Horses and mountain views, no experience needed. This ride takes you up from the Finikia horse farm toward Giouhtas viewpoints and the area around Agios Silas, guided in English or German. You start with instruction, then move onto paths and hilltops for a scenic two-hour mountain outing.

I love the practical start: a basic training session plus helmets so you feel safe before you go higher. I also like how they match horses to rider comfort, so beginners usually get calm mounts while more confident riders may be offered faster moments.

One catch for planning: there is no pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need your own way to reach Finikia Horseriding on time.

Key points

• Giouhtas + Agios Silas views: the stops are built for photos and wide panoramas
• Two hours in the Finikia mountains: a steady ride with chances to move up in pace depending on skill
• Farm training before you mount: you learn basics for control and safety
• Orange juice and fruit break: a real pause with scenic breathing room
• Guides keep it friendly and focused: people like Hassan and Irene show up in the experience culture
• Clear rules that protect comfort: helmets, insurance, and no high heels

Finikia Horseriding: where the mountain ride starts

Your day begins at Finikia Horseriding, also listed as Ιππικο κεντρο Φοινικιας. This matters because it means you are not just meeting a guide in town and driving off to a random trailhead. You start at a working farm, where the whole rhythm of the experience is built around getting you ready on-site.

The setting also helps if you are a little nervous. When you meet your guide at the farm first, you can ask questions before you climb into the saddle.

And yes, it’s a real horse environment, not a pretend set. Several riders talk about the calm, cared-for horses and the down-to-earth stable atmosphere that feels family-run.

Before you mount: the training that makes a big difference

Plan on arriving and taking a short, basic training session before the ride. This is not about turning you into an equestrian. It’s about getting you comfortable with simple horse-handling basics and learning how to communicate while you ride.

You’ll also get a helmet as part of the experience. That one detail changes the whole feel. It signals that safety is taken seriously, and it helps most people relax faster.

The good part is that the instruction is meant for mixed skill levels. Beginners are welcome, but advanced riders are not treated like extras on the edge. The guide’s job is to match you to an appropriate horse and riding approach.

From there, you hop on and start your mountain outing through paths and hilltops. Even the pacing feels intentional, with guides positioned to keep everyone moving smoothly together.

The two-hour ride through the Finikia mountains

The heart of the experience is your two-hour horseback ride in the Finikia mountain area. You’re not just circling a field. You’re getting the uphill, open-air rhythm that makes the ride feel like a real change of scenery.

The route includes stretches that go up and out, and you’ll feel the Mediterranean breeze as you gain height. The ride is designed to show off panoramas, not just get you from point A to point B.

For many riders, the most enjoyable moments come during the transitions. You go from the farm setup into mountain trails, then into a steadier scenic rhythm where you can actually look around. That’s when the views of Giouhtas and the Agios Silas area start feeling like the whole point.

More experienced riders may get a chance to canter or even gallop, depending on confidence and how the group is progressing. Beginners typically ride more calmly, with a focus on comfort and control.

Giouhtas mountain and Agios Silas village: the photo-friendly break

At some point during the ride, you get a break to stretch your legs with breathtaking views. This pause is not a random stop. It’s one of the main reasons this tour feels worth it even if you are short on time in Heraklion.

You’ll enjoy a glass of orange juice and fruit during the break. It’s a small inclusion, but it changes the vibe from purely physical to genuinely enjoyable. You get a moment to cool off, refuel, and take pictures without feeling rushed.

This is also where the ride earns its bragging rights. People mention stunning panoramas and the feeling of being up high enough to see the region spread out. You’re watching real Crete, from real elevation, not from a quick roadside pull-off.

If you are the type who wants photos, aim to use that break well. Once the group remounts and continues, you’re back in motion. So get your best shots while you have the still time.

How they keep it beginner-friendly, without babying anyone

This tour welcomes beginners, and it also welcomes experienced riders. That balance is hard to pull off on horseback, because beginners need slower, steadier guidance, while experienced riders often want more movement.

The stable’s approach seems to work because the horses are described as calm and well trained. Riders also emphasize that the staff takes care of the animals, and guides are patient while teaching. That matters because a nervous rider plus a reactive horse is a bad combo.

Multiple accounts mention that the guides stay with you step by step. That reduces the feeling of being left to figure things out alone. It also helps you learn quickly, from mounting cues to basic communication while riding.

Names that come up in the experience culture include Hassan and Irene, and riders describe them as funny, friendly, and attentive. That doesn’t mean you’ll have them every time, but it hints at a lively, people-focused guide style.

Price and value: what $68 includes, and what it doesn’t

At about $68 per person for a roughly two-hour experience, the value comes from what is included. You get helmets and insurance, plus orange juice and fruit. You also get a live guide in English or German and a short training session before you ride.

What you do not get is pickup or drop-off. So the real cost is not just the ticket price. It includes whatever transport you need to reach the Finikia farm and return. If you are already close to the area and can get there easily, the price feels more straightforward. If you’re starting in central Heraklion, plan transport ahead so you are not scrambling last minute.

Also, keep expectations aligned with time. This is a two-hour ride experience, not an all-day horseback adventure. If you want a longer outing with multiple stops, you might find this a bit short. But if you want a memorable mountain ride without eating your entire day, it’s a solid fit.

What to bring (and what to skip) for comfort on horseback

Bring sunscreen. The mountain ride includes outdoor time, and the fresh air still doesn’t stop sun from doing its job.

For shoes, high-heeled shoes are not allowed. Past riders also point out the ride can be hot depending on route conditions and timing, so wear something you’re comfortable using for walking and riding in uneven terrain.

If you’re traveling with camera gear, this is the kind of outing where you’ll want it. The views during the scenic break and the panoramic outlooks around Giouhtas are the main “wow” moments.

Group feel, staff energy, and the farm atmosphere

Even though you’re riding outdoors, the experience begins with a farm vibe. Riders describe a welcoming environment with staff who keep things organized and light. People also mention farm animals near the yard, including dogs and goats, which adds charm without turning it into a gimmick.

A theme in the feedback is that the horses are cared for and riders are matched thoughtfully. That pairing detail is why beginners often leave feeling more confident than they expected.

Some riders also mention extra farm treats or staying on for a longer meal. Orange juice and fruit are clearly included, and some experiences may add items like housemade wine or raki on site. Those extras are not the core package, so treat them as a bonus if offered during your specific slot.

Weather and timing: when the ride slot may shift

One practical note: excursion slots might change due to weather conditions. That’s not unusual for outdoor horseback rides, but it does affect how rigid your day should be.

If you’re planning other activities the same morning or afternoon, give this ride some breathing room. It’s one of the easiest ways to avoid stress on a day that’s supposed to feel relaxed and scenic.

Also, the ride is not described as weather-proof in the data you’re working with. So if skies look rough, be ready for the operator to adjust timing.

Who should book this Heraklion horse ride

This is a great choice if you want an authentic mountain experience from near Heraklion. It works especially well for couples and solo travelers who want outdoors time without needing advanced riding skills.

It also suits families, based on accounts of children riding with supportive staff. The key is that the experience is framed for mixed levels, so you are not locked into an advanced group if you are new to horseback riding.

It may not be the best fit if you are pregnant or if you are above 243 lbs (110 kg), since those groups are listed as not suitable.

Should you book this horseback ride from Heraklion?

Yes, if you want a structured, beginner-friendly mountain ride with real scenery and clear safety basics. The combination of helmets, insurance, a short training session, and calm horse matching is what makes this feel low-stress even when you’re riding uphill.

Book it if your schedule can handle a possible weather-related slot change and you can get to the Finikia farm without needing pickup. If you have that solved, this is one of those Crete experiences that gives you a strong sense of place in a short window of time.

FAQ

How long is the horseback ride?

The experience lasts about 2 hours. Check availability for the starting times.

Where do I meet the guide?

Meet your guide at Finikia Horseriding, Ιππικο κεντρο Φοινικιας.

Does the tour include pickup and drop-off?

No, pickup and drop-off are not included.

Are beginners allowed?

Yes. The ride is suitable for all levels, including beginners, medium riders, and advanced riders.

What is included in the price?

Helmets, insurance, and orange juice and fruit are included.

What should I bring and what footwear is not allowed?

Bring sunscreen. High-heeled shoes are not allowed.

What if I cancel or the weather changes?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Excursion slots might also change due to weather conditions.