Agia Pelagia: Sunset or Morning Quad Tour & Ghost Town Visit

If you’re visiting Crete and craving an adventure that combines scenic views, a touch of mystery, and a dash of adrenaline, the Agia Pelagia Quad Tour might just be your perfect match. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itineraries paint a compelling picture of what awaits. Imagine cruising through rugged mountain trails, exploring an abandoned village haunted by history, and catching a sunset that paints the sea in hues of gold and crimson—all within just three hours.

What makes this experience stand out? The knowledgeable guides who keep safety and fun in mind, the chance to see Crete from a different perspective, and the value of combining off-road adventure with cultural discovery. A small potential drawback is that the tour involves riding on uneven terrain, which might be a challenge for some. Still, it’s well-suited for travelers eager for a lively, authentic taste of the islands’ rural charm and natural beauty.

If you love outdoor adventures, historical explorations, and unforgettable sunsets, this tour offers a solid combination of all three. It’s perfect for those who want to see Crete away from crowded beaches and are comfortable on a quad bike (or eager to learn). It also appeals to travelers looking for a mix of fun, scenery, and local flavor—all within a manageable timeframe.

Good To Know

• Scenic Off-Road Riding: Experience the thrill of riding through Crete’s rugged trails with panoramic views.
• Historic Ghost Town: Explore a hauntingly beautiful abandoned village with a guide sharing local stories.
• Sunset Views: End the trip at a coastal vantage point to witness a stunning Crete sunset.
• Authentic Stops: Enjoy local shops offering fresh orange juice, honey, raki, and crafts.
• Safety & Instruction: Includes a brief safety lesson and practical riding instruction suitable for beginners.
• Value for Money: At $99 per group (up to 2 people), it combines adventure, culture, and scenery at a reasonable price.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The tour begins at the ELA Quad Safari meeting point, conveniently located within a minute’s walk from the Blue Bay hotel. After a quick safety briefing—about 20 minutes—you’ll receive a practical lesson on how to handle the quad. This introduction is essential; reviews highlight that guides like Nikolaos and George are friendly, funny, and attentive, making even beginners feel at ease.

Once you’re comfortable, the off-road adventure kicks off. You’ll ride through golden mountain trails that reveal Crete’s diverse landscape, from lush green mountains to shimmering coastlines. The guides do a great job of balancing safety and fun, often leading the group with a motorbike escort, ensuring you feel secure crossing roads and navigating uneven terrains. As one reviewer noted, “The guides teach you so quick on how to drive a quad bike for beginners,” which is reassuring for first-timers.

The first stop is a mountaintop ghost town. This abandoned village, with its eerie cottages and silent streets, feels like stepping into a horror movie. Visitors describe it as a haunting yet fascinating glimpse into Crete’s past, with guides sharing stories about the village’s history. The visit isn’t just for thrills—it’s an opportunity to connect with the island’s quieter, less touristy side. Multiple reviews praise the guides’ storytelling skills, with one saying, “Nikolaos was an incredible guide. We saw a 1000-year-old Byzantine church and the village where El Greco grew up.”

From there, the adventure leads downhill along an old donkey road, descending 300 meters to Fodele, a charming seaside village. The drive offers breathtaking views of olive groves, the sea, and the surrounding mountains—perfect for photo stops. Here, visitors get a taste of local life, browsing shops selling fresh orange juice, honey, and handmade crafts, or enjoying a cold glass of raki. The opportunity to relax, shop, and take in the scenery adds a welcoming pause to the adrenaline.

The highlight for many is the sunset at a coastal vantage point. As reviewed, “The sunset at the beach was the cherry on the cake,” and “taking in the sunset from the mountain was unforgettable.” These moments—while brief—are truly spectacular, with the sky turning fiery red and orange, reflecting on the calm sea below.

The tour wraps up with another short quad ride back through scenic trails, ending at the original meeting point. The entire experience lasts approximately three hours, making it an accessible adventure even for those with tight schedules.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Start at ELA Quad Safari: The meeting point is highly accessible, adding convenience for travelers staying nearby. The initial safety briefing and riding lesson ensure everyone is prepared, which reviews confirm is handled efficiently and cheerfully.

Agia Pelagia: Located just a short ride from the start, this spot serves as the launchpad for your adventure. The guides emphasize safety, with motorbike escorts following the group to navigate traffic and tricky terrain confidently.

Off-road trail riding (30 minutes): Expect to navigate rugged paths, with guides adjusting to your comfort level. The landscape varies from mountain trails to coastal views, giving you a sense of Crete’s diverse terrain.

Achlada’s scenic stop: This quaint village offers a perfect opportunity for photos and a quick walk. Guests often comment on the stunning vistas and the chance to explore a local setting away from tourist spots.

Ride to Fodele (35 minutes): The drive down to the coast is packed with photo prospects—olive groves, sea views, and traditional houses. A break here allows browsing local shops and sampling regional products.

Fodele’s beach and sunset: Whether the sunset is visible or not (weather dependent), this part of the tour is widely praised. Reviewers mention the “beautiful views of olive groves” and the “fantastic sunset” as memorable highlights.

Return ride and conclusion: The final quad ride is equally scenic, taking you through additional rural trails before arriving back at the start. The entire trip balances adventure and cultural exploration.

Authentic Experiences & Small Details

Reviews reveal the guides’ dedication to making the trip enjoyable and educational. Many mention the friendly, humorous guides who share local history and culture, like the village where El Greco was born or a 1000-year-old Byzantine church. Guests also appreciate the small touches, such as a shot of raki and a sweet at the end—adding a traditional, warm Cretan welcome.

The price point of $99 for a two-person group offers excellent value, considering the variety of scenery, stops, and the safety instruction. The tour includes everything needed—helmet, hairnet, fuel, taxes, and guidance—so no hidden costs. Food and drinks outside the shops are not included, but the stops at local villages make it easy to grab a snack or drink.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable clothes that can get dirty, especially if you plan to explore the ghost town or take photos.
• Bring your driver’s license, as it’s a requirement for driving the quad.
• Arrive at least 25 minutes early to check in and get settled.
• A scarf is recommended, especially if the weather is windy or for sun protection.
• This experience is not suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, or the visually impaired.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Who Will Love This Tour?

This quad safari appeals most to adventurous travelers who want a mix of scenic off-road riding, cultural discovery, and a memorable sunset. It’s ideal for those comfortable on a bike or eager to learn, thanks to the comprehensive safety briefing and guiding support. Nature lovers will enjoy the panoramic mountain and coastal views, while history buffs will appreciate the visit to the ghost town and local villages.

The tour is a perfect choice for small groups or couples seeking an intimate, active experience. Families with slightly older children (over 3) might enjoy it, though younger kids should be considered carefully. It’s also fantastic for solo travelers looking to meet like-minded explorers in a fun, relaxed setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes a safety briefing and a practical riding lesson, making it accessible even for first-time quad riders.

What should I wear?
Wear clothes suitable for getting a bit dirty, and bring a scarf for sun protection or wind.

Are the routes safe?
Guides escort the group with motorbikes, and stops are made at scenic and safe locations. The terrain is uneven, so some walking on rough paths is involved.

Can I join if I don’t have a driver’s license?
You need a driver’s license to operate the quad bike legally. Passengers can enjoy the ride but can’t drive themselves.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, including stops, safety briefing, and riding time.

What is included in the price?
The tour provides the quad, guide, helmet, hairnet, fuel, taxes, riding instruction, a shot of raki, and a sweet.

Is food or drinks included?
No, but there are stops at local shops where you can purchase regional products like honey, orange juice, and handicrafts.

Is the sunset guaranteed?
Sunset views depend on weather conditions; clear skies will give the best experience.

Can I do this tour in the morning instead of sunset?
Yes, a morning option is available, but check availability as the sunset experience is the most popular.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is listed as wheelchair accessible.

Final Thoughts

The Agia Pelagia Sunset or Morning Quad Tour & Ghost Town Visit offers an exciting blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. With knowledgeable guides, scenic routes, and authentic stops, it provides a well-rounded glimpse of Crete beyond the usual beaches. The small group size and attention to safety make it a reliable choice for those new to quad riding or looking to add a memorable activity to their Crete holiday.

If you’re after a fun, active way to explore the island’s rugged landscape and historic sites—plus enjoy a spectacular sunset—this tour delivers. It’s particularly valuable for travelers wanting a taste of local life, stunning views, and a bit of adrenaline—all in just a few hours.

For those seeking a genuine, off-the-beaten-path experience with plenty of photo opportunities, cultural insights, and friendly guides, this adventure is hard to beat. Just remember to come prepared for uneven terrain, and you’ll leave with stories to tell and memories to cherish.

You can check if your dates are available here: