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Key Points
- Gentle horseback riding through scenic olive groves and wild trails around Kissamos
- Approximately 5 hours including pickup, riding, and optional seaside stop
- Private experience with trained horses, safety gear, and short instruction
- Stunning views of the White Mountains and Aegean Sea from scenic routes
- Optional visit to the calm shores of Falasarna for relaxation or sightseeing
- Suitable for beginners and nature lovers seeking tranquility and connection
Start at a Family-Run Stable in Kissamos
This tour begins at a local, family-run stable in Kissamos, where you are matched with a calm, well-trained horse. Even if you’re new to riding, you receive a short safety introduction to ensure comfort and confidence. The guides focus on creating a calm, mindful atmosphere rather than speed or competition.
The experience is designed as a private activity, providing an intimate setting that encourages relaxation and connection with nature. The guides speak several languages, including Greek, English, Dutch, and German, to assist with instructions and questions.
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Scenic Trails through Olive Groves and Wild Hills
Once in the saddle, you’ll follow scenic trails through ancient olive groves and golden fields. The gentle hills offer sweeping views of the White Mountains and the distant Aegean Sea. The trails are suitable for beginners and those looking for a slow, mindful pace.
This part of the ride emphasizes presence and calm, with the quiet creak of the saddle and the aroma of wild herbs enriching the experience. The ride lasts around 1.5 hours, making it a manageable yet immersive outdoor activity.
Connecting with Crete’s Natural Beauty
The focus of this horseback ride is a connection to the land and inner tranquility. The peaceful surroundings allow riders to slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the natural beauty of western Crete. The unhurried pace ensures that you can fully take in the stunning mountain and sea vistas.
Guides encourage mindfulness, making this an ideal escape from busy routines or city life. The gentle steps of the horses help foster a sense of grounding and peace that stays with you after the ride ends.
Optional Stop at Falasarna’s Shores
After the horseback adventure, there is an option to visit the shores of Falasarna, known for its raw natural beauty and calm energy. This additional stop lasts around 2 hours and offers opportunities for relaxing, walking, swimming, or enjoying regional food.
Visitors can choose to unwind by the sea, take photos, or simply soak in the tranquil atmosphere of this less crowded beach. The visit to Falasarna is a perfect complement to the calm, mindful tone of the horseback ride.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details: Pickup, Duration, and Flexibility
The tour departs from Chania, with a 45-minute jeep or SUV transfer to Kissamos. After the riding session, a 20-minute van ride takes you to the optional beach stop, followed by another 45-minute transfer back to Chania.
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours, with flexible starting times based on availability. The tour includes pickup, local guide, safety equipment, light snacks, and bottled water. It is a private group, ensuring personalized attention.
Suitable for a Range of Travelers
This tour suits nature lovers, couples, solo travelers, and anyone seeking a calm, intimate experience in Crete’s countryside. It is especially fitting for those who appreciate slow travel, scenic beauty, and a mindful approach.
It is important to note that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 287 lbs (130 kg), and the activity requires some physical mobility to enjoy the ride comfortably.
Practical Tips and Considerations
Participants are advised to wait outside the main entrance or reception of their hotel for pickup. The vehicles are marked with the Heliophilia sign for easy identification. Riders should be ready 5 minutes early for a smooth departure.
Since the ride emphasizes presence and tranquility, travelers seeking fast-paced or sporty activities may find this experience less suitable. The short riding instruction ensures even beginners feel prepared, but those with significant mobility challenges might find it limiting.
About the Experience Provider, Heliophilia
The tour is organized by Heliophilia, a provider known for creating personalized, mindful outdoor experiences in Crete. Their focus on private groups and local, friendly guides enhances the feeling of a personal retreat amid nature.
The Sum Up: A Calm, Connecting Journey in Crete
SoulRide in Kissamos offers a peaceful horseback journey through some of Crete’s most scenic landscapes. The private setting, gentle rides, and stunning mountain and sea views make it an ideal choice for those seeking calm and reconnection.
The optional visit to Falasarna complements the ride perfectly, providing an opportunity to relax by the sea after the tranquil outdoor activity. While not suited for everyone—particularly those with mobility issues—the tour’s emphasis on mindfulness and natural beauty makes it a memorable escape for the right traveler.
This experience stands out for its slow-paced, soulful approach to exploring Crete’s countryside, making it a meaningful addition to any trip focused on relaxation, nature, and self-discovery.
✨ Book This Experience
SoulRide: Horseback & Mindful Escape in Kissamos
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes a short safety instruction and uses calm, well-trained horses, making it accessible for those new to horseback riding.
How long does the horseback ride last?
The riding portion lasts approximately 1.5 hours, within a total experience of about 5 hours including transfers and optional stops.
What are the physical requirements?
Participants should have some mobility to comfortably ride the horses; the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 287 lbs (130 kg).
Can I participate if I don’t want to visit the beach?
Yes, the Falasarna stop is optional. You can choose to stay on the vehicle during the break or enjoy the seaside relaxation if you prefer.
What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera for photos. The tour provides safety equipment and light snacks.
Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and transfers between Chania and Kissamos are included, with 45-minute and 20-minute segments.
How far in advance should I book?
Reservations can be made with flexibility; cancellation is free if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.
What languages do guides speak?
Guides are fluent in Greek, English, Dutch, and German.
What makes this tour different from other horseback rides?
The private, mindful approach and the focus on slow, presence-driven riding set it apart, creating a peaceful, personal experience in Crete’s countryside.