From Rethymno: Off-Road Vehicle Safari with Lunch

If you’re looking for a way to see Crete beyond the usual tourist spots, this off-road vehicle safari from Rethymno might just fit the bill. Designed to give you a mix of breathtaking scenery, authentic local traditions, and a hearty Cretan meal, it’s a tour that balances adventure with cultural insight. We’ve seen plenty of reviews praising its authenticity and friendly guides, which makes it worth considering if you’re into exploring off-the-beaten-path.

What really caught our eye is the chance to enjoy panoramic views of Mount Ida, as well as visiting a traditional shepherd’s hut—something you won’t find in many tours. The chance to watch cheese-making live and taste fresh cheese straight from the source is another highlight. However, a thing to keep in mind is that this experience is best suited for those comfortable with some bumpy off-road driving and limited mobility, since it’s about exploring rugged terrain and visiting rural spots.

This tour works well for travelers who want a blend of adventure, local culture, and good food without spending all day in museums or on city streets. It’s also quite family-friendly for those with children over 7, but not suitable for very young kids, pregnant women, or anyone with back or motion sickness issues. If you’re after a relaxed yet insightful day out in Crete, this could be a great choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit a shepherd’s hut, see cheese-making, and taste fresh local cheese.
• Stunning Views: Panoramic vistas of Mount Ida and surrounding mountain valleys.
• Cultural Stops: Explore historic sites like Halepa Monastery.
• Scenic Drive: Off-road vehicle adventure through villages and nature.
• Hearty Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Cretan meal with local wine.
• Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, making it personal and engaging.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.
• Pricing: At $112 per person, it offers good value considering the inclusions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

We’re here to help you understand what this tour really offers. It’s a mix of scenic driving, cultural stops, and delicious food—all in the company of guides who seem genuinely passionate about sharing Crete’s ways of life. The panoramic views of Mount Ida are frequently praised, and honestly, they’re a highlight you’ll remember long after the trip ends. From the high points, you get a sweeping look at the mountains, valleys, and the lush greenery that covers much of southern Crete.

The itinerary includes a visit to a shepherds hut, known locally as a mitato, which is one of those rustic, stone-built structures that shepherds used traditionally. This isn’t just a photo stop; you’ll learn about the shepherd lifestyle firsthand, and if you’re lucky, you might see cheese-making in action. Multiple reviews mention how much they enjoyed witnessing the process and tasting cheese that’s made right there—something incredibly fresh and satisfying.

A stop at the historic Halepa Monastery adds a touch of local history, especially for those interested in the past struggles and resilience of Cretan people. The monastery’s significance as a refuge for rebels during civil wars makes it more than just a pretty building; it’s a piece of living history.

The off-road drive through villages such as Halepa, Garazo, Faratsi, and Veni takes you through areas known for their dense vegetation and aromatic air. The guides do a good job of pointing out local wildlife—like wild eagles and goats—and sharing stories that connect you to the land and its traditions. Most travelers find the drive exciting but manageable, especially since the vehicles are designed for comfort and safety.

Lunch is served at a traditional tavern in Axos, where you’ll enjoy local dishes paired with wine. The reviews rave about the quality and authenticity of the meal, with some mentioning that the cheese and local cuisine are simply “phenomenal.” It’s a good opportunity to relax, chat with fellow travelers, and soak in the peaceful village atmosphere. Keep in mind, additional food and drinks outside of lunch aren’t included, so if you’re a big eater or want extra beverages, plan accordingly.

The small group size (max 8 people) helps keep things intimate, allowing guides to be more attentive and share insights that larger tours might miss. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge—especially drivers like Antonis, who make the experience more personal.

How the Day Unfolds

The tour starts with hotel pickup, usually in the morning, giving you a comfortable start. The journey south from Rethymno is about exploring rural Crete, so expect some bumpy patches along the way—this is part of the charm, though, offering a real taste of countryside life.

Your first stop is at a historic monastery, offering stunning views and a glimpse into local religious life. From there, the drive continues through villages alive with the scents of herbs and wildflowers, providing plenty of photo opportunities. As you approach the shepherds hut, the landscape becomes even more picturesque, with mountain peaks in the background and the rugged terrain close by.

Once at the mitato, you’ll learn about the shepherds’ way of life, and cheese-making demonstrations are a highlight—many reviews describe the cheese as “immediately edible” and “phenomenal.” Afterward, the route takes you to Axos for lunch, where you’ll indulge in a generous spread of local specialties complemented by a glass of wine, often highlighted as a memorable part of the day.

The return journey offers a chance to reflect on the day’s discoveries, with the guides sharing stories about Crete’s history and traditions. It’s a relaxed, informative way to see a different side of the island than the beaches and ruins.

Practical Details You Should Know

Price-wise, at $112 per person, this tour offers a decent deal when you consider the inclusions—transport, lunch, cheese-making demo, and visits. It’s a full 6.5-hour experience, so be prepared for a day of exploration and some driving. The vehicles are multi-seater off-road models, driven by guides who speak multiple languages, including English, German, French, and Dutch.

The tour is perfect for travelers over 7 years old who are comfortable in a vehicle and can handle some uneven terrain. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or who experience motion sickness, so plan accordingly. The small group size allows for a more tailored experience, and flexibility in cancellation (up to 24 hours in advance) means you can plan with peace of mind.

What We Think Overall

This tour genuinely seems to strike a good balance between adventure, culture, and relaxation. It’s not overly touristy thanks to its small group size and off-the-beaten-path stops. The guides’ friendliness and local knowledge are a big plus, making each stop more meaningful. The cheese demo and authentic lunch are real highlights—food that’s fresh, flavorful, and served in a rustic setting.

While the drive can be bumpy, that’s part of the fun for those looking to see Crete’s wild side. If you’re after a day of discovering local traditions, enjoying spectacular views, and sampling authentic Cretan cuisine, this experience is likely to meet your expectations.

However, if you’re not comfortable with off-road travel or have specific medical conditions, you might want to consider if this tour suits your needs. Also, those seeking a more relaxed, less physically involved experience may find it a bit energetic.

In the end, this safari is a wonderful way to connect with Crete’s rural roots while enjoying a scenic adventure. It appeals especially to curious travelers who want more than just a quick sightseeing stop and are interested in local food, history, and nature.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, typically in the morning. You’ll receive exact details after booking.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak multiple languages including English, German, French, and Dutch.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about 6.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy all the stops and scenery.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, you’ll ride in a premium off-road vehicle suited for small groups, making for a comfortable and stable ride over uneven terrain.

Can children participate?
It’s suitable for children over 7 years old. Younger children, pregnant women, and those with certain health issues should consider their comfort with off-road driving.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, a traditional Cretan lunch with wine, and a visit to a shepherds hut with cheese-making demo.

Are drinks and extra food included?
No, additional food and drinks outside the provided lunch are not included.

Is this suitable for people with motion sickness?
Since it involves off-road driving, it may not be suitable for those prone to motion sickness.

This off-road safari from Rethymno offers a genuine slice of Cretan life, with stunning scenery and memorable tastes. If that sounds like your idea of a great day out, it’s well worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: