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Horseback riding tours
Rides in
Greece
Intro to Greece
Crete Crete West Coast
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Cyprus Turkey
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Land of Zorba Trails
Crete West Coast
Greece
Crete's lovely green hills, rural goat-tracks, olive groves, scented herbs and wild flowers, plus the unique Lake of Kournas, Argiroupoli's Waterfalls, the many friendly villages and of course the superb sunny beaches, all combine to make this the holiday experience of a lifetime!
This exciting horseback trek across the island of Crete starts with an unforgettable beach ride along the sandy stretches of Georgioupoli, well-known for its long and most beautiful beaches. So be ready for some thrilling canters along the Cretan Sea under the bold sunshine of the Mediterranean! We then cross the island from North to South and back, visiting the tiny island villages which dot the expanse of the island and where we will find hidden medieval sites along the way.
For those who have been dreaming of breath-taking shoreline riding, this will be a fantasy come true.
Crete offers a splendid opportunity for the avid horseback rider to make their Mediterranean travel dreams come alive!
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Progressive Ride (no camping)
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Meeting:
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Georgioupoli
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Airport:
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Chania
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Transfer:
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Chania airport
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
Max
12 riders
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Trip Brochure (PDF)
Trip Rating
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Rates and Dates for 2013
Rates include:
Accommodations at 2 and 3 star accommodations, all meals in local tavernas, 6 (5) riding days.
| A | 2013 | 7 day ride, AP | 8d / 7n | €1573 | $2050 |
Transfer and Other Options:
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2013
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Transfer is included from Chania airport or harbor
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€
0
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$0
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2013
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single supplement- unless willing to share
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€
184
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$240
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Transfer from the airport, harbor to and from the hotel is included
Tour Dates for 2013
Additional dates can be set for groups of 4+ riders.
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North South Itinerary - 7 nights, 6 riding days - approx 37 riding hours
Day 1: Arrival and welcome. Free time to look around the village of Georgioupoli, walk along the beach or to the nearby Lake of Kournas. The night is spent in Georgioupoli.
Day 2: This exciting and varied 6-day trip across the island starts with an unforgettable beach ride along the long sandy beach of Georgioupoli. For those who have always dreamt of galloping along the shoreline, this will be a dream come true. We then make our way up to Kastelos and ride through the almost abandoned village of Patima, to reach the greenery of Argiroupoli village. As at every lunch break, the horses will be unsaddled and put in a shady place, so they can eat and rest from 3 to 4 hours. The village of Argiroupoli is well known for its springs, ancient mills, avocados and associated products. Amidst these delightful surroundings - green, even in the middle of the summer - we enjoy typical Cretan dishes, listening to the sound of the waterfalls. After lunch, there is plenty of time for a stroll or a visit to the local Museum of Village Life.
Continuing on our trip, we ride through the village of Kato Poros which has been renovated in traditional style and the fun continues along shady dirt tracks through unspoiled countryside. This magnificent trail leads us to the village of Aghios Vasilios, where we spend the night.
Hours riding: 8, morning & late afternoon, large lunch break, some small stops during the ride.
Day 3: This day offers a completely different scenario. We start off riding through the peaceful Kotsifou Gorge, surrounded by an impressive mountain plateau and enjoying splendid views over the Libyan Sea. Passing through the heart of the popular tourist village Plakias, we make our way to the quiet bay of Ammoudi, where we have lunch. There is time to relax on the beach, go for a swim (alone or with your horse) or go diving (not included).
With our batteries recharged, we pass through the winding tracks of Lefkoghia and follow the ancient aqua duct down to the famous Preveli Monastery. After a short visit with splendid views we head on further towards Ammoudi, passing the even older ruins of Kato Moni Preveli.
We spend the night at the beach of Preveli from where you may choose to take the 10-minute walk to the famous Palm Beach or enjoy a cool swim (with or without your horse). A delicious dinner is provided at the local tavern near the sea.
Hours riding: 7, morning & late afternoon, large lunch break, some small stops during the ride.
Day 4: The Lybian Sea with the rough coastline, mountains rising steeply from the shore, is the perfect backdrop to our ride. Our route treats us to vistas of open stretches of unspoiled countryside. Following the superb coastline we reach Triopetra, where you can enjoy a well deserved free afternoon.
