Santorini: Horseback Riding on the Black Sandy Eros Beach

Travelers seeking a unique way to explore Santorini’s spectacular scenery often find themselves drawn to this horseback riding experience along the island’s volcanic coast. With a solid reputation and a 4.6-star rating from nearly 200 reviews, this tour offers more than just a ride—it’s an immersive journey through the island’s volcanic history, rugged landscapes, and tranquil shores.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the stunning views of Eros Beach and Vlychada’s cliffs are breathtaking, especially when coupled with the gentle rhythm of horses beneath you. Second, the friendly, knowledgeable guides ensure everyone feels safe and well-informed—no matter your riding experience. Third, the value is notable, with just over an hour of riding packed with scenic highlights, photo moments, and a peaceful connection to nature.

A possible consideration? The tour length is relatively short at 1.5 hours, which might leave some craving more time on the beach or exploring the volcanic terrain. It’s certainly suitable for beginners and families but may not satisfy those looking for a longer, more intense horseback adventure.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a scenic, relaxed ride with plenty of photo ops and interesting insights into Santorini’s volcanic past. It’s perfect for first-time riders, nature lovers, or anyone wanting a memorable, low-key experience on horseback.

Good To Know

Beautiful scenery: Ride past volcanic canyons, ash formations, and black sand beaches.
Expert guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides make all the difference, ensuring safety and storytelling.
Suitable for all levels: Calm, well-cared-for horses and initial lessons make it accessible for beginners.
Authentic experience: Enjoy a peaceful journey into Santorini’s volcanic landscape, away from crowded spots.
Photo opportunities: Guides take pictures during the ride, capturing moments on the beach and cliffs.
Value for money: At $136, it offers a scenic, well-organized ride packed with memorable sights and gentle adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Out at the Stables

The journey begins at the family-run Santorini Horse Riding stables, perched on a peaceful hilltop above the village of Vlychada. The personal touch is immediately felt with the warm welcome from Nick and his team, who genuinely love sharing their island and horses with visitors. Arriving about 30 minutes before your scheduled start gives you time to settle in, meet your horse, and get briefed on safety or riding basics.

You’ll receive a short introduction to your horse—a crucial step for first-timers—and then, you’re ready to go. The small group size of up to 10 participants ensures personalized attention, especially helpful when coordinating for riders with no experience or those feeling a bit nervous.

The Scenic Trek Through Volcanic Landscapes

Once underway, the path takes you through some of Santorini’s most distinctive terrain. Guides like Christina, who reviewers mention as friendly and informative, love sharing stories about the island’s volcanic past. You’ll pass through dramatic canyons and rock formations carved by the ancient Minoan eruption, which occurred over 3,500 years ago.

The palette of the landscape is a visual feast—black, grey, and red volcanic rocks contrast sharply with the blue sky. Riding through these formations offers a tangible sense of the forces that shaped Santorini. Many reviewers, including Madalyn, highlight the amazing scenery and helpful guides, emphasizing how the landscape itself becomes a living history lesson.

The Highlight: Eros Beach and the Shoreline Ride

As the ride progresses toward the coast, Eros Beach appears—a secluded black sand haven. Known for its peaceful vibe, it’s a stark contrast to the busier tourist beaches. Guides lead you along the shoreline, where the sound of the Aegean Sea mingles with the gentle shuffling of hooves on black lava stones.

Depending on the season and sea conditions, there’s even a chance to step into shallow waters with your horse—a moment some guests describe as “magical.” The white volcanic cliffs of Vlychada rising beside the beach add an otherworldly backdrop, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the silence and beauty.

Reviews from Kathleen and others emphasize how special this part of the ride is, with many calling it an incredible and peaceful experience. The guides are adept at taking photos during this time, capturing moments of riders with the sea and cliffs behind them.

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The Return and Refreshments

After a gentle ride back to the stables, guests typically have a moment to thank their horse and enjoy some refreshments. Many mention feeling a sense of connection—not just to the island’s landscapes but also to the calming rhythm of the horses and the natural surroundings.

Guests frequently praise Nick’s hands-on approach, with Dutreix noting the benevolence of the guide and the beautiful, well-behaved horses. This personal touch, along with the opportunity to reflect on the natural beauty, makes the experience memorable.

What’s Included & Practical Details

The tour costs around $136 per person, which covers the horseback ride, a guide, a short riding lesson, helmets, saddle bags, water, and photos taken with your cell phone. This last point is especially valuable—many reviewers, like Kimberly and Christina, appreciated the free photos as keepsakes of their memorable ride.

The activity lasts about 1.5 hours, though actual duration may vary based on rider experience and other conditions. It’s designed to be accessible for beginners, with calm horses and clear safety instructions. Children over 6 years old can participate, but pregnant women and those over 254 lbs may need to consider their suitability.

Logistics & Meeting Point

Participants are asked to arrive 30 minutes early at the Santorini Horse Riding stables. The journey ends back at the starting point, making it convenient for those staying nearby. The small group setup ensures an intimate experience, and the flexible cancellation policy (up to 24 hours in advance) offers peace of mind if plans shift.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This horseback ride stands out for its combination of scenic beauty, educational storytelling, and gentle adventure. Travelers love the way the guides make the experience welcoming and informative, often sharing insights into Santorini’s volcanic history that enhance the ride.

The stunning scenery of volcanic canyons, black sand beaches, and cliffs makes for incredibly photogenic moments—perfect for creating lasting memories. The short duration means it’s an easy add-on to your sightseeing day, especially if you want a break from walking or driving.

The value for the price is clear when you consider the personalized attention, the scenic stops, and the quality of the horses. Many reviews highlight how well-cared-for horses and an experienced guide like Christina or Amber can make the difference between a good ride and a truly memorable adventure.

Who Would Love This?

This experience is ideal for beginners, families with children over 6, and those who value authentic, nature-based activities over crowded tourist spots. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed, scenic ride that combines gentle adventure with cultural and geological insights.

If you’re after a longer or more adventurous horseback excursion, you might find this a bit short, but for most, the peace, beauty, and personal touch make it worth every euro.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners? Yes, the tour is created for beginners with calm, well-trained horses and a short riding lesson included.

How long does the ride last? The entire experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with some variation depending on the riders and conditions.

Are there age restrictions? Yes, children should be over 6 years old, and pregnant women or those over 254 lbs should consider their suitability.

What’s included in the price? The cost covers the horseback ride, guide, safety equipment (helmets), saddle bags, a bottle of water, and photographs taken during the ride.

Can I book last minute? Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Where do I meet? You’ll meet at the Santorini Horse Riding stables, approximately 30 minutes before the scheduled start time.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a scenic, relaxed horseback experience that combines natural beauty with historical insight, this tour offers a fantastic value. The friendly guides, peaceful environment, and stunning views make it an authentic and memorable way to see Santorini’s volcanic landscape.

It’s well-suited for beginners, families, and anyone wanting a low-key, stunning adventure. The focus on safety and comfort, along with the photo opportunities, ensures you’ll leave with more than just memories—likely some great pictures too.

While the short duration might leave some wanting more, the quality and intimacy of this experience make it a highlight for many travelers. It’s a wonderful way to connect with Santorini’s rugged beauty in a gentle, enjoyable way.

Ready to ride through 3,500 years of volcanic history and black sands? This tour could be the perfect addition to your Santorini itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: