Greek Island of Lesvos – 6 nights

7 Days  |  From £1175pp

Greece ( Best airport: Odyseas International)

Discover an unforgettable horseback riding adventure through scenic trails on the Greek island of Lesvos. This one week trail begins with an introductory ride, before heading out on a different trail each day, reaching the ialnds most remote corners and including visits to Molyvos Castle, climbing ancient mountain paths to Petri village, and a coastal trek to Skala Sikamineas topped off with a swim in the sea. Experience the real Greece on this holiday and dip into the islands fascinating history. This itinerary is perfect for riders from competent novice onwards (can canter on an easy horse).

The Riding

The terrain and landscapes of this horseback riding journey are incredibly diverse and breathtaking. Riders will traverse sandy roads, lush forests, and mountainous paths with steep ascents and ancient cobblestone routes. The trails include historic mountain paths used since ancient Greek times, coastal areas with stunning sea views, and scenic mountain villages built in traditional architecture. Along the way, there are encounters with natural springs, remote beaches, and rugged countryside dotted with sheep, cows, and friendly animals. The landscapes range from lush greenery and shaded forests to rocky hillsides and pristine coastlines, offering a varied and picturesque backdrop for every ride.

During the summer months, you will leave early with riding starting between 5 am and 7 am to avoid the afternoon heat, which can reach 40°C in July and August. Breakfast is often taken on the trail rather than at the hotel. This will leave you with free afternoons to explore the island. A boat trip can be organised to a beautiful nearby island with crystal blue waters. You can also stroll through the authentic Greek village, discover the hot springs, or relax on the sandy beaches of Petra.

During the winter months, temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C. You can enjoy longer hikes with traditional Greek lunches or picnics.

Please be aware that the city a lot slower and other activities are available on the non riding day such as mushroom picking, hikes, guided visits and hot springs in walking distance from your hotel. Please tell us if these interest you so that they can be reserved in advance.

Level of Riding and Fitness

This horseback riding experience is suitable for riders who have a secure seat at walk, trot, and canter, and are comfortable performing rising trot. Riders should be able to mount and dismount unaided. You’ll be in the saddle up to 6 hours, covering distances from 10 to 30 kilometers. Participation in grooming and saddling is required, making it ideal for those who enjoy being actively involved in their riding experience. The program welcomes individuals aged 8 to 80.

Weight limit of 100kg.

Guides and Group Size

This trail will be led by a team of experienced and friendly guides. Rita Mihalaki, who has been guiding since 2012, is a qualified riding instructor and show-jumping athlete. Fluent in Greek, English, Dutch, and some German, Rita’s passion for horses and her idyllic village surroundings in Molyvos create a warm, welcoming atmosphere for riders.

Nicole Bomba, speaks English and Greek. She is easy-going and attentive to safety, often sharing her love of local culture and history during the rides.

Zuzanna Wrobel, who joined in 2023, is enthusiastic about horses and Greece, bringing her friendly, communicative personality to ensure an enjoyable experience for all guests.

Group sizes 1-8 riders maximum

Any questions?

Contact us now on WhatsApp with any queries you have about this trail.

The Horses

The horses available for the rides are well-cared-for, calm, and in excellent condition, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for riders. The yard provides nine horses, with additional horses available upon request. The herd mainly consists of Arabian-type warmbloods, known for their calm and gentle temperament, blending energy with tranquility. Their balanced temperaments and reliable nature make them ideal companions for riders of all levels, providing a smooth and enjoyable journey through Greece’s beautiful landscapes.

Tack and Riding Equipment

The riding is conducted in the English riding style, which emphasises a balanced and close contact with the horse, focusing on proper posture, timing, and soft aids. Riders will use English-style equipment, including a well-fitted saddle, bridle, and stirrups designed for comfort and security. Helmets are mandatory for safety, and grooming and saddling are part of the participation requirements, allowing riders to learn and connect more deeply with their horses.

IMG_4024
BellaVista-Hotel-01

Accommodation and Dining

From May 1 to September 30, guests can stay at the Bella Vista Hotel, a charming 4-star beachfront property in Eftalou, just 3 km from the village center and 6 km from the riding yard. The hotel offers a shuttle bus with regular transfers to the village, as well as private transfers to and from the yard. Facilities include a swimming pool, restaurant, recently renovated comfortable rooms with TV, hairdryer, and mini-fridge, as well as free WiFi and parking. Babysitting services are available upon request. The half-board package includes breakfast and dinner, with drinks not included. Vegetarian and special diets can be accommodated upon request.

For those visiting from March 1 to April 30 and October 1 to December 20, Elpiniki Villas provide a cozy alternative. Located within the village and just a 10-minute walk from the beach, the villas feature beautiful gardens, a swimming pool, and self-catering kitchens. Breakfast is self-served, with guests choosing their supplies during a visit to the local mini-market on the first day. Dinner is enjoyed at a nearby harbor tavern about 15 minutes away on foot, with options to order additional dishes at own expense. Many evenings feature live Greek music with bouzouki performances. Drinks are not included, but vegetarian and other dietary options are available on request.

Get a free Greek Island of Lesvos – 6 nights mini-brochure in PDF format.

Trail Booking Conditions
Get Trail Brochure

Itinerary

Day 1 Depending on your arrival time, you will either meet the horses on the first day or the following morning before your first day of hiking.
Day 2 In summer, the days start between 5 am and 7 am. You will then have free time to enjoy a delicious traditional lunch and explore the town. You will begin at the stables with a short introduction, then prepare the horses. The day starts with a ride towards Molyvos Castle, taking advantage of the sandy roads of Molyvos before gradually ascending to the local racetrack. Each year, horse races are organized there during the patronal festival in honor of the churches. Depending on the riders’ level, you will alternate between a controlled gallop or full-speed racing. Once the adrenaline is released, you will descend the mountain. In hot weather, we take a break at a natural fresh water spring for the horses, where we often meet sheep also coming to drink. Then, we head to the nearby forest, “Alysos,” where we can gallop in the shade of the trees. Dinner at the hotel. Total length: 10km
Day 3 This mountain trail takes you along centuries-old paths still used today. It is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the past since this is how the ancient Greeks traveled between villages and transported goods. You'll ride past churches, over wooden bridges and ancient cobblestones, and view the ruins of the ancient water mill of Ligonas, which dates back to the 3rd century. Ascending steep hills, you'll reach the mountain village of Petri with only 50 residents, built in traditional architecture of stone and wood. There you'll stop for a small pic-nic while enjoying the mesmerising view of nearby Petra. This ride has a few opportunities for fast canters as the terrain is challenging, and on the way back you'll walk next to the horses for about 10 minutes. There also are other animal encounters on this trail, as we pass sheep and cow farms where the animals are not fenced; sometimes a friendly donkey follows for a small part of the trail! Total length: 4hours - 20km
Day 4 This is the longest trail day. Leaving in the morning, you will head East from Molyvos, following trails that will take you past the coastal town of Eftalou - site of the famous natural hot springs. Arriving to Skala Sikamineas you will stop for lunch, enjoy a well deserved swim in the sea and exploration of this wonderful harbour village. In the afternoon, you will remount your horses and return to Molyvos via the same route. Total length: 5-6 hours - 30km
Day 5 Today, you are free to explore this beautiful Greek island. Your hosts can organise a boat trip to a nearby island or a full day boat excursion. The village also has a charming tourist train to explore the old town, or you may prefer to spend the day relaxing on the beach, some of which are rocky, or head to Petra with its white sandy shores. Just 5 minutes from your hotel, there are stunning hot springs open to the public, which are perfect for the cooler months.
Day 6 Riding: 2 - 4 hours Your ride today is dependent on the seasons. In Spring/Autumn you follow a 4hr trail over the mountains on a steep path to Vafeios, you start to climb along the beautiful narrow path through a path known for its butterflies, they are not there the whole period, but we do see them often, once we get halfway through the mountain of Lepetimnos the mesmerizing views reveal themselves. The halfway break is at this fantastic sanctuary called fairyland. Yiannis the owner, is fantastic host and chef, where he will prepare the most delicious lunch and you also have the option to use the sauna and natural spring bathtub, beautiful location and a perfect relaxation spot. You will cover approximately 15km. In summer, the day is focused on a 1H50 (45 mins each way) swimming trail so make sure your swimsuit is under your riding clothes. You'll ride about 1,5 hr to the remote beach of Eftlou where you'll remove the horses saddles and your riding gear. Hop on bareback and ride the horses into the sea for a refreshing dip. Adventurous riders can head a little deeper so that their horses actually goes for a swim. Once everyone has had enough of the water, the horses are tethered to dry in the sun whilst riders relax. Later, saddle up and ride back to the stables. You will cover approximately 8km. Total length: 2 -4 hours : 8-15kms
Day 7 Today you'll head towards the sea of Molyvos and down the mountain towards the sandy beach of Molyvos, where you'll take the horses in the water and gallop along the shore. You'll pass close the touristic village of Molyvos and head back into nature, passing through dirt roads with opportunities to pick up the pace and enjoy some canters. Plan a flight that leaves in the late afternoon or evening. Total length: 2 hours - 10kms

Greek Island of Lesvos – 6 nights

7 days / 6 nights / 6 days riding
£1175pp

Recently added to Saddle Travel, this is an exploratory ride.

You can also arrive on your preferred dates — please contact us to check availability.

Boat trip to a nearby island €50pp approximately, depending on the number of people.

Full-day boat trip €30pp approximately, depending on the number of people.

Single Supplement £220

Flights & Airport transfers

Do not book flights until you have received the Booking confirmation email from saddletravel.com

Please book your flight to MJT Odyseas International Airport at any time this usually means booking a connecting flight from Athens, Thessaloniki or during the summer months many airlines offer direct flight such as Tui, Jet2, Corendon and Sunweb.

Private transfer option available upon request from €70 per transfer.

There are also buses in summer with last departures is at 19:00pm and in winter 13:00pm.

Taxis (€90) operate between the capital and Molyvos.

For your return flight, please plan for a departure in the afternoon or early evening.

 

Price Includes
  • Half Board at the accommodation
  • Transfer to and from the hotel to the stables
  • Filtered water
  • Swimming in the sea (summer only)
  • Day 6- Lunch at Yiannes (Spring/summer)
Price Excludes
  • Flights
  • Insurance
  • Breakfast (10€-15€)
  • Airport Transfers
  • Brevages