Crete: Quad Safari Tour with Mountain Villages & Beach Ride

Summary

Crete quad tour through old villages, wild trails and Fodele beach

You’ll ride quads across Crete’s rugged hills with a local guide, wander through nearly empty mountain villages, feel salty wind at Fodele beach, and sip fresh orange juice by an old riverbank. This tour gives you raw moments—quiet streets, laughter over language slips—and a real taste of Crete’s untamed side.

What’s the experience like?

The day didn’t exactly start as planned—I managed to get my helmet strap tangled in my hair before we even left the parking lot. Our guide, Manolis, just grinned and helped me sort it out without making a big deal. That set the tone: easygoing, patient, like you’re out with friends who know these Cretan hills by heart. The quad bikes rumbled to life and off we went, dust trailing behind us, the air already smelling faintly of thyme and hot stone.

First stop was this almost-abandoned village tucked up in the mountains. It felt like time had slowed down there—just a few old men playing cards under a fig tree, one of them waving lazily as we passed. Manolis told us stories about the place while we walked through narrow lanes with crumbling stone walls. I touched one wall—it was rough and warm from the sun. I didn’t expect to feel so much quiet up there; even the birds seemed to keep their distance.

We rode on towards Fodele beach, which wasn’t crowded at all—just a couple of locals fishing and kids splashing in the shallows. The salt air hit me as soon as we got close; it’s hard to explain but it made me want to just stop and breathe for a minute. Then there was this moment when Manolis pointed out where El Greco grew up (I’d only heard his name in art class), and later we sat by the river sipping orange juice that tasted sweeter than anything I’ve had back home. Li laughed when I tried to say “efharisto” properly—probably butchered it.

I still think about that view from the ridge above Fodele—the light was strange that afternoon, sort of golden but hazy from distant fires or maybe just summer dust. The whole day felt loose around the edges, not rushed or forced. If you’re looking for something polished or staged, this isn’t it. But if you want to see Crete’s wild side with someone who actually lives here… well, you’ll probably end up with dust on your shoes too.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Quad Safari and Village Exploration

• Ride ATV through mountainous terrain
• Visit almost abandoned mountainous village
• Walk and learn village history
• Drive ATV alongside Fodele beach
• Enjoy ocean horizon and sea air
• Visit village of El Greco
• Walk streets El Greco walked
• See El Greco's childhood house
• Relax by river with orange juice

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this quad safari tour?

No, hotel pickup is not included; you meet at the starting point.

Do I need a special license to drive an ATV in Crete?

You need a valid car driving license for this quad safari tour.

Is this quad safari suitable for children or infants?

Infants and small children can join; specialized infant seats are available.

Are wheelchairs or strollers allowed on this tour?

The tour is wheelchair accessible and strollers are allowed throughout.

How long does the Crete quad safari last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but includes multiple stops across villages and Fodele beach.

What should I bring for this ATV tour?

Bring your valid car driving license; safety equipment is provided.

Is lunch included during the quad safari?

No lunch is included but you can buy fresh orange juice or coffee during stops.

Are action photos or videos provided on this tour?

Yes, action videos and photos are included in your day trip experience.

What’s included

Your day covers all taxes, fuel for your ATV adventure across Crete’s mountains and beaches, a helmet plus driving lesson before setting off, and action videos or photos taken along the way so you don’t have to worry about capturing every moment yourself.