Hours riding: 3, in the morning, stop during the ride.
Day 5: We follow a dirt track winding through the hills and countryside that brings us to Crete's place of miracles: the Monastery of Agias Antonios, in the middle of nowhere...We enjoy the peace and quiet during our short stop, before continuing towards the traditional village of Akoumia, where we have lunch.
Afterwards, our track leads gently over the hills, to the villages of Kendrochori and Kissos and through the fields of the Ghious Kambos plane. Admire the natural habitat of sheep and goats, also home to many species of birds and plants. This area is also well known for its excellent cherries. Dinner at the entrance of the Patsos Gorge. The night is spent nearby.
Hours riding: 7, morning & late afternoon, large lunch break, some small stops during the ride.
Day 6: Leaving Patsos, we ride through the oak tree valley towards Gouladiana for lunch. Riding all day in quiet, natural surroundings, admiring the pureness of nature and the simplicity of village life on Crete. Night is spent in Agios Konstantinios.
Hours riding: 7, morning & late afternoon, large lunch break, some small stops during the ride.
Day 7: Another off road adventure to Karoti, from where we go downhill to Petres for lunch. For those who can't get enough of Crete's outstanding natural beauty, there is also a short visit to the Gorge of Petres where we walk through the riverbed to a private waterfall spa. Plenty of time left for sunbathing and swimming with the horses. Afterwards the accent is on beach riding: from Petres back to Georgioupoli in the late afternoon until sunset. The night is spent in the picturesque village of Georgioupoli, where we round off this amazing and unforgettable trip.
Hours riding: 5, morning & late afternoon, large lunch break, some small stops during the ride.
Day 8: Free time & departure.
Discover Trail - 6 nights, 5 riding days - aprox 25 riding hours
Day 1: Arrival and welcome. Free day. The night is spent in Georgioupoli.
Day 2: Around 10.00 we ride uphill to the village of Mathes towards the beautiful green blue lake of Kournas. With the surrounding mountains reflected in the lake, this little paradise makes a perfect location for lunch. We discover the lake by peddle boat and around 15.00 we'll head towards Kastelos and ride through the almost abandoned village of Patima, to reach the greenery of Argiroupoli village. This village is well known for its springs, ancient mills, avocados and associated products. Here we spend the night.
Hours riding: 4, morning (1.5) & late afternoon (2.5), large lunch break, small stop during the ride.
Day 3: Around 08.00 we ride through the village of Kato Poros which has been renovated in traditional style and the fun continues along shady dirt tracks through unspoiled countryside. This magnificent trail leads us to the village of Aghios Vasilios where we have lunch and enjoy the open, panoramic views. After lunch, we're heading for a completely different scenario: riding through the peaceful Kotsifou Gorge, surrounded by an impressive mountain plateau and enjoying splendid views over the Libyan Sea; making our way to the popular tourist village of Plakias where we spend the night. Still plenty of time for a sunset swim in the sea or a stroll around town.
Hours riding: 6, morning (4) & late afternoon (2), lunch break, small stop during the ride.
Day 4: A day to recharge our batteries! Around 09.00 we follow the coast line to Rodakino Beach while softly dreaming away in its roughness. The sound of the waves will be the song of the day and it will fulfill you with a sense of endlessness. Lunch and free time at Rodakino Beach. Possibility to swim with your horse! Around 16.00 we'll head a bit further eastwards, overlooking the beauty of the nearby gorges towards Laki Beach, where we spend the night. Also here the horse might invite you for a sunset swim.
Hours riding: 4, morning (2) & late afternoon (2), large lunch break.
Day 5: Today we start crossing the island. From Laki Beach we head northwards, riding trough the valleys towards the village of Mirokefala, well known for the beautiful church of Panagia Mirokefala. Lunch nearby. Riding all day in quiet, natural surroundings, admiring the pureness of nature and the simplicity of village life on Crete, will bring us back to evergreen Argiroupoli where we spend the night.
Hours riding: 6, morning (4) & late afternoon (2), lunch break, small stop during the ride.
Day 6: Another off road adventure to Episcopi, from where we go downhill to Petres for lunch. For those who can't get enough of Crete's outstanding natural beauty, there is also a short visit to the Gorge of Petres where we walk through the riverbed to a private waterfall spa. Plenty of time left for sunbathing and swimming with the horses. Afterwards the accent is on beach riding: from Petres back to Georgioupoli in the late afternoon until sunset. The night is spent in the picturesque village of Georgioupoli, where we round off this amazing and unforgettable trip.
Hours riding: 5, morning (3) & late afternoon (2), large lunch break, some small stops during the ride.
Day 7: Departure in the morning.
-- subject to changes --

Meeting:
Georgioupoli
Airport:
Chania
Train station:
Chania Harbor
Transfer:
Chania airport
Distance:
45 km
Transfer from the airport, harbor to and from the hotel is included
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Tack:
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English and Western
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Horses:
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Cretan Horses (TILT),
Mix Cretan horses with Arabs, Mix Cretan horses with cold bloods
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Pace:
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Moderate with trots and short canters. Extended canters on the beach - otherwise mountainous terrain. Most days have 5 to 7+ hrs in the saddle with 3-4 hr lunch break in between - 25 miles a day
Discovery Ride: less demanding
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
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Level:
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(3
to
4
out of 5) Intermediate+
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Age:
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Min
12
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Weight:
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Max
210 lbs
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
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Max
12 riders
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Crete is a very beautiful place for horse riding during the winter. Between 10 AM and 3 PM, temperatures easily reach 21 degrees Celsius. Some days though, it can rain quite strongly. Please bring some rain clothing if booking a trip during October – April and a sweater is good for evenings as they are cooler. For trips taking place during October – April, the riding will mainly be done during the day.
During the summer, light cotton shirts with long sleeves are perfect! In the summertime (because of the heat) the riding will be separated over early mornings and early evenings, giving you free time to relax or swim during the hottest hours of the day.
Great care is taken in the selection of the horses according to each person's riding abilities and preferences - we match you up with the right horse for you! The horses are a range of Cretan Horses (TILT), Cretan Arab Crosses and Cretan Draft Crosses.
North South Trail - 6 riding days
The riding holiday is organized for good intermediate to advanced riders. The pace is moderate with many trots and canters, with 5 to 7 hours in the saddle per day.
Discovery Trail - 5 riding days
The riding holiday is organized for intermediateriders. The pace is moderate with trots and canters, with 5+ hours in the saddle per day.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Passport required by all except: (a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card. Passports must be valid for the following durations:(a) British and EU (excluding Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republi. more
The island of Crete has a temperate
Mediterranean climate meaning it experiences hot, dry summers and mild
winters. Crete has the mildest climate of anywhere in Greece. Summer
sees almost no rain, while winter months, especially December to
February, can be quite wet. Average temperatures are at their peak in
July and August at 26 ºC while January and February see temperatures of
12 ºC on average.
In general, Crete experiences winter
days that can sometimes be rainy and windy and feel quite cold. January
sees the most rainfall, with some parts of the island averaging 14
rainy days in the month. Showers are frequent from November until
February as well. Winter temperatures average about 12-14ºC. Temperature rarely
falls much below double figures in lowland and coastal Crete although
Heraklion did record a temperature of -0.8 ºC in 2004! In February 2004
Crete experienced an unusually cold period of weather which saw the
whole island dusted in snow! Normally snow is extremely rare
anywhere on the island apart from in the higher mountains.
Springtime weather on the island can
still see a number of rainy days, especially in the north, though clear
and mild days are frequent. Temperatures can and will begin to hit the 20s and
the sea begins to warm up.
Summer begins in earnest from June.
The period June to September sees almost no rainfall and average
temperatures of around 25 ºC. Daytime temperature in mid summer can be in the low 30s, though it can sometimes even reach up to 40 ºC. Summer
of 2002 saw the mercury rise to a stifling 45 ºC!
Temperatures begin to cool off in
late September, and the now dry island begins to receive some much
needed rainfall. Early autumn is a pleasant time with calm, clear days.
The weather becomes more unstable from November onward as rainy and windy days
increase, though sunny days with temperatures in the low 20s are not
uncommon.
Different parts of Crete can
experience very different weather patterns, due in the main to the
weather barrier created by the mountain ranges that stretch from East
to West across the island. The South is on average a couple of degrees
warmer than the North and is also drier. Similarly eastern Crete is
drier and warmer than those regions in the West.
