Crete: Quad Safari Off-Road Adventure, Milatos Cave & Beach Lunch

Summary

Quad biking through Cretan villages, caves and sea air

You’ll ride quads through Crete’s wild hills with a local guide, taste fresh-pressed olive oil at a family factory, hike into Milatos Cave’s cool hush, swim at a quiet beach, and eat lunch by the sea before heading back—expect dusty shoes and maybe a new favorite memory.

What’s the experience like?

We kicked up dust as we rolled out of Malia, engines humming under us—honestly, I was a bit nervous about driving a quad at first, but our guide Yannis made sure everyone got the hang of it before we hit the real trails. The smell of warm earth and wild herbs was everywhere as we climbed past olive trees, stopping at this tiny chapel—Prophet Elias—where the view just sort of sprawled out in every direction. I tried to snap a photo but it never quite matches how it feels standing there with the wind tugging at your shirt.

After that, we rattled downhill between vineyards and more olive groves (I swear you can smell the olives on the breeze), then ducked into a little olive oil factory. The owner handed us bread dipped in their new press—peppery and green, nothing like supermarket stuff back home. Someone tried to ask about their secret method in Greek; lots of laughter and hand waving followed. Then came the part I didn’t expect: hiking up this rocky old path to Milatos Cave. It’s cool inside, almost damp against your skin, and there’s this hush that makes you whisper without thinking.

Back out in the sun again, we headed straight for Milatos beach—just stripped off our shoes and walked right into the water. It’s cold at first but you get used to it fast. Some folks collected little shells or lay on towels while others just floated quietly for a while. Afterward, we rode through these fishing villages—Milatos and Sissi—where old men nodded from doorways and kids waved as we passed (one tried to race us on his bike). Yannis pointed out which houses belonged to fishermen still working the bay.

The last stretch was all off-road again near Malia’s ruins—a bumpy blur of laughter and dust clouds—and then finally lunch: grilled chicken, tomatoes so ripe they almost burst when you bit them, local wine poured into mismatched glasses. By then my arms were tired but I didn’t really want it to end. I keep thinking about that cave silence sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Guided quad safari and nature exploration

• Receive quad vehicle training
• Drive uphill to Prophet Elias Chapel
• Off-road through vineyards and olive forest
• Visit local olive oil factory and taste oil
• Hike to Milatos Cave and explore surroundings
• Swim at Milatos beach
• Tour fishing villages Milatos and Sissi
• Off-road near Minoan palace of Malia
• Enjoy photos and views off-roading
• Have lunch in Malia

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Crete quad safari?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour price.

Do I need experience to drive a quad bike on this tour?

No prior experience is needed; beginners get full instructions before starting.

What should I bring for the day trip to Milatos Cave?

You should bring closed shoes, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, swimsuit, towel, driver’s license with ID.

Is lunch provided during the quad safari tour?

Yes, lunch is included after visiting Malia near the end of the tour.

Can children join this Crete quad safari adventure?

Children over 11 years old can share a quad with an adult driver.

Are there any health restrictions for joining?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or heart issues.

How long does it take to reach Milatos Cave from Malia?

The route includes several stops; reaching Milatos Cave is part of a half-day journey with activities along the way.

Will we have time to swim during this day trip?

Yes, there is free time for swimming at Milatos beach after visiting the cave.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from nearby locations in Crete; use of new CF450cc/520cc quads with fuel and insurance; helmets; guidance from an experienced local tour leader; beginner instructions if you’re new to quads; entry to an olive oil factory with tasting; time for hiking at Milatos Cave; free time for swimming at Milatos beach; plus a traditional Cretan lunch before returning in the afternoon.