Crete Finikia and Giouchtas Mountains Horse Riding Tour with Lunch

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. 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, perfect 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.

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.

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. 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.

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 rave about 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.

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.

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.