Akrotiri: Guided Horseback Riding Day Trip to a Beach

Thinking about adding a touch of adventure to your Santorini trip? The Akrotiri Guided Horseback Riding Day Trip to a Beach might just be what you’re after. We’ve seen plenty of reviews about this experience, and it consistently earns high praise for its scenery, guides, and the unique way it lets you explore the island. If you’re someone who loves nature, scenic views, or simply trying something different, this ride could be a highlight of your visit.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines nature and history with a gentle ride along traditional trails. Plus, the fact that the horses are well looked after and the guides are experienced adds a layer of confidence and comfort. On the flip side, you might want to consider that the tour lasts only about an hour, which doesn’t leave a lot of time for additional activities. Still, if you’re after a relaxing, scenic experience that’s suitable for most, this trip is worth considering.

This experience appeals particularly to those who want a fun, laid-back adventure—whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or even as a family (with kids over 5). Keep in mind, it’s not for those with back problems or children under five. Overall, it’s a solid way to see a different side of Santorini while enjoying some quality time on horseback.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery: Ride through vineyards, trails, and reach a volcanic beach for stunning photo ops.
• Well-trained horses and friendly guides: Ensures a safe and comfortable experience, especially for first-timers.
• Flexible for different groups: Suitable for couples, friends, and families with children over 5.
• Value for money: At $85, it offers a memorable hour in a scenic setting, with photos included.
• Optional transfer: Available at an extra cost, making pickup and drop-off easier.
• Limited group size: Small groups (up to 6) mean more personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Tour

If you’re visually imagining this experience, think about gentle rolling trails lined with traditional vineyards, suddenly opening up to a view of the volcanic island’s coast. That’s the kind of scenery you’ll enjoy, with the added thrill of riding a well-behaved horse. The tour from Roloas Riding Horse Santorini is designed to show you the island’s beauty from a different perspective, culminating in a visit to one of Santorini’s iconic black-sand beaches, Vlychada.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The ride begins just before Akrotiri Village, where your guide will meet you at a large free parking lot by the sea—perfect if you’re arriving by car or taxi. From there, they’ll introduce you to the horses and give a quick safety overview, especially helpful if you’re new to riding. The actual riding part lasts about an hour, during which you’ll traverse a mix of local trails and vineyard-lined paths. The pace is relaxed, making it suitable even if you’re not experienced.

The highlight? Reaching the volcanic beach near Akrotiri, a stunning black-sand stretch where you can take photos and enjoy the unique landscape. Many reviews mention how calm and gentle the horses are, which makes this a good option for beginners or those nervous about riding. As one reviewer put it, “The horses are all very well looked after,” adding to the confidence many first-timers appreciated.

Guides and Atmosphere

You’ll be in good hands with the guides, who are praised repeatedly for their friendliness and knowledge. They share stories about the island’s past and local terrain, making the experience not just fun but also interesting. Several reviews mention how welcoming and accommodating the staff are, with one noting that they even shared homemade wine after the ride. It’s these personal touches that seem to elevate the experience beyond just a simple horse ride.

The Experience’s Highlights

Many visitors rave about the stunning views and the chance to photograph themselves on horseback with Santorini’s landscape as a backdrop. People also appreciate the slow, relaxed pace, especially if they’re new to riding or traveling with children. One review mentions, “It was a great experience for a first-timer,” highlighting that even nervous riders can enjoy the trip comfortably.

More Great Tours Nearby

Price and Value

At $85 per person, this activity offers a lot for a short, scenic ride. Given the high praise—a 4.9-star rating from over 300 reviews—it clearly represents good value. The price includes the horse riding activity, an experienced instructor, and photo stops. The optional hotel transfer at extra cost adds convenience if you want to skip the hassle of finding your way there.

Downsides and Considerations

The main consideration? The tour lasts just about an hour, so if you’re longing for a longer riding session, you might find this a bit brief. Also, it’s not suitable for children under five or anyone with back problems, which is worth noting if you’re traveling with young kids or have any health concerns. Weather can also influence the timing, as riding may be rescheduled during heat waves or adverse conditions, so flexibility is key.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

If you’re looking for a calm, scenic, and guided horseback experience, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially good if you want to see a different side of Santorini—the lush vineyards, rugged trails, and volcanic coast—without feeling rushed. It’s suited for beginners, couples seeking a romantic outing, or families with children over five who are comfortable on a horse.

However, if you’re craving a more adventurous or longer ride, or are traveling with very young children, you might want to explore other options. The small group size ensures personalized attention, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more intimate experience.

The Bottom Line

This horseback riding tour offers a unique way to explore Santorini’s natural beauty without the hustle of busy roads or crowded spots. The well-trained horses, friendly guides, and spectacular scenery combine to create a memorable experience that many visitors say is a highlight of their trip. Considering its reasonable price and excellent reviews, it’s a solid pick if you want a peaceful, scenic ride with plenty of photo opportunities.

While the experience is brief, it’s packed with authentic moments and stunning views. It’s perfect for those who love nature, enjoy a gentle ride, and want to tick off a fun activity that’s more personal and relaxed than a typical sightseeing tour. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but only for children over 5 years old. It’s a gentle ride with experienced guides, making it appropriate for kids who are comfortable around horses.

Do I need riding experience?
Not at all. Many reviews mention that even first-timers enjoyed it. The guides are helpful, and the horses are calm, making it suitable for beginners.

Can I get a transfer from my hotel?
Yes, hotel transfer is available at an extra cost, which can make your day more convenient.

How long does the tour last?
The riding itself is about an hour, with the entire activity typically lasting around that time, including introduction and photo stops.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, and lightweight clothing are recommended. Don’t forget sunscreen.

What’s included in the price?
The activity includes horse riding, an experienced instructor, and photo stops. Food, drinks, and guided tours are not included.

Is the weather a concern?
Riding may be rescheduled during heatwaves or bad weather, so check the forecast and be flexible with your plans.

Exploring Santorini on horseback through this tour can genuinely give you a different perspective on the island’s natural beauty. Whether you’re after a relaxing scenic ride or a memorable photo opportunity, it’s worth considering. Just go with realistic expectations, and you’ll probably find it’s a highlight worth sharing.

You can check availability for your dates here: