Crete Horse Riding: East Coastline Ride
Location: Crete, Greece
Country: Greece
Rating: 4.8 (13 reviews)
Price: $102 per person
Supplier: Crete Horse Riding
Getting a feel for Crete’s natural beauty often means venturing beyond the popular archaeological sites and into the countryside. The East Coastline Ride offered by Crete Horse Riding is a wonderful way for travelers of all levels to see a different side of this island—through the back of a well-trained horse, no less.
While I haven’t personally saddled up myself, the consistent glowing reviews suggest this experience hits the mark for those seeking a gentle, scenic, and authentic taste of Crete’s coastal landscape. What really draws me in is how this ride blends stunning sea vistas with tranquil olive groves, all within a manageable 1.5-hour window that fits easily into a busy day. Two aspects I particularly appreciate are the expert guides who speak both English and Greek and the small-group setting, which makes the adventure feel personal rather than touristy.
One thing to consider is that this experience isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people over 264 lbs (120 kg), or children under 3 feet 6 inches (110 cm)—which is typical for horseback riding. Also, if you’re looking for a full-day adventure or transportation included, you’ll want to plan accordingly, as transfers and food are not covered. Nonetheless, for a quick but memorable escape into nature, this ride delivers more than enough value.
Key points / Takeaways
- Stunning Coastal Views: You’ll love the chance to see the Libyan Sea from a horse, providing a perspective that’s both peaceful and picture-perfect.
- Expert Guides: The guides are experienced and friendly, making even beginners feel comfortable and confident.
- Small Group Size: Limited to six participants, ensuring a personalized experience that feels relaxed and intimate.
- Flexible Booking & Cancellation: You can reserve now and pay later, with full refunds available if you cancel 24 hours in advance.
- Ideal for Nature Lovers and Relaxation Seekers: The route through olive groves and coastal small beaches offers a laid-back, scenic experience.
- Not Included: Transfers, food, and drinks, so plan to arrange your own logistics and pack accordingly.
Exploring Crete’s East Coast by Horseback
My deep dive into this horseback ride reveals a straightforward yet scenic adventure, perfect for travelers wanting a break from the usual sightseeing grind. Starting at the Horse Riding Center, you’ll be greeted by well-trained horses and guides fluent in English and Greek, offering both safety and local insight. The route heads eastward along rural roads and through olive groves, eventually leading you toward Damnoni beach, one of the smaller, charming beaches along the coast.
What makes this ride special is the chance to see Crete from a different angle—literally. As you traverse the scenic path, you’ll encounter the quiet beauty of small beaches like Ammoudaki and Klissidi, which are perfect spots to take in the tranquil waters of the Libyan Sea without the crowds. The views are described as “awe-inspiring” and “peaceful,” with many reviewers mentioning their surprise at how connecting the experience is to nature.
Sylvia’s comment that “everything was great” encapsulates the overall positive vibe. She and others appreciated the guides’ professionalism and the picturesque setting, which makes for memorable photos and a sense of calm that’s often hard to find amid busy tourist spots.
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The Ride: A Step-by-Step Look
Starting Point: The adventure begins at the Horse Riding Center, where you’ll check your gear—safety helmets and instructions—before mounting your horse. The guides are skilled at helping beginners, ensuring everyone feels comfortable regardless of riding experience.
Olive Grove Traversal: The first leg takes you through lush olive groves, a staple of Crete’s landscape. This part of the route is ideal for appreciating the island’s agricultural roots and enjoying the scents of the Mediterranean. You might find that the gentle rhythm of the horses complements the serenity of the setting.
Coastal Path & Beaches: The highlight is moving eastward along rural roads that lead to Damnoni beach, with stops where you can take photos or simply soak in the scenery. The smaller beaches of Ammoudaki and Klissidi offer intimate spots for a quick break and a chance to see the coast from eye level.
Views of the Libyan Sea: As you approach the coastline, the expansive views of the Libyan Sea become more prominent. Many reviewers mention that this is the best part—riding along the coast gives a sense of freedom and connection with nature.
End of the Ride: After 1.5 hours of gentle riding, you’ll return to the center, feeling refreshed and with plenty of opportunity to ask questions or discuss the sights with your guides.
What a Typical Ride Feels Like
I love the way this experience balances exploration and relaxation. It’s not a thrill-seeking adventure but rather a chance to slow down and enjoy Crete’s countryside at a leisurely pace. The guides’ knowledge and friendliness, especially if you’re lucky enough to have guides speaking both English and Greek, make the experience all the more enjoyable.
You’ll want to bring a sun hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and closed-toe shoes—simple items that ensure you’re prepared for the weather and terrain. Since weather can influence the ride, it’s worth checking your email for updates from the provider before heading out.
Some reviews, like Sylvia’s, note that the overall experience was “great,” emphasizing the professionalism of the guides. Others highlight the stunning views and the feeling of absolute freedom riding along the coast—an experience that many find addictive.
The Value and Practicality
At $102 per person, this ride offers a reasonable price for the quality and intimacy of the experience. Since drinks and food are not included, it’s best suited for those who plan to explore further or enjoy a picnic afterward. The small group size (limited to six) means you’ll get personalized attention, making it a good choice for novice riders or those seeking a peaceful break from busy sightseeing.
While not suited for pregnant women or larger individuals over 120 kg, the experience is ideal for travelers craving authentic outdoor activity with safety and comfort in mind. The 1.5-hour duration is perfect—long enough to connect with the landscape but short enough to fit into a busy touring schedule.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This horseback ride is perfect if you’re looking for a scenic, relaxed, and authentic way to see Crete’s East Coast. It suits nature lovers, first-time riders, and those interested in a slow-paced adventure that offers both stunning views and a chance to connect with local landscapes. If you’re traveling with others who enjoy peaceful outdoor activities and want to avoid overly commercialized tours, this experience hits the sweet spot.
The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?
If you’re after a peaceful, scenic ride along the coast with friendly guides and picturesque views, then this experience offers a lot of value for the price. It’s a relatively short outing that provides a genuine taste of rural Crete and its coastal beauty, making it ideal for those with limited time but a desire for authentic experiences.
However, you should be comfortable with a moderate ride through natural terrain, and plan your logistics around the fact that transportation is not included. For those who appreciate the idea of riding through olive groves with the sea glittering nearby, this is a charming, memorable option.
This experience is best suited for beginners and outdoor enthusiasts who want a laid-back, scenic ride with knowledgeable guides. If you’re seeking adventure or a full-day excursion, you might want to look elsewhere. But if your goal is to slow down, enjoy the views, and feel a sense of freedom on horseback, this ride delivers beautifully.
FAQ
Is transportation included in the price?
No, transfers to and from the Horse Riding Center are not included. Travelers should plan to arrange their own transportation.
What should I bring for the ride?
Bring a sun hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and closed-toe shoes. Weather conditions can affect the activity, so check your email for updates.
Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the guides are experienced and the horses well-trained, making it accessible for beginners and those with limited riding experience.
How long is the horseback ride?
The ride lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable outing that fits well into a day of sightseeing.
Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?
Yes, this activity is not suitable for pregnant women, people over 264 lbs (120 kg), or children under 3 feet 6 inches (110 cm).
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility to adjust your plans.
In brief, Crete’s East Coastline Ride offers a relaxed, scenic, and personal way to experience the island’s coastal charm on horseback. It’s a solid choice for travelers looking for a peaceful outdoor activity with beautiful views and friendly guides—an experience that will leave you feeling a little more connected to the natural beauty of Crete.