From Kolymvari: The road to Ancient Diktyna with Quad Safari

Looking for an exciting way to explore Crete’s rugged landscapes and ancient sites? The tour titled “From Kolymvari: The road to Ancient Diktyna with Quad Safari” offers a dynamic 3.5-hour adventure on powerful 450cc automatic quad bikes. Starting from Kolymvari, this tour combines off-road thrills, historical exploration, and breathtaking scenery, making it ideal for those who want a mix of adventure and culture. The tour is designed for small groups—limited to 3 participants—and includes hotel pickup and drop-off within 8 km, making logistical planning straightforward.

One of the tour’s standout features is the visit to ancient Diktyna, a site dedicated to Artemis with remaining ruins that ignite curiosity about Crete’s mythological past. Expect scenic drives along the coastline and scenic climbs that offer panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. After exploring history, you’ll relax on Menies Beach, a quiet and untouched spot that few travelers get to see.

While this experience offers a fantastic mix of off-road adventure, scenic vistas, and ancient ruins, it’s worth noting that no prior experience is necessary, and the tour is suitable for most healthy adults. However, children under 6 and pregnant women are not advised to participate. The tour is perfect for travelers seeking active sightseeing combined with an appreciation for local myths and nature.

Key Points

• 3.5-hour quad safari starting from Kolymvari with small group size.
• Includes safety gear, snack, fuel, and hotel pickup/drop-off.
• Ride powerful 450cc quad bikes through rugged terrain with scenic coastal views.
• Visit ancient Diktyna, a site dedicated to Artemis, with fascinating ruins.
• Explore Menies Beach, a secluded and pristine spot ideal for relaxing.
• No prior experience needed, but drivers must hold a valid license.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point in Kolymvari with Convenient Pickup Options

The tour begins in the charming village of Kolymvari, with hotel pickup available from 20 different locations, including popular hotels such as Mrs Chryssana Beach Hotel, Chrispy World, and Myrion Beach Resort & Spa. The pickup process takes about 15 minutes, after which guests are transported to the starting point, where a safety briefing is conducted.

Once everyone is ready, participants are introduced to 450cc automatic quad bikes, which are described as powerful but easy to handle. The small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience. The pickup and drop-off service makes the logistics simple, especially for travelers staying in nearby accommodations.

Safety Briefing and Equipment Provided

The safety briefing lasts approximately 15 minutes, during which guides explain how to operate the quad bikes and emphasize safety practices. Guests are equipped with helmets and gloves, which are included in the tour. The briefing covers important safety tips, making it accessible even for those with no previous off-road experience.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable clothes, closed-toe shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat, and water. The tour’s duration and terrain mean that some dust and dirt are unavoidable, so appropriate clothing helps ensure comfort and safety.

Scenic Drive along the Rugged Rodopou Peninsula

Leaving Kolymvari, the tour takes guests on a scenic drive through the Rodopou Peninsula, revealing stunning views of the coastline and mountain peaks. The route features challenging dirt trails, rocky slopes, and lush valleys, designed to showcase the natural beauty of Crete’s northern coast.

As the quad bikes wind along scenic trails, participants enjoy panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the rugged terrain. The guides are knowledgeable about the landscape and local geology, enriching the experience with stories about the area’s natural features.

Visiting the Ancient Diktyna Site

A major highlight of this tour is the visit to the ruins of Diktyna, a site dedicated to goddess Artemis. The remains include structures that suggest this was a significant sanctuary in antiquity. The guides share insights into the mythology and history of Diktyna, helping visitors connect with the ancient past.

The site’s coastal setting adds to its charm, and the remoteness ensures a peaceful environment for reflection. Exploring the ruins, guests get a sense of Crete’s spiritual history and can imagine the rituals once performed here.

More Great Tours Nearby

Break at the Viewpoint with Stunning Coastal Vistas

After exploring Diktyna, the tour proceeds to a viewpoint where a 10-minute stop offers a perfect chance to take photos and enjoy the spectacular scenery. From this vantage point, the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean and the dramatic cliffs of the peninsula are on full display.

This brief pause allows visitors to soak in the vastness of the landscape and capture memorable images. The guides explain the significance of the views, adding context to the natural beauty seen from this high vantage point.

Exploring Menies Beach, a Hidden Coastal Retreat

Following the historical stop, the adventure continues to Menies Beach, a secluded stretch of sand and pebbles far from busy beaches. The tour includes a 15-minute quad bike ride and a scenic drive to reach this pristine oasis.

Menies Beach offers clear waters and tranquil surroundings, making it an ideal spot for relaxation. The quiet setting means no crowds, perfect for unwinding or taking photos of the serene coastline. The guides highlight this part of the tour as a highlight for nature lovers who appreciate untouched landscapes.

Off-Road Ride to the Chania Regional Unit and Monastery

After enjoying Menies Beach, the tour heads further toward the Chania Regional Unit, with an optional off-road ride that reveals more of the rugged terrain. The scenic drive is punctuated with views of the mountains and coastline.

The journey features a visit to a monastery, where participants experience more off-road exploration. The scenic vistas on the way showcase Crete’s diverse landscape, and the guides share stories about the local monastic history and religious significance of the area.

Return Journey and Drop-Off at Selected Locations

The tour concludes with a scenic drive back to Kolymvari, where guests are dropped off at their original pickup points. The entire experience is designed to be informal and relaxed, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions or take photos during the drive.

Drop-off is available at the same locations as the pickup, including many popular hotels and resorts around Kolymvari, making it easy to plan the rest of your day.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

This tour costs a fixed price that includes guide services, gear, taxes, fuel, and a snack. It’s suitable for most healthy adults, with no prior experience necessary. Participants need to present a valid driver’s license and should bring comfortable clothing, closed shoes, sunscreen, and water.

For flexible planning, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours and the option to reserve now and pay later. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, and the duration of 3.5 hours makes it a manageable activity for a day of sightseeing.

The Experience with Adventure Beyond Chania

Operated by ADVENTURE BEYOND CHANIA, this tour emphasizes adventure, scenery, and historical discovery in a compact timeframe. The live English-speaking guide ensures clear narration and safety, and the small group size allows for more interaction.

This quad safari offers a balanced mix of off-road fun, cultural insight, and stunning coastal views. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy active outings and want to explore Crete’s natural beauty and ancient sites without extensive hiking or long journeys.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prior experience needed for this quad safari?
No, no previous experience is required. The guides provide a safety briefing and instruction to ensure everyone feels comfortable operating the quad bikes.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your driver’s license, hat, camera, sunscreen, water, comfortable clothes, and closed-toe shoes. Expect to get dusty during the ride.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children under 6 years old are not suitable for participation. The tour is designed for healthy adults.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
Pregnant women are not advised to join due to the off-road nature of the activity.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is 3.5 hours, including pickup, safety briefing, riding, stops, and return.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers guide services, fuel, taxes, snacks, and gear such as helmets and gloves.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Kolymvari, with pickup available from various local hotels and accommodations.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
The small group size (limited to 3 participants) makes it perfect for individuals or couples looking for an intimate experience.

How scenic is the route?
The route offers spectacular views of the coastline, mountain peaks, and historical sites, making it a visual highlight of Crete’s diverse landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby