Naxos Horse Riding on the Beach

Agios Georgios Beach, the Sandy Bay Next to Naxos Town

Agios Georgios (Saint George) beach begins right at the southern edge of Naxos town and curves south in a long ribbon of soft golden sand. The water is shallow for many metres, which is why families love it, and its southern end opens into a wide lagoon where windsurfers and kitesurfers practise when the summer wind blows. From the saddle you see the whole bay at once: the white houses of the old town behind you and the low hills of the island ahead.

On this ride you reach the beach after the fields and bamboo paths and follow the water's edge at a gentle pace, with time for photos. Many visitors ask about the best time to visit Agios Georgios beach: early morning and late afternoon are the quietest moments, exactly when the rides take place. After your ride you can return for a swim, as the beach is only a few minutes from the stables.

Farm Fields and Bamboo Paths of the Naxos Plain

Naxos is the largest and greenest island of the Cyclades, and the flat land south of the main town is its farming heart. Small plots of potatoes, vegetables and fruit trees are divided by stone walls and irrigation channels lined with tall bamboo canes, which form shady green tunnels in the middle of summer. It is a side of the island most visitors never see from the road, quiet and fragrant, with birdsong instead of traffic.

The first part of the ride crosses these tracks at walking pace, so even complete beginners settle in quickly. Your instructor shares stories about rural life, local produce and the island's traditions along the way. Because the route stays on flat ground before reaching the sand, it is one of the gentlest introductions to horse riding in Naxos for children and nervous riders, while experienced riders still enjoy the scenery and the calm rhythm of the horses.

Morning Ride or Sunset Ride: Choosing Your Time

Three start times are offered: 10:00, 17:00 and 18:00. The morning ride is the coolest and most peaceful choice in July and August, when midday heat can be strong; the light is soft, the sea is often flat and the horses are fresh. The late-afternoon rides are warmer but bring long shadows and golden colours, and in high summer the later ride ends close to sunset over the bay.

Rides take place from spring to autumn. In July and August the northerly meltemi wind can blow hard in the Cyclades, so the morning slot is often calmer on the beach. Whichever time you choose, wear comfortable trousers and closed shoes, bring water and sunscreen, and let us know your riding level when booking so the team can prepare the right horse or pony for each rider in your group.

Naxos Town, the Portara and How to Get to Naxos

Combine your ride with an afternoon in Naxos town (Chora). Its most famous sight is the Portara, the huge marble doorway of an unfinished Temple of Apollo begun in the 6th century BC on the islet of Palatia, joined to the harbour by a causeway. Above the port, the alleys of the old town climb to the Venetian Kastro, built in the 13th century, with mansions, small churches and views over the sea.

Is Naxos worth visiting? With mountain villages, long sandy beaches and ancient marble everywhere, it is one of the most complete islands in Greece. As for how to get to Naxos: ferries from Piraeus take about 3 hours 30 minutes to 5 hours, the crossing from Paros takes about 45 minutes, and the small Naxos airport (JNX) has short flights from Athens. Our team can also help you plan transfers and other activities on the island.