Crete: Quad Safari, Olive Mill with Tasting & Ghost Village

Imagine cruising along rugged cliffs with the wind in your hair, passing by olive groves and abandoned villages, all while learning about local traditions. This half-day quad safari in Crete combines adventure, culture, and stunning scenery, offering a taste of the island’s untouched beauty. Guided by friendly experts, you’ll explore areas far from tourist crowds, visit a traditional olive mill, and walk through a ghost village frozen in time. All of this for just $93 per quad, which can carry up to two people.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances thrilling off-road riding with insightful cultural stops. The scenic drive offers breathtaking views over Agia Pelagia, and the visit to the abandoned ghost village of Achlada is both eerie and fascinating. Plus, the olive oil tasting at the local mill is a delicious highlight that adds authentic flavor to your journey.

A possible consideration? The tour is not suitable for young children, pregnant women, or those over 120 kg (264 lbs), so it’s best for active travelers comfortable on a quad. Also, it lasts just 3.5 hours, so if you’re after a day-long adventure, you might want to look elsewhere. Still, if you enjoy scenic drives, cultural insights, and a dash of adventure, this tour is perfect for curious travelers eager to see Crete beyond the typical beaches and resorts.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure lovers, culture seekers, and anyone wanting a taste of Crete’s rural life. It’s also perfect for travelers who appreciate guided tours with knowledgeable hosts, as many reviews praise the guides’ friendliness and local expertise. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy off-road exploration will find this a memorable way to spend half a day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Crete: Visit traditional villages and a ghost town untouched by mainstream tourism.
• Scenic Views: Enjoy spectacular vistas over Agia Pelagia and mountains.
• Cultural Stops: Tour a historic olive mill and taste local olive oil and honey.
• Adventure: Experience off-road quad riding on scenic cliff paths.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Stan and Vangelis are praised for their knowledge and hospitality.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel with full refund up to 24 hours ahead.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Safety Briefing

The journey begins at the Peninsula Resort and Spa, where you meet your guides and receive a short theoretical introduction and a practical driving lesson. This initial step is crucial for those new to quad riding, ensuring everyone feels comfortable before heading off the beaten path. The guides, including Stan—the most praised of all—are patient and clear, making sure everyone is at ease.

Off-Road Cliff Path and Scenic Drive

Once underway, you’ll follow a beautiful off-road cliff path that hugs the coastline, offering views of the sea and rugged terrain. This route is designed to be accessible yet exciting, with ample opportunities to enjoy breathtaking vistas. The scenic drive takes you away from busy roads, into areas where the natural landscape dominates. You’ll love the way the terrain varies, from rocky cliffs to lush greenery, offering plenty of photo opportunities.

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Olive Mill Visit and Tasting

One highlight is the stop at a local olive mill, where you learn about olive oil production that dates back to the Minoan age. The guided tour explains how olives are transformed into the golden oil that is so central to Cretan cuisine and economy. Afterward, you’re treated to a free tasting of various local olive oils and honey, allowing you to savor the flavors that make Crete famous. Multiple reviews mention the delicious olive oil and honey, making this stop a can’t-miss for food lovers.

Walking Through Achlada Ghost Village

Next, you’ll visit the abandoned ghost village of Achlada, a place frozen in time. It’s a rare opportunity to walk through a village inaccessible by other means, and the guides share stories about the history and traditional Cretan lifestyle. The walk is about 30 minutes, and many reviews describe it as fascinating and evocative, especially as you imagine the lives once lived there. It’s a personal and memorable experience that highlights the island’s rural past.

Passing Through Mountainous Landscapes and Fodele

Continuing through mountain passes, you’ll arrive at Fodele, a charming village known as the birthplace of El Greco. Here, you’ll have about 25 minutes to explore, shop for local handicrafts, visit the church, or relax with a freshly squeezed orange juice made from local oranges. Many reviews praise Fodele as beautiful and authentic, and the orange juice is a lovely way to unwind during your visit.

Returning and Practical Details

The tour concludes back at the starting point around 1:00 p.m., perfectly timed for a relaxed lunch. Since food and drinks aren’t included, you might want to plan a meal afterward to savor more of Crete’s delicious cuisine.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the €93 per quad rate are a safety briefing, helmets, a multilingual guide, insurance, fuel, and olive oil tasting. This makes it a good value, as you’re getting both adventure and cultural insight without hidden costs. Food, drinks, and hotel pickup are extra, so plan to arrive at the meeting point on your own.

Group Size and Practicalities

The tour supports up to 2 people per quad, making it ideal for couples or friends. The driver must have a valid driver’s license, and there are weight restrictions—no more than 120 kg (264 lbs)—to ensure safety. Also, children under 3, pregnant women, and anyone over the weight limit are advised not to join.

Tour Duration, Languages, and Cancellation

The 3.5-hour experience is flexible with multiple start times, and guides speak English, German, French, and Greek. You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to plan with confidence.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Feedback

Many guests rave about guide Stan, who is praised for his knowledge, humor, and friendliness. One reviewer summed it up: “Stan and his team was excellent,” and many mention they would book again for sunset or different routes.

The views and stops consistently receive high praise, with visitors describing the ghost village tour as very interesting and evocative. The olive oil tasting is also frequently highlighted as a delicious and authentic part of the trip, giving a real taste of local Crete.

The Balance of Adventure and Culture

This tour excels at offering a balanced experience—the thrill of riding quads combined with cultural and historical insights. The visit to Fodele, the birthplace of El Greco, adds a layer of local history, while the stop at the ghost village provides a haunting glimpse into the past.

The Overall Experience

Guests consistently describe the tour as fun, scenic, informative, and well-organized. The small group size and friendly guides create an atmosphere where questions are welcomed, and everyone feels engaged. The off-road routes are described as beautiful and varied, and the optional stops for photos and shopping add personal touches.

Who Will Love This Tour

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and off-grid exploration. If you’re interested in local culture, traditional villages, and regional foods, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially appealing if you’re looking for a small-group, guided adventure that combines scenery, history, and a bit of adrenaline.

The Sum Up

This Crete quad safari offers a well-rounded glimpse into rural Crete, blending scenic drives, cultural insights, and adventure. The knowledgeable guides, especially Stan, ensure a friendly and informative atmosphere, while the stops at the olive mill and ghost village provide authentic experiences you won’t find on typical tourist routes.

If you’re after a fun, budget-friendly way to see some of Crete’s hidden corners, this tour delivers exceptional value and lasting memories. It’s particularly perfect for active travelers, culture enthusiasts, and those curious about local traditions.

FAQ

Do I need a driver’s license to join?
Yes, a valid driver’s license is required, as you’ll be driving the quad yourself.

Is it suitable for children?
Not for children under 3 years old or pregnant women, and weight restrictions prevent some guests over 120 kg from participating.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 3.5 hours, including stops and sightseeing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are extra. The tour does include a famous freshly squeezed orange juice at Fodele.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, there’s a short safety briefing and practical lesson before riding, making it accessible even for beginners.

What language are the guides in?
Guides speak English, German, French, and Greek.

How many people per quad?
Each quad supports up to 2 people, so it’s perfect for sharing or couples.

What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license and wear comfortable clothes suitable for riding and walking.

This tour is a fantastic way to see Crete’s rural landscapes, learn about local traditions, and enjoy some adventure—all in just a few hours. It’s a great choice if you want a genuine, active experience that showcases the island’s hidden gems.

You can check availability for your dates here: