CRETE :MALIA HERSSONISOS QUADS ECOTOUR ADVENTURE – HIGH PERF

If you’re after a fun, eco-conscious way to see Crete’s natural beauty, the Malia Herssonisos Quads Ecotour Adventure offers just that. This six-hour guided tour uses state-of-the-art electric ATVs to whisk you through scenic villages, olive groves, and rugged terrains—all while keeping noise and pollution to a minimum. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned rider, this experience promises a safe, customizable, and environmentally friendly way to explore this iconic Greek island.

One of the standout aspects is the quiet operation of the electric ATVs—no engine heat and minimal noise—making the ride more comfortable and less disruptive for both riders and locals. However, potential participants should note that drivers must have a valid license and that the activity is not suitable for young children or pregnant women. This tour is ideal for those who want to combine adventure, cultural insight, and sustainability in one memorable outing.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly Experience: Electric ATVs ensure a quiet, pollution-free exploration suited for environmentally conscious travelers.
• Suitable for All Levels: With adjustable power up to 50 hp, the ride can be tailored from easygoing beginners to more experienced riders.
• Authentic Local Stops: Includes visits to an olive oil factory and a traditional farm, offering genuine insight into Cretan life.
• Professional Guides: Guides are praised for their friendliness, safety instructions, and local knowledge, making the ride enjoyable and informative.
• Comfort & Safety: Well-maintained, easy-to-control ATVs, plus frequent breaks with mineral water, ensure a comfortable experience.
• Flexible & Convenient: Hotel pickup and drop-off, small group sizes (limited to 9 people), and the option to reserve now & pay later add to the appeal.

The Experience at a Glance

This six-hour tour, run by CRETA LAND eco tours, offers a blend of adventure and cultural discovery on electric ATVs. Starting with a convenient hotel pickup (outside the hotel), you’ll be introduced to your powerful yet eco-friendly quad—a machine capable of up to 50 hp and 210 Nm of torque—and learn how to operate it safely. The guides, who are clearly passionate and knowledgeable, will ensure you feel comfortable whether it’s your first time on an ATV or you’re a seasoned rider.

What’s particularly appealing about this experience is the attention to environmental impact. The electric motor eliminates engine heat and emissions, allowing you to enjoy the scenic sights without disturbing the tranquility of nature or local residents. This approach aligns with the growing desire for sustainable tourism, making it a responsible choice for eco-conscious travelers.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point & Introduction

The tour begins with a hotel pickup, which is included, making logistics effortless. Once at CretaLand, you’ll get a thorough safety briefing and a chance to familiarize yourself with the advanced electric ATV technology. Guides are attentive, providing detailed instructions and constantly checking in to ensure you’re comfortable, as one reviewer put it: “Very good, detailed instructions on how to operate the e-quad. During the tour, we were also constantly asked whether we felt comfortable and safe.”

Scenic Village & Agricultural Stops

From the start, the route is thoughtfully curated to balance off-road adventure with cultural stops. You’ll pass through authentic villages and scenic farmland, with a highlight being a visit to an olive oil factory. Tourists have appreciated this stop, noting the opportunity to buy local oils and souvenirs directly from producers, which adds authentic value to the experience. A reviewer shared, “It wasn’t a tourist sales tour but very local and beautiful,” emphasizing the genuine local flavor.

Off-Road Adventure & Natural Wonders

The off-road sections are where you’ll really get a feel for the performance of these electric ATVs. Thanks to the powerful motors, even challenging terrains are manageable, and the quiet operation enhances the experience. One guest mentioned a highlight being feeding goats and exploring a beautiful cave above the sea with an impressive view. The minimal noise allows you to fully appreciate the natural surroundings without engine hum or exhaust fumes.

Farm & Village Visits

Next, you’ll visit a local farm, where you can feed goats—an activity loved by reviewers as it brings you closer to Crete’s rural life. The tour also includes free time in Sissi, a charming village, though some found the half-hour stop could be slightly extended for a more relaxed visit. Lunch is served at a family-run tavern—a genuine local spot offering delicious, hearty Greek cuisine with vegetarian options available, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.

