Horseback riding Santorini: Volcano trails to Eros Beach

Ninety minutes on horseback through volcanic canyons to a secluded black sand beach

Horseback riding on Santorini takes you from hilltop stables above Vlychada through dramatic volcanic terrain and vineyard paths to Eros Beach, where you ride the shoreline for roughly 45 minutes before returning to the stables' café. The route follows trails carved by the Minoan eruption 3,500 years ago, passing small gorges and ravines cut into volcanic rock. An English-speaking guide leads groups of all riding levels on well-cared horses. Helmets, water and commemorative photos are included, and you have time to rest at the stables afterward.

Step-by-step itinerary

Horse ride to Eros Beach and views

• Start at hilltop stables above Vlychada
• Ride through volcanic canyons and cliffs
• Pass vineyards and traditional layouts
• Reach and ride along secluded Eros Beach
• Enjoy panoramic view from hilltop
• Take commemorative photos during ride
• Relax at stables’ chill-out area and café

The experience

You start at the stables in Megalochori, set on a hilltop above Vlychada with views over the Aegean. The ride begins through vineyard paths that show the traditional layout of Santorini's wine country, then moves onto the south trails that descend toward Eros Beach. As you ride, the landscape opens into small gorges and ravines carved into the volcanic rock: the physical record of the eruption that formed the island. The terrain is dramatic but the pace is steady. The guide works with all levels, and the horses are chosen for their calm temperament.

Eros Beach itself is a long black sand shore backed by impressive rock formations and cliffs. You spend roughly 45 minutes riding along the shoreline, with time to stop for photos and take in the view from the top of the hill overlooking the beach and the trails you came down. The guide captures commemorative photos throughout the ride at the best vantage points, so you have images of the moments that matter.

After the ride, you return to the stables' chill-out area and café to rest, drink water, and sit with the view. The whole outing runs about 90 minutes from start to finish.

What’s included

• English-speaking guide.
• helmet and saddle bag.
• bottled water.
• commemorative photos taken along the route.
• access to the stables' chill-out area and café after the ride.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 09:00, 10:00, 15:00 and 16:00

AgesAdult (8 to 65 years) · Under 8: can't be booked

GroupUp to 10 · max 4 per booking

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 4 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Santorini Horse Riding

Is this one for you?Small groups and riders of all levels work well here: the guide paces the ride to the group, and the gentle horses and steady route mean you can focus on the landscape and the moment rather than managing the horse. If you want to move through Santorini's volcanic terrain under your own power instead of watching it pass from a vehicle, this is the way to do it.

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What is Eros Beach like when we get there on horseback?

Eros Beach is a long black sand beach in the south of Santorini, backed by dramatic rock formations and tall cliffs. You ride along the shoreline for roughly 45 minutes, with time to stop for photos and view the landscape from the hilltop above the beach before heading back to the stables.

Do I need riding experience to do this?

No. The ride is designed for all levels, from beginners to experienced riders. The horses are gentle and well-cared for, and the English-speaking guide adjusts the pace to the group.

What's included in the ride?

The ride includes a helmet, saddle bag, bottled water, an English-speaking guide, and commemorative photos taken at the best spots along the route. After the ride, you can relax at the stables' café.

How long does the whole experience take?

The ride itself is about 90 minutes. That includes the vineyard paths, the descent to Eros Beach, roughly 45 minutes riding along the shoreline, and the return to the stables.

Where do we start, and how do we get there?

The stables are located in Megalochori, on a hilltop above Vlychada. Public transportation options are available nearby if you don't have your own transport.

What happens after the ride ends?

You return to the stables' chill-out area and café, where you can rest, enjoy the Aegean views, and take time to relax after the ride.