Crete straddles two climatic zones –
Mediterranean and North African. Southern Crete falls into the North
African climate zone, enjoying warmer weather and averaging over 2800
hours of sunshine a year. The varying climates on the island are
reflected by the landscape and vegetation. The south can be very arid,
especially in summer, while the north is more green and verdant.
Southern Crete’s similarities with the North African climate are
evident in the fact that African swallows remain year round rather than
migrating south.
The winds that visit Crete have an
important role in shaping the island’s weather patterns. Cold, wet and
windy winter days are experienced when the strong northern winds hit
the island. The Sirocco Winds arrive from the Southeast bringing hot,
sand filled air from the deserts of Africa. When the Sirocco Winds
arrive the island becomes very dusty and hot and visibility can fall.
However, when they blow in winter they bring warm air and pleasant
temperatures. Southerly winds in the summer months can sometimes bring
stifling temperatures of up to 45 ºC. On other summer days the welcome
‘Meltimi’ winds arrive from the North-west bringing a much needed
cooling breeze to the island. When the wind blows from the east, Crete
usually experiences calm and clear weather.
Sea temperatures around Crete are
generally warm, and bathers can swim comfortably from May right up to
November. The water remains above 20 ºC during these months, peaking at
25 ºC in high summer. The sea temperature will drop to about 15 ºC in
February before beginning to warm again with the onset of spring.
In the mountains it can also be cold in from October to April.
| This list is only a guideline for you |
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| Travel documents and Voucher |
| Flight tickets |
| Passport |
| Visa (check with your consulate) |
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| RIDING GEAR |
| Riding pants or Jodhpurs (used if possible!). No jeans. |
| Riding boots that are also comfortable for walking. Mini chaps. |
| Riding helmet. Best if you bring you own. We have simple helmets for free in the stables. |
| Riding gloves |
| Hat (with chin strap) for sun protection |
| Lightweight Rain coat |
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| PERSONAL CLOTHING |
| Jacket or sweater for cool evenings |
| Comfortable T-Shirts/Shirts |
| Jeans |
| Shorts |
| Underwear and socks |
| Pyjamas |
| Bag for dirty clothes |
| Trekking boots/ comfortable shoes |
| Swimsuit |
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| ADDITIONAL THINGS TO BRING |
| Personal Toiletries |
| Insect protection |
| Personal medications |
| Sore cream (for the emergency) |
| Sewing kit |
| Handkerchiefs |
| Adapter for electric appliances |
| Camera and enough extra film or batteries |
| Belt pack |
| Address book and pen (for postcards!) |
| Sun glasses with strap |
| Sun tan lotion and lip balm |
Sorry, no video is currently available for this tour.
*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.
Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.
..view other reports for different trips
Lodging vary from day to day. Most of the hotel stays will provide breakfast and dinner and during our evenings with rental apartment accommodation we will take our meals at local taverns, which is always a great experience with a special atmosphere.
North South
Day 1and 7: The night is spent in Georgioupoli - either at the Mythologia Hotel or in the Egeon Studios.
Day 2: Aghios Vasilios.
Day 3: Night at the beach of Preveli. A delicious dinner is provided at the local tavern near the sea.
Day 4: Triopetra - in a rental apartment near the fantastic beach of Triopetra
Day 5: Dinner at the entrance of the Patsos Gorge. The night is spent nearby.
Day 6: Night is spent in Agios Konstantinios.
Discovery Ride
Day 1and 6: The night is spent in Georgioupoli - either at the Mythologia Hotel or in the Egeon Studios.
Day 2: Argiroupoli village.
Day 3: Village of Plakias.
Day 4: Laki Beach
Day 5: Argiroupoli village.
Day 6: Night is spent in Agios Konstantinios.
For smaller groups (under 6 riders) we stay at 2 and 3 star hotels and star rental apartments.
If you are willing to share - there will be no single supplement.
This trip includes
and can accommodate special dietary requests.
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Tack:
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English and Western
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Horses:
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Cretan Horses (TILT),
Mix Cretan horses with Arabs, Mix Cretan horses with cold bloods
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Pace:
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Moderate with trots and short canters. Extended canters on the beach - otherwise mountainous terrain. Most days have 5 to 7+ hrs in the saddle with 3-4 hr lunch break in between - 25 miles a day
Discovery Ride: less demanding
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Walk |
Trot |
Canter |
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Level:
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(3
to
4
out of 5) Intermediate+
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Age:
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Min
12
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Weight:
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Max
210 lbs
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Riders:
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Min
2 riders
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Max
12 riders
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Crete is a very beautiful place for horse riding during the winter. Between 10 AM and 3 PM, temperatures easily reach 21 degrees Celsius. Some days though, it can rain quite strongly. Please bring some rain clothing if booking a trip during October – April and a sweater is good for evenings as they are cooler. For trips taking place during October – April, the riding will mainly be done during the day.
During the summer, light cotton shirts with long sleeves are perfect! In the summertime (because of the heat) the riding will be separated over early mornings and early evenings, giving you free time to relax or swim during the hottest hours of the day.
Great care is taken in the selection of the horses according to each person's riding abilities and preferences - we match you up with the right horse for you! The horses are a range of Cretan Horses (TILT), Cretan Arab Crosses and Cretan Draft Crosses.
North South Trail - 6 riding days
The riding holiday is organized for good intermediate to advanced riders. The pace is moderate with many trots and canters, with 5 to 7 hours in the saddle per day.
Discovery Trail - 5 riding days
The riding holiday is organized for intermediateriders. The pace is moderate with trots and canters, with 5+ hours in the saddle per day.
Passports
Passport required by all except:
(a) 1. EU nationals holding a valid national ID card.
Passports must be valid for the following durations:
(a) British and EU (excluding Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Romania, Slovak Republic and Slovenia) passports must be valid for length of intended stay.
(b) Australian, Canadian, USA and excluded EU passports must be valid for at least three months beyond length of stay.
Note: EU and EEA nationals are only required to produce evidence of their EU nationality and identity in order to be admitted to any EU Member State. This evidence can take the form of a valid national passport or national identity card. Either is acceptable. Possession of a return ticket, any length of validity on their document, sufficient funds for the length of their proposed visit should not be imposed.
Passport Note
Greece is a signatory to the 1995 Schengen Agreement.
Visas
Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above for the following durations:
(a) nationals of EU countries for an unlimited period;
(b) nationals of Australia, Bulgaria, Canada, Romania and the USA for stays of up to 90 days.
Note: Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).
Visa Note
(a) 2. EU nationals staying more than 90 days or for employment (including establishing a business, trade, profession or commercial activity) have to apply in person to the consulate general of Greece for a national visa; (b) Greece refuses admission and transit to holders of travel documents issued by the area of Cyprus not controlled by the Government of Cyprus, and holders of UN laissez-passers; (c) Some nationals may have to register with the Aliens Department of the nearest police station within 48 hours of arrival. Contact the nearest embassy/consulate to determine whether this is necessary prior to travel.
Types of Visa and Cost
National visa: £30.
Working Days Required
Three to 14, dependent upon nationality.
| Passport Required? |
| British |
Yes |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
1 |
| Visa Required? |
| British |
No/2 |
| Australian |
No |
| Canadian |
No |
| USA |
No |
| Other EU |
No/2 |
| Return Ticket Required? |
| British |
No |
| Australian |
Yes |
| Canadian |
Yes |
| USA |
Yes |
| Other EU |
No |
This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not
take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult
the embassy or consulate for updated info.
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Land of Zorba Trails
Tour Code:
IT-GR-NST
8 days /
7 nights
~$2,050.00
Dates :
April to Oct
Trip Rating :
Difficulty :
Riding Level Explained | A | Beginner  | Beginner A rider who has limited experience, is unable to post the trot and does not canter. | | B | Novice
 | Novice A rider who is capable of mounting and dismounting unassisted, capable of
applying basic aids, comfortable and in control at the walk, moderate length posting
trots, and short canters. | | C | Intermediate
 | Intermediate A rider who has a firm seat, is confident and in control at all paces
(including posting trots, two point canters and gallops), but does not ride regularly. |
| D | Strong Intermediate
 | Strong Intermediate An intermediate rider who is currently riding regularly and is comfortable in the saddle for at least 6 hours per day. | | E | Advanced
 | All of the above, plus an independent seat, soft hands, and capable of handlinga spirited horse in open country. |
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