Crete Finikia and Giouchtas Mountains Horse Riding Tour With Lunch

Outdoor enthusiasts seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure can discover the rugged beauty of Crete's Finikia and Giouchtas Mountains on an exhilarating horse riding tour.

Discover the rugged beauty of Crete’s Finikia and Giouchtas Mountains on an exhilarating horse riding tour. Traversing scenic mountain slopes, this full-day adventure blends breathtaking natural landscapes with a taste of Cretan culture. From refreshing vistas at the summit to a traditional Cretan lunch, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a novice or experienced rider, prepare to embark on a journey that will…

Key Points

Key points:

  • The tour offers a full-day adventure exploring Crete’s natural landscapes, including horseback riding through rugged mountain slopes.
  • Guests are matched with well-trained horses based on their riding experience and enjoy scenic treks with stunning vistas.
  • Refreshments, such as cool water, juice, or local tea, are provided at the summit, allowing riders to recharge and appreciate panoramic views.
  • The tour includes a traditional Cretan lunch with house wine, providing an immersive cultural experience of local culinary traditions.
  • The tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with guests praising the stunning views, well-trained horses, and friendly staff.

Tour Overview

The Crete Finikia and Giouchtas Mountains Horse Riding Tour with Lunch offers guests a unique opportunity to explore the stunning natural landscapes of Crete.

This full-day adventure includes horseback riding through rugged mountain slopes, refreshments at the summit, and a traditional Cretan lunch with house wine.

Suitable for both novice and experienced riders, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, a local guide, and all necessary equipment.

Guests can look forward to breathtaking views, well-trained horses, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere, making it an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Greek islands.

Horseback Riding Experience

How does the horseback riding experience unfold on this tour?

The excursion begins with guests being picked up from their hotels and transported to the stables. There, they’re matched with well-trained horses suited to their riding experience.

The group then embarks on a scenic trek up the rugged mountain slopes, taking in the stunning vistas along the way. At the summit, riders enjoy refreshments while marveling at the panoramic views.

The tour concludes with a relaxing ride through the gardens and a traditional Cretan lunch served with house wine.

Refreshments at the Summit

What awaits riders upon reaching the summit? Refreshing beverages and snacks to recharge and savor the panoramic views.

Riders can sip on cool water, juice, or local tea as they soak in the vistas stretching across the rugged Cretan landscape. This brief respite allows them to catch their breath and prepare for the return journey.

The restorative stop at the summit ensures riders are fueled and energized to make the descent, while also providing an opportunity to appreciate the stunning surroundings before continuing on with the experience.

Traditional Cretan Lunch

After reveling in the refreshing respite at the summit, riders are then treated to a traditional Cretan lunch.

The meal features three standout elements:

  1. Authentic local dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients
  2. Generous servings of house wine to complement the flavors
  3. A welcoming, family-style atmosphere in the tour’s private gardens

This lunch provides an immersive cultural experience, allowing participants to savor the rich culinary traditions of Crete.

With attentive service and a scenic backdrop, the meal is a highlight of the day’s adventure.

Relaxation in the Gardens

Having refueled with the traditional Cretan lunch, riders then have the opportunity to unwind in the tour’s private gardens.

The lush, verdant grounds offer a peaceful respite from the day’s activities. Guests can stroll through the fragrant flowers, relax on the provided seating, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

This is a chance to rest, reflect, and appreciate the natural beauty surrounding the tour. The gardens’ serene ambiance perfectly complements the exhilarating horseback riding, creating a well-balanced and thoroughly enjoyable experience for all participants.

Farewell Ride

As the tour winds down, riders embark on one final horseback ride through the serene countryside.

This farewell jaunt allows them to:

  1. Soak in the tranquil ambiance one last time.
  2. Bid adieu to the well-trained horses that carried them throughout the adventure.
  3. Reflect on the magnificent vistas and cherished memories made during the day.

With a gentle trot, the riders return to the stables, reluctant to leave this idyllic setting.

The tour has come to an end, but the enchanting experiences will linger long after they depart Crete.

Pickup and Accessibility

Where can guests be picked up for this tour? The tour offers pickup from several locations in the Heraklion region, including Analipsi, Anissara, Hersonisso, Gournes, Gouves, Kokkini Chani, Malia, and Stalis. The tour starts at 8:30 am.

Pickup Point Start Time
Analipsi 8:30 am
Anissara 8:30 am
Hersonisso 8:30 am

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, but infants must sit on laps. It is not recommended for travelers with back problems.

Customer Testimonials

The tour boasts an impressive 4.9 overall rating based on 140 reviews, with the vast majority of guests enthusiastically recommending the experience.

Reviewers praised the stunning views, well-trained horses, and friendly staff. The tour is described as an "unforgettable experience" with "breathtaking views and delicious lunch."

Guests also highlight the "welcoming atmosphere and personalized attention," as well as the tour’s suitability for all riding levels, making it an "excellent riding trip."

Key customer feedback includes:

  1. "Stunning views and well-trained horses"
  2. "Friendly and humorous staff"
  3. "Great food and hospitality"

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Accommodate Vegetarian or Special Dietary Needs?

The tour can accommodate vegetarian and other dietary needs. Guests should notify the tour provider of any special requirements when booking to ensure the lunch menu caters to their needs. The staff strives to provide a personalized experience.

Is It Possible to Arrange Private Tours or Smaller Group Sizes?

The tour offers private tours and smaller group sizes upon request. Travelers can inquire about these options when booking. The tour provider strives to accommodate various dietary needs and preferences.

What Is the Policy for Making Changes or Rescheduling the Tour?

The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, and customers have the option to reserve now and pay later. Changes or rescheduling may incur additional fees, so it’s best to check with the operator.

Do the Horses Have Any Breed or Size Restrictions for Riders?

The tour has a maximum weight allowance of 110 kg for riders. There are no specific breed or size restrictions for the horses, as they are well-trained to accommodate riders of various sizes and experience levels.

How Much Previous Riding Experience Is Required for This Tour?

This tour is suitable for both novice and experienced riders. No prior riding experience is required, as the horses are well-trained and the guides provide instruction and assistance throughout the tour.

The Sum Up

This thrilling horse riding tour offers a unique blend of Cretan culture and breathtaking natural landscapes. Participants will embark on an exhilarating trek through rugged mountain slopes, followed by refreshing beverages and a delectable traditional Cretan lunch in a picturesque garden setting, complete with generous servings of house wine. It’s an unforgettable experience that combines adventure, culinary delight, and stunning vistas, making it a must-try for anyone visiting Crete.