If you’re looking for an active way to see some of Crete’s most striking landscapes, this Quad ATV Adventure might just be up your alley. It promises a mix of scenic drives, cultural stops, and a traditional meal—all wrapped into about five hours of fun. From what we’ve gathered, this tour is designed to give you a taste of Crete’s wild side, with plenty of chances to take in breathtaking views and enjoy some local flavor.
What we love about this experience? First, the guides seem to be both friendly and knowledgeable, making the whole ride feel safe and engaging. Second, the views—particularly the panoramic lookouts over the Libyan Sea—are something most travelers will find unforgettable. On the flip side, one potential consideration is the rough terrain; if you’re someone who prefers smooth rides or has mobility concerns, this might be a bit challenging.
This tour is best suited for those craving a bit of adventure, scenic beauty, and a splash of local culture. It’s not overly strenuous but offers enough excitement to keep it interesting, making it ideal for travelers with a sense of adventure who want to see Crete from a different perspective.
Key Points

- Scenic Drive: Traverse olive groves, mountain paths, and forests with spectacular sea views.
- Cultural Stops: Visit an Orthodox chapel and a mountain village, adding a touch of local history.
- Expert Guides: Friendly, bilingual guides who ensure safety and share local insights.
- Tasty Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Crete meal in a charming village tavern.
- All-Inclusive: Quads, helmets, gasoline, bottled water, and brunch are included.
- Small Group Feel: The experience is private for your group, enhancing the personal touch.
What to Expect on the Quad ATV Adventure in Crete
This tour kicks off at 9:30 am at the Orion Adventure Quad meeting point in Galini. Once there, your guide—who speaks both French and English—will give you a rundown on the ATV and safety instructions. After a quick briefing, you’ll be ready to hit the trails, and the real adventure begins.
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Starting in Galini and Heading to the Mountains
We loved the way the guide took time to ensure everyone felt comfortable before setting off. The initial part of the drive takes you through olive groves and local scenery, giving you a glimpse of everyday life in Crete’s rural areas. As you leave the coast behind, expect to cross small mountain villages, where the pace slows down enough to appreciate the authentic charm.
Crossing the Natural Beauty of Crete
The route climbs into the mountains, where you’ll pass through lush forests and narrow, winding paths. One of the highlights is the stop to admire a stunning panorama of the Libyan Sea—a moment that’s truly picture-perfect. The views are expansive, with a sense of vastness that’s hard to match.
Visiting a Mountain Chapel and Sheepfolds
Among the stops, you’ll visit an Orthodox chapel nestled high in the mountains. The architecture and frescoes offer a quiet, spiritual vibe—an interesting cultural touch. The guide also points out a sheepfold, where you can see local livestock up close. These stops break up the drive and add a layer of cultural authenticity to the adventure.
Reaching the Plateau and Lunch Time
The trip’s crescendo is climbing to a plateau offering 360° views. It’s the perfect place to pause, take photos, and really soak in the landscape. Afterwards, you’ll descend into a mountain village for a typical Cretan lunch in a cozy, traditional tavern. From reviews, this meal is a highlight—fresh, local, and full of flavors typical of the island.
Returning to Galini
After lunch, the descent back to Galini is smooth, and you’ll return to your original meeting point by the end of the approximately five-hour tour.
In-Depth Look at the Experience

Duration & Group Size: At about five hours, this tour strikes a good balance between adventure and not overextending your day. It’s a private tour, meaning it’s just your group—perfect for those who prefer a more personalized experience. The group size can be up to 15, but reviews suggest it feels intimate and well-organized.
Price & Value: At $225.73 per group, which covers up to 15 people, it’s a reasonable price considering the inclusions—quad bikes, helmets, fuel, a hearty brunch, and bottled water. The value here lies in the combination of scenic exploration, cultural stops, and a substantial meal, all guided by knowledgeable locals.
What Travelers Say: A reviewer, Holly R., praised the “super nice and knowledgeable” guide, emphasizing how the guide explained the workings of the ATV and made the drive informative and fun. She mentions that the drive took them past greenhouses, lakes, and into beautiful countryside, highlighting the versatility of the route. The safety and clarity from the guide seem to be a recurring theme, making this adventure accessible even for those new to riding ATVs.
The Terrain & Safety: Expect steep paths and forested trails. The terrain can be uneven and adventurous, so riders need to be comfortable with off-road driving. Helmets and gasoline are included, which shows a focus on safety, but it’s still important to consider your comfort with such activity.
Cultural & Natural Highlights: Traveling through mountain villages, visiting a church, and enjoying panoramic views over the Libyan Sea offer more than just adrenaline. These stops add depth to the experience and help you appreciate the diversity of Crete’s landscapes and history.
Weather & Cancellation: The tour is weather-dependent. If weather conditions aren’t suitable, the activity may be canceled with the option of rescheduling or getting a full refund—a helpful reassurance for planning.
Who Should Consider This Tour

