Horse riding through olive groves and along the beach at Roda

What it is

A horse ride along the north coast of Corfu, beside Roda. It is run by Katreena Horse Riding, a small riding centre founded by Nate, an instructor with years of experience in the north of the island. Its routes combine two landscapes: shaded paths among olive trees and the open seashore. It is a quiet, walking-pace activity, designed to be enjoyed by someone who has never ridden and also by someone who has not been on a horse for a long time.

The centre says it works with all ages and levels, and that its horses are used to people and groups. It is not a riding lesson: it is a guided ride in which the instructor sets the pace.

What outings there are and how much they cost

Prices per person, according to the centre's experiences page:

• Beach and nature ride: 1 h 15, along the beach and the surroundings of north Corfu. €30. It is the one to choose if it is your first time.
• Sunset ride: 1 h 30, with sunset from the coast. €45.
• Swim with the horses: you go into the sea with them and ride in the water. €65.
• Advanced ride: more demanding, for experienced riders. €65.
• Riding week: seven days with accommodation, airport transfer, breakfast and riding all day. €1,000.

The first three are booked online on their website. The advanced ride and the riding week are not: you have to write through the contact form or call +30 694 482 9461.

Where it is and how to get there

The centre gives as its address a street in Roda, near the village taxi rank. Roda is on the north coast, between Sidari and Acharavi. From Corfu town, allow nearly an hour by car on the north road. The website does not say whether the ride starts at that same address: confirm it when booking and ask for the exact location for your map.

It fits well into a day devoted to the north, for example with the climb of Pantokrator in the morning and the sunset ride.

When to go

The founder speaks of routes for summer, and the centre does not publish opening dates. The prudent thing is to count on the tourist season, spring to autumn, and check beforehand if you travel in April or October. In July and August the sun is fierce: the sunset ride is the most pleasant, and the stretch through the olive trees gives shade.

With children

The centre says it designs outings with the safety of the whole family in mind, but its website does not publish a minimum age, maximum weight or whether it lends helmets. Ask when booking, especially if you go with small children. With teenagers, the swim with the horses is usually the one they like most.

What to bring

Comfortable long trousers and closed shoes with a bit of heel; flip-flops are no good for the stirrup. Sun cream, a hat that fits under the helmet and water. For the swim with the horses, swimwear under your clothes and a towel in the car. Leave in the car what you do not want to lose: the phone is best in a zipped pocket.