Santorini: Horseback Volcano Trails & Eros Beach Ride

Summary

Horseback through volcanic canyons to black sand shores

You’ll ride gentle horses from Santorini’s hilltop stables through volcanic canyons and old vineyards down to secluded Eros Beach. With a local guide leading, feel the island’s wild side—hooves in black sand, salty breeze on your face—and pause for photos before relaxing at the stables’ café with views you won’t forget.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest—I didn’t expect the horses to be so calm, or the air above Vlychada to smell faintly of thyme and sea salt. Our guide, Eleni, handed me a helmet and grinned like she’d seen my nerves before. The stables sat high over the island, goats somewhere below making their weird little noises. We set off slow, dust kicking up behind us, and I kept glancing back at those blue strips of Aegean in the distance.

The path wound through old vineyards—those low basket vines you see all over Santorini—and then into these narrow canyons where the rock felt almost soft under my boots. Eleni pointed out how the cliffs were shaped by that ancient eruption (3,500 years ago? I think she said), and I tried to imagine lava pouring through here. At one point my horse stopped just to sniff some wild fennel poking out of the ground. It was quiet except for hooves and someone’s laugh behind me—maybe I was more relaxed than I thought.

When we reached Eros Beach it looked nothing like any Greek beach I’ve seen—just black sand and these jagged cliffs that block most of the wind. We rode along the waterline for a while; my horse seemed to know exactly where he wanted to go. Eleni took photos of us, but honestly, I still think about how cool the breeze felt after all that sun on my neck. Heading back up toward the stables, we stopped for bottled water and sat in this shaded café area overlooking everything we’d just crossed. Not sure why but time moved slow there—nobody rushed us off. Kind of wish every day ended like that.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horse ride to Eros Beach and views

• Start at stables in Megalochori
• Ride along vineyard paths
• Follow south trails to Eros Beach
• See volcanic gorges and ravines
• Ride along black sand beach
• Ascend hill for panoramic views
• Take commemorative photos
• Relax at stables' chill-out area

Top questions

How long is the horseback ride from Santorini stables to Eros Beach?

The ride includes approximately 45 minutes along Eros Beach itself, plus additional time riding through volcanic trails from the stables above Vlychada or Megalochori.

Is previous horseback riding experience required?

No, this tour is suitable for beginners as well as experienced riders; guides provide helmets and instructions.

Where does the horseback tour in Santorini start?

The ride starts at hilltop stables above Vlychada (sometimes Megalochori), south of Santorini island.

What should I wear for horseback riding in Santorini?

Wear comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity; closed shoes are recommended. Helmets are provided.

Are photos included during the Santorini horse ride?

Yes, commemorative photos are taken during your ride along scenic spots including Eros Beach.

Is transportation included in this horseback tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are available nearby.

Can pregnant travelers join this horseback tour?

No, pregnant travelers are not recommended to participate due to safety reasons.

How physically demanding is this horse ride in Santorini?

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness; not recommended for those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

What’s included

Your day includes a gentle horse matched to your comfort level, helmets and saddle bags for convenience, bottled water during breaks, plenty of photo opportunities along volcanic trails and Eros Beach, plus time to unwind at the shaded café area back at the stables before heading out again on your own schedule.