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Riding Holidays - 6-days trail - (Un)guided Trail
8 days, 6 days riding - North-South Trail
For whom?
An ideal option for experienced riders who enjoy longer trail rides. This adventure offers an unforgettable experience riding through stunning, ever-changing landscapes. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of nature, where silence tells its own story. Along the way, you will be treated to warm Cretan hospitality and indulge in mouthwatering local cuisine. Do not miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime journey — it is the ultimate escape!
This unguided 6-day adventure offers a minimum of 36 hours of riding, designed exclusively for experienced, fit riders who are confident in handling a horse independently. With a comprehensive and up-to-date road book, along with clear, easy-to-follow directions, you will navigate the trail with ease. For those seeking additional support, a guided version of this exceptional trail is also available.
When?
Select the dates that suit you best! Guaranteed departure starting from 2 riders. Due to the heat, this trail is not available during July and August.
Be part of our existing guided trail experience from May 24 to May 31, 2025 🎉🎉
Later dates for the guided 6-days trail: September 22 to 29, 2025.
Riding Program
Day 1: Arrival and welcome.
Enjoy some free time to relax and explore the surroundings before starting your exciting journey. Overnight stay in the charming village of Georgioupolis.
Day 2: Beach Ride, Lake Views, and Traditional Villages
At 7:00 AM, we begin our equestrian journey with a beautiful beach ride along Crete's longest sandy shoreline. After soaking in the coastal views, we head inland on a country ride towards the village of Kournas. Making our way down to Kournas' lake gives us the opportunity to admire its full beauty from a bird's-eye view. Its turquoise colours and the surrounding mountains ensure an outstanding view, making this little paradise a perfect scene for lunch.
As with every lunch break, our horses will be unsaddled and placed in a shaded area to eat and rest for about 3 hours. During this break, you will have the opportunity to explore the lake by paddle boat.
By 3:00 PM, we will continue our ride toward Kastellos, passing through the village of Patima, and make our way to the lush village of Argiroupolis. Well known for its springs, ancient mills, avocados and associated products. Argiroupolis offers a peaceful and picturesque setting for our overnight stay.
Hours of riding: 6.5, morning (3.5) & late afternoon (3). Enjoy a leisurely lunch break, along with a few short stops along the way.
Day 3: Mountain Villages, Gorges, and Coastal Views
At around 08:00, we begin our journey toward the charming village of Kato Poros, known for its traditional renovations and the fun will continue along shady tracks through unspoiled countryside, offering a peaceful ride through Crete’s natural beauty. Be amazed by the strength and beauty of the ancient olive trees — though it is probably best not to try counting them!
This magnificent trail leads us to the village of Koxare, where we will have lunch.
Next, we will enter a wholly different landscape, as we will ride along the tranquil Kourtaliotiko Gorge, surrounded by an impressive mountain plateau. With the breathtaking vistas of the Libyan Sea in the distance, we will head toward the popular coastal resort of Plakias, where we will spend the night. There will still be time to unwind with a sunset swim in the sea or take a relaxing stroll through the town.
Hours of riding: 6.5, morning (3.5) & late afternoon (3). Savour a relaxing lunch break, with a few scenic stops along the way to take in the views and stretch your legs.
Day 4: Southern Crete – Beaches, Ancient Ruins, and Coastal Beauty
Today, we venture into the southern part of Crete. Leaving Plakias behind, we head towards the stunning beaches of Damnoni and Ammoudi, with winding tracks through Lefkogeia leading us toward ancient sights. We will follow an old aqueduct and pass by the ruins of Kato Moni Preveli, before stopping to admire the historic Roman bridge over the river.
Lunch will be served at the charming Taverna Gefyra, nestled in a lush, green setting surrounded by ancient cypresses, plane trees, and mulberries.
With our batteries recharged, we continue our ride along impressive ancient olive groves, with the rugged coastline of the Libyan Sea providing a dramatic backdrop. The route treats us to panoramic views of pristine, untouched countryside. Riding along the stunning coastline, we will make our way to the sandy beach of Triopetra, where we will spend the night.
Hours of riding: 5.5, morning (2.5) & late afternoon (3). Enjoy a leisurely lunch break, along with a few short stops along the way.
Day 5: Return Journey Through Crete's Heartland
The time has come to start our return journey. We will ride along a long dirt road that winds through hills and picturesque countryside, leading us to Crete’s “Place of Miracles”: the Monastery of Agios Antonios, tucked away in the middle of nowhere.
We will take a peaceful short break here, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere, before continuing our journey towards the traditional mountain village of Akoumia. Here we will enjoy a well-deserved lunch, surrounded by the rustic charm of Crete’s inland beauty.
Next, our trail gently ascends over the hills, guiding us to the authentic villages of Ardaktos and Aktunda, where narrow streets and ancient stone houses await at an elevation of 560 meters. Here, we will encounter the natural habitat of sheep and goats, set against a backdrop of fertile hills that exude a sense of grandeur, making you feel as though you are riding through your own private kingdom.
After soaking in the serenity of the countryside, we will head to the commercial centre of Spili for the evening. Known for its iconic Lion’s Fountains, this charming village sits at the crossroads between Crete’s north and south coasts, offering a perfect spot for a delicious dinner and restful overnight stay.
Hours of riding: 5.5, morning (2.5) & late afternoon (3), large lunch break, small stop during the ride.
Day 6: Rolling Landscapes and Tranquil Villages
Today, we will combine dirt and paved roads as we ride through rolling landscapes, soaking in the untouched beauty of nature. Our path will lead us to the quaint village of Koxare, where there is an opportunity for a relaxing coffee stop. As we continue, feel the timeless energy of the ancient olive trees along the way, guiding us to Agkouseliana for a well-deserved lunch.
Afterward, we will venture through a peaceful and natural environment, embracing the simplicity of traditional village life in Crete. Riding towards Argiroupolis, we will experience the tranquillity of this paradise, surrounded by majestic scenery, stunning colour tones, and soft natural light. The day ends in the evergreen village of Argiroupolis, where we will spend the night. The voice of silence had its mighty say today.
Hours of riding: 7, morning (3) & late afternoon (4), large lunch break, small stop during the ride.
Day 7: The Grand Finale
Our final day takes us through lush, verdant landscapes, offering spectacular views of the Psiloritis, the White Mountains, and the shimmering sea. We will pause for lunch in Georgioupolis.
To cap off this unforgettable adventure, we will enjoy a scenic guided sunset beach ride, taking in the golden hues of the evening sky as the waves gently lap at the shore.
The journey concludes with an overnight stay in the picturesque village of Georgioupolis, leaving you with memories of a truly exceptional experience.
Hours of riding: 5, morning (3) & late afternoon (2)
Day 8: Free time & departure.
Accommodation
Accommodation for 7 nights in a studio or hotel is included.
Food
Food & drinks are not included.
The daily transfer of your luggage and food drops for the horses are included.
Flight & hotel transfer
Flights are not included. However, the transfer from Chania airport or Souda harbour, to and from the hotel, is included.
Transfers from Heraklion are subjected to a 60.- € surplus per person (both ways included).
Price per person for the unguided version
In Twin room: 1,499 €
Single supplement: + 222 €
Price per person for the guided version
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2 riders
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4 riders
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6 riders
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In Twin room
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2,183 €
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1,698 €
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1,499 €
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Single supplement
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+ 222 €
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+ 222 €
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+ 222 €
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For reservations and possible questions, do not hesitate to contact Kristy. German, English, French, and Dutch spoken.
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