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Discover Crete through an exciting quad safari that takes you off-road through scenic mountain trails and olive groves. Priced at $89 per person and lasting around 5 hours, this tour offers a well-rounded blend of adventure, culture, and local flavors. Starting from Malia, the experience includes visits to a 16th-century Byzantine monastery, a fascinating archaeological site, and a visit to an award-winning olive mill. You also enjoy a traditional Greek lunch and a refreshing swim at the end of the day. This tour is perfect for those seeking an active way to explore Crete’s natural beauty while experiencing its rich history and culinary delights.
While the quad ride is accessible and fun, with spectacular landscapes along the way, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, small children under 1 year, or travelers over 70. The experience is praised for its friendly guides, authentic food, and stunning views, making it a solid choice for adventure lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Key Points
- Price: $89 per person, includes all activities, lunch, and transfers
- Duration: 5 hours, with multiple scenic and cultural stops
- Highlights: Off-road quad riding, visits to Vrahasi Monastery and Malia Palace
- Food: Traditional Cretan lunch at a local tavern and olive oil tasting at an award-winning mill
- Physical requirements: Suitable for most, but not recommended for pregnant travelers, children under 1 year, or those over 70
- Guides: Multilingual live guides providing insights in English, German, French, Italian, and Greek
Starting Point and Logistics in Crete
This tour departs from Malia with convenient pickup options from over 70 different locations across Hersonissos, Crete, and nearby resorts. Travelers are picked up by a mini bus, with the exact pickup time confirmed via email. The pickup process is straightforward, but some reviews suggest communication could be smoother.
Upon arrival at the activity provider’s premises in Malia, a 30-minute safety briefing prepares participants for the quad ride. The tour then proceeds by coach to various scenic stops, including Malia Palace and the village of Sisi. Throughout the day, the group travels in comfortable transportation, ensuring a smooth experience across multiple locations.
Planning more time in Hersonissos? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Quad Riding Through Crete’s Mountain Trails
The core activity of this tour is the off-road quad safari. Participants drive 520cc ATVs across dirt trails, forest paths, and mountain roads. The guides lead you through high mountain routes and olive groves, with stops at spectacular viewpoints. The ride is designed to be fun and accessible, with guidance provided to ensure safety.
Most off-road sections are complemented by scenic drives along paved roads, giving travelers a chance to enjoy the spectacular landscapes of Crete’s hills and coastline. Some reviews mention the adventurous spirit of the ride, although there is a desire for more off-road driving and less time on asphalt. The quads are praised for being easy to handle, making this activity suitable even for beginners.
Visiting the 16th-Century Monastery of Saint George Vrahassotis
One of the tour’s main cultural highlights is the visit to the Monastery of Saint George Vrahassotis, which dates back to the 16th century. The guided tour inside the monastery offers insights into its spiritual atmosphere and historical significance. It’s a peaceful place surrounded by quiet beauty, perfect for photos and reflection.
The guide provides explanations at each stop, including photo opportunities at scenic points. The entry fee to the monastery is included, allowing visitors to explore without extra costs. This stop adds a touch of tranquility and history to the exciting day.
Exploring Malia Palace Archaeological Site
The visit to Malia Palace is brief but impactful. Passing by the archaeological site, participants get a glimpse of the ancient Minoan civilization. Although the tour does not include a full excavation tour, the exterior views and photo stops at the site’s impressive ruins allow for a sense of the island’s prehistoric past.
This stop is a quick highlight, but it offers enough to spark curiosity about Crete’s archaeological heritage. Travelers interested in history appreciate the opportunity to see the majestic architecture from outside, setting the scene for the island’s long history.
More Great Tours NearbyAuthentic Greek Lunch in Latsida Village
A key part of the tour is a traditional lunch served in a cozy tavern in the village of Latsida. The meal includes one main dish and a small salad, along with a bottled water. Guests enjoy local flavors in a warm, welcoming environment that captures the genuine spirit of Crete.
The lunch is praised for its generous portions and authentic taste, providing a perfect chance to relax and chat with fellow travelers. The meal complements the day’s activities, offering a taste of Crete’s culinary traditions.
Olive Oil Tasting at Vasilakis Estate
A visit to Vasilakis Estate is a highlight for those interested in olive oil production. The estate is award-winning and produces high-quality olive oil. Visitors tour the olive mill, learning about the production process and sampling fresh olive oil.
This guided tour offers insights into Crete’s olive-growing culture, which is integral to the island’s economy and cuisine. The visit also includes some shopping opportunities at the estate, allowing guests to purchase local products as souvenirs.
Relaxing at Potamos Beach and Swimming Opportunities
The day concludes with time to relax and enjoy the beach at Potamos Beach. Visitors have about an hour for bathing and swimming in the sea, with plenty of space to unwind after a busy day of exploration.
The beach stop is an ideal way to cool off and enjoy Crete’s natural coastline. It’s a relaxing end to a day full of scenic drives, cultural visits, and outdoor adventure.
Return and Drop-Off Details
After relaxing at the beach, the tour returns to various drop-off points, including popular resorts like Kernos Beach, Ariadne Beach Hotel, and Cretan Malia Park. The return trip is comfortable, and the entire experience wraps up back at the starting locations.
Travelers are then transported back to their accommodations, completing a well-organized 5-hour day of discovery. The tour emphasizes value for money, combining adventure, culture, and culinary experiences in one seamless package.
Final Thoughts on the Crete Quad Safari
This 5-hour tour offers a balanced mix of outdoor fun, historical insight, and local flavor. The quad riding is a major draw, with spectacular views and manageable routes that suit most levels of experience. The cultural stops, including Vrahasi Monastery and Malia Palace, provide meaningful glimpses into Crete’s history, while the lunch and olive oil tasting highlight the island’s culinary richness.
While some participants desire a bit more off-road time and better communication regarding pickups, the overall positive reviews attest to its value and enjoyment. The friendly guides and authentic experiences make this tour a practical choice for active travelers eager to explore Crete’s mountains and traditions.
This tour suits those looking for adventure combined with cultural discovery and tasty local food. It’s especially ideal for groups, families (excluding small children and certain age groups), and anyone seeking a lively, scenic day out in Crete.
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Crete: Quad Safari with Monastery, Malia Palace and Lunch
“We joined the Quod Safari tour with visits to the Monastery, Malia Palace, and lunch included, and it was truly a unique experience! Everything was…”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for babies under 1 year or travelers over 70. It is best suited for those comfortable with physical activity and outdoor driving.
What should I bring?
Participants should bring a camera, sunscreen, towel, swimwear, sunglasses, and a driver’s license.
Are there any restrictions?
Pregnant women, people afraid of heights, and those with mobility impairments are not suitable for this activity.
How long is the quad ride?
The overall activity lasts about 5 hours, with the off-road driving segment intertwined with cultural and scenic stops.
Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes a traditional Greek lunch with one main dish, small salad, and bottled water.
What are the guides like?
Guides are multilingual and described as friendly, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic. They help ensure safety and provide cultural context.
Can I cancel?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of adventure on quad bikes, visits to historic sites, and local culinary experiences provides a comprehensive Crete adventure that appeals to diverse interests.
How physically demanding is the tour?
The route is designed to be accessible for most, but some sections may require moderate effort. It is not suitable for those with mobility issues.
Is alcohol allowed?
Consumption of alcohol or drugs during the tour is not permitted to ensure safety.
Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at Malia, with pickup options from over 70 locations across the area.
