Crete Finikia and Giouchtas Mountains Horse Riding Tour with Lunch
Recommended by 97% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Heraklion, Greece
- 5 hours (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Go where cars can't and explore the mountains of Finikia and Giouchtas on horseback on this riding trek. Ride up rugged slopes, taking in the fresh air and stunning scenery. Admire the panoramic views and refuel with refreshments at the mountaintop, and then return to the stables to enjoy a traditional lunch with house wine and say goodbye to the horses. Suitable for novice and experienced riders, with lunch and pickup and drop-off at selected hotels included.
- Discover parts of Crete that you can't access by car
- Ride back to base for a tasty Cretan lunch with house wine
- Family-friendly trip ideal for beginners and experienced riders
- Lunch, plus pickup and drop-off at selected hotels included
What's Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only)
- Local guide
- Horseback ride
- Refreshments
- Lunch
- Gratuities
- Maximum weight allowance per person is 110 kg.
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Pickup details
Hotel pick up from Analipsi, Anissara, Hersonisso, Gournes, Gouves, Kokkini Chani, Malia, Stalis
Operating hours.8:30 am
What To Expect
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Infants must sit on laps
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- Most travelers can participate
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers
Supplied by
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
AnneMarie_S
What an amazing experience!! We were picked up from our prearranged pickup point by Irene, the daughter of the family that run the farm where the horses are loved and cared for as part of the family! The family were really welcoming, the dad has a cheeky but fun sense of humour which had me giggling most of the time we were there. The trek was amazing, I rode Cherokee and my husband rode Helen. They were wonderful, calm, friendly and loved a fuss. We were accompanied by guides who made sure we were safe as we went up the mountain. At the top, we stopped to take in the views and had some refreshments including ice cold water which was very welcome! After a little time we went back down and had a delicious lunch which was yummy beef koftas, homegrown vegetables and homemade wine, we also had some juicy watermelon. We had fun and jokes and then we were taken back to our drop off point, only a short distance to our hotel. I would highly recommend this truly memory making enjoyable trip. Suitable for all abilities and there were families there too, they have lovely horses suitable for anyone. Absolutely fantastic xxxx
Reviews
4.9
based on 179 reviews
Jussi_K, Oct 2025
This could have been 4 stars, except for our pick up was forgotten.
We were supposed to be picked up at 8.10, at 8.30 I called and it was clear that they had forgotten, eventually they showed up 45 min late. When it was time to mount the horse, the daughter was quite rude towards me and after that she couldn't care less about me. She was nice and considerate towards others but I was 'air' to her, not very Greek.
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Dear Jussi,
Thank you for your feedback. We’re very sorry for the delay at pick up and for any discomfort you experienced during your visit , that was never our intention. The short delay occurred because another group arrived late, and our team informed you as soon as possible.
As for the riding preparation, asking each guest about their weight is a standard safety measure, much like ensuring the right equipment for every passenger before takeoff. It helps us assign the most suitable horse for both comfort and safety. Our team handled the situation with courtesy and professionalism, and we truly appreciate your understanding once the reason was explained.
We value your comments and hope you still enjoyed the beauty of the experience.
Frances_W, Aug 2025
Hack up a lovely track, juice and meal provided. The horses are so loved and well cared for, veru friendly stafff.
Desiree_W, Aug 2025
This was the best experience for our family. It broke up all of the sightseeing tours with a super fun activity. The family owners were the kindest people. The horses and dogs are extensions of their family and are so well taken care of! The food was five stars! Highly recommend.
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Dear Rachel,
We’re delighted you and your family had such a wonderful time. This excursion truly combines beautiful scenery with a unique and welcoming atmosphere, and it’s great to hear the care for the animals and delicious food made it even more special. We’d love to welcome you again soon for another memorable experience in Crete.
