Crete Finikia and Giouchtas Mountains Horse Riding Tour with Lunch

If you’re looking for a way to see Crete beyond its beaches and ancient ruins, a horseback riding tour through the mountains might just be your perfect choice. This particular experience, offered by Cretan Holidays in Heraklion, combines scenic mountain views, friendly family hospitality, and a taste of authentic Cretan cuisine—all wrapped into a five-hour adventure. We’ve reviewed this tour from the perspective of what makes it memorable and what travelers should consider before booking.

What we love most about this experience is how accessible it is for beginners and experienced riders alike, and how it offers a genuine taste of Crete’s rural beauty. The other highlight is the delicious homemade lunch and local wine, which provides a hearty wrap-up after the ride. The only potential drawback? The tour has a maximum weight allowance of 110 kg, so it’s not suitable for everyone.

If you enjoy outdoor activities, scenic landscapes, and authentic local flavors, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially well-suited for families, solo travelers, and anyone eager to combine adventure with culture.

Key Points

• Family-run experience with warm hospitality and attentive guides
• Suitable for all riding levels, from complete beginners to seasoned riders
• Stunning mountain scenery with panoramic views and historical touches
• Includes traditional Cretan lunch and local wine, offering great value
• Pickup included at selected hotels, making logistics easier
• Small group size (up to 20) enhances personal attention and safety

An Authentic Ride Through Crete’s Mountain Landscapes

This horseback riding tour begins with a friendly pickup from your hotel in Heraklion, which instantly sets the tone for a relaxed day. The journey to the stables is short, but it feels like stepping into a different world—away from the bustling city, into the countryside where mountains and farmland dominate the horizon.

Once at the stables, your hosts—who are part of a family business—will orient you with a quick training session. Whether you’re a veteran rider or have never sat on a horse before, the guides are attentive and reassuring. They give clear instructions on safety and riding basics, making even nervous first-timers feel at ease. As some reviews highlight, the warm, welcoming family atmosphere is a defining feature: “The horses were lovely and the hosts good fun,” says a traveler who appreciated how well the staff looked after everyone.

The Ride Up the Mountain Slopes

After mounting your horse, the trek begins. Expect a ride that’s a gentle but invigorating climb up the rugged Finikia and Giouchtas Mountains. The trail winds through farms, olive groves, and wild shrubbery, offering a sense of adventure as you ascend. The views expand as you go higher, with the landscape opening up to sweeping vistas across the Greek countryside.

One of the standout moments is reaching the mountaintop, where you can dismount and enjoy some refreshments. This stop isn’t just a break—it’s an opportunity to appreciate the panoramic scenery, including a view that some describe as “the sleeping mountain of Zeus,” referencing Greek mythology. During this pause, travelers can sip soft drinks, bite into fresh fruit, and snap photos of the breathtaking landscape that stretches in every direction.

Authenticity and Attention to Detail

The guides are knowledgeable about the local area and eager to share insights about the mountains’ significance. As one reviewer notes, the stop at the top allows you to admire not only the vistas but also to soak in a bit of mythology. The guide’s friendly humor and attentiveness make the experience both educational and fun, especially for families with children or first-time riders.

The Return Journey and Cretan Lunch

After the top stop, you’ll hop back onto your horse and head downhill, returning to the stables for a hearty, traditional Cretan lunch. The meal, described as “delicious” and “authentic,” is served outdoors in the garden, creating a relaxed, communal atmosphere. The included house wine is praised for its quality, making the meal even more enjoyable.

Some reviews mention that the family hosts are attentive to every guest’s needs, making sure everyone is well-fed and happy. It’s a great way to unwind after the ride and swap stories with fellow travelers.

Wrap-up and Drop-off

The tour concludes with a brief farewell ride around the gardens, giving everyone a chance for a final look at the horses, before being driven back to your hotel. The entire experience is designed to be smooth and effortless, with pickup and drop-off included at selected hotels—an appreciated convenience.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $81.40 per person, this experience strikes a nice balance between adventure, culture, and good food. The inclusion of hotel pickup, guide service, riding, refreshments, and a full traditional lunch makes it a well-rounded day out. Many reviewers agree that the value for money is excellent, especially considering the personal attention and authentic touches.

On top of that, the small group size means you’ll not only get more personalized care but also fewer crowds, allowing you to enjoy the landscape and company more intimately. The tour’s flexibility is also notable: it’s suitable for beginners, yet interesting enough for more experienced riders.

What the Experience Means for You

This horse riding adventure showcases Crete’s mountains in a way that few other tours can. The combination of scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and warm hospitality makes it a memorable outing. The ride itself is designed to be accessible—so even if you’ve never been on a horse before, you’ll likely find yourself relaxed and enjoying every moment.

And don’t forget the lunch—a generous spread of local specialties paired with homemade wine—perfect for refueling and soaking in the genuine hospitality of the hosts. It’s a chance to connect with the land and its people, making the experience feel truly immersive.

If you’re craving outdoor activity that combines picturesque scenery with cultural flavor, this tour hits the right notes. It’s also family-friendly, with reviews mentioning how guides are attentive to children and nervous riders alike.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts around five hours, including pickup, riding, meal, and return. The start time is 8:30 am, so early risers will appreciate avoiding the midday heat and crowds. The maximum group size of 20 helps ensure safety and personal attention, but booking well in advance (about 28 days ahead on average) is recommended, as the tours fill quickly.

The tour is suitable for most travelers with a basic level of fitness; however, the weight limit is 110 kg, so those above this should consider other options. Families with children are welcome, but children must be accompanied by an adult, and younger kids might be more comfortable with a gentle ride.

Transportation is included if you stay at a participating hotel—making logistics much simpler. The tour also provides a guide who’s knowledgeable and engaging, enhancing the overall experience.

This horseback riding tour through the mountains of Finikia and Giouchtas offers a delightful blend of authentic scenery, friendly hosts, and hearty food. It’s a fantastic way to see Crete’s countryside while enjoying a manageable adventure suited for all levels, especially beginners. The panoramic views, coupled with the warm hospitality and delicious lunch, make it a memorable day out.

Ideal for families, solo travelers, or anyone eager to connect with Crete’s rural character, this experience provides excellent value and genuine moments. Whether you’re a horse lover or just seeking a different way to explore the island, this tour delivers on warmth and adventure in equal measure.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the price? Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off at selected hotels are included, making logistics straightforward for guests.

Can beginners participate? Absolutely. The tour is suitable for all riding levels, thanks to the basic training and attentive guides.

What’s the maximum weight allowed? The maximum weight per person is 110 kg, so travelers over this weight should consider other options.

How long is the riding part of the tour? Expect about a few hours of riding, including a scenic ascent and descent through mountain trails.

Is the lunch vegetarian-friendly? While specific dietary options aren’t detailed, the traditional Cretan lunch forms part of the experience. It’s best to ask directly or expect authentic local cuisine, which often includes a variety of dishes.

What’s the best time of day to do this tour? The tour starts at 8:30 am, which is perfect for cooler morning air and avoiding the heat of midday.

How many people are in each group? The maximum group size is 20, allowing for more personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Is this tour family-friendly? Yes, children are welcome when accompanied by an adult, and guides are attentive to the needs of younger riders.

What should I wear? Comfortable clothes suitable for riding, and sturdy shoes. The guides will provide hats and safety instructions.

In short, this horseback riding experience in Crete is a genuinely enjoyable way to take in the island’s natural beauty, sample local food, and enjoy the company of friendly guides. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of adventure, culture, and authentic hospitality—whether you’re riding for the first time or are more experienced.