Final Relaxation & Return

The tour concludes with a swim stop—a refreshing way to end the day. The entire experience is flexible, with guides adjusting pace and stops based on the group’s comfort level. Reviewers comment on how smoothly everything is organized, with one adding, “Everything was very local and beautiful,” and another noting the professionalism and friendliness of the guides.

The Power & Performance of the Electric ATVs

The high-performance e-ATVs boast up to 50 hp and 210 Nm of torque, which means you’ll have plenty of power for both on-road cruising and off-road challenges. The direct drive hub motors provide a smooth, quiet ride—a huge plus for those who dislike engine noise or heat. The minimal noise not only enhances the sensory experience but also ensures you can enjoy the sounds of nature, birds, and the wind.

The regenerative braking technology is another feature that improves efficiency and control, especially during climbs or descents. Reviewers appreciated how easy the ATVs are to control, even for those who initially felt unsure, thanks to clear instructions and the intuitive controls.

What We Loved About the Tour

The guides’ local knowledge and friendliness made a big difference. They provided interesting insights about the villages, olive oil production, and local traditions, enriching the experience beyond just riding. The comfort of the ATVs, especially for passengers, was also highlighted—making it accessible even for those who prefer a more relaxed ride.

The well-chosen stops—olive oil mill, goat feeding, cave explorations, and village visits—are spaced out to prevent fatigue and keep things engaging. The small group size (limited to nine participants) ensures a personalized experience, with plenty of opportunity for questions, photos, and spontaneous stops.

Value for Money and Practical Considerations

At $96 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusions: hotel transfer, a guide, equipment, insurance, mineral water, and lunch. It’s a half-day adventure that combines outdoor activity with cultural highlights, appealing to a broad range of travelers. The fact that you can reserve now and pay later also adds flexibility, especially if you’re planning a tight schedule.

However, some practical notes are worth noting: drivers must have a valid driver’s license—so no unlicensed thrill-seekers—and the activity isn’t suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, or people with back problems. The activity’s safety measures and professional guidance mean most will feel confident trying it out, but always consider your personal comfort with riding.

The Unique Appeal of This Tour

What makes this experience stand out is the combination of eco-consciousness, adventure, and cultural exposure. You’re not just riding a quad; you’re doing so responsibly—leaving no trace—and gaining insights into local life. The powerful yet quiet electric engines make for a more relaxed and immersive experience, perfect for those who want to explore Crete without the usual noise and fumes associated with traditional quad tours.

This tour is a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a balance between adventure and sustainability. The professional guides, authentic stops, and high-performance electric ATVs make for a memorable day that’s as educational as it is exhilarating. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rider, the adjustable power settings and safety measures ensure everyone can enjoy the ride.

It’s perfect for those who want to see Crete’s countryside and villages in a relaxed, eco-friendly way without sacrificing fun. The small group size and inclusions like lunch and hotel transfer add to the overall value, making this a well-rounded experience.

If you’re after a unique, environmentally responsible adventure that combines power, scenery, and local culture, this tour will not disappoint. It’s a great fit for eco-minded travelers, families with older children, and anyone keen to explore Crete in a different, sustainable style.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off outside your hotel, making logistics straightforward.

What kind of license do I need to drive the ATV?
A valid car driver’s license is required to operate the electric quad.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 6 years old can share a quad with an adult, but the activity isn’t suitable for kids under 7 or for pregnant women.

Can I book a quad for solo driving?
Yes, but you need to make separate bookings for each adult if you want individual quads for solo driving. The default is one quad per two adults.

What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license, change of clothes, towel, camera, and beachwear for the swim stop.

Are there any restrictions for people with health issues?
Yes, the activity isn’t suitable for people with back problems or those over 70 years old, and pregnant women should avoid it.

This eco-friendly quad tour offers a fantastic mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and adventure—perfect for those wanting to explore Crete responsibly while having fun.