Heraklion, the vibrant heart of Crete, offers an enchanting adventure with the Finikia Horse Riding Tour. Combining a scenic 2-hour guided horseback ride through the stunning Finikia mountains and a delicious traditional Cretan meal, this 4.5-hour experience promises an immersive exploration of the island’s history and mythology. Suitable for all skill levels, the tour includes a basic riding lesson for beginners, ensuring a memorable and safe journey. With breathtaking views of Zeus’s mythical resting place, this tour invites travelers to connect with Crete’s rich cultural heritage while savoring the…
Key Points
- A 4.5-hour activity featuring a 2-hour guided horseback ride through the scenic Finikia mountains, with views of Zeus’s mythical resting place.
- Suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced, with a basic riding lesson provided for comfort and safety.
- Includes a traditional Cretan lunch or dinner with homemade wine, highlighting the use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
- Opportunity to explore the rich history and mythology of the region, with stops near the resting place of Zeus and other Greek deities.
- Optional hotel pickup service available from Malia to Amoudara, with safety helmets and complimentary coffee and tea provided during the tour.
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Tour Overview
The Finikia Horse Riding Tour with Lunch or Dinner in Heraklion, Crete, is a 4.5-hour activity that allows visitors to experience the region’s natural beauty on horseback.
Priced from $77.71 per person, the tour includes a 2-hour guided horseback ride through the Finikia mountains, where riders may catch a glimpse of the mountain where the Greek god Zeus is said to sleep.
After the ride, participants can enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch or dinner with homemade wine.
The tour caters to riders of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced, with optional hotel pickup and multilingual guides available.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.
Immersive Horse Riding Experience
At the heart of this equestrian adventure lies an immersive horse riding experience that promises to transport participants into the captivating landscapes of Crete.
Guided by experienced riders, the 2-hour horseback tour meanders through the Finikia mountains, offering glimpses of the mythical mountain where the Greek god Zeus is said to sleep.
Along the way, riders can take in the scenic vistas and stop to snap photographs.
Suitable for all skill levels, the tour provides a basic riding lesson prior to setting off, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey for everyone.
This unique opportunity to connect with nature and explore Crete’s rich history makes for an unforgettable experience.
Mythological Connections
Amidst the rolling hills of the Finikia mountains, the horse riding tour immerses participants in the captivating mythology of Crete. The tour includes a stop near the mountain where the Greek god Zeus is said to have slept, allowing riders to connect with the island’s rich history. Riders can imagine the ancient gods overlooking the majestic landscape as they explore the region on horseback. The mythological elements of the tour add a unique and immersive dimension to the overall experience, transporting visitors to the realm of Greek legends.
| Mythological Site | Significance |
|---|---|
| Mount Finikia | Believed to be the resting place of Zeus |
| Surrounding Hills | Home to various Greek deities and mythological figures |
| Cretan Landscape | Backdrop for many ancient Greek myths and legends |
| Horse Riding Tour | Allows participants to experience the land first-hand |
Savoring Cretan Cuisine
After the exhilarating horse riding experience, guests savor the flavors of traditional Cretan cuisine.
The tour includes a delicious lunch or dinner featuring homemade Cretan dishes and local wine. Diners can expect a warm, family-friendly atmosphere as they indulge in the hearty, rustic flavors that characterize this Mediterranean cuisine.
The meal showcases the use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, from fragrant herbs to sun-ripened produce.
Whether it’s a classic Greek salad, tender lamb, or sweet baklava, the Cretan culinary experience completes the authentic culture of this memorable tour.
Scenic Viewpoints
During the horse riding tour, guests have the opportunity to take breaks and admire the scenic vistas.
The tour guides lead the group to designated spots along the route, where they can dismount and soak in the breathtaking views of the Finikia mountains. Towering peaks, rolling hills, and lush vegetation create a picturesque backdrop, perfect for capturing memorable photographs.
These breaks allow riders to rest and refuel before continuing the journey, ensuring a well-balanced and enjoyable experience.
The stunning natural landscapes are a testament to Crete’s remarkable beauty, and the chance to pause and appreciate them is a highlight of the Finikia horse riding adventure.
Pickup and Gear Included
The Finikia horse riding tour offers a convenient pickup service for participants, with optional hotel transfers available from Malia to Amoudara upon request.
Surcharges may apply for pickups from other areas. Once at the stables, riders will be provided with helmets for safety. Coffee and tea are also included during the experience.
Multilingual guides are available to assist participants throughout the horseback riding tour. Before setting off, riders will receive a basic riding lesson to ensure they feel comfortable on the horses and are ready to explore the scenic Finikia mountains.
Participant Requirements
The Finikia horse riding tour caters to a wide range of participants, from beginners to advanced riders. The activity is suitable for adults aged 11 to 99, youth between 3 and 10, and infants 2 and younger. However, there is a strict weight limit of 110 kg (243 lbs) for all riders.
| Rider Level | Age Suitability |
|---|---|
| Beginner | Adults, Youth, Infants |
| Intermediate | Adults, Youth |
| Advanced | Adults |
Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, and to bring sunscreen for the outdoor activity. The guided tour provides a basic riding lesson before the excursion, ensuring all riders feel confident and safe on the horses.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Based on the 671 reviews, the Finikia horse riding tour has received an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5.
Guests have praised the tour guides for their friendliness and expertise, noting that the horses are well-cared for and matched to each rider’s skill level.
Reviewers also highlight the positive feedback on the quality of the traditional Cretan cuisine served during the lunch or dinner, as well as the welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere throughout the experience.
With a relaxed vibe during both the horseback ride and the meal, this tour offers an engaging and memorable way to take in Crete’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Exact Location of the Horse Riding Tour?
The horse riding tour takes place in the Finikia mountains, located near the mountain where the Greek god Zeus is said to sleep, according to the activity overview.
Can I Bring My Own Horse or Do They Provide All the Horses?
The tour provides all the horses for the ride. Participants don’t need to bring their own horses. The horses are well-cared for and matched to the rider’s skill level.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
There doesn’t appear to be an option to extend the tour duration. The tour is 4.5 hours long, and no information is provided about the possibility of extending it. The company likely keeps the duration fixed.
Are Vegetarian or Other Dietary Options Available for the Meal?
The tour offers vegetarian and other dietary options for the included meal. Guests can notify the tour provider of any dietary restrictions or preferences when booking to ensure their needs are accommodated.
Can I Book This Tour for a Corporate Event or Large Group?
The tour accommodates large groups and corporate events. Groups can book the experience together, and the tour provider offers flexible options to suit their needs, including customizable meal selections.
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Recap
The Heraklion: Finikia Horse Riding Tour with Lunch or Dinner offers an immersive experience that combines the thrill of horseback riding through scenic mountains with the opportunity to savor traditional Cretan cuisine. Suitable for all skill levels, the tour provides a basic riding lesson and concludes with a delicious meal, allowing participants to connect with the island’s rich history and mythology. With pickup and gear included, this 4.5-hour adventure is an ideal way to explore the enchanting region of Finikia.