AnneMarie_S, Jul 2025
What an amazing experience!! We were picked up from our prearranged pickup point by Irene, the daughter of the family that run the farm where the horses are loved and cared for as part of the family! The family were really welcoming, the dad has a cheeky but fun sense of humour which had me giggling most of the time we were there. The trek was amazing, I rode Cherokee and my husband rode Helen. They were wonderful, calm, friendly and loved a fuss. We were accompanied by guides who made sure we were safe as we went up the mountain. At the top, we stopped to take in the views and had some refreshments including ice cold water which was very welcome! After a little time we went back down and had a delicious lunch which was yummy beef koftas, homegrown vegetables and homemade wine, we also had some juicy watermelon. We had fun and jokes and then we were taken back to our drop off point, only a short distance to our hotel. I would highly recommend this truly memory making enjoyable trip. Suitable for all abilities and there were families there too, they have lovely horses suitable for anyone. Absolutely fantastic xxxx
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Dear AnneMar,
Thank you so much for sharing your experience! It’s lovely to hear how welcomed you felt by the family and how much you enjoyed the ride, the views, and the delicious homemade lunch. Cherokee and Helen sound like the perfect match! We’re so glad this turned into such a special memory for you both.
Elizabeth_B, Jul 2025
Great experience, the family that runs it are the most lovely people! The horses are beautiful and well trained and the guides know their animals. Food was also delicious!
Sam_K, Jun 2025
From pick up at the hotel to drop off everything was very well organised. The horses are incredible and extremely well looked after. I always worry when booking a trip like this it will be like the old school pony trekking with board horses but not the case here!
The owners take great care in choosing the right horse for you, I have a hip issue at the moment but they worked around that to ensure I was safe and that I was enjoying the experience with out making me feel isolated from the rest of the group.
Once back we had an incredible lunch served with home made wine, the food just kept coming and was so so good!
The owners are welcoming and funny and make the experience a joy.
Would we go again absolutely! As an experience rider I would love to go out for longer and get to see so much more of this beautiful countryside.
Thank you for the experience
We will always remember to have 'one more meat ball' ! 🤣
Response from Host, Jun 2025
Dear Sam,
Thank you so much for your heartfelt review! We're thrilled that everything from start to finish felt well cared for and personal. It. We’re so glad you’ll remember the experience with a smile!
We’d love to welcome you back anytime to explore more of our excursions in Greece.
Laura_C, May 2025
This was a great experience. The horses were lovely and the hosts good fun. Great food and a good time!
We were complete beginners and throughout our time there, the hosts were wonderful at both making everyone feel at ease as well as looking after the safety of us and the horses.
The food was delicious and the meatballs seemed to be endless but we loved every bite. The wine was incredible and I highly recommend for any wine lovers.
All round an outstanding experience and we will be returning hopefully soon.
Response from Host, May 2025
Dear Laura,
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're delighted to hear that you had such a fun and relaxed experience, especially as first-time riders. It’s great to know the warm hospitality, delicious food, and of course the wine, made the day so memorable. We’ll be happy to assist you again anytime!
Dorothe_S, Oct 2024
This tour was absolutely fantastic! Exploring the mountains of Finikia and Giouchtas on horseback was an unforgettable experience. The rugged slopes provided the perfect backdrop for a peaceful and scenic ride, and the panoramic views from the top were breathtaking. The break for refreshments at the summit was a great touch, allowing us to relax and take in the beauty of the surroundings.
The ride back to the stables was just as enjoyable, and the traditional Cretan lunch with house wine was delicious. It was the perfect way to end the tour, surrounded by the beautiful garden and friendly horses. The tour was well-organized, and both beginners and experienced riders were well taken care of. The fact that lunch, hotel pickup, and drop-off were included made it an incredible value for the price.
I highly recommend this tour to anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Crete in a unique and memorable way!
Response from Host, Oct 2024
Dear Dorothe,
Thank you for your enthusiastic review! We're thrilled that you had such a fantastic time exploring the mountains of Finikia and Giouchtas on horseback.
We truly appreciate your recommendation and look forward to welcoming you back for more unforgettable adventures in Crete!
Katherine_W, Oct 2024
Everything was excellent from pickup to finish. Lovely family business, father made lots of jokes and you never stopped laughing. Horses were very well behaved. Lunch and wine were superior. Definitely would recommend if you have the opportunity to do this activity, you won’t be disappointed. 5 Star
Response from Host, Oct 2024
Dear Katherine,
Thank you for your glowing review! We're thrilled to hear that everything, from pickup to finish, was excellent.
We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back for another 5-star adventure.
Akin_T, Oct 2024
I had the most wonderful experience on this tour considering that l have never rid on the back of horse in my life but this family were so welcoming and made guests comfortable and relax by giving few basic useful tips on riding a horse and attention to detail in pairing a horse to a guest according to their needs it was awesome experience and the lunch was good and generous. I commend them for a wonderful experience and hospitality.
Response from Host, Oct 2024
Dear Akin,
Thank you for your heartfelt review! We're delighted to hear that you had such a wonderful experience on the tour, especially as a first-time rider. It’s fantastic to know that the family’s warm hospitality and attention to detail helped you feel comfortable and relaxed throughout the experience. Their passion for what they do truly shines through and enhances every guest's visit.
We appreciate your kind words and hope to welcome you back for more memorable experiences in the future!
Tracy_T, Oct 2024
Fantastic horse ridding experience in the mountains with a freshly home cooked meal and wine after. The trip was very well organised. I am a beginner and I was on this trip with a mixture of beginner and experienced riders, which accommodated both. This is a family business and you can see clearly that this family love and take very good care if their animals, they treat their hoses and dogs as part of their family. I would highly recommend this experience.
Response from Host, Oct 2024
Dear Tracy,
Thank you for your fantastic review! We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed the horse riding experience in the mountains, and that both beginners and experienced riders were well accommodated. It’s wonderful to know the family’s care and love for their animals stood out to you, making the experience even more special.
We truly appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back again!
CHRISTINA_K, Sep 2024
It's was amazing, the horses was very well trained. The staff was very friendly. And the most important they have respect to the animals
Response from Host, Sep 2024
Dear Christina,
Thank you for your fantastic feedback! We’re delighted to hear that you had an amazing experience.
We’re especially pleased that you appreciated our partners respect for the animals, as their well-being is very important to us.
We look forward to welcoming you back for another great experience!
Michael_L, Sep 2024
Gregory and his family are lovely, funny, warm and welcoming; they work hard to tailor the experience to suit a mixed group.
Response from Host, Sep 2024
Dear Michael,
Thank you for your kind words! We're so glad to hear that Gregory and his family made you feel welcome and created an enjoyable experience for everyone. We truly appreciate your feedback and hope to see you on another beautiful excursion soon!
HARRY_B, Sep 2024
Great fun and great food. Very funny host!
Horses were very well behaved and very friendly. Can’t recommend enough.
Response from Host, Sep 2024
Dear Harry,
Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed the experience and the company of our horses. It’s wonderful to know our partners made it even more fun for you. We appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back soon!
Cammack_S, Sep 2024
Such a lovely experience. The staff (especially our guide Hassan) were very knowledgeable, engaging, and funny. They matched riders to horses well and allowed experienced riders more free rein. The lunch was so authentic and fresh and was such a wonderful and immersive Greek experience.
Response from Host, Sep 2024
Dear Cammack
Thank you for sharing your lovely experience with us! We’re thrilled to hear our partners team made your day enjoyable, with great care for both riders and horses. It’s wonderful that you enjoyed the authentic Greek lunch as well. We hope to welcome you back for more memorable adventures soon!
John_C, Aug 2024
My family and I had a lovely experience at Finikia, the horses are great, very calm and easy to handle! The hosts Irene and Godfrey are also great and Godfrey’s humour is an added bonus! The ride itself is relatively easy, so ideal for beginners and the meal at the end of the ride is a must! Great experience and will definitely return if we visit Crete again…which i am sure we will!
Response from Host, Aug 2024
Dear John,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with us. We are thrilled to hear that you and your family had a lovely time!
It's wonderful to know that you found the horses to be calm and easy to handle, and that Irene and Gregory made your experience memorable with their hospitality and humor. They truly embody the spirit of Cretan hospitality that we take pride in.
Your feedback means a lot to us, and we look forward to welcoming you back to Crete . We'll ensure your next experience with us is just as enjoyable!
Charlotte_M, Jun 2024
This experience was so much fun with really lovely, welcoming hosts. We were picked up a short walk away from our hotel and taken straight to the stables where we were welcomed with coffee and water. We all got assigned a horse based on our experience and ability and were given a presentation on how to control and ride the horse. I was so keen to do this as I rode as a child and wanted to experience it again, my parter had never ridden a horse and was quite nervous but the staff were constantly there to provide help and put you at ease if you were unsure.
The views on the ride were absolutely stunning, looking over miles of land, lots of farm land with crops growing. You had your photo taken riding your horse which you could later purchase a print out from them .The staff made such an effort to get to know you and have a chat as you rode along. Halfway you were given more water or juice, and orange slices, accompanied by a quick 10 minute sit down to admire the views and sit in the shade.
Once we returned back to the stables we were greeted with a beautiful lunch, more water and homemade wine and a chance to chat to the rest of the group which was a beautiful way to round off the experience.
We were dropped right back at our hotel afterwards.
I would recommend this experience to anybody with any riding ability. Thank you so much to the wonderful hosts and staff, you were absolutely wonderful, you do an incredible job
TaMicah_A, Jun 2024
This horseback riding excursion was
a wonderful experience. This was my first time ever horseback riding, which was a little scary, but with the staff being there and also letting me ride a wonderful horse name, Anna. Who is very gentle making the ride for me A wonderful experience I highly recommend. And Also, the food that was provided for lunch was wonderful
Response from Host, Jul 2024
Dear TaMicah,
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us! We are thrilled to hear that your first horseback riding excursion was such a wonderful one.
We’re also pleased to hear that you enjoyed the lunch provided. Our partners strives to ensure that every aspect of your experience is top-notch.
Your high recommendation means a lot to us, and we truly appreciate your kind words. We hope to have the pleasure of assisting you with your excursions again soon!
Maria_C, Jun 2024
Excellent riding trip, with lovely horses and very welcoming staff. Food and wine after was delicious and very generous
Response from Host, Jul 2024
Dear Maria,
Thank you so much for your glowing review of your riding excursion with us! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the experience so much!
We can't wait to assist you again soon with your next plan!
Roxie_P, Jun 2024
We were cautions of booking a trip like this without knowing the care for the horses, reviews stated good things and we were not disappointed. The most lovely family who care for their animals. Such a family environment and when you sit down to eat you feel right at home with the best food also. I feel the amount you pay for this is very good and they could up the price for how great they are and to also help with there care of the animals and there rescues.
Response from Host, Jun 2024
Dear Roxie,
Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience! We're delighted to hear that your concerns about the care for the horses were eased and that the reviews you read held true. It's fantastic to know that you found the family to be lovely and dedicated to their animals.
Thank you once again for your feedback. We look forward to assisting you with your future travel plans!
Gisel_S, Jun 2024
Went recently as a solo travler and absolutely loved it. Was at first apprehensive because I come from a culture (hispanic) that is very talkative and social but the crowd that goes to Crete are usually from Holland, Germany, Austria, Uk, etc. so often not the most prone to be social with strangers. The owner was game changer in making sure everyone socialized. He has a crass sense of humor but honestly it was part of the charm. I was made to feel included even though I was the only solo traveler which I highly appreciated. The owner is also very attuned to everyone’s comfort level, checking in multiple times we ok with our horses and making sure we were all properly hydrated (it was a HOT day). We even had a little girl under 6 in the trail who got a bit scared and he was extra attentive to her. Also, he made sure we all ate enough when we got back. All in all, the experience was well worth it. I would 100% recommend this tour.
Response from Host, Jun 2024
Dear Gisel,
Thank you for your heartfelt review! We're thrilled to hear that you loved your solo trip to Crete. It's wonderful to know that the owner made you feel included and helped everyone socialize, especially considering your initial apprehension.
We're glad his unique sense of humor added to the charm and that his attentiveness ensured everyone’s comfort and hydration, particularly on such a hot day. It's great to hear that all ages were well cared for, making the experience enjoyable for everyone.
Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we will certainly pass on your compliments to our partners. We look forward to assisting you with future travel plans!
Natalie_R, Jun 2024
Our family had an excellent time. Our horses were carefully chosen based on experience and guides were helpful with my daughter who was scared at times. The food was great and overall was an awesome experience.
Response from Host, Jun 2024
Dear Natalie,
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that your family had an excellent time on the horseback riding excursion. It's great to know that the horses were well-chosen and that our guides were helpful, especially with your daughter's concerns. We're also delighted that you enjoyed the food and had an awesome overall experience.
We look forward to welcoming your family back for another memorable adventure!
S_M, May 2024
Horses great. Horse wranglers terrific. Fellow travels delightful. My one
concern is humor (from Owner) may not have been appropriate for all ages or sexes.
Response from Host, May 2024
Dear S_M,
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback about our horse riding excursion.
We're pleased to hear that you enjoyed the horses, the wonderful wranglers, and the company of your fellow travelers.
We appreciate your honesty regarding the humor shared by the owner. Ensuring a comfortable and inclusive atmosphere for all our guests is of utmost importance to us. Your feedback will be taken into consideration as we continually strive to enhance the experience for everyone who joins our excursions.
We hope to have the opportunity to assist you with your excursions for another unforgettable experience.
Samantha_W, Oct 2023
Had a great time, I was picked up right on time by our tour guide who took us up the mountains to meet our horse. We were fitted with our hats and then asked some questions and asked to demonstrate a few things to show how much experience we had. We were then matched to our horse. I had Elvis he was lovely. We then went on our walk up the mountains and had a break at the top with juice & watermelon before setting back off down the mountain. Once down I was then given some time inside the school and then we had a lovely lunch before being taken back to our hotel.
Response from Host, Oct 2023
Dear Samantha,
Thank you for sharing your fantastic experience with us at Cretan Holidays.
We're thrilled to hear that you had a great time on the excursion, from the seamless pick-up to the memorable horseback adventure and delicious lunch.
We greatly appreciate your feedback and are pleased that you enjoyed your time with Elvis and the rest of the experience.
We look forward to assisting you with more incredible excursions
Anja_S, Sep 2023
My favourite thing we did in our two weeks on Crete! The people are really, really nice and very funny. The horses are sweet and suitable for beginner riders.
Great energy all around. Would 100 per cent recommend!
Response from Host, Sep 2023
Dear Anja,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful experience with us on Crete! We're thrilled to hear that the excursion you booked through us became a highlight of your two-week stay.
Your kind words and 100% recommendation mean the world to us! We look forward to helping you discover more incredible excursions in the future. If you ever return to Crete or explore another destination, please don't hesitate to reach out to us again.
Cameron_P, Sep 2023
Irene and her family were very welcoming and hospitable. The views from the mountains was stunning and all the horses were very friendly! Would definitely recommend doing this if you’re staying in the area.
Response from Host, Sep 2023
Dear Camero,
Thank you for your glowing review! We're delighted to hear that you had a fantastic time.
Irene and her family are thrilled to have left a positive impression, and we're pleased that you enjoyed the stunning mountain views.
Thanks for choosing us for your booking and we hope to see you again soon.
Izabela_H, Jul 2023
An amazing expreiance for us, Irene took us in and we had a wonderful time, it’s more than worth the money, thank you from two happy Norwegians❤️😍
Response from Host, Jul 2023
Dear Izabela,
Thank you for providing us with such a delightful review! We are thrilled to hear that you had an amazing experience as it brings us great joy to know that you had a wonderful time during your visit. Your happiness means a lot to us!
heidi_s, Jul 2023
We had such a great time and we highly recommend Kreta Finikia og Giouchtas Mountains Ridningstur med frokost. Really kind and competent people, beautiful happy and healthy horses, delicious homemade food and wine, gorgeous ride up in the mountains. Great for both beginners and experienced riders. We loved everything and will certainly come back to also try the early beach riding trip next time😍
Response from Host, Jul 2023
Dear Heidi,
Thank you for recommending our horse riding excursion.
We're thrilled to hear that you had a great time and we can't wait to welcome you back for the early beach riding trip next time!
tiago_g, Jul 2023
Absolutely amazing trip, I am a beginner but I felt very safe and informed and my girlfriend is an experienced rider so got to go for a faster ride after the group walk. Beautiful scenes and lovely people.
Response from Host, Jul 2023
Dear Tiago,
Thank you for your amazing review! We are happy to hear that you had a wonderful trip with us, and that you felt safe and informed as a beginner.
We are also glad that your girlfriend enjoyed the faster ride and the beautiful scenery. We always try to accommodate different levels of experience and preferences among our guests. We appreciate your feedback and your compliments and we hope to see you again soon for another lovely adventure!
Connie_F, Jun 2023
Run by a beautiful family, father and daughter, that make you feel part of it. The father is a gregarious, and jovial guy. You can’t be too sensitive, and if not, you’ll have a good time with him. The starter coffee, the juice on the top of the hill, and the lunch afterward are all delightful. Very homemade feeling. Be careful with the shots after lunch, as he will give you as much Raki as you can you handle!
Response from Host, Jun 2023
Dear Connie,
Thank you for your lovely comments and your excellent rating.
Indeed our partners are passionate on what they are doing and as a result all our guests have an amazing experience with them.
Thank you and we hope to see you again soon
From $93.50
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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