Megalochori: Horseback Riding Tour for Experienced Riders

The thrilling part of this Santorini ride comes quickly: you leave the Megalochori stables, reach Eros Beach, and canter or gallop across its unusual black volcanic sand. Then the route turns uphill through ravines and rough trails, ending at a cliff-top viewpoint over the Caldera and volcano.

I like the ride’s variety. You move from vineyard paths to beach, canyon, hill, and cliff in only two hours. I also like the small group, limited to six riders, and the clear focus on experienced equestrians. Guides such as Nickolas check in with riders during the trip, and the horses are described as well trained and well cared for.

The main caution is simple: this is not a gentle sightseeing trot. You need real riding experience and the fitness to handle trotting, cantering, galloping, rough ground, and hill climbs. If you are nervous on an unfamiliar horse or have only ridden at a walk, choose another activity.

Key points before you saddle up

• Gallop on Eros Beach: The black sand gives you one of Santorini’s most unusual settings for a fast ride.
• Ride beyond the coast: The route heads into canyons, ravines, volcanic hills, and ancient trails rather than staying on an easy beach path.
• Reach a Caldera viewpoint: From the cliff-side top, you can look across the basin toward the volcano.
• Advanced riders only: Cantering, galloping, climbing, and rough terrain are built into the experience.
• Small group setting: The group is limited to six, which allows the guide to watch riders more closely.
• Two-hour outing: The compact timing works well for an active morning or afternoon in southern Santorini.

Starting at the Megalochori stables

You meet at the Santorini Horse Riding Stables in Megalochori 30 minutes before the activity starts. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you need to arrange your own way to the meeting point.

That early arrival matters. You will have time to meet the guide, prepare, and get settled before the ride begins. Helmets and chaps are included, and the stables have a bathroom. You may also leave belongings there, although the storage area is not locked. Keep valuables to a minimum and bring only what you can manage safely on horseback.

The instruction is available in English and Greek. With a maximum of six participants, the guide can keep the group fairly tight. That is useful on a ride involving changes in pace and uneven ground, since you do not want to spend the trip far behind the instructor.

Through vineyards on the way to Eros Beach

The ride begins along paths through the vineyards around Megalochori. This gives you a quieter introduction than heading straight into a fast beach run. You can get used to your horse, the saddle, and the group’s pace before the more energetic sections begin.

The vineyards also show a side of Santorini that is easy to miss when you focus only on cliff villages and sunset views. The route then continues down toward Eros Beach, a setting shaped by the island’s volcanic ground.

The beach is the tour’s signature moment. Once the guide gives the signal and conditions allow, you can gallop across the black sand. For a confident rider, this is the sort of setting that makes the price easier to understand: you are not simply sitting on a horse near the sea, you are riding at speed along a striking volcanic shore.

Still, the word gallop deserves attention. A beach gallop is physically active, and sand can make a horse’s movement feel different from a firm riding surface. You need to be comfortable controlling your horse at speed and maintaining your position without relying on the guide to lead you through every stride.

From the shoreline into ravines and volcanic hills

After the beach, the route turns inland and upward. You follow canyons and ravines behind the coastline, then continue across volcanic hills and rough terrain.

This is where the ride becomes more demanding. The trip includes walking sections, but it is not primarily a slow walk. The stated route includes trotting, cantering, galloping, and climbing on the hill. One rider described almost no walking on the trail, which gives you a useful sense of the pace.

You should expect changes in footing and movement. The horses may need to pick their way through uneven sections, while you stay balanced and attentive. The guide’s job is not only to show you the way, but also to set a safe pace for the group and keep an eye on each rider.

If you are an experienced rider but feel uneasy about riding an unfamiliar horse, say so at the start. One rider arrived nervous, explained those concerns to the guides, and found the reassurance helpful. Nickolas was specifically praised for checking in during the ride. That kind of attention is important here because the route asks more of you than a standard beginner trail ride.

The horses are another major part of the appeal. They are described as majestic, well trained, and clearly cared for. Some riders felt that the horses enjoyed the faster sections, especially the beach gallop. You should still treat the animals as working partners, not props for photographs. Follow the guide’s instructions, keep control, and give the horse room when asked.

Ancient trails to the Caldera viewpoint

The uphill route follows ancient trails toward a cliff-side top. The reward is a broad view across the Santorini Caldera and out toward the volcano.

Santorini is famous for its views from the villages on the northern cliffs, but this ride gives you a different angle. You see the basin from horseback, away from the usual terraces and packed viewpoints. The setting feels more open and physical because you have reached it by crossing beach and hill rather than simply walking to a lookout.

The viewpoint also creates a natural pause in the ride. You can take in the sea, the volcanic terrain, and the shape of the island before returning toward Megalochori. The guide takes photos with a phone, so you do not have to handle your own camera while riding. Bring a phone if you want additional pictures, but do not expect a professional photography package.

