Akrotiri: Guided Horseback Riding Day Trip to a Beach

Imagine sailing across volcanic landscapes, with the wind in your hair and the smell of salt on the air. That’s pretty much what you get with the Akrotiri Guided Horseback Riding Day Trip to a Beach — and honestly, it sounds as magical as it looks. This tour, run by Roloas Riding Horse Santorini, has earned rave reviews, boasting a near-perfect 4.9 out of 5 rating from hundreds of happy riders.

What makes this experience special? First, the chance to ride gentle, well-cared-for horses through vineyards and coastal trails. Second, the scenic reward of reaching a volcanic beach—Vlychada—with its dramatic black sands and rugged cliffs. Third, the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make even first-timers feel like seasoned equestrians. But, as with any outdoor adventure, weather can sometimes shift plans, so be aware that your scheduled time might change during heat waves or stormy days.

This tour is perfectly suited for couples, friends, or family members who love nature and want a unique way to see Santorini. If you’re looking for a gentle, scenic ride that combines easy riding with stunning landscapes, this will likely be a highlight of your trip. But if you’re after an adrenaline rush or have specific health concerns, it might be worth considering other options.

Good To Know

• Beautiful coastal scenery and volcanic landscapes make this ride visually unforgettable.
• Well-trained horses and experienced instructors ensure a safe, smooth experience for all skill levels.
• Photo opportunities at the beach and scenic stops help you create lasting memories.
• Small group size (up to 6 participants) allows for personalized attention and more relaxed pacing.
• Option for hotel transfer at an extra cost adds convenience, but the meeting point is straightforward.
• Affordable price point ($85 per person) reflects good value for a guided outdoor adventure with stunning views and expert guidance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from the Experience

This horseback riding excursion offers more than just a ride; it’s a chance to connect with Santorini’s natural beauty on a personal level. The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, with starting times varying based on availability. It’s a flexible activity suitable for beginners and those with some riding experience.

The Route and Stops

Your journey begins just before Akrotiri Village, at a large free parking lot beside the sea. From there, you’ll meet your guide—most reviews mention guides like Giota, Vangelis, and Maria—who greet you with warmth, snacks, and sometimes homemade wine. This initial welcome sets the tone for a relaxed, friendly experience.

The route winds through traditional vineyards and scenic trails, offering views of the island’s unique volcanic terrain. As you follow the path, expect to hear stories from your guides about the island’s old times—an extra touch that adds depth to your ride. The horses are described as calm, friendly, and well looked-after, making even first-time riders comfortable and confident.

Reaching the Beach

What sets this tour apart is the final stretch—an exhilarating ride down to Vlychada Beach. With its dark volcanic sands and rugged cliffs, the beach provides a dramatic backdrop for photos and a true taste of Santorini’s volcanic character. Many reviews highlight their guide’s assistance with photo stops—some guests note they were photographed multiple times, capturing the fun and scenic moments.

The Experience on and off the Horse

Riders of all levels can enjoy this tour. Reviewers mention how guides like Rafaela and Miza provided helpful instructions, especially for first-timers. If you’re nervous, you’ll appreciate the slow, gentle pace designed to ease beginners into the experience. As James noted, “It’s a great tour for anyone potentially scared of riding horses,” with options for more advanced riding (like galloping) possibly available upon request.

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Additional Perks

Many travelers enjoyed the opportunity to take in panoramic views and capture them in photos. Some reviews mention, “bring your cameras because that breathtaking stop at the beach lead to so many amazing pictures,” and guides are known for helping with photos and videos. Plus, if you want to extend your day, hotel transfer is available at an extra cost, adding convenience.

Why This Tour Offers Excellent Value

At $85 per person, this horseback ride is more than just a fun activity—it’s a well-rounded experience. The price covers guided riding, expert instructors, and photo stops, which are often highlights for travelers looking to remember their trip vividly. Many guests comment on the quality of the horses, the friendliness of the team, and how the experience exceeds expectations for the price.

Authentic and Personal Touches

Guests repeatedly mention how the guides and staff go above and beyond to make everyone comfortable, including offering candies, water, and even homemade wine post-ride. Such personal touches elevate the experience from a simple activity to a memorable adventure.

Flexibility and Peace of Mind

The tour’s free cancellation policy—up to 24 hours in advance—offers peace of mind if your plans change. Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later, making it easier to fit into your travel schedule.

Group Size and Booking

Limited to 6 participants, the small-group format ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or in a small group of friends or family, this setup helps everyone feel at ease.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

While the exact starting times vary, most riders meet at the large free parking lot near the sea, just before Akrotiri Village. From there, your guide will lead you on a scenic trail through vineyards and local paths, offering panoramic views and intriguing stories about the island’s history and landscape.

The ride is leisurely enough for beginners but still engaging, with gentle pace and friendly horses handling the terrain easily. The highlight is the final ride down to Vlychada Beach, practically untouched by cars and offering a surreal black sand landscape perfect for photos. Many guests recall how guides like Giota or Leia helped with capturing moments on camera, enhancing the experience.

After reaching the beach, you’ll have time to relax, take photos, and enjoy the volcanic scenery before riding back to the starting point. The return journey is just as scenic, providing a peaceful end to your ride.

The Experience on the Ground

Throughout the tour, expect a warm welcome, plenty of encouragement if it’s your first time, and stories from guides about the island’s old days. For example, “the owner met us at the road and guided us into her stable,” according to a review, emphasizing the personal touch of this operation.

Authentic Reviews and What They Reveal

The consistent 5-star ratings stem from many travelers’ accounts of the friendly guides and caring staff. Reviewers like Marianne mention their horses, like Mya, as “lovely,” and describe the scenery as “amazing.” Others highlight the calmness of the horses and the attentiveness of guides such as Vangelis, who even went back to find a dropped phone—showing how dedicated the team is to guest safety and comfort.

Guests also appreciate the trip’s inclusiveness, with some noting the slow, relaxed pace perfect for first-timers or those with concerns about riding. As James put it, “Great slow-moving tour for anyone potentially scared of riding horses,” making it accessible to a wider audience.

The social aspect shines through, with many mentions of friendly guides, good conversation, and a shared love for horses and nature. The overall sentiment is that this is a genuine experience, not just a tourist activity, but a heartfelt connection to the island.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic ride with great guides and photo opportunities—this tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for beginners, couples, families, or anyone wanting a memorable outdoor experience without high adrenaline.

Those who value authentic interactions, stunning landscapes, and well-cared-for horses will find this to be a highlight. If you’re not comfortable on horseback or have health issues like back problems, it’s good to consider your physical condition, as the tour involves riding but is generally described as gentle.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5 years old, mainly due to safety considerations and the riding activity.

Do I need prior horse riding experience?
No, the tour is designed to accommodate all levels, including complete beginners. Guides are attentive and helpful, ensuring everyone feels comfortable.

Can I book hotel transfers?
Yes, hotel transfer is available at an extra cost, making it more convenient, especially if you’re staying farther from the meeting point.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, and casual clothes are recommended. Dress appropriately for outdoor activities and sunny weather.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions like heatwaves or storms occur, the tour might be rescheduled or the starting time may change to ensure safety.

Is the tour flexible regarding cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you peace of mind if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This horseback riding tour in Santorini offers a peaceful, authentic way to experience the island’s volcanic beauty. With gentle horses, expert guides, and outstanding scenery, it’s an activity that appeals to a wide range of travelers. The emphasis on safety, personalized attention, and stunning photo opportunities makes it a fantastic addition to any Santorini itinerary.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, want a unique way to explore, or simply enjoy horses and nature, this experience delivers more than just a ride—it’s a memorable adventure filled with beautiful views and friendly faces. Perfect for those who love relaxed outdoor activities, scenic landscapes, and authentic local hospitality.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic, and well-organized horseback experience that won’t break the bank, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just remember to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, and bring your camera—you’ll want to capture the magic.

You can check if your dates are available here: