Riding the Minoan Trails to Eros Beach, 45 Minutes on the Sand

The gorges and ravines this ride goes through were cut by the Minoan eruption, which puts roughly 3,500 years of geology under the horse. It starts at the hilltop stables above Vlychada, with the Aegean below and no hurry about anything. The horses are quiet and well looked after, and the guides ride with you, so no previous experience is needed. The route runs through the volcanic canyons and the wind-shaped cliffs to Eros Beach, which is not the sort of place you reach by road. Around 45 minutes is spent along the shoreline, with time to stop for photographs. Back at the stables there is a shaded area and a café, and the view stays where it was. Two practical things: arrive 30 minutes before the ride, and wear long trousers or leggings with closed-toe shoes.