From Rethymno: Off-Road Vehicle Safari with Lunch

Looking for a way to see Crete beyond its beaches and classic sights? This Off-Road Vehicle Safari from Rethymno offers a full day of exploration through the island’s rugged landscapes, charming villages, and age-old traditions. For around $112 per person, you’ll spend about 6.5 hours with a small group, driven by a knowledgeable guide, exploring areas like Mount Ida, visiting a shepherd’s hut, and enjoying a traditional Cretan lunch with local wine.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the panoramic views of Mount Ida and the surrounding mountains are breathtaking—perfect for those who love nature and photography. Second, the experience of visiting a mitato, or shepherd’s hut, gives a genuine glimpse into rural life on Crete, complemented by cheese-making demos that are both tasty and educational.

A potential consideration? The tour involves off-road driving, which might not appeal to everyone, especially those sensitive to motion or with back problems. Also, the tour is limited to small groups, making it intimate but requiring early booking to secure a spot.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy adventure, authentic local encounters, and culinary delights. It’s especially ideal for those who want to learn about Crete’s traditions firsthand, but also appreciate comfortable transportation and a well-balanced mix of activity and relaxation.

Key Points

• Authentic Crete Experience: Visit traditional villages, a shepherd’s hut, and learn cheese-making.
• Stunning Views: Panoramic vistas of Mount Ida and surrounding landscapes.
• Cultural Insights: Historic sites like Halepa Monastery and local hospitality.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off, guided in multiple languages.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups ensure personalized attention.
• Value & Activity Balance: Off-road driving, scenic stops, and delicious food.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

Your adventure begins with hotel pickup in Rethymno, making it a hassle-free start. The transportation in a premium off-road vehicle—either a 7 or 9-seater—driven by a multilingual guide ensures comfort while allowing you to soak in the scenery without the fatigue of driving yourself. We appreciated how the guide, speaking English, German, French, or Dutch, shared stories and facts about the regions visited, adding depth to the experience.

Scenic Drive through Crete’s Villages

From Rethymno, the tour heads southward, winding through picturesque villages like Halepa, Garazo, Faratsi, and Veni. These areas are known for their lush vegetation and fragrant air. We loved the way the guide pointed out local flora and wildlife, making it feel like a personal nature lesson. The drive itself is an adventure—off-road routes cutting through terrain where wild goats and eagles are often spotted, giving you a taste of Crete’s untouched nature.

Halepa Monastery and Mountain Views

One of our favorite stops was the historic Halepa Monastery. This site, once a refuge for Cretan rebels during civil wars, offers a glimpse into the island’s turbulent yet resilient past. The monastery’s architecture and serene surroundings provide a peaceful contrast to the rugged nature. From here, the views of mountain tops and valleys are truly spectacular—a perfect moment for photos.

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Visit to the Shepherd’s Hut (Mitato)

Next, the tour takes you to a mitato, or shepherd’s hut—an authentic, rustic structure that has been part of rural life for generations. Here, we learned about the shepherd’s lifestyle, with the guide explaining daily routines and challenges. The cheese-making demonstration was a highlight—watching cheese being crafted on-site and then tasting it fresh was a simple pleasure. One reviewer called this “phenomenal,” and we couldn’t agree more; it’s a rare chance to connect with local craftsmanship.

Cretan Lunch and Wine

After soaking in the scenery and culture, it’s time to relax with a traditional Cretan lunch at a local tavern in Axos. The meal includes local cuisine and wine, adding a flavorful complement to the morning’s discoveries. The lunch is not just about eating; it’s about experiencing authentic flavors that have been passed down through generations. Several reviews praised the excellent wine selection and delicious, hearty food, emphasizing how much they enjoyed the genuine hospitality.

Return to Rethymno

The tour wraps up with a scenic drive back, allowing time to reflect on the day’s highlights. The small group size ensures a friendly, personal atmosphere, and the knowledgeable guide is happy to answer questions or share more stories along the way.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $112, this experience packs a lot into one day. For the price, you receive transportation in a high-quality off-road vehicle, a guided cultural and scenic tour, a cheese-making demo, and a full traditional Cretan lunch with wine. Given the personalized service, intimate group size, and the chance to see hidden spots away from tourist crowds, it’s a solid investment for travelers eager to discover real Crete.

It’s worth noting that the small group arrangement (limited to 8 participants) enhances the experience—more interaction, better opportunity for questions, and a sense of camaraderie. Plus, the hotel pickup and drop-off make it convenient for travelers staying in Rethymno.

Highlights for Different Types of Travelers

• Photo enthusiasts will love the panoramic views and scenic stops.
• History buffs will appreciate the monastery and insights into Cretan rebellion.
• Food lovers will enjoy cheese demonstrations and local cuisine.
• Adventure seekers will relish off-road driving and wildlife sightings.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to combine adventure and culture in a single day. If you appreciate authentic local experiences—like cheese-making and rural village visits—this tour hits the mark. It’s also perfect for those who prefer small groups and guided insights over large bus tours. However, it’s not suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, or those with back problems or motion sickness. The off-road element may not suit everyone, but for those who enjoy a bit of rugged fun, it’s a rewarding journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making organization straightforward and convenient for travelers staying in Rethymno.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 6.5 hours, with specific starting times depending on availability. Be sure to check your booking details.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, German, French, and Dutch, offering flexibility for international travelers.

Is food and wine included?
Yes, your lunch with wine is part of the package. Additional food or drinks are not included, but the meal itself is generous and authentic.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 participants for a more personal experience, so booking early is recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 7 years, mainly due to the off-road driving and the nature of the activities.

Are there any physical limitations?
Yes, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, or motion sickness, as the ride involves some off-road bouncing.

Final Thoughts

For those eager to see Crete’s inland beauty, learn about traditional lifestyles, and enjoy delicious local food, this Off-Road Vehicle Safari offers a fulfilling day out. It balances adventure with culture, making it perfect for curious travelers who want more than just a sightseeing tour. The expert guides, scenic routes, and authentic experiences ensure you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation of this vibrant island’s landscapes and traditions.

Whether you’re a photographer, a history enthusiast, or simply someone craving a taste of rural Crete, this tour will leave a lasting impression. Just remember: it’s a small group experience, so plan ahead and prepare for a day full of standout views, stories, and flavors.

Crete isn’t just about beaches—this tour reveals the heart of the island, one rugged landscape and friendly village at a time.

You can check availability for your dates here: