If you’re looking to combine a love of horses with a taste of authentic Crete scenery, the East Coastline Ride from Crete Horse Riding is worth your consideration. For around $102 per person and lasting roughly 1.5 hours, this tour takes you along a scenic coastal route through olive groves and small beaches, offering a relaxed yet memorable glimpse of Crete’s natural beauty.
What we love about this experience is first, how it balances beautiful, unspoiled landscapes — like the olive groves and the Libyan Sea — with the personal touch of experienced guides. Second, the opportunity to see secluded beaches that are not accessible by car gives a sense of discovery and tranquility. One minor consideration is that the ride duration is relatively short — if you’re seeking a full-day adventure, you’ll need to look elsewhere — but for a quick escape into nature, it’s perfect.
This tour is ideal for beginners and experienced riders alike who want a relaxing ride with stunning views, especially those interested in authentic scenery rather than tourist-heavy spots. If you enjoy peaceful nature, beautiful coastlines, and a friendly, small-group setting, this is a great choice.
Key Points
- Stunning coastal scenery with views of the Libyan Sea makes this ride visually unforgettable.
- Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
- Expert guides lead the way, making beginners feel safe and providing local insights.
- Flexible timing and cancellation policies add convenience and peace of mind.
- Ideal for those looking for a short, scenic trip rather than a lengthy ride.
- Includes safety gear and well-trained horses to ensure comfort and security.
An Authentic Crete Experience on Horseback
When planning a trip to Crete, many travelers look for activities that go beyond the typical. The East Coastline Ride delivers a relaxed, scenic experience that highlights the island’s natural beauty and rural charm. For just over an hour and a half, you’ll be riding along a trail that meanders through olive groves towards Damnoni beach and passes small beaches like Ammoudaki and Klissidi.
The experience is well-suited for those who want to feel the sense of freedom that comes from riding a well-trained horse along unspoiled paths, with dramatic views over the Libyan Sea. As one review enthusiastically states, “everything was great,” which reflects a broad satisfaction with the professionalism of guides and the beauty of the environment. It’s clear this is a tour designed to create lasting memories without feeling rushed or overly commercialized.
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Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
Starting Point and Preparation
Your journey begins at the Horse Riding Center, where you’ll meet your guides, who speak both English and Greek. Here, safety gear is provided — a reassurance for those new to horseback riding — and you’ll receive brief instructions about riding technique and safety.
Olive Groves and Scenic Trails
The first part of the ride takes you through scenic olive groves, a quintessential aspect of Crete’s landscape. We loved the way the shade of the trees contrasted with the shimmering sunlight and the scent of olives filled the air. This part really sets the tone for a peaceful, nature-focused experience.
More Great Tours NearbyTowards Damnoni Beach
The trail then winds its way eastward along rural roads and dirt paths toward Damnoni beach. The ride offers a unique perspective of the coast, where you can appreciate the rugged landscape from a vantage point not available by car. The calm, steady pace of the horses allows you to absorb the surroundings fully.
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Beaches of Ammoudaki and Klissidi
Riders will pass by smaller beaches such as Ammoudaki and Klissidi, which are perfect spots for photos and quiet contemplation. These beaches are less crowded, giving you the sensation of discovering secret spots along the coast. The views of the Libyan Sea are spectacular here, with turquoise waters stretching to the horizon.
Return and Reflection
The return ride is a gentle descent back to the starting point, giving you plenty of time to relax and chat about the experience with your guides or fellow riders. Many reviews mention the knowledgeable guides, who add context about the landscape and local culture, enriching the ride further.
What’s Included and What to Bring
This tour includes well-trained horses, experienced guides, and safety gear — all you need for a comfortable ride. Keep in mind that transfers, food, and drinks are not included, so plan to arrange your own transportation and perhaps bring a snack or water.
For your ride, pack comfortable clothes, closed-toe shoes, sunscreen, and a sun hat. The ride’s outdoor nature means you’ll want to be prepared for Crete’s sunny weather, especially in summer.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tour is best suited for those seeking a short yet scenic outdoor activity. It’s particularly good for beginners and families, thanks to the calm, trained horses and small group size. Experienced riders also appreciate the relaxed pace and gorgeous scenery. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, people over 264 lbs, or children under 110 cm, so review the restrictions beforehand.
Why This Experience Offers Great Value
At $102, this tour provides excellent value for a personalized, scenic outdoor activity in Crete. The small group setting ensures individual attention from guides, and the chance to see hidden beaches and untouched landscape is an authentic bonus. Similar experiences with longer durations or larger groups tend to cost more, making this a practical option for a half-day adventure.
The professional guides and well-trained horses add to the safety and enjoyment, making this a worry-free way to explore Crete’s east coast. Plus, the flexible cancellation policy (cancel up to 24 hours in advance) adds peace of mind, especially in unpredictable weather.
Final Thoughts
This horseback riding tour strikes a perfect balance between scenic beauty, relaxed pace, and genuine local charm. It’s an accessible way for all levels to experience Crete’s stunning coastline without the physical demands of a long trek. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, you’ll find the ride peaceful, enjoyable, and filled with picturesque moments.
While it’s a short tour, the views of the Libyan Sea and the experience of riding through olive groves make it feel meaningful. It’s a lovely way to break away from the usual tourist spots and enjoy a slice of rural Crete that many visitors miss.
If you love nature, quiet beaches, and the idea of riding a horse along scenic trails, this tour will leave you with a fresh appreciation for Crete’s diverse landscape. It’s a great choice for a quick, authentic escape into the island’s natural beauty.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to accommodate riders of all levels, with experienced guides and safety gear provided. The horses are well-trained, and the pace is gentle.
How long is the ride?
The ride lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity without feeling rushed.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity, closed-toe shoes, a sun hat, and sunscreen are recommended.
Are transfers included?
No, transfers to and from the Horse Riding Center are not included, so plan your transportation accordingly.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in case of unexpected changes.
Is it suitable for children?
Children must be at least 110 cm tall to join, and the activity is most suitable for those capable of riding comfortably.
Are there any health restrictions?
This activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people over 264 lbs (120 kg), or children under 3 ft 6 in (110 cm).
In summary, the Crete Horse Riding: East Coastline Ride offers a genuinely enjoyable way to see some of the island’s most beautiful scenery with expert guides in a small-group setting. Perfect for those seeking a peaceful outdoor experience that combines nature, culture, and a touch of adventure.
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