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South Rhodes Trails

Overview

Rhodes is an island in the Aegean Sea and the largest within Greece's Dodecanese Island complex. The island mainly comprises hills and low mountains, many of which are covered with forests of pine and cypress. The coastline is rocky but punctuated with beaches, and inland there are arable strips wh…

Highlights

  • Perfect your Western riding on beautiful trails
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the rocky and hilly landscapes
  • Canter along the 4km beach to Monolithos
  • Ride to (and through) interesting historical sites
  • Look out for the resident fallow deer population

Essential Facts

  • 3 itineraries available
  • Max 6 riders per group
  • Average of 4 - 5 hours riding per day
  • Weight limit: 80kg / 176 lbs / 12 stone 8 lbs

Description

Rhodes is an island in the Aegean Sea and the largest within Greece's Dodecanese Island complex. The island mainly comprises hills and low mountains, many of which are covered with forests of pine and cypress. The coastline is rocky but punctuated with beaches, and inland there are arable strips where citrus fruits, grapes, olives and other vegetables are grown. The main city of Rhodes is based in the north of the island, but our trails are in the less populated south.

Our partners here have been running riding trails here since 2012 and specialise in small groups to avoid mass tourism. They are keen for you to build a partnership with your horse and so ask that you are involved in grooming and tacking up (except on the Comfort Trail) so that you can familiarise yourself with your horses likes and dislikes. They have a small team of well-loved horses, always allowing for one or two spares in case of problems.

The riding is Western style and each of the itineraries includes a short introduction in the arena to get used to the style of riding and your horse. The rocky and hilly landscape means that these rides are not fast, but there are opportunities to trot and/or canter a couple of times each day. You may even be lucky enough to spot some of the islands resident Fallow deer herd as you are riding - sightings are more common around the time of the rut, from September onwards.

You are accompanied on the trails by Capri the donkey, who carries your lunchtime snacks, hammocks for relaxing and extra water.

Horses & Riding

Tack

Leisure Western style.

The horses are ridden Western style so are used to a loose rein throughout. Many are ridden in bitless bridles.

Horses

There is a small team of well-loved and well cared for horses at this ranch. They include two purebred shetland ponies and a thoroughbred, as well as a variety of mixed breeds including crosses of Arravani (local Greek horses), Arabians, Andalusian, Appaloosa, Haflinger, Murgese (originating from Italy) and Mustangs too.

Riding

There are 3 itineraries:

  • South Rhodes Ride is a based ride
  • Cloverleaf Sunshine Ride is a based ride
  • South Rhodes Camping-Combo Trail is a trail ride

Ages

16 years for the trails

Weight

80kg / 176 lbs / 12 stone 8 lbs

Food & Accommodation

Food

All meals are included and will be typically Greek.

Breakfast is simply a selection of ingredients and you help yourself, such as cold meats, bread, yoghurt.

Lunch is only light - a snack which is taken along with you on the ride. Dinner has much larger quantities, so you won't go hungry!

Water is provided throughout along with one drink at meals, but other drinks can all be purchased locally.

Accommodation

On the main South Rhodes Ride and Cloverleaf Sunshine Ride, accommodation is based 1km from the ranch, next to the monastery of Thari. The rooms are owned by the church and a portion of the room charge goes towards helping orphans.

There is a double/twin room, a family room (double and bunk room) and a house with two separate bedrooms. Toilets/showers may be shared. The rooms are basic but clean, with a fridge and kettle. There is no TV, Wi-Fi or air-conditioning in these rooms.

There are relaxing areas at the ranch, such as an inflatable pool and hammocks/sun loungers.

On the camping trail, you will spend your first two and last nights at the guestrooms belonging to the Monastery in Thari. You will then camp for three nights on the trail, as well as staying in simple guestrooms at the monastery of St. Filimonas.

On the South Rhodes Ride and Cloverleaf Sunshine ride, there is an option to upgrade to different accommodation in Laerma village. The rooms here are of a higher comfort level with en-suite shower rooms, air conditioning, a TV and WiFi. They are not a hotel, but comfortable little studio apartment type rooms. A supplement will need to be paid in order to upgrade to these rooms instead.

Itineraries

South Rhodes Ride Standard accommodation.

Cloverleaf Sunshine Ride Standard accommodation.

South Rhodes Camping-Combo Trail Tented accommodation.

Other Activities

When not in the saddle there is time to relax, visit the beach (depending on which day of the programme you are on) or book some extra activities in the region. There are many nice places to visit such as the nearby monastery or a local donkey sanctuary.

Travel

There are many flight options to Rhodes, with mainstream and low-cost airlines. Transfers are available from the airport to the ranch at additional cost. Please ask us for more information.

Testimonials

Lynne A., Nov. 14, 2023

I loved it. I was the only client on this ride (Cloverleaf Sunshine), which was absolutely fine as Elpida and her team were really friendly and made me feel like part of the family. The horses were lovely and the scenery (and weather!) magnificent. Favourite memory? Seeing fallow deer and wild goats scampering around us. Also the day ride to the dam where I swam and we lay in hammocks for a while.


Itinerary & Pricing

Day 1

Riding: No riding.

Arrive at the ranch and overnight at the nearby hostel.

Day 2

Riding: 3 hours

You'll be introduced to your horse in the arena where there's time to get to know him and the riding style. Your guide will help you adjust to Western riding if you aren't used to it. This orientation takes 30-40mins, by which time you should know a little about the character of your horse and can swap if you aren't happy. You then set off on a panoramic ride for about 3 hours before returning to the ranch. After a relaxing break you can visit the famous monastery of Thani before dinner.

Day 3

Riding: 6 hours

Depart the ranch on your trail. After 10km you reach Asklipeo, the birthplace of Asclepius (Aesculapius), the son of Apollo and the God of healing. Located in the central village square is one of the most remarkable churches on Rhodes - built in 1060 as a cross-domed church, it was expanded in the 14th century. Its wall paintings show scenes from the Old Testament. In the southern cross arm of the church, a typical representation of the Apocalypse is shown with a seven-headed dragon, trumpeters and the four apocalyptic horsemen.

As well as the church you can also visit the tiny museum which contains original farm tools and an old olive press. Whilst walking through the narrow streets of Asklipeo you'll approach Asklipeo Castle which was built by the knights in the 15th century.

After visiting Asklipeo, you head deeper into the countryside, riding through a valley before climbing up to the mountain village of Profilia, which offers gorgeous panoramic views across to the Aegean Sea. Continue riding to the village of Arnitha which has c. 300 residents. This small village dates back to the Hellenistic period.

Return to the ranch for the night. Your dinner is a delicious variety of Mediterranean dishes.

Riding: 25-30 kms

NB. During the summer months, this day may be swapped for a beach ride instead.

Day 4

Riding: No riding.

Today is a rest day for the horses, leaving you free to explore. You will go by car to the village of Lindos to experience some local culture or just relax at the beach. In the evening you will return to the ranch and can sample some wines before dinner.

Day 5

Riding: 5 hours

A day of beautiful panoramic views as you ride along forgotten donkey and carriage paths to the mountain village of Aigios Isideros, located 523m below Rhodes' highest mountain, Ataviros. In the evening you will return to the ranch and be served some delicious dishes to enjoy.

Day 6

Riding: 5 - 6 hours

Start the day by riding through a nice valley until reaching the largest dam in the area. Here you will stop for a rest and swim. Depending on the weather you may also get the chance to canoe in the dam if you wish to!

In the afternoon you will ride back to the ranch via another route and enjoy amazing views out to the ocean. Overnight at the ranch and enjoy a wide selection of Mezze (tapas) to satisfy your appetite.

Day 7

Riding: 4 hours

After breakfast, you mount up for your final ride crossing canyons and arriving at the peak of a small mountain (c 400m alt.) behind the ranch. From your vantage point, you will have unimpeded views across the valleys and will be able to retrace where you have ridden throughout the week. You will be able to enjoy your final hours with your equine companion

Upon returning to the ranch, you'll either have a BBQ or head to the village tavern for dinner.

Day 8

Riding: No riding.

Depart after breakfast (or stay for another week!)

Accommodation

All nights will be spent at the main accommodation located at the monastery of Thari. Guests have the option to upgrade their accommodation to a more comfortable option, on payment of a supplement.

Experience Intermediate / Experienced

You should be comfortable in all paces. The riding pace is not fast, but there are opportunities for some trots and canters.

Minimum group size 3
Maximum group size 6
Departure windows

March 31, 2024 - April 7, 2024

April 14, 2024 - April 21, 2024

Sept. 22, 2024 - Sept. 29, 2024

Oct. 6, 2024 - Oct. 13, 2024

Oct. 20, 2024 - Oct. 27, 2024

Nov. 3, 2024 - Nov. 10, 2024

Pricing

2024
Non-rider, sharing
£750 $945 €880
2024
Rider, sharing
£1260 $1590 €1480
Included 7 nights accommodation in shared rooms, transfers between accommodations and the ranch as required, full board meals, coffee and juice at breakfast, one soft drink at lunch and one drink at dinner, drinking water, 5 days of riding.
Not included Flights, airport transfers, travel insurance, additional drinks, tips & other personal expenses.

Extras

2024 - Accommodation Upgrade (Comfort Rooms) £85 $108 €100
Paid to Far and Ride
2024 - Airport Transfer €60
Paid locally
Rhodes airport transfer, each way per person
2024 - Single Supplement £137 $172 €160
Paid to Far and Ride
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.

Day 1

Riding: No riding.

Arrive and relax at your accommodation.

Day 2

Riding: 2 hours

Meet the horses and enjoy a two hour ride to get to know your mount and the western style of riding. You'll experience some beautiful views and also get to visit the monastery Thari.

Day 3

Riding: 4 hours

Ride into the wilderness and to a small monastery. As you ride through the forests and valleys you may be lucky and have some deer cross your path. There may be some opportunities for canters along the trails, and weather depending, you could also visit the Donkey Sanctuary.

Day 4

Riding: No riding.

Non Riding day. You can go exploring if you wish, or simply relax. If you choose to hire a car or motorbike then you can discover some of the beautiful places on Rhodes. Alternatively, you hosts will drive you to the beach. There is also the option to book tours, but these will be additional cost, payable locally: catamaran tour, tour to Irleand Symi, tour of Rhodes Town, or massage at the ranch.

Day 5

Riding: 2 - 4 hours

Have you ever tried T-Touch? This is a way of giving something back to the horses. Your hosts will teach you some of the Tellington-Jones Touch techniques which can help a nervous horse become relaxed and calm. Understand how to create steps towards a more confident horse, relieve pain, help to keep the horses back in good condition and how to teach the horse to concentrate. You can also try a little bareback riding or try the horses in the round pen and then head out for a little trail.

If you are not interested in the T-Touch programme, then an alternative trail ride may be offered instead. Both options last c. 4 hours in total.

Day 6

Riding: 4 - 5 hours

Ride to the dam at Laerma where you can swim or take a canoe out on the water. After relaxing in the hammocks, ride back to the ranch via some stone graves dating to 300BC.

Day 7

Riding: 3 hours

Ride up to heights of 400m for fantastic views of the dam below. Upon returning to the ranch a delicious BBQ will be waiting for you.

Day 8

Riding: No riding.

Depart after breakfast

Accommodation

All nights are spent at the church rooms, a short distance from the ranch.

Experience Intermediate / Experienced

You should be comfortable in all paces. The riding pace is not fast, but there are opportunities for some trots and canters.

Minimum group size 3
Maximum group size 6
Departure windows

April 7, 2024 - April 14, 2024

April 21, 2024 - April 28, 2024

April 28, 2024 - May 5, 2024

May 5, 2024 - May 12, 2024

May 12, 2024 - May 19, 2024

May 19, 2024 - May 26, 2024

At any time during: June 2, 2024 - Sept. 1, 2024  (Any week, starting on a Sunday)

Sept. 8, 2024 - Sept. 15, 2024

Sept. 15, 2024 - Sept. 22, 2024

Sept. 29, 2024 - Oct. 6, 2024

Oct. 13, 2024 - Oct. 20, 2024

Oct. 27, 2024 - Nov. 3, 2024

Pricing

2024
Non-Rider, sharing
£750 $945 €880
2024
Rider, sharing
£1090 $1375 €1280
Included 7 nights accommodation in shared rooms, transfers from the accommodation to the ranch each day, full board meals, coffee and juice at breakfast, one soft drink at lunch and one drink at dinner, drinking water, 5 days of riding.
Not included Flights, airport transfers, travel insurance, additional drinks, tips & other personal expenses.

Extras

2024 - Accommodation Upgrade (Comfort rooms) £85 $108 €100
Paid to Far and Ride
2024 - Airport Transfer €60
Paid locally
Rhodes airport transfer, each way per booking
2024 - Single Supplement £128 $162 €150
Paid to Far and Ride
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.

Day 1

Riding: No riding.

On arrival at the ranch, you will be met by the team and taken to the hostel where you will spend the next nights.

Day 2

Riding: 2 - 3 hours

You'll be introduced to your horse in the arena where there's time to get to know him and the riding style. Your guide will help you adjust to Western riding if you aren't used to it. This orientation takes 30 mins, by which time you should know a little about the character of your horse and can swap if you aren't happy. You then set off on a panoramic ride for about 3 hours before returning to the ranch. After a relaxing break, you can visit the famous monastery of Thani before dinner.

Day 3

Riding: 4 - 5 hours

Start the day by riding through a picturesque valley; A day of beautiful panoramic views as you ride along forgotten donkey and carriage paths until reaching the largest dam in the area. Here you will stop for a rest and swim. Depending on the weather you may also get the chance to canoe in the dam if you wish to!

Tonight you will camp near the dam.

Day 4

Riding: 5 hours

Today's ride will have you passing the highest mountain on Rhodes, Ataviros, before heading through the valley of the red earth (Kokino Homa). Here you will set up your hammocks and enjoy a well-earned lunch and rest break. Through the afternoon you will ride on to a lonely place with a fantastic view of the Agais and the landscape you are heading towards.

Tonight you will camp again.

Day 5

Riding: 3 - 4 hours

Today you will arrive at Limni beach - a 4km stretch of sand and that welcomes a great beach gallop (if the tide is low enough). Otherwise, you can swim, relax and enjoy yourselves. Not forgetting the horses too! They will surely enjoy a quick splash in the water, depending on the weather of course. Some love to swim and some just to get their toes wet. You will pitch your tents on the dunes and marvel at the sunset over the sea - totally unforgettable.

Day 6

Riding: 5 - 6 hours

On today's ride, you will leave the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean behind and begin to ride through small gorges and valleys in the interior of the island. The flat areas will welcome plenty of canters and you'll enjoy a lunch stop with a view of the sparkling sea behind you. Your destination will be the monastery of St. Filimonas in Arnitha.

You will spend the night in guest rooms at the monastery.

Day 7

Riding: 3 - 4 hours

Today is your final day on the trail and you will see a stark change in the landscape. Riding towards the village of Profillia you will pass through low lying pine forests, which again welcome ample opportunities for canters. After lunch, you will ride back to the ranch. Once there, there is time to say farewell and treat your faithful companions. Back at the accommodation, you can take a soothing shower before heading to dinner at a local tavern tonight.

Day 8

Riding: No riding.

Depart after breakfast (or stay for another week!)

Accommodation

4 nights will be spent in hostels and local guesthouses & 3 nights will be in simple modern tents (or hammocks if the weather is good) along the trail route.

Experience Intermediate / Experienced

Riders should be comfortable in all paces. The pace of rides is not fast, but there are opportunities for some trots and canters.

Minimum group size 3
Maximum group size 6
Departure windows

May 26, 2024 - June 2, 2024

Sept. 1, 2024 - Sept. 8, 2024

Pricing

2024
Per person, sharing
£1175 $1485 €1380
Included 7 nights accommodation in shared rooms/tents, transfers between accommodations and where the horses will stay (as required), full board meals, coffee and juice at breakfast, one soft drink at lunch and one drink at dinner, drinking water, 6 days of riding.
Not included Flights, airport transfers, travel insurance, additional drinks, tips & other personal expenses.

Extras

2024 - Airport Transfer £51 $65 €60
Paid to Far and Ride
Rhodes airport transfer, per person, each way
2024 - Single Supplement £128 $162 €150
Paid to Far and Ride
Note: All programmes and itineraries are weather dependent; in the face of adverse, or unexpected, weather conditions reasonable attempts will be made to provide equivalent riding. All programmes are accurate at the time of writing. However, the team may adapt or modify details, whilst aiming to provide a similar experience.