The stables are at Velani itself, so there are no daily transfers to get to the horses. You simply walk down to the stables and ride directly out into the surrounding countryside.

The horses include Arabs, Thoroughbreds and Warmbloods, generally ranging from around 14.2hh to 16.2hh. Riding is in English-style tack, and horses are matched carefully to riders according to their experience and ability.

Panorama Rides

The Panorama programme is the choice for competent riders looking to spend plenty of time in the saddle and explore the Cretan countryside on horseback.

Over your seven-night holiday you ride on six days, with approximately 22 hours in the saddle during the week. Individual rides are generally between three and five hours.

The routes take you through the Langada Valley and into the rural landscape surrounding Velani, following quiet tracks through hills, olive groves and traditional Cretan countryside. The terrain varies and can be uneven in places, so you should be comfortable riding at walk, trot and canter outside an arena.

Most days you return to Velani for a late lunch, leaving the afternoon free to relax by the pool or explore. Some of the longer riding days may include lunch at a local taverna, giving you the chance to see a little more of rural Crete along the way.

The Panorama programme does not operate during July and August, when the summer temperatures are at their highest.

Sunny Rides

During July and August the riding switches to the Sunny Rides programme, with rides planned for the cooler parts of the day.

You ride for approximately two hours each day, either in the morning or evening, with six riding days during the seven-night stay and around 12 hours in the saddle over the week.

Rides can be divided according to experience, with a steadier option and a more challenging ride for experienced riders. You should be comfortable riding at walk, trot and canter.

The shorter riding days make this a lovely option if you want horses to be an important part of your holiday without riding for several hours every day. There is plenty of time left for the infinity pool, the beach, sightseeing or simply relaxing at Velani.

Additional riding may sometimes be available and can be arranged and paid for locally, subject to availability.

Learn to Ride

You don’t need years of riding experience to enjoy a riding holiday at Velani. The Learn to Ride programme is aimed at beginners and less experienced riders who would like to build their confidence and improve their riding during their stay.

Rather than heading straight out on the longer Panorama routes, the emphasis is on developing your riding skills and becoming more comfortable and confident with the horses.

The programme combines instruction with riding, giving you the chance to put what you have learned into practice as the week progresses. It is a relaxed way to learn, with the benefit of spending a full week around the horses rather than trying to squeeze everything into the occasional lesson at home.

And, because you are staying at Velani, it still feels like a proper holiday. Once your riding is finished for the day, you have the hotel, pool, food and surrounding countryside to enjoy.