SoulRide: Horseback & Mindful Escape in Kissamos

SoulRide: Horseback & Mindful Escape in Kissamos

Imagine wandering through sun-dappled olive groves and gentle rolling hills with a calm horse by your side, all set against the backdrop of Crete’s stunning mountains and sea. That’s precisely what the SoulRide tour offers—a six-hour journey into the peaceful countryside of Kissamos, where nature takes center stage. Hosted by Heliophilia, this private experience is perfect for those craving a slow, soulful connection to Crete’s rural landscape, topped off with an optional moment of calm meditation at the coast.

We particularly love how this tour balances scenic riding with mindfulness. It’s not a high-energy adventure but a gentle, grounding experience focusing on presence, reconnection, and appreciating authentic natural beauty. The emphasis on calm, trained horses and a private setting makes this a personalized journey. One possible consideration? The ride’s about slow enjoyment—not adrenaline—so if you’re after a fast-paced or sporty activity, this might not be your top choice.

This experience suits nature lovers, couples, solo travelers, and anyone looking to pause and breathe in the wild beauty of western Crete. Perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and connect with the land in a meaningful way.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Gentle, scenic horseback riding through olive groves and hills with sweeping views
• Private, personalized experience designed for calm and reflection
• Optional guided meditation by Falasarna Beach to unwind further
• Includes safety equipment and brief instruction suitable for beginners
• Transport from Chania included in the package, making logistics easier
• Not suitable for wheelchair users or those over 287 lbs

Exploring the SoulRide Experience in Kissamos

The Setting: Crete’s Tranquil Countryside

Starting from a family-run stable near Kissamos, the tour is intimate and personal. As soon as we arrived, the atmosphere felt welcoming—an important factor when dealing with horses. We were introduced to our calm, well-trained steeds, and received a short briefing on safety and riding basics. Even if you’re new to horseback riding, this is designed to be accessible.

The countryside immediately impresses with its olive groves, which have been cultivated here for centuries, and golden fields stretching to the horizon. The trails wind gently through this landscape, offering vistas of the White Mountains and the Aegean Sea in the distance. The slow pace makes it easy to take in your surroundings—there’s no rushing, no pressure.

The Ride: Slow, Mindful, and Authentic

The core of the experience is a 1.5-hour ride that emphasizes presence over speed. We loved the way the horse’s saddle creak and the scent of wild herbs in the breeze grounded us in the moment. The trails aren’t challenging but are scenic, winding through ancient olive groves, with occasional wild herbs and thyme scenting the air—an aromatic reminder of Crete’s natural bounty.

One reviewer noted, “This isn’t about speed or sport; it’s about experiencing Crete’s land slowly and deeply.” The ride feels almost meditative, encouraging you to pay attention to your breathing, the rhythm of the horse, and the surrounding landscape. For beginners, the short instruction ensures everyone feels comfortable, and the horses are notably calm and well-trained.

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The Optional Meditation: Serenity by the Sea

After the ride, travelers can choose to stay for an optional guided meditation at Falasarna Beach, a place famed for its raw natural beauty and calm energy. Here, you’ll have time to sit quietly, reflect, or simply soak in the sea, sky, and silence. The facilitator guides you through gentle breathing exercises, enhancing the feeling of reconnection.

According to reviews, this part of the experience “felt like hitting a reset button,” and many appreciated the peaceful atmosphere and stunning sunset views. It’s a perfect way to extend the calming effects of the ride and leave feeling grounded and renewed.

The Itinerary Breakdown

• Pickup in Chania: The tour begins with a convenient pickup, making transportation hassle-free. The vehicle is clearly marked, and drivers are friendly.
• Kissamos Horse Riding: The core activity, including safety gear, a brief instruction, and a scenic ride through olive groves and hills.
• Break at a Secret Spot: After the ride, there’s a pause for photos, sightseeing, or a light lunch. This stop is relaxed and offers a chance to enjoy the landscape from a different perspective.
• Additional Activities: Optional visit to Falasarna Beach for meditation or leisure time. The tour wraps up with a scenic 45-minute drive back to Chania.

Value and Practicalities

The price point includes private guidance, safety equipment, bottled water, snacks, and transportation, which collectively offer good value for such a personalized experience. The private setting means no crowded groups, and the flexibility of the itinerary allows for a relaxed pace.

The tour’s duration of about 6 hours strikes a balance—long enough to feel immersive but not exhausting. Since the ride is about 1.5 hours, it leaves plenty of time for enjoying the scenic stops and the optional meditation.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those seeking tranquility, nature lovers who appreciate slow, meaningful interactions with the land, and travelers craving a personalized, intimate outing. It’s especially suitable for beginners and those who enjoy a meditative approach to travel. However, it’s not ideal for wheelchair users or anyone over 287 lbs, given the physical requirements and safety considerations.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If your idea of a memorable Crete experience involves gentle adventure, stunning natural views, and quiet reflection, SoulRide hits the mark. The combination of horseback riding through olive groves and the chance to meditate by the sea offers a rare blend of activity and calm.

The tour’s strength lies in its personalized, private setting and its focus on presence. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Crete’s land and a moment of tranquility you can carry home. It’s perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape, solo travelers craving mindfulness, or anyone tired of busy itineraries looking for a slower, more authentic connection to nature.

For travelers who want to experience Crete beyond the usual tourist spots and find an oasis of calm, this horseback and mindfulness tour offers a meaningful way to engage with the land and yourself.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from Chania, making logistics straightforward. You’ll see the vehicle marked with the Heliophilia sign.

Can beginners participate?
Absolutely. The tour provides a brief instruction session and features calm, well-trained horses, making it suitable even for first-timers.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity. It’s wise to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The safety equipment provided will be worn during the ride.

Is there any physical requirement?
The tour is designed to be accessible for most, but it’s not suitable for those over 287 lbs (130 kg) or with mobility issues.

What is the optional meditation session like?
It’s a gentle guided meditation led by a local facilitator, held at Falasarna Beach. It’s perfect for calming your mind while enjoying beautiful sea views.

How long is the overall experience?
Approximately 6 hours, including transportation, riding, sightseeing stops, and optional meditation.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Payment is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later.

What makes this tour special?
Beyond the scenic ride, it’s the personalized, peaceful experience that encourages mindfulness and connection with nature, making it a genuine escape from daily stress.

Is the experience suitable for children?
The tour is geared towards adults and older teens. Younger children might find the 1.5-hour ride too long or require special considerations, so check with the provider if unsure.

In the end, SoulRide offers a truly authentic taste of Crete’s natural beauty, wrapped in an experience that’s as much about inner peace as it is about scenery. Whether you’re seeking a quiet escape or a meaningful adventure, this tour provides a perfect way to slow down and reconnect.

You can check availability for your dates here: