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

Exploring Crete by quad offers a fantastic way to see the island’s less touristy, more authentic side. This tour combines adventure with culture, history, and stunning scenery—all wrapped up in a budget-friendly package. Whether you’re craving off-road fun, picturesque villages, or a peek into traditional olive oil making, this experience checks all those boxes.

What makes this tour stand out are three main highlights: the chance to reach places inaccessible by regular vehicle, the chance to learn about olive oil production with tastings, and the opportunity to walk through a ghost village frozen in time. The only real consideration is that it’s not ideal for very small children, pregnant women, or those with a maximum weight limit of 120 kg (264 lbs). It’s best suited for adventurous travelers who love a mix of fun, culture, and nature.

If you’re after an active, authentic, and visually stunning experience of Crete without breaking the bank, this tour might just be perfect.

Good To Know

• Accessible yet adventurous: Off-road quad riding into Crete’s remote areas.
• Culturally rich: Visits to traditional villages and an olive mill with tastings.
• Stunning vistas: Panoramic views from Achlada and Agia Pelagia.
• Educational and fun: Learn about olive oil history and walk through a ghost village.
• Family friendly for most: Suitable for those aged 18+, with some restrictions.
• Excellent value: At around $93 per quad, including guides and tastings, it offers a lot of authentic experiences.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Authentic Crete Adventure: What to Expect

This tour offers a well-rounded blend of adventure, culture, and sightseeing, perfect for travelers eager to see a different side of Crete. It’s designed to be a half-day exploration, lasting approximately 3.5 hours, and is offered with flexible starting times, making it easy to fit into most itineraries.

Starting Point and Safety Briefing

Your adventure begins at the Peninsula Resort and Spa. Here, guides conduct a short safety briefing and practical driving lesson—no prior quad experience needed, but you’ll want to pay attention! The guide, Stan, and his team are praised for their friendly, professional manner, making everyone feel comfortable regardless of experience level.

The Off-Road Journey Begins

Once you’re confident on the quad, you’ll follow a scenic cliffside path that twists along the sea and into the hills. The off-road routes are carefully chosen to avoid traffic and give you a true taste of Crete’s wild, untouched landscapes. The views are often described as breathtaking, with several stops along the way to soak in the scenery.

Olive Mill Experience

One of the highlights is a visit to a local olive mill, where you’ll learn about the history of olive oil production from the ancient Minoan era to modern times. Expect a guided tour of the factory and a chance to sample various types of local olive oil and honey. Reviewers frequently mention how informative and delicious the tastings are—an authentic taste of Crete’s culinary tradition.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Ghost Village of Achlada

A walk through the abandoned Achlada ghost village is both eerie and inspiring. This site is accessible only via this tour and offers a glimpse into traditional village life long gone. Guides share stories about the village’s background, giving you insights into the ancient Cretan way of life. Reviewers like Michael describe it as “very interesting,” and Owen mentions how it “was very informative and showed parts of Crete that you didn’t know existed.”

Panoramic Viewpoints and Fodele Village

From high vantage points, you’ll get sweeping views over the surrounding landscape, often described as breathtaking. After the ghost village, the tour winds down in Fodele, known as the village of the oranges and the birthplace of El Greco. Here, you have time to explore, buy local handicrafts, or visit the small museum and churches.

Refreshing Break and Local Flavors

To wrap up the tour, enjoy a refreshing glass of freshly squeezed orange juice—a delightful way to relax after your explorations. Many reviews praise the friendly staff for their warmth and knowledge, with some mentioning they even booked further activities with the same team.

Returning to the Hotel

The tour concludes back at the starting point around 1 p.m., just in time for lunch, rounding out a day full of exploration and adventure.

The Itinerary in Detail

• Start at the Peninsula Resort and Spa with a safety and driving briefing.
• Agia Pelagia provides scenic views and the initial off-road quad ride.
• Achlada offers a photo stop and a guided tour of the ghost village—prepare for history, stories, and a walk through a village frozen in time.
• A hidden off-road gem continues the scenic drive, with more breathtaking vistas.
• Passing the El Greco Museum, you get a quick look at the artist’s birthplace, adding a cultural touch.
• Fodele Village allows for exploration, shopping, and relaxing with fresh orange juice.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

Reviewers frequently highlight knowledgeable guides like Stan and Vangelis who make the experience both fun and educational. The views and scenic drives are consistently described as spectacular, with some noting the off-road routes are a “thrill” for those seeking adventure. The authentic cultural elements—such as the olive oil tasting and the walk through the ghost village—are appreciated for offering a glimpse into real Crete beyond typical tourist spots.

Several mention the value for money, with the price covering all guiding, insurance, fuel, and tastings. Many guests leave feeling they’ve gained not only fun and adventure but also a deeper appreciation for Crete’s traditions and history.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Bring your driver’s license and wear comfortable clothes suitable for the weather.
• Helmets are provided, but it’s wise to wear sunglasses or sunscreen to shield against the sun.
• The tour is suitable for those 18+ with a valid license; no pregnant women or children under 3 are permitted.
• Quad capacity is limited to 2 people, with a maximum weight of 120 kg (264 lbs). Reviewers mention the experience is accessible for most, but it’s best to be honest about your comfort with driving off-road.
• The tour does not include food or drinks, but you’ll get a refreshing orange juice and tastings at the olive mill.

The Value of This Experience

For around $93 per quad, this tour offers a rich mix of adventure, culture, and sights. It’s ideal for those who want more than just sunbathing—people eager to explore Crete’s less traveled paths, learn about olive oil production, and walk through history. The flexible schedule, multilingual guides, and small group feel create a personalized experience that leaves many guests eager to return for more.

Who This Tour Is Best For

• Adventure lovers seeking off-road fun and scenic drives.
• Culture enthusiasts interested in traditional villages, olive oil, and local crafts.
• Photographers wanting to capture panoramic views and authentic villages.
• Travelers short on time looking for a concise yet fulfilling half-day experience.
• Families or solo travelers with a sense of adventure, as long as safety restrictions are met.

This experience isn’t for those seeking luxury or a relaxed day at the beach. It’s for curious, active travelers who want to connect with Crete’s natural beauty and heritage in a fun, engaging way.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour begins with a safety briefing and practical driving lesson, making it accessible even for first-timers.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes that can get dusty or dirty are best, along with closed-toe shoes and sunscreen.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are included in the tour.

Can I ride alone or with a partner?
Each quad can carry up to two people, and your driver’s license must be valid. You can choose to ride solo or with a passenger.

Is there an age restriction?
You need to be at least 18 years old with a valid driver’s license.

What about weight restrictions?
No more than 120 kg (264 lbs) per quad is allowed.

Is food included?
No, but you will enjoy a free olive oil tasting and fresh orange juice during the tour.

Do I need to arrange transportation to the meeting point?
Yes, hotel pickup isn’t included, so you’ll need to get to the Peninsula Resort and Spa parking area.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, German, French, and Greek.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

This Crete quad safari offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots, gain insight into local traditions, and enjoy a bit of adrenaline. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge shine through, helping to create a memorable experience for most participants.

Whether you’re interested in the historical ghost village, tasting authentic olive oil, or just want an exciting way to see Crete’s wild side, this tour delivers. It’s a fantastic value for anyone eager to combine fun with cultural discovery in a beautiful setting.

If you love outdoor activities, authentic culture, and stunning views—all in a half-day adventure—this Quad Safari is a must-do on your Crete trip.

You can check if your dates are available here: