Authentic horse ridingexperiences in Kefalonia
Welcome to a traditional horse farm in the countryside of Sami. We believe in small groups, quiet trails, and authentic connections. Every experience begins before the ride itself, through hands-on horse preparation, trust, and meaningful interaction.
Welcome to Kefalonia Horse Riding Stable
A place where horses, nature and authentic rural life come together
Located in the countryside of Sami, our stable is built around a simple philosophy: respect for horses, small-group experiences and a genuine connection between people, animals and the natural environment.
Our experiences are not designed as mass-tourism activities, but as an invitation to step into the unhurried daily life of a traditional Greek farm. For us, the journey begins long before you mount. Visitors actively participate in meeting, grooming and preparing the horses, making this hands-on interaction a core part of the experience rather than just a practical preparation before departure.
Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced rider, every experience is adapted with care to your level. Beyond riding, you are welcome to connect with the nature around us, meet all the animals that call our farm home and experience a truly authentic, rural way of life.
Pantelis Defteraios
Owner, Breeder, Trainer, Guide
Book your riding experience
Curated Horseback Journeys
Six curated routes designed for those who want to feel the terrain, not just see it. From the morning salt on the Sami coast to the deep silence of the ancient mountain ruins, choose the journey that fits your rhythm.
More than just a ride
We carefully match riders, horses, and experiences.
We don’t believe in rushed tours or crowded paths. At our stable, we follow a different pace—one that respects the animals, honors the land, and gives you the space to actually breathe.
01
Building a real connection from the ground up
Before the ride, guests are invited to spend time grooming and preparing. This ritual allows riders to connect with the horse and understand its unique personality. For us, horsemanship is about trust, patience and respect.
02
Prioritising the health and soul of our horses
Many of our horses have been retrained with patience and care after difficult past experiences. Their wellbeing always comes first, and we take pride in creating calm, respectful and safe experiences for both horses and riders.
03
Living the authentic rhythm of the island farm
Kefalonia Horse Riding Stable is more than just a riding centre. It is part of a traditional Greek farm where visitors discover authentic island life, wild landscapes and the unique, quiet bond shared between humans and horses
04
Exploring the wild and quiet coastal scenery
Discover the natural beauty of Sami through a relaxed and authentic horseback riding experience designed for riders who wish to enjoy Kefalonia at a calm pace, away from crowded tourist areas and the rush of daily life.
More than just a ride
We carefully match riders, horses, and experiences.
We don’t believe in rushed tours or crowded paths. At our stable, we follow a different pace—one that respects the animals, honors the land, and gives you the space to actually breathe.
01
Building a real connection from the ground up
Before the ride, guests are invited to spend time grooming and preparing. This ritual allows riders to connect with the horse and understand its unique personality. For us, horsemanship is about trust, patience and respect.
02
Prioritising the health and soul of our horses
Many of our horses have been retrained with patience and care after difficult past experiences. Their wellbeing always comes first, and we take pride in creating calm, respectful and safe experiences for both horses and riders.
03
Living the authentic rhythm of the island farm
Kefalonia Horse Riding Stable is more than just a riding centre. It is part of a traditional Greek farm where visitors discover authentic island life, wild landscapes and the unique, quiet bond shared between humans and horses
04
Exploring the wild and quiet coastal scenery
Discover the natural beauty of Sami through a relaxed and authentic horseback riding experience designed for riders who wish to enjoy Kefalonia at a calm pace, away from crowded tourist areas and the rush of daily life.
Learn and grow with our horses
Education & Development
Beyond trail riding, explore our specialized programs designed to deepen your horsemanship skills or support your horse's training journey.
Horse Riding Lessons
Develop your riding skills, build confidence, and deepen your understanding of horses through structured lessons. Our programs are adapted for children, teenagers, and adults of all levels. Whether you are taking your first steps around a stable or refining your technique, we focus on safe progression and a genuine connection in a supportive farm environment.
Horse Training & Breaking
Build a confident, balanced, and willing partner through patience, consistency, and clear communication. We offer individualized training programs tailored to each horse’s history and personality. From gentle groundwork and starting young horses to addressing behavioral challenges and specialized retraining, our approach focuses on trust rather than pressure.
The experience through your eyes
What our guests remember most
Ethical & Personalised Riding
Beyond traditional tourism: A second chance
Our Herd
Meet our horses
Every horse on our farm has its own unique personality, background, and role within the herd. From gentle companions perfect for beginners to experienced trail partners, discover the stories behind the horses that make our stable so special.
Filippe
Rescued from a racing past, Filippe defied the odds. Now 14, he was nourished and retrained by Padelis. Today, he thrives as a dressage horse, showing off his skills in the green fields!!
Hector
Bred on this farm 15 years ago, Hector is a star with a loyal fan club. As the herd leader, his striking black color and brave spirit make him the perfect choice for all beginner riders.
Rosa
Mother of Hector, Rosa loves the carriage and the beach. Knowing she looks like a unicorn, she is a top favorite for youngest riders and has blessed our stable with many beautiful foals.
Erastos
The baby of the bunch! Erastus is 4 years old and learning every day with Padelis. He enjoys flatwork in the olive groves and playing with his best friend Erasmus in the vibrant pasture.
Hevmeos
Son of Heros and Hermoine, Hevmeos is a playful nine-year-old. He enjoys dressage and is currently known among our riders for his incredibly comfy fifth gait, the unique and smooth tölt!
Heros
Rescued by Padelis after a near-fatal accident, Heros is now a calm, smart trekker. At 14 years old, his humble and mellow spirit makes him the absolute best choice for every trail ride!
Kiki
At 30, Kiki is the mother of Hermes & Hermoine. Rescued as a neglected stray, she transformed from a fearful horse into a happy, loved staple of our herd in her long peaceful retirement.
Hermes
Known for his love of the sea, Hermes is more hippo than horse. The son of Kiki and epitome of a Greek cob, he is a beach favourite who happily swims with riders right into the ocean.
Hermoine
A clever and relaxed presence at our stable. Daughter of Kiki and mother of Hermes, Hermoine is known for her calm nature and her unique talent for finding the best snacks in the garden
Espresso
My very first horse and the one who started it all. A powerful former Thoroughbred racehorse with a spirited character, Espresso taught me patience, trust, and the true meaning of partnership. Though no longer with us, his legacy shapes everything we do today.
Grillo
An intelligent and sensitive horse with an expressive, curious nature. Grillo needed time to adapt to his new life in Kefalonia, reminding us that trust is built step by step. Today, he thrives in our training program and loves exploring the countryside trails.
We foster hands-on growth
Volunteering and internship programs
Join our stable as a volunteer or an intern to experience the real rhythm of a Greek farm. Gain hands-on skills in horse care and land cultivation while becoming a meaningful part of our daily heritage and team.