Santorini: Horseback Riding on the Black Sandy Eros Beach

If you’re dreaming of exploring Santorini in a truly unique way, a horseback ride to Eros Beach might just be the highlight of your trip. While we haven’t personally saddled up, reviews and descriptions paint a vivid picture of an experience that combines natural beauty, gentle adventure, and a touch of history.

What makes this tour special? First, the chance to ride through dramatic volcanic landscapes shaped by an eruption over 3,500 years ago. Second, the serene ride along Black Sandy Eros Beach with its tranquil, almost cinematic vibe. And third, the friendly, knowledgeable guides who seem to go above and beyond—many guests raving about their helpfulness and storytelling skills.

Of course, a possible consideration is the duration and pace—it lasts about 1.5 hours, which suits most riders but might feel quick for those wanting a longer adventure. This tour is tailor-made for beginners, families, or anyone seeking a peaceful, scenic escape on horseback. If that’s your vibe, keep reading.

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Key Points

Suitable for all levels: Calm, well-trained horses make it accessible for beginners.
Stunning volcanic scenery: From canyons to volcanic ash fields, the landscape is truly out of this world.
Unique beach experience: Ride along the shoreline of Eros Beach and into the sea, depending on conditions.
Authentic guides: Guides share stories and insights that add depth to the experience.
Perfect for photos: The scenery and moments like riding into the sea make for unforgettable snapshots.
Limited group size: Small groups (up to 10) ensure personalized attention.

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What to Expect from the Santorini Horseback Ride

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Starting Point and Introduction

Your adventure begins at the Santorini Horse Riding Stables, perched on a peaceful hilltop above Vlychada. The family-run setup makes a welcoming first impression, and the guides’ passion for the island and horses is evident.

Before saddle-up, you’ll receive a brief introduction to your horse and a short lesson, ideal for first-timers or those feeling a little rusty. Many reviewers mention that the guides are patient and helpful, making everyone feel comfortable. As one guest noted, “Our guide Kristina was fantastic, providing safety instructions and making us feel confident on our horses.”

Scenic Trail through Volcanic Canyons

Once you’re in the saddle, the ride begins through spectacular volcanic terrain. Expect to traverse canyons and rock formations that have been carved by volcanic activity over thousands of years. The ground beneath your horse’s hooves is primarily volcanic ash and rock, offering a surreal landscape that looks almost lunar.

Guests frequently mention how striking the colors are—black, grey, and red tones of the volcanic landscape contrasting against the blue sky. The guide often shares stories about Santorini’s geological past, making the ride educational as well as scenic.

Approaching Eros Beach

As you follow the trail toward the coast, the scenery opens up to reveal Eros Beach, one of Santorini’s hidden gems. Known for its black volcanic sand and peaceful ambiance, the beach feels like a secret getaway. The calm waters and the black lava rocks create a dramatic, almost cinematic backdrop.

Guests like Madalyn and Kimberly compliment the well-behaved horses and the friendly guides who make the ride smooth and enjoyable. One reviewer shared, “The horses are so calm and look very well cared for,” which is reassuring for riders new to horses.

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Riding Along the Shore and into the Sea

The highlight for many is the gently riding along the shoreline—the sound of waves lapping against lava stones under your horse’s hooves creates a peaceful, almost meditative atmosphere. Depending on the season and sea conditions, there’s even a chance to step into the shallow waters with your horse—a truly magical moment described as “incredible” by guests.

A short stop on the beach allows time for photos, taking in the scenery, or simply soaking up the peaceful energy. The white volcanic cliffs of Vlychada rise nearby, offering perfect photo opportunities and a stunning backdrop for reflection.

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Return to the Stables

After exploring the shoreline, the route takes you back through the volcanic landscape to the stables. Guests often mention the ease of the ride and the personalized attention they received, with guides helping those who needed a little extra support. Many leave feeling not just exhilarated, but also more connected to the island’s volcanic history.

At the end, there’s time to thank your horse and relax with some refreshments, often noting how the experience left them feeling calm and more in tune with nature. Many reviews highlight the authenticity and friendliness of the guides, which adds to the overall value.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

This tour lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity that won’t interfere with your travel plans. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures personalized guidance and a more intimate experience.

Included in the price are the horse ride, a short riding lesson, helmets, saddle bags, water, and photographs taken with your phone—valuable mementos of your adventure. Many guests appreciated the photos, as guides are happy to capture moments during the ride, especially on the beach.

The tour is created for beginners, so no prior riding experience is necessary. It’s suitable for ages 6 and up, but not for pregnant women or individuals over 254 lbs (115 kg). Children as young as 6 can join, but those under that age are not eligible.

Meeting Point and Timing

You should arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled start at the Santorini Horse Riding Stables. The activity concludes back at the meeting point, making logistics simple. The exact start times vary, so it’s best to check availability when booking.

Flexibility and Cancellation

Booking is flexible—free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. You can reserve now and pay later, making it easy to adapt your plans if needed.

Why We Think This Tour Offers Great Value

Many reviewers, including Kimberly who called the scenery “amazing” and the horses “beautiful,” express how the experience exceeded their expectations. The price for a 90-minute guided ride includes not just the ride itself but also safety gear, informative guidance, and memorable photos—all factors that contribute to good value.

Guests often mention the professionalism of the guides, highlighting specific names like Kristina and Amber, who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, making the ride feel exclusive rather than rushed.

The scenery is truly the star here—riders get to see volcanic canyons, ash fields, the tranquil shoreline, and the iconic Vlychada cliffs. This combination of natural beauty and gentle adventure makes it a unique way to see Santorini beyond the usual crowded viewpoints.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for beginners or those who prefer a relaxed pace over a rigorous ride. Families with children aged 6 and above will appreciate the family-friendly setup. It’s also perfect for nature lovers keen to combine scenic sightseeing with a peaceful, slow-paced adventure.

If you’re a history buff, you’ll enjoy the storytelling about Santorini’s volcanic past woven into the ride. Photographers will find plenty of opportunities for stunning shots, especially with the backdrop of black sands and volcanic cliffs.

However, those expecting a strenuous or lengthy ride should consider other options, as this is a short, gentle tour designed for comfort and scenery.

The Sum Up

This horseback riding tour on Santorini offers a unique, authentic glimpse into the island’s volcanic landscape and natural beauty. The combination of gentle riding, breathtaking scenery, and expert guides makes it a memorable experience for a broad range of travelers.

It’s particularly well-suited for beginners, families, and those wanting a peaceful escape from the busy tourist spots. The inclusion of photos and the small group setting add extra value, ensuring a personalized feel.

While the ride duration is modest, the landscapes and moments—like riding into the sea—are truly unforgettable. If you’re looking to combine adventure with serenity and learn about Santorini’s volcanic history in a relaxed setting, this tour delivers a well-rounded experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is created for beginners, with calm, well-trained horses and a short safety lesson to help you feel comfortable.

How long does the ride last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, including the introduction and return to the stables.

Can I ride into the water?
Depending on the season and sea conditions, there might be an opportunity to step into the shallow waters with your horse—many guests describe this as magical.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the horseback ride, a short riding lesson, helmets, saddle bags, a bottle of water, and photographs taken with your phone.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, tours are limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children aged 6 and above are welcome to participate. Those under 6 are not suitable for this activity.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for riding, and be sure to use sunscreen. Avoid wearing very fancy clothes due to the dusty trail.

This experience combines natural beauty, authentic connection with horses, and scenic wonder—making it a standout activity for anyone visiting Santorini. Whether you’re a first-timer or just looking for a peaceful way to explore the island’s volcanic soul, this trail promises memories that will last long after you dismount.