The exact atmosphere depends on the starting time. Some rides have been enjoyed at sunset, when the light over the Caldera can add another layer to the view. Check the available times when booking rather than assuming every departure is a sunset ride.

Returning to Megalochori

The ride finishes back at the starting point. The return can include trotting through town, giving you one last change of scene before the horses are settled at the stables.

The return section is also a reminder that this is not a closed riding arena. You are moving through several types of terrain and, at least on some routes, through the streets of the town. You need to remain alert until you are back at the stable, even after the beach and viewpoint are behind you.

The full activity lasts two hours. That is enough time for a varied route, but it is not a full-day expedition. For you, the short length may be a benefit if you want to combine horseback riding with wineries, village visits, or another Santorini outing. It also means the ride keeps a brisk pace and does not leave much room for long stops.

What the $215 price gets you

At $215 per person, this is an expensive two-hour activity. The value depends almost entirely on whether you want a serious riding experience rather than a basic horse tour.

The price includes the horseback adventure, instructor, helmet, chaps, and photos taken by the guide’s phone. The small group, capped at six, is also meaningful. A group this size gives the guide a better chance to monitor riders and adjust the pace than a large commercial trail ride.

You are paying for the setting and the riding style: a black-sand beach gallop, coastal ravines, hill climbs, and a Caldera viewpoint. If you regularly ride and have always wanted to gallop beside the sea, this can be a fair use of your budget. Several riders considered it worth every cent because the experience combined fast riding with scenery they could not get from a standard island tour.

If you want a relaxed horseback outing with lots of walking and gentle photo stops, the price will feel harder to justify. You may not get the experience you expect, and the physical demands could make the trip uncomfortable. Read the description as a riding requirement, not just a marketing flourish.

Who should book this ride

This tour suits you if you:

• Ride frequently and are confident at a canter and gallop.
• Can handle a horse on uneven ground and uphill trails.
• Want an active way to see southern Santorini.
• Like small groups and direct attention from an instructor.
• Are comfortable riding an unfamiliar horse.
• Have enough fitness for a fast, two-hour outing.

It is not recommended if you lack advanced riding experience. The tour specifically includes trotting, cantering, galloping, and climbing. That rules out most first-time riders and anyone whose experience is limited to occasional walking rides.

You should also think about how you react to speed. A rider can be technically experienced and still feel nervous before riding a new horse. That is normal, but you should be honest with the guide before setting off. The staff can offer reassurance, but you remain responsible for being able to control yourself and your horse.

Useful details to know before booking

The activity has a 4.8 rating from 65 reviews, with the strongest praise focused on the horses, the beach gallop, the scenery, and the guides’ care. Nickolas is singled out for checking on a nervous rider, and guides are praised for taking many photos along the route.

Wear clothing that lets you move freely. Chaps are supplied, as are helmets, but you should still dress for an active outdoor ride. A small saddle bag is available for limited belongings. The stable can hold other items, but storage is not locked.

Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early. You need to meet at the stables rather than wait for hotel transport, since pickup and drop-off are not included. The activity ends where it begins.

Cancellation is flexible if your plans change: you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, which helps if you are still arranging your Santorini schedule. Check available starting times because the two-hour tour does not have one fixed departure listed.

Should you book the Megalochori horseback ride?

Book it if galloping on a beach is the kind of travel memory you actively seek. The combination of Eros Beach, volcanic ravines, hill trails, and Caldera views gives experienced riders a much more exciting outing than a slow circuit near the stables.

Skip it if you are a beginner, have not ridden at speed for some time, or want a quiet sightseeing activity. The $215 price is high for two hours, but the route is unusually varied and the small group adds real value. For a confident equestrian, this is one of the more distinctive ways to experience Santorini.

FAQ

How long is the horseback riding tour?

The tour lasts two hours.

Where does the activity start?

You meet at the Santorini Horse Riding Stables in Megalochori.

How early should I arrive?

You should meet at the stables 30 minutes before the activity starts.

Is hotel pickup included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?

No. The tour is not recommended without advanced horse riding experience.

What riding skills are required?

You need to be comfortable with trotting, cantering, galloping, and climbing on a hill.

How many people can join the group?

The group is limited to six participants.

Which languages does the instructor speak?

The instructor speaks English and Greek.

What equipment is included?

Helmets and chaps are included.

Are photos included?

Yes. The tour guide takes photos with a phone during the activity.

Where does the tour finish?

The activity ends back at the meeting point in Megalochori.

How much does the tour cost?

The listed price is $215 per person.

Can I cancel for a refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I reserve now and pay later?

Yes. The activity offers a reserve-now, pay-later option.