If you’re planning a trip to Crete and are considering a horseback riding adventure, this tour offers a compelling blend of scenic views, warm hospitality, and authentic Greek flavors. Based on numerous traveler reviews, it’s clear this experience resonates well with a wide range of visitors—whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider.
With top ratings of 5.0 from 146 reviews and a consistent recommendation rate of 97%, this tour seems to deliver on its promises.
What we particularly love about this experience is how accessible it feels—it caters to all levels, with the family-run vibe making even nervous first-timers feel at ease. Plus, the stunning mountain vistas and the delicious local food really stand out as highlights.
This could have been 4 stars, except for our pick up was forgotten. We were supposed to be picked up at 8.10, at 8.30 I called and it was clear that they had forgotten, eventually they showed up 45 min late. When it was time to mount the horse, the daughter was quite rude towards me and after that she couldn't care less about me. She was nice and considerate towards others but I was 'air' to her, not very Greek.
Hack up a lovely track, juice and meal provided. The horses are so loved and well cared for, veru friendly stafff.
This was the best experience for our family. It broke up all of the sightseeing tours with a super fun activity. The family owners were the kindest people. The horses and dogs are extensions of their family and are so well taken care of! The food was five stars! Highly recommend.
However, one thing to consider is that the maximum weight allowance is 110 kg, so it’s worth noting if you or someone in your group exceeds this limit.
This tour suits travelers who want to experience Crete’s rugged landscapes on horseback while enjoying a hearty, homemade meal afterward. It’s ideal if you enjoy a mix of outdoor activity, culture, and good company. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this experience so well-loved—and whether it’s the right fit for you.
Key Points
- Stunning Mountain Views: Ride through the Finikia and Giouchtas mountains with panoramic vistas.
- Family-Run Hospitality: The hosts are praised for their warmth, humor, and attentiveness.
- Beginner Friendly: Proper training and well-behaved horses make it suitable for novices.
- Authentic Cretan Lunch: Conclude with a delicious traditional meal paired with house wine.
- All-Inclusive Convenience: Pickup and drop-off at select hotels, refreshments, and lunch included.
- Limited Weight Capacity: Max weight per person is 110 kg, so check this before booking.
The Itinerary in Detail
The experience is designed to be about five hours long, combining activity, sightseeing, and relaxation. It begins with hotel pickup at 8:30 am, so you’ll start the day with ease, knowing transportation is taken care of. Once at the stables, the staff provides a straightforward riding tutorial, great for beginners but also reassuring for those with some riding experience.
As several reviews pointed out, the hosts make a significant effort to ensure everyone feels comfortable, no matter their skill level.
What an amazing experience!! We were picked up from our prearranged pickup point by Irene, the daughter of the family that run the farm where the horses are loved and cared for as part of the family! The family were really welcoming, the dad has a cheeky but fun sense of humour which had me giggling most of the time we were there. The trek was amazing, I rode Cherokee and my husband rode Helen. They were wonderful, calm, friendly and loved a fuss. We were accompanied by guides who made sure we were safe as we went up the mountain. At the top, we stopped to take in the views and had some refreshments including ice cold water which was very welcome! After a little time we went back down and ha…
Great experience, the family that runs it are the most lovely people! The horses are beautiful and well trained and the guides know their animals. Food was also delicious!
From pick up at the hotel to drop off everything was very well organised. The horses are incredible and extremely well looked after. I always worry when booking a trip like this it will be like the old school pony trekking with board horses but not the case here! The owners take great care in choosing the right horse for you, I have a hip issue at the moment but they worked around that to ensure I was safe and that I was enjoying the experience with out making me feel isolated from the rest of the group. Once back we had an incredible lunch served with home made wine, the food just kept coming and was so so good! The owners are welcoming and funny and make the experience a joy. Would we g…
After the initial briefing, you’ll saddle up and start your trek into the mountains. The ride takes you through rugged slopes of Finikia and Giouchtas, with the route carefully chosen for its scenic beauty. During the ascent, you’re treated to breathtaking panoramic views—most notably of the so-called “sleeping mountain of Zeus,” which adds an element of mythic allure to the landscape.
Midway through the ride, you’ll reach a top spot for a break. Here, travelers mention enjoying refreshments such as soft drinks and fruit, taking photos of the sweeping vistas, and soaking in the serene environment. Several reviews, like Laura_C’s, mention how this pause offers a chance to admire the natural beauty and even capture photos of the mountain that’s connected to Greek mythology.
From this high vantage point, you’ll get a sense of the scale and tranquility of the landscape. Then, it’s time to head back down, with the horses leading you safely back to the stables. The descent offers a different perspective on the terrain, making the entire ride a balanced mix of challenge and ease.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Heraklion
The Traditional Cretan Lunch
After dismounting, the day continues with a home-style Cretan lunch. The meal is described as authentic and hearty, featuring traditional recipes and homemade wine. As Roxie_P noted, the food is very good value—so much so that some reviews suggest the price could even be higher given the quality.
This was a great experience. The horses were lovely and the hosts good fun. Great food and a good time! We were complete beginners and throughout our time there, the hosts were wonderful at both making everyone feel at ease as well as looking after the safety of us and the horses. The food was delicious and the meatballs seemed to be endless but we loved every bite. The wine was incredible and I highly recommend for any wine lovers. All round an outstanding experience and we will be returning hopefully soon.
This tour was absolutely fantastic! Exploring the mountains of Finikia and Giouchtas on horseback was an unforgettable experience. The rugged slopes provided the perfect backdrop for a peaceful and scenic ride, and the panoramic views from the top were breathtaking. The break for refreshments at the summit was a great touch, allowing us to relax and take in the beauty of the surroundings. The ride back to the stables was just as enjoyable, and the traditional Cretan lunch with house wine was delicious. It was the perfect way to end the tour, surrounded by the beautiful garden and friendly horses. The tour was well-organized, and both beginners and experienced riders were well taken care of. …
Everything was excellent from pickup to finish. Lovely family business, father made lots of jokes and you never stopped laughing. Horses were very well behaved. Lunch and wine were superior. Definitely would recommend if you have the opportunity to do this activity, you won’t be disappointed. 5 Star
Guests often find this meal to be a perfect way to unwind and share stories with fellow travelers, especially in the charming garden setting.
Several reviews emphasize how the hosts are generous with their hospitality—offering plenty of wine, friendly conversation, and a relaxed atmosphere. This part of the tour turns the day into a true cultural experience, not just a ride in the mountains.
The Final Farewell and Return
Once lunch wraps up, there’s a brief opportunity to relax in the garden, enjoy some more wine, and chat with the guides and fellow travelers. The tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel or accommodation, making it a seamless experience from start to finish.
What We Loved About This Tour
From the glowing reviews, it’s evident that the guides are key to making this experience special. Many mention the helpfulness, humor, and genuine warmth of the family running the operation. They work well with both complete beginners and seasoned riders, tailoring the experience to each group.
I had the most wonderful experience on this tour considering that l have never rid on the back of horse in my life but this family were so welcoming and made guests comfortable and relax by giving few basic useful tips on riding a horse and attention to detail in pairing a horse to a guest according to their needs it was awesome experience and the lunch was good and generous. I commend them for a wonderful experience and hospitality.
Fantastic horse ridding experience in the mountains with a freshly home cooked meal and wine after. The trip was very well organised. I am a beginner and I was on this trip with a mixture of beginner and experienced riders, which accommodated both. This is a family business and you can see clearly that this family love and take very good care if their animals, they treat their hoses and dogs as part of their family. I would highly recommend this experience.
It's was amazing, the horses was very well trained. The staff was very friendly. And the most important they have respect to the animals
The mountain views are often described as breathtaking—something you won’t want to miss. Riders get a good dose of fresh air, natural beauty, and a peaceful escape from everyday life. The lunch and homemade wine are another standout, adding a layer of authenticity and local flavor that enhances the day.
On top of that, the group sizes are kept manageable (up to 20 travelers), ensuring everyone receives attention and feels part of a friendly community. Many reviews love how well-organized and caring the entire experience is, from the initial pickup to the final goodbyes.
Points to Consider
While the experience is highly rated, it’s worth noting that the maximum weight is 110 kg. If you or someone in your party exceeds this, it could be a dealbreaker.
Plus, the ride is described as suitable for all levels but involves rugged terrain; guests should be comfortable riding on uneven slopes. The tour does not mention accessibility for those with physical limitations or significant mobility issues.
Gregory and his family are lovely, funny, warm and welcoming; they work hard to tailor the experience to suit a mixed group.
Great fun and great food. Very funny host! Horses were very well behaved and very friendly. Can’t recommend enough.
Such a lovely experience. The staff (especially our guide Hassan) were very knowledgeable, engaging, and funny. They matched riders to horses well and allowed experienced riders more free rein. The lunch was so authentic and fresh and was such a wonderful and immersive Greek experience.
The pricing at $81.40 per person appears reasonable given the inclusion of transport, a guided horseback ride, refreshments, and a delicious traditional meal. When you factor in the hospitable guides and scenic setting, many find it offers good value for money—especially compared to other adventure excursions.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This horseback riding experience is ideal for adventure seekers who enjoy scenic outdoor activities but aren’t necessarily experienced riders. Families with older children or teens, couples, and solo travelers looking for a warm, authentic experience will find it particularly appealing.
It’s also well-suited for those interested in Cretan culture and cuisine. The day offers a combination of physical activity with culture through the home-cooked lunch and friendly environment. However, if you’re afraid of horses or have mobility restrictions, this might not be the best fit.
Travelers who value well-organized tours with friendly guides and are okay with some rugged terrain will find this to be a highlight of their Crete trip. Keep in mind the weight limit and plan accordingly if you're considering this activity.
FAQs
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at selected hotels are part of the package, which makes starting the day easy and hassle-free.
Do I need riding experience?
No, this tour caters to both beginners and experienced riders. Basic training is provided, and the horses are well-behaved, making it accessible for all levels.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity, along with closed-toe shoes or riding boots, is recommended. Sunscreen and a hat are also advisable since you'll be outdoors.
How long is the ride?
The entire experience lasts about five hours, including riding, breaks, lunch, and transportation.
Can children participate?
Children can join if accompanied by an adult, and the tour is generally family-friendly. However, every child’s ability and comfort should be considered, especially for younger or more nervous participants.
What is the maximum weight allowed?
The upper weight limit per person is 110 kg, so check this before booking.
Is there any concern about the terrain?
Yes, the ride involves rugged mountain slopes, so participants should be comfortable riding on uneven terrain.
Final Thoughts
If you're after a well-rounded, scenic, and authentic horseback riding experience in Crete, this tour ticks many boxes. It offers impressive mountain vistas, friendly hosts, and a traditional meal that completes the day nicely. The consistent high ratings and positive reviews suggest it’s a dependable choice for those wanting to combine outdoor adventure with culture.
Though it’s not a luxury excursion and involves some physical activity, the manageable group sizes and warm hospitality make it feel personal and genuine. If you’re open to a bit of adventure, love beautiful views, and enjoy good food and wine, this day trip could very well become one of your favorite memories in Crete.
Crete Finikia and Giouchtas Mountains Horse Riding Tour with Lunch
"This could have been 4 stars, except for our pick up was forgotten. We were supposed to be picked up at 8.10, at 8.30 I called and it was clear tha..."
References
- Viator Tour Details
- Customer reviews highlight the guides’ friendliness, the quality of the horses, and the authentic food experience.
- The tour provider, Cretan Holidays, is praised for their warm, attentive service and well-organized operation.
