From Rethymno: Off-Road Vehicle Safari with Lunch

Exploring Crete by Off-Road Vehicle: A Hands-On Adventure from Rethymno

Imagine cruising through Crete’s rugged landscapes in a lively off-road vehicle, stopping in traditional villages, meeting locals, and tasting some of the island’s best fare. That’s exactly what this From Rethymno: Off-Road Vehicle Safari with Lunch promises. With a mix of scenic views, cultural encounters, and delicious food, this tour offers a well-rounded day for those eager to see Crete beyond the usual tourist spots.

One of the highlights is the chance to drive through mountain villages and wild nature, soaking in the stunning vistas of Mount Ida and the valleys below. Plus, visiting an original shepherds’ hut and watching cheese being made are authentic experiences that make this tour stand out. We especially love the combination of adventure and local culture.

A key consideration? The tour is geared towards those who are comfortable with moderate off-road driving and outdoor exploration. It’s not suited for very young children, pregnant women, or anyone with back problems or motion sickness. But if you’re looking for a memorable, active day with plenty of opportunities to learn and taste, this safari hits the mark.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want more than just sightseeing — it’s perfect for those craving authentic Cretan culture, scenic photo opportunities, and a good dose of adventure. Let’s explore what makes this tour worth considering and where it might fall short.

Key Points

• Scenic Mountain Views: Panoramic vistas of Mount Ida and surrounding mountain peaks.
• Authentic Cultural Stops: Visit a traditional mitato shepherds’ hut and see cheese-making demonstrations.
• Local Cuisine & Wine: Enjoy a hearty Cretan lunch paired with local wines.
• Guided Off-Road Adventure: Led by knowledgeable guides, with a focus on local history and traditions.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off included in a premium off-road vehicle.

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour begins with a convenient hotel pickup in Rethymno, setting the tone for a comfortable yet adventurous day. You’ll hop into a 7 or 9-seater off-road vehicle, driven by a multilingual guide who’s eager to share stories about Crete’s history, culture, and natural beauty. The small group size means more chance for interaction and personalized insights, a feature many reviewers appreciated.

The Drive through Villages and Mountains

Your journey heads south from Rethymno, passing through charming villages like Halepa, Garazo, Faratsi, and Veni. These little stops aren’t just scenic; they’re windows into authentic Cretan life. Margit’s review highlights the “drive through the mountains,” noting the amazing views and the visit to a Ziege farm where fresh cheese is made and sampled immediately. She describes the cheese as “phenomenal,” and many guests enjoy tasting the local products fresh from the source.

Along the way, you’ll stop at the Halepa Monastery, a site that once served as a refuge for Cretan rebels during civil unrest. This adds a meaningful layer to the trip, giving insight into the island’s resilient spirit. The views from these heights are breathtaking, with the chance to snap photos of mountain tops, lush valleys, and possibly spot eagles or goats along the way, as some reviews noted.

Visiting a Shepherds’ Hut

One of the tour’s genuine highlights is arriving at an original mitato (shepherds’ hut). Here, you’ll learn about traditional shepherding life — a lifestyle rooted in the island’s pastoral history. The cheese-making demonstration is a real treat, with guides explaining the process from start to finish. Guests, including Marianne, mention how much they learned and experienced, and the cheese tasting afterward is often considered the point where the tour feels authentic and personal.

The Traditional Cretan Lunch

Your adventure culminates at a local tavern in Axos, where a hearty Cretan lunch awaits. The meal is a mix of local dishes, served with local wine, which reviewers like Margit and GetYourGuide travelers praise highly for its quality and flavor. The lunch offers a chance to relax, chat with fellow travelers, and soak in the rustic atmosphere. The views from the restaurant add a special touch — Margit calls it “the view from the restaurant was the Wahnsinn,” meaning ‘amazing’ in German.

Additional Details

The entire excursion lasts about 6.5 hours, which includes travel, stops, and lunch. The price of $112 per person is reasonable when you consider the inclusions: hotel pickup and drop-off, guided transportation, lunch with wine, and the cheese-making experience. You won’t need to worry about additional food or drinks unless you want extras, as these are not included.

Why This Tour Works Well

Guests consistently praise the tour’s knowledgeable guides, with one reviewer noting the “friendly and courteous” nature of their driver, Antonis. Having a guide who can share detailed stories enhances the overall experience, making it educational as well as fun.

The small group size (limited to 8) ensures a more intimate experience, where questions are welcomed, and everyone can partake comfortably. The off-road vehicle is a perfect way to access remote areas, providing a bit of adventure without the roughness of a full-on rally.

The cultural components—visiting a monastery, a shepherds’ hut, and cheese tasting—add depth to the day, making it more than just a scenic drive. The inclusion of local wine with lunch elevates the meal, allowing a genuine taste of Crete’s hospitality.

Potential Drawbacks

While the experience is well-rounded, there are some considerations. The tour is not suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, or those with back problems or motion sickness. The off-road driving, while fun, can be bumpy, which might not suit everyone.

Plus, if you’re expecting a long, leisurely sit-down meal, this might be more of a rustic, authentic tavern experience rather than a gourmet feast. The focus is on local cuisine, cheese, and wine, rather than haute cuisine.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This off-road safari is best suited for travelers who love a mix of adventure, culture, and authentic food experiences. If you enjoy scenic drives, want to learn about traditional Cretan life, and appreciate tasting local products, this is a great choice. It’s ideal for those wanting a small, guided experience with personalized attention.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less bumpy outing or have mobility restrictions, you might want to consider other options. It’s also perfect for curious travelers keen to discover the island’s mountain villages and rural traditions firsthand.

The Sum Up

This Rethymno off-road vehicle safari offers an engaging way to see the best of Crete’s mountains and villages while enjoying local culture. The combination of scenic vistas, authentic cheese-making, and delicious, wine-paired lunch makes for a memorable day.

With attentive guides, a small group setting, and well-curated stops, it feels intimate and genuine. You’ll leave with a better understanding of Crete’s traditions, some fantastic photos, and of course, a satisfied palate.

This tour is a fantastic pick for adventurous travelers, culture enthusiasts, and those who love to get off the beaten path. It’s a balanced blend of exploration, education, and tasting that captures the spirit of Crete in just a half-day, making it excellent value for the experience offered.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making the start and end of your day hassle-free. Just wait at the designated meeting point 5-10 minutes before your scheduled pickup.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak German, English, French, and Dutch, ensuring a comfortable experience for a diverse group of travelers.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour involves off-road driving and some walking at stops, but it’s generally suitable for most travelers except those with back problems or mobility issues. It’s not recommended for pregnant women or young children under 7.

Can I expect to see wildlife during the tour?
While wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, the guide mentioned trying to spot wild eagles and goats along the way, and the scenic nature makes it possible.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers transportation in a premium off-road vehicle, guided commentary, lunch with wine, and a visit to a shepherds’ hut with cheese-making demonstration.

Are drinks and additional food available?
Additional food and drinks outside of the included lunch are not provided, so you might want to bring some water or snacks if desired.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Crete’s rural charm, scenic beauty, and hearty local cuisine — a memorable adventure for those ready to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.