful experience rather than a thrill ride. The scenic views and optional meditation make it a thoughtful choice for travelers interested in wellness and authenticity.

Best suited for nature lovers, couples, solo travelers, and anyone craving a peaceful retreat amid Crete’s stunning landscape. If you’re after a calm, private outing that emphasizes presence and natural beauty, this tour offers genuine value.

For those looking for a lively, high-energy adventure, this may not satisfy. But for travelers wanting a quiet moment in Crete’s countryside — and perhaps a bit of inner peace — it’s a beautifully crafted experience.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be beginner-friendly. Riders are matched with calm, trained horses and receive a short safety instruction to ensure everyone can enjoy the ride comfortably.

How long is the horseback riding portion?
The riding itself lasts approximately 1.5 hours, but the total experience, including transportation, stops, and optional meditation, lasts about six hours.

Can I participate in the meditation session?
Yes, the meditation by Falasarna Beach is optional. It’s led by a local mindfulness facilitator and is perfect for those wanting to deepen their sense of calm after riding.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity, closed-toe shoes, and a hat or sunglasses are recommended. The tour provides safety equipment and light snacks.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included for travelers staying in the Chania region. The journey involves a 45-minute drive each way, so be ready at your designated pickup point a few minutes early.

Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?
The experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or travelers over 287 lbs (130 kg). Participants should be prepared for a gentle, slow-paced ride and mindful of safety instructions.

To sum it up, SoulRide offers a unique opportunity to explore Crete’s natural beauty on horseback, with an emphasis on mindfulness and tranquility. It’s a wonderful choice for those seeking a gentle, authentic experience that combines scenic landscapes with inner calm. The private, personalized approach ensures a peaceful, memorable escape into the heart of Crete’s countryside, ideal for travelers looking to slow down and reconnect.