Horse Riding With Lunch in the Mountains Near Heraklion

Nestled within the breathtaking Finikia Mountains near Heraklion lies a captivating adventure that blends the beauty of nature with the rich traditions of Crete. This 4.5-hour excursion invites travelers to experience the region’s rugged terrain and stunning vistas from the unique vantage point of a horse or a leisurely carriage ride. The journey culminates in a delightful picnic and a traditional Cretan lunch, promising an unforgettable day immersed in the island’s cultural heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a newcomer, this experience caters to all skill levels, offering an opportunity to truly connect with the land and its people.

Key Points

• Experience horseback riding or carriage rides in the scenic Finikia Mountains near Heraklion, lasting 4.5 hours and priced from €70 per person.
• Enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch with house wine at a stunning mountain setting after the activity.
• Flexible booking options include ‘reserve now & pay later’ and pickup service from various coastal locations.
• The experience is suitable for all skill levels and not recommended for wheelchair users or individuals over 243 lbs (110 kg).
• Customer reviews praise the exceptional organization, food, and knowledgeable guides, creating an unforgettable mountain adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The activity offers visitors the opportunity to experience either horseback riding or a carriage ride through the scenic Finikia Mountains near Heraklion, providing breathtaking views of Mount Zeus, the mythical father of the Greek gods.

The 4.5-hour excursion is priced from €70 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Pickup services are available from several nearby locations, though the experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 243 lbs (110 kg).

Guests can look forward to arriving at the top of the mountains after approximately 50 minutes, followed by a picnic with soft drinks, raki, and fruit, as well as a traditional Cretan lunch with house wine.

Booking Information

Customers can reserve the horse riding or carriage experience and pay nothing today, as the service offers a ‘reserve now & pay later’ booking option. Pickup is available from several nearby locations, including Ammoudara, Kokkini Chani, Gouves, Gournes, Anissaras, Analypsis, Chersonissos, Malia, Stalis, and Elounda. However, the experience is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 110 kg (243 lbs). The table below provides more details on the booking information:

Booking Option	Pickup Locations	Suitability
Reserve now & pay later	Ammoudara, Kokkini Chani, Gouves, Gournes, Anissaras, Analypsis, Chersonissos, Malia, Stalis, Elounda	Not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 243 lbs (110 kg)

Experience Highlights

Riders can choose between a leisurely carriage ride or an exhilarating horseback adventure in the Finikia Mountains near Heraklion.

After an approximately 50-minute journey, they’ll arrive at the top of the mountains, where they can indulge in a delightful picnic featuring soft drinks, raki, and fresh fruit.

The highlight of the experience is a traditional Cretan lunch served with house wine, allowing visitors to savor the local cuisine in a stunning natural setting.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, this tour caters to all skill levels, ensuring an unforgettable experience amidst the breathtaking views of Mount Zeus, the father of the gods.

Included Services

Aside from the thrilling horseback or carriage ride, the experience includes several additional services to enhance the overall enjoyment.

To start, the package includes round-trip bus transportation, conveniently picking up guests from various locations along the coast.

Plus, a tasty snack is provided during the tour, ensuring visitors are well-fueled for the adventure.

Perhaps most notably, a traditional Cretan lunch with house wine is included, allowing guests to indulge in the local cuisine and culture after working up an appetite.

These thoughtful inclusions elevate the experience, creating a well-rounded outing that caters to the needs of each participant.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Customer Reviews

Overwhelmingly, customers have expressed immense satisfaction with the horse riding experience, consistently praising the tour’s excellent organization, delightful food, and suitability for both beginners and families.

The guide has received high marks, with reviewers highlighting their knowledgeable and friendly demeanor.

The transportation services were also lauded, with customers appreciating the convenience of the pickup and drop-off locations.

The overall organization of the experience has been commended, with reviewers noting the smooth flow of activities.

Notably, the Cretan lunch and traditional local offerings, such as raki and fresh fruit, have been singled out as exceptional highlights of the experience.

Across the board, the horse riding tour has earned an impressive 4.7-star rating, cementing its status as a must-do activity for visitors to the Heraklion region.

Picturesque Mountain Views

The stunning vistas of the Finikia Mountains, including the majestic Mount Zeus, the father of the gods, captivate visitors as they ascend towards the tour’s destination.

The panoramic views of the rugged terrain and the distant Mediterranean Sea are truly breathtaking. As the tour winds its way up the mountain, visitors are treated to:

1. Sweeping panoramas of the surrounding valleys and peaks, showcasing the region’s natural beauty.

2. Glimpses of the iconic Mount Zeus, a legendary figure in Greek mythology and a prominent feature of the local landscape.

3. The opportunity to fully enjoy the tranquility and serenity of the mountainous environment, far removed from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Horseback Riding Options

Visitors to the Finikia Mountains can choose between two thrilling modes of transportation – a horse-drawn carriage or the opportunity to saddle up and explore the trails on horseback.

Those opting for the carriage ride will enjoy a relaxed, leisurely journey as they take in the stunning vistas of Mount Zeus and the surrounding peaks.

For the more adventurous, the horseback riding option offers an exhilarating way to discover the region’s natural beauty.

Beginner and experienced riders alike can choose from a selection of well-trained horses, accompanied by knowledgeable guides who ensure a safe and memorable experience.

Whether on four legs or two, visitors are guaranteed breathtaking views and an unforgettable journey through the Cretan countryside.

Traditional Cretan Lunch

After savoring the breathtaking vistas, visitors can look forward to indulging in a traditional Cretan lunch that showcases the region’s rich culinary heritage.

The multi-course feast typically features:

1. Aromatic dishes made with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients like fresh seafood, tender lamb, and an abundance of vibrant vegetables.

2. A selection of signature Cretan delicacies, such as dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), dakos (barley rusks), and tyrokafteri (spicy feta spread).

3. A generous flow of house wine, perfectly paired to complement the flavors of the meal and enhance the overall dining experience.

This authentic Cretan spread allows visitors to enjoy the region’s time-honored gastronomic traditions while enjoying the company of their fellow adventurers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

According to the provided information, bringing one’s own food and drinks is not mentioned as an option. The experience includes a provided snack and lunch, so it’s likely not permitted to bring outside food and beverages.

Is There a Minimum Group Size?

The experience does not have a minimum group size. Guests can book the activity for themselves or with a group, as it’s designed to accommodate both individual and group bookings. The tour operator provides transportation and guides for all party sizes.

Can I Customize the Lunch Menu?

The tour operator allows customers to customize their lunch menu, though specific options may be limited. Guests can discuss any dietary restrictions or preferences with the staff when booking the experience to ensure their needs are accommodated.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Horseback Riding?

The activity is not suitable for individuals over 243 lbs (110 kg), but there are no specific age restrictions for the horseback riding. The experience is suitable for beginners and families, with appropriate safety measures in place.

Can I Bring My Own Horse to the Activity?

No, bringing your own horse is not permitted for this activity. The experience is limited to the horses provided by the tour operator. Participants must use the horses made available as part of the organized horseback riding excursion.

Recap

Enjoy the captivating natural beauty of the Finikia Mountains near Heraklion.

Enjoy a picturesque horseback riding or carriage ride adventure, followed by a delightful picnic and traditional Cretan lunch.

This unforgettable excursion promises stunning vistas, culture, and an opportunity to experience the region’s breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: