Heraklion: Horse Ride in the Cretan Mountains

The best part of this ride is the steady climb into the Finikia mountains, where vineyards, hilltops, and open views replace the traffic and heat of Heraklion. From above, you look toward Giouhtas mountain and Agios Silas village, with a fresh breeze that makes the outing feel far removed from the city.

I like the careful horse matching and the short lesson before you set off. I also like the unhurried viewpoint stop, where you can dismount, drink orange juice, eat fruit, and take photos. The main consideration is the uphill route: beginners can manage it, but the ride may feel demanding in strong sun.

Key points at a glance

• A family-run farm near Heraklion: The friendly team knows the horses well and pays close attention to each rider’s ability.
• Two hours in the saddle: The route heads along mountain paths and hilltops, with a break at a scenic viewpoint.
• Good for first-time riders: You receive basic instruction, and calm horses are paired with less experienced riders.
• Experienced riders may canter: At suitable points, confident riders may be allowed to move faster, while others continue at a walk.
• Giouhtas and Agios Silas views: The main reward is the wide panorama from the Finikia mountains.
• Simple, useful inclusions: Helmets, insurance, orange juice, and fruit are included. Hotel transport is not.

Riding above Heraklion in the Finikia mountains

This is not a beach ride or a short turn around a paddock. The route takes you up into the hills near Heraklion, giving you a chance to see a quieter side of Crete on horseback.

The outing begins at Finikia Horse Riding Farm, the meeting point for both the start and finish. After you arrive, the guides give a basic lesson. You learn how to sit, communicate with the horse, and get on and off safely. That instruction is brief, but it is designed to give a first-time rider enough confidence for the route.

The staff also match riders with horses according to experience. Beginners are given calmer, more manageable horses, while stronger riders may be paired with larger or more energetic animals. This matters. A good match makes the difference between spending two hours worrying about the horse and spending two hours enjoying the views.

The farm is family-run, and the atmosphere is informal. You may meet friendly dogs, goats, and other animals around the stable area. The guides are described as warm and humorous, with Hassan singled out for keeping the mood light and helping riders along the way. English and German are available.

What the two-hour route is really like

The ride heads from the farm toward the Finikia mountains. Much of the journey is a gradual climb, with some accounts describing roughly an hour riding uphill along a paved road before reaching the main viewpoint area. The exact route can change, so do not expect every group to follow the same path at the same pace.

For a new rider, this is useful to know. The horse does most of the work, but sitting in the saddle for a long uphill stretch can still tire your legs. You will also be riding in the sun for much of the route, so sunscreen, water before you start, and light clothing are sensible choices.

At the higher point, the group stops for a break. You can get off the horse, stretch your legs, enjoy orange juice and fruit, and take photos. This pause gives you time to appreciate the setting rather than simply passing through it at a walk.

From here, you can see Giouhtas mountain and Agios Silas village. The views are the main reason to choose this outing over a standard riding lesson. The high ground also catches the Mediterranean breeze, which can be a welcome relief after the climb.

The group then mounts again and returns to the farm. Most of the ride is calm and controlled. Confident riders may be offered the chance to canter at the top, but this is not guaranteed for everyone, and it is not required. Some groups have had only a few experienced riders canter while the rest continued at a walk.

That arrangement is sensible. You can enjoy the ride without feeling pressured to go faster than you want. If you have never ridden before, tell the guide clearly at the start. If you are experienced, explain what you are comfortable doing, but follow the guide’s decision about terrain, horse, and pace.

Calm horses and careful matching

The strongest part of this experience is the attention given to the horses and riders. The horses are described as healthy, well trained, and friendly, with trimmed and shod hooves. The staff know each animal’s personality and use that knowledge when pairing horses with riders.

This is especially valuable for families and first-time riders. Children as young as five and eight have taken part with support from the staff, although each child’s suitability depends on the horse assigned and the guide’s judgment. The official information says the experience is suitable for beginners, intermediate riders, and advanced riders.

You should still be honest about your riding level. A beginner who says they are experienced could be given a horse or position that feels uncomfortable. A confident rider should also remember that a guided mountain ride is not the same as a private gallop.

The horses are not simply treated as equipment for the activity. The staff explain how to handle them and take care around preparation and mounting. That care gives the outing a more personal feel than a high-volume riding operation.

Beginner-friendly, but not effortless

You do not need previous riding experience. The basic training session covers the essentials, and the horses used with beginners are described as calm. Guides remain close and offer help throughout the outing.

Still, beginner-friendly does not mean completely easy. The route climbs into the mountains, and the ride can be tougher for someone who has never spent time in a saddle. You may feel the effort in your thighs and lower back, especially during the uphill section.

The surface and route can also affect the experience. Riding on mountain paths and roads is different from riding in an enclosed arena. You need to follow instructions, keep a safe distance from the horse ahead, and stay alert when the route changes.

I would choose this for a first riding experience if you want scenery and are comfortable with a little physical effort. I would not choose it if you want a completely flat, gentle ride with no uphill section.

The views toward Giouhtas and Agios Silas

The scenery gives this excursion its sense of place. From the Finikia hills, you look across the Cretan countryside toward Giouhtas mountain and Agios Silas village. The views are broad rather than polished or staged, with open mountain air and changing light across the hills.

Evening departures can be particularly appealing. The farm has routes through vineyards, and an evening ride may offer sunset views over the valley. Starting times depend on availability, and weather can lead to changes, so check the schedule before making firm plans.

Bring sunscreen. Several parts of the route are exposed, and one account specifically noted that the ride stayed in the sun for much of the outing. A hat may be useful before and after the ride, but do not wear anything that could interfere with your helmet.

You also need closed, practical footwear. High heels are not allowed, and they would be unsafe on this activity anyway. Comfortable shoes with a secure sole are the sensible choice.

What is included for $68

The price is $68 per person. That is a fair price if you want a full two-hour mountain outing with instruction, a horse matched to your ability, a guide, helmet, insurance, and a refreshment stop.

The value comes from the time outside the farm. You are not paying only for a short lesson or a few turns in an arena. Most of the two hours are spent riding through the hills, with time to stop and take in the views.

Orange juice and fruit are included at the break. Some outings also include extra hospitality such as snacks, local wine, or homemade drinks, and the family may offer food at the farm. These extras should not be treated as guaranteed parts of the $68 package, since the formal inclusions list only orange juice and fruit.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You need to make your own way to Finikia Horse Riding Farm, and you should allow extra time to find the meeting point. Some guests have arranged transportation directly with the farm, but that is separate from the listed activity and should be confirmed before you rely on it.

The experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, and you can reserve now and pay later. The time slot may change because of weather, so keep some flexibility in your day.

Family hospitality after the ride

The farm has more than a riding-school feel. The family-run setting creates time for conversation, jokes, and a drink after the ride. The guides have been praised for helping people feel included, including solo visitors who might otherwise feel lost in a group.

A meal may also be available at the farm on some occasions. Homemade food, wine, snacks, and local drinks have been offered after rides, but dinner is not part of the stated tour package. Ask about it when you arrive if you would like to stay longer.

The extra hospitality can turn a two-hour ride into a longer visit. It also explains why this activity suits people who want contact with local hosts rather than a quick, anonymous excursion. Just keep your schedule open if you hope to stay for food or drinks.

Practical concerns before you book

This activity is not suitable for pregnant women or anyone over 243 pounds, or 110 kilograms. Those limits are important for rider safety, horse welfare, and equipment fit.

Weather can change the departure slot. Mountain conditions, heat, or rain may affect the timing, so check your messages before leaving for the farm. If the day looks unsettled, avoid booking another fixed activity immediately afterward.

The guides speak English and German. If you have a medical concern, riding fear, or physical limitation, explain it before mounting. The staff can then decide how best to match you with a horse and where you should ride in the group.

Wear sunscreen and comfortable clothes that allow your legs to move. Do not wear high heels. A secure shoe, a light top, and clothing you do not mind getting dusty are better choices.

The tour has received a very high overall rating of 4.8 from 298 ratings, with repeated praise for the guides, the horses, the views, and the welcoming family atmosphere. The most consistent strength is the care given to both animals and riders. The main weakness is not poor service, but the physical reality of riding uphill in exposed sun.

Who will enjoy this ride most?

This is a strong choice for:

• First-time riders who want patient instruction and calm horses
• Families with children who meet the activity requirements
• Experienced riders who would like the option of a controlled canter
• Couples looking for a scenic outing near Heraklion
• Solo visitors who appreciate friendly guides and a social atmosphere
• Anyone who prefers mountain views to a standard city tour

It is less suitable for anyone seeking a flat route, a private ride, or a guaranteed fast gallop. The word gallop appears in the marketing description, but the actual pace depends on your ability, the horse, the terrain, and the guide. Treat cantering as a possible extra, not the central promise.

Should you book the Finikia mountain ride?

Book it if you want a scenic two-hour ride with a caring team, well-matched horses, and a real mountain setting close to Heraklion. The combination of beginner support, open views, and a family-run farm gives the experience more character than a basic riding lesson.

Skip it if you dislike uphill exercise, direct sun, or the uncertainty of a weather-dependent outdoor activity. For everyone else, $68 is reasonable for the riding time, instruction, safety equipment, insurance, and viewpoint stop. Tell the staff your true riding level, wear sensible shoes, and leave room in your schedule for the farm’s relaxed hospitality afterward.

FAQ

Where does the horse ride start?

You meet your guide at Finikia Horse Riding Farm, also known as Finikia Horseriding or Ιππικο κεντρο Φοινικιας.

How long does the activity last?

The horse ride lasts two hours. Starting times depend on availability.

Is the ride suitable for beginners?

Yes. Beginners, intermediate riders, and advanced riders are welcome. Beginners receive a basic riding lesson before the group leaves.

Can experienced riders gallop?

Experienced riders may be allowed to canter at a suitable point near the top of the route. This depends on the rider, horse, terrain, and guide, so it is not guaranteed.

What views will I see?

The route offers views toward Giouhtas mountain and Agios Silas village, along with wide mountain panoramas from the Finikia hills.

What is included in the price?

Helmets, insurance, orange juice, and fruit are included.

Is transportation from my hotel included?

No. Pickup and drop-off are not included. You must travel to and from Finikia Horse Riding Farm yourself.

What should I bring?

Bring sunscreen and wear comfortable footwear. High-heeled shoes are not allowed. The activity is not suitable for pregnant women or people over 243 pounds, or 110 kilograms.