This quad adventure is perfect for adventurous travelers who want more than just a typical sightseeing tour. It suits those comfortable with outdoor activities and looking to combine fun with cultural discovery. It’s also a great way for small groups or couples to share an active experience in a scenic setting.
If you’re traveling with children or prefer gentle, paved rides, this might not be the best fit. However, if you’re eager for a physically engaging day with breathtaking views and a chance to connect with Crete’s countryside, this tour hits the mark.
The Sum Up
All in all, this Quad ATV Adventure in Crete offers a well-rounded experience that balances adventure, culture, and spectacular scenery. The fact that it’s private for your group makes it feel more tailored and less rushed—a definite plus. The guide’s friendliness and local knowledge shine through, turning what could be just a ride into a memorable journey through some of the island’s most beautiful spots.
The included traditional lunch is a nice touch, giving you a taste of local Crete cuisine after some exhilarating off-road driving. Given the reviews praising the views and the guides, it’s clear that many travelers walk away with a sense of satisfaction and a camera full of stunning photos.
If you love outdoor activities, scenic vistas, and cultural stops, this tour is a solid choice. Just remember it’s physically active and terrain can be rugged, so come prepared for a bit of dirt and adventure.
QUAD ATV Adventure découvrez les panoramas du Sud est de la Crete
“The guide was super nice and knowledgeable. We started by him showing us how to drive the ATVs and him explaining how they work. Then we drove thro…”
FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, pick-up is available, making it easier to start your adventure without worrying about transportation.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately five hours, from meet-up to return.
What’s included in the price?
You get quad bikes, helmets, fuel, bottled water, and a brunch. It’s an all-in-one package for a full adventure.
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
The guide provides instructions on how to operate the ATV, making it accessible for most beginners. However, comfort with off-road driving is recommended.
Can children participate?
The tour is designed for most travelers, but specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned. It’s best for those comfortable with riding ATVs.
What kind of terrain will we ride on?
Expect steep paths, forest trails, and mountain roads—adventurous and uneven terrain typical of Crete’s mountains.
Are the views really as good as they look?
Absolutely. Stops include panoramic viewpoints over the Libyan Sea, which reviews describe as exceptional.
What about the lunch?
A traditional Crete meal in a mountain village tavern, praised for its local flavors and authentic atmosphere.
What if the weather is bad?
The activity is weather-dependent. Cancellations due to poor weather are fully refunded or can be rescheduled.
How do I book?
You can reserve via Viator or directly with Orion Excursion Service. Confirmation is provided within 48 hours, subject to availability.
This quad adventure in Crete offers a mix of adrenaline, scenery, and cultural discovery—perfect if you’re after a day filled with authentic island experiences in a beautiful setting.
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- From Ierapetra: Day Cruise with Luxury Yacht to Chrissi island
- The Palace of Knossos with Skip-the-Line Ticket
- Dia Island Catamaran Premium Lunch, Open Bar, Small Group
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More Crete experiences we've covered
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- The Palace of Knossos with Skip-the-Line Ticket
- Dia Island Catamaran Premium Lunch, Open Bar, Small Group
- QUAD ATV Adventure découvrez les panoramas du Sud est de la Crete
- Private Sailing Cruise from Agios Nikolaos around Mirabello Bay
- Chania: City Highlights Small Group Bike Tour
- Georgioupolis Full-Day Land Rover Safari Experience
- Matala – Agia Galini – Spili from Rethymno
- From Chania: Rethymno, Lake Kournas & Olive Oil Tasting Tour
- Kissamos: Balos and Gramvousa Private Sailing Trip with Meal
- Small-Group Wine Tasting Activity in West Chania
- Traditional Cretan Dancing Lessons Day Tour In Chania

