Crete: old Monastery & stunning vistas – “The old Crete”

Discover Crete’s Hidden Charms with a Quad Safari to a Monastery and Village

This guided quad tour in Crete promises a blend of adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery. Covering about four hours, it offers a chance to ride a powerful 600cc quad through rugged mountains, visit a traditional village, and explore a centuries-old monastery tucked away in the hills. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a history buff, this experience has something memorable for you.

What really stands out is how this tour takes you off the beaten path. Instead of sticking to tourist-heavy spots, it immerses you in the authentic Cretan lifestyle, complete with local stops and a peaceful monastery. The highlight for many is the chance to enjoy stunning vistas while riding through narrow mountain roads—perfect for those who love a mix of active exploration and cultural discovery.

A slight consideration is that the tour doesn’t include transportation to the meeting point, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer. Also, it’s geared toward those who are comfortable on a quad and have a valid driver’s license, as well as suitable footwear and safety gear.

Ideal for adventure seekers, history lovers, and anyone wanting a day away from crowds, this tour offers genuine insights into Crete’s rural charm with a healthy dose of adrenaline.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Ride through traditional villages and mountain scenery, far from tourist hotspots.
• Historical Highlight: Visit a peaceful 13th-century monastery hidden in the hills.
• Cultural Break: Enjoy a relaxed coffee break at a local kafenio with small local nibbles.
• Expert Guidance: Led by knowledgeable guides who ensure safety and share interesting insights.
• Great Value: Includes quad rental, fuel, helmets, drinks, and visit to a historic site—no hidden costs.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 10) ensure personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Practicalities

The adventure begins in Istron (Kalo Chorio), close to Agios Nikolaos, at the DirtWheels Quad-Safari Office. The check-in process is straightforward, and the guides—who speak Greek and English—are friendly and attentive. We were told that the price covers one quad, so if two are sharing, only one booking is necessary unless both want to drive separately.

Before heading off, there’s a quick safety briefing and some practice time to make sure everyone is comfortable with the quad controls. The 600cc quad bikes are robust and easy to handle, even for those with limited off-road experience, but you should bring your driver’s license (must be valid for at least a year) and wear closed-toe shoes.

Riding Through Crete’s Mountains

Once underway, the thrill of riding a powerful quad through mountain trails quickly becomes evident. The guides lead the way, ensuring safety while allowing enough freedom to enjoy the scenery. The ride takes you through narrow, winding mountain paths with spectacular views over the surrounding valleys and coastal areas. It’s a wonderful chance to see Crete’s rugged natural beauty — rocky slopes, olive groves, and wildflowers.

The highlight is the ride through a charming village far from the usual tourist trails. Here, the streets are so narrow that the quad’s size becomes an advantage, navigating through traditional stone houses and friendly locals. You’ll feel the genuine vibe of rural Crete, with the chance to appreciate local architecture and perhaps catch a glimpse of everyday life.

Coffee Break at the Kafenio

After some riding, the group stops at a cozy kafenio—a traditional Greek coffeehouse. This is a real treat. You can choose from a hot Greek coffee, a refreshing frappe, or a soft drink. Accompanying these drinks are small local snacks, giving you a taste of genuine Cretan hospitality.

Guests have commented on how relaxing this break is, with one reviewer noting that the owners are very friendly and flexible. It’s a perfect moment to soak in the village atmosphere, chat with guides and fellow travelers, and enjoy a little downtime before continuing.

The Mountain Trek and the Hidden Monastery

Refreshed, the adventure continues into the mountains, passing through more small villages and scenic spots. The landscape changes from lush greenery to more arid, rocky terrain, offering great photo opportunities.

The final destination is a 13th-century monastery, located in a peaceful, secluded spot. The visit provides a quiet contrast to the lively village. The monastery’s history, dating back to the 1200s, adds depth to the experience, and it’s clear the site is still a place of tranquility and reflection.

Return and Reflection

After exploring the monastery, it’s time to head back to Istron. The ride down offers a different perspective, as you descend through the mountain trails with sweeping views behind. The entire experience wraps up after about four hours, leaving you with a sense of accomplishment, cultural insight, and plenty of great photos.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes quad rental with a guide, helmets, fuel, water, a coffee break at the village, and entry to the monastery. There’s no included transfer to the meeting point, so plan accordingly. Lunch or dinner isn’t covered, so you might want to bring some extra snacks or plan to grab a meal afterward.

The Authentic Touch: What Past Participants Say

One guest, Tobias, shared that the experience was “great fun, varied, informative, and delicious,” highlighting the welcoming nature of the guides and the chance to sample local food. Several reviews emphasize the guides’ friendliness and flexibility, making the experience feel personalized rather than rushed.

Many appreciated the stunning views and the chance to see Crete’s countryside away from crowds. The quiet monastery was also a favorite, offering a peaceful break and a deeper connection to the island’s history.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This quad safari is perfect for adventure lovers who want more than just beach lounging. It suits those comfortable on a quad, with a valid driver’s license, ready to enjoy scenic mountain rides. History and culture buffs will appreciate the visit to the monastery, while foodies will enjoy the relaxed coffee break at the village.

However, it’s not suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, or anyone with back, heart, or mobility issues. Participants should wear appropriate footwear and understand that a moderate amount of physical activity is involved.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Make sure to bring your driver’s license and ID or passport.
• Wear closed-toe shoes to ensure safety and comfort.
• Arrive a little early for the safety briefing.
• Remember that the tour price is per quad; sharing is possible, but each driver needs their own license if they want to drive separately.
• The tour operates in small groups—intimate enough for personalized guidance but lively enough for fun conversations.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re craving a mix of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty, this tour checks all the boxes. It offers a real taste of rural Crete, with the added excitement of riding a quad through mountain trails. The visit to a medieval monastery adds historical depth, while the village coffee break offers a chance to relax and connect with local life.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a personalized experience, making it a memorable part of your Crete holiday. The included elements, from fuel to drinks to the monastery visit, provide solid value for the price.

For those eager to explore beyond the beaches and tourist centers, and who enjoy active, authentic experiences, this tour is well worth considering.

FAQ

Can I participate if I’ve never ridden a quad before?
Yes, the guides conduct quick stops and safety instructions to ensure everyone feels comfortable. If you’re confident with manual controls, you’ll do fine.

What should I bring with me?
Bring your driver’s license, ID or passport, and wear closed-toe shoes. You might also want to wear sunglasses or sunscreen for the ride.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 7 years old, mainly due to safety restrictions and the physical nature of riding a quad.

Are there any health restrictions?
Yes, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, or those with back, heart, or mobility issues. Participants under 21 need a valid driver’s license.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, including riding, breaks, and the monastery visit.

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, you’re responsible for your own transfer to Istron (Kalo Chorio). Plan accordingly to arrive on time.

This guided quad experience in Crete offers a fantastic way to see the island’s authentic countryside, indulge in cultural sites, and enjoy a bit of adrenaline. Combining scenic views, local history, and friendly guides, it’s an adventure that promises both fun and meaningful moments.