Akrotiri: Guided Horseback Riding Day Trip to a Beach

Enjoy a unique horseback riding experience on Santorini with this guided tour to a volcanic beach near Akrotiri. Priced at $85 per person and lasting around 1 hour, this excursion offers a memorable way to see the island’s landscapes and coastline. The tour is perfect for couples, friends, and families, with a focus on safety thanks to experienced instructors who ensure a relaxed ride.

The journey includes riding through traditional vineyards and local trails, culminating in a scenic stop at Vlychada beach. This tour is especially suitable for those looking for a gentle, scenic adventure rather than an intense riding challenge. The small group size, limited to six participants, helps maintain a personal atmosphere, and optional hotel transfers are available at an extra cost.

While the tour provides an engaging introduction to horseback riding in Santorini, it is not suitable for children under 5 or individuals with back problems. The flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours before, add to its convenience for spontaneous plans.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $85 per person for a 1-hour guided ride, with availability depending on the day.
• Location: Begins just before Akrotiri Village, with a meeting point at a large free parking lot by the Sea-Caldera.
• Experience Highlights: Ride through vineyards, local trails, and reach Vlychada beach, with stunning views of Santorini.
• Guides and Horses: Led by experienced instructors who are praised for their friendliness, patience, and knowledge.
• Suitable for All Levels: Tour is designed as a slow-paced ride, making it accessible for beginners and those seeking a relaxing experience.
• Additional Options: Hotel transfer available at an extra charge; no food or drinks included, no guided tour beyond the riding experience itself.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point Near Akrotiri Village and Parking Lot

This tour departs from a large free parking lot located just before Akrotiri Village. From there, the Roloas Riding Horses facility is approximately one kilometer away. The easy-to-find parking makes arrival straightforward, and the meeting point is convenient for travelers staying nearby or arriving by car.

The activity ends back at the same meeting point, keeping logistics simple. If opting for hotel transfer, it must be arranged separately and incurs an additional fee.

What the Horses and Guides Are Known For

The horses used in this tour receive high praise for their calmness and well-being, making the experience suitable even for first-time riders. Several reviews mention how the horses are “well looked after” and “very gentle,” which is reassuring for nervous participants.

The guides are described as friendly, helpful, and attentive—many reviews highlight their patience and ability to make riders feel comfortable. They share stories about the island’s landscape, adding an educational touch to the scenic ride.

The Scenic Route to Vlychada Beach

The tour explores traditional vineyards and local trails, providing a glimpse into the rural life of Santorini. The ride culminates at Vlychada beach, known for its black volcanic sand. Travelers are treated to photo stops along the way, capturing moments of the journey amid impressive landscape views.

Reaching the beach involves a relaxed ride with ample opportunities for photos and enjoying the scenery. The beach itself is a highlight, offering a peaceful spot to take in the natural beauty and the contrast of black sand against the blue sea.

Riding Experience Suitable for Beginners and Nervous Riders

This tour emphasizes a slow-moving, gentle pace designed for all comfort levels. Several reviews mention how even first-time riders or those slightly anxious about horses find the experience calming and manageable.

Guides are attentive to individual needs, especially for riders who may be nervous or inexperienced. The guidance on how to ride is clear, and the horses are described as “calm” and “easy to manage,” helping to build confidence during the ride.

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Optional Hotel Transfers and Practicalities

While the tour includes the ride, instructor, and photo stops, hotel transfer is available at an extra cost. This is a handy option if you prefer not to navigate to the meeting point yourself.

Participants are advised to bring comfortable shoes, sun hat, and light clothing, especially considering Greece’s warm climate. The activity is not suitable for children under 5 or those with back problems.

Reviews Highlighting the Quality of the Experience

The overwhelming majority of reviews give a perfect 5-star rating, praising the kindness of the staff, the quality of the horses, and the breathtaking scenery. Many mention the friendly guides who share local stories, making the ride not just scenic but also informative.

Reviewers often highlight the value for money, describing the $85 price as reasonable given the quality of the experience. The small group size ensures a personalized, relaxed atmosphere, making it suitable even for those unfamiliar with horse riding.

Unique Aspects and What Sets This Tour Apart

What makes this tour particularly engaging is its combination of scenic landscape riding and a visit to Vlychada beach—a stunning volcanic beach with unique black sand and cliffs. The personalized attention from guides, along with the well-trained horses, creates a safe and enjoyable environment.

Many guests appreciate the opportunity to take photos during the ride, capturing memories of their adventure. The option to book and pay later also adds flexibility, appealing to spontaneous planners.

Potential Limitations to Consider

The duration is only 1 hour, which may feel brief for those seeking a longer horseback experience. The activity may be affected by weather, especially during heatwaves, which could lead to schedule changes.

Since food and drinks are not included, visitors should plan to hydrate and bring snacks if necessary. The tour’s limited group size means spots fill quickly, so early booking is recommended.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Tour?

This horseback riding excursion appeals to travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic ride with exceptional views of Santorini’s landscapes and coastline. It suits beginners or nervous riders thanks to the slow pace and attentive guides.

It’s ideal for couples, families with children over 5, and friends who want a memorable outdoor activity. The overall experience is highly praised for its friendly staff, beautiful scenery, and calm, well-cared-for horses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This activity is not suitable for children under 5 years old due to safety considerations.

Do I need prior horseback riding experience?
No, this tour is designed to be accessible for beginners and those with little to no riding experience, thanks to guides’ instructions and calm horses.

What should I bring for the ride?
Participants should bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, and light clothing suitable for warm weather.

Can I book hotel transfer?
Yes, hotel transfer is available at an extra cost, which can be arranged during booking or directly with the provider.

How long is the horseback riding experience?
The ride lasts approximately 1 hour, including scenic stops and photos.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour schedule may change during heatwaves or adverse weather conditions to ensure safety and comfort.

Is the tour appropriate for first-time riders?
Absolutely, many reviews note how guides help first-timers feel at ease, and the horses are described as calm and gentle.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of riding through vineyards, local trails, and ending at Vlychada beach creates a distinctive experience you won’t find elsewhere in Santorini.

Can I see photos of the horses and scenery beforehand?
Yes, photo stops are included along the route, and many reviews mention capturing beautiful images during the ride.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby