Rhodes Self Drive 4×4 Offroad Adventure with Gourmet Lunch

If you’re thinking about exploring Rhodes beyond the usual beach resorts and tourist spots, this self-drive 4×4 offroad tour might catch your eye. It promises a full day of discovering some of the island’s hidden gems, paired with local tastings and a hearty Greek lunch. We’ve looked into what this experience offers, and here’s a detailed rundown to help you decide if it fits your travel style.

What really stands out is how this tour combines adventure and culture—driving through off-road trails in a modern 4×4 with the comfort of guided insights, and then enjoying Rhodes’ authentic flavors and history. We also love that it’s tailored to give you a personalized experience without the crowds, thanks to the self-driving element.

However, it’s not all smooth sailing. The tour’s intensity and physical demands mean it might not suit everyone, especially if you’re not comfortable with moderate physical activity or off-road terrain. Also, while the itinerary offers many highlights, some travelers might find the pace a little brisk if they prefer a more relaxed outing.

This adventure is best suited for curious travelers who enjoy a bit of off-the-beaten-path exploration, have a sense of adventure, and want to taste Rhodes’ local produce in a scenic setting. If that sounds like your idea of a great day, keep reading—we’ll walk through every detail.

Key Points

• Balance of adventure and culture: Perfect for those wanting a mix of off-road driving, sightseeing, and local flavors.
• Guided yet flexible: The experience offers a guided tour with the freedom of self-driving, adding a personal touch.
• Authentic tasting experiences: Includes local honeys, olive oil, sweets, fruits, and an authentic Greek lunch.
• Major highlights: Seven Springs, a 15th-century church, a wine tasting at a renowned vineyard, and a scenic mountain drive.
• Price and value: At around $80 per person, it offers a comprehensive day, but optional extras like lunch cost extra.
• Limited reviews with mixed feedback: While many praise the guides and scenery, some found it less memorable or too intense.

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect

Start Point and Duration

The tour kicks off at 9:00 am with hotel or port pickup, so it’s convenient for travelers staying nearby or arriving by cruise. You’ll spend about 6 hours exploring Rhodes in a modern, air-conditioned 4×4 vehicle, guided by friendly English speakers. The group size can be quite large—up to 999 travelers—so expect a lively, dynamic atmosphere.

First Stop: Epta Piges (Seven Springs)

This is arguably the star of the tour. We loved how this spot offers a peaceful retreat into nature, with its cool, clear waters and lush greenery. The legend of the mystical tunnel adds a fun, almost fairy-tale element—so if you’re a bit of a myth buff, you’ll enjoy that part.

Walking through the tunnel is described as a “mystical cleanse,” and sipping water from the springs is said to rejuvenate you by seven years. It’s a chance to breathe deeply, enjoy some beautiful scenery, and soak up the peaceful vibe. One reviewer called this place “nature’s marvel meets whimsical magic,” which sums up the experience well. While admission is free, the atmosphere makes it worth a visit.

Second Stop: Archipoli Village

Here, the focus shifts to local flavors. You’ll taste a variety of honeys, sip homemade spirits like souma, and enjoy fresh olive oil. The village is picturesque, making it easy to relax and take in authentic Rhodian life.

Optional Lunch at Archipoli

For those with an appetite, a traditional Greek Moussaka lunch is available for around 15 euros. It’s a hearty, well-loved dish—layers of eggplant, seasoned meat, and béchamel sauce baked in a wood-fired oven. Alongside that, a Greek salad, tzatziki, and fresh bread make for a satisfying meal. According to reviews, this meal offers a real taste of Greece and is a good value for what you get.

Scenic Drive to Profitis Ilias

Captain your own vehicle along winding mountain roads to reach Profitis Ilias, a place where olive, fig, and plane trees surround a quaint stone church. The scene is almost cinematic, with the church’s murals and the mountain backdrop creating a sense of timeless beauty. Inside, you’ll find murals depicting saints and biblical scenes—a true highlight for those interested in art or history.

Optional Spring Visit

Next to the church, there’s a spring renowned for offering the best drinking water on the island. It’s a quick stop, but one that adds to the sense of discovery and connection to local culture.

What We Love About This Tour

Guides and Scenery: The guides are described as friendly and knowledgeable, making the day more engaging and informative. Many reviews emphasize the stunning views and the beauty of the natural spots, which really do stand out as some of Rhodes’ best-kept secrets.

Wine and Tasting: Visiting one of the island’s best wineries, guests enjoy some top-quality wines, souma, and tsipouro. The tasting experience is highly praised, especially by those who appreciate a good local drink.

Value for Money: For roughly $80, you’re getting a full day of diverse experiences—off-road driving, scenic sightseeing, authentic food, and local tastings. The optional lunch adds to the value, giving you a genuine taste of Rhodian cuisine.

What Could Be Improved

Some travelers found the experience “not memorable,” perhaps because they expected more relaxation or less physical activity. One review humorously noted, “Didn’t enjoy,” but also mentioned that perhaps they shouldn’t have tried to do two extremes at once—like exploring this adventure while also trying other intense activities.

A few might find the pace a bit rushed if they prefer to linger longer at each stop. Also, because it’s a self-drive tour, some may feel uncertain about navigating off-road terrain, so a moderate comfort level with driving and outdoor activities is recommended.

Who Would Enjoy This Experience?

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who like a hands-on exploration of Rhodes, especially those interested in nature, local life, and authentic food. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable driving a 4×4 and want to see more than just beaches. It also appeals to wine lovers and history buffs eager to visit a medieval church and learn about local legends.

While it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the tour could be suitable for older children or teenagers who enjoy driving and outdoor adventures. However, younger kids or those sensitive to moderate physical activity might find it less suitable.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour includes hotel or port pickup, which makes logistics easier.
• It’s recommended to have moderate physical fitness since some walking and off-road driving are involved.
• The tour lasts around 6 hours, so plan your day accordingly—early start and timely return are guaranteed.
• The optional lunch costs around 15 euros per adult and 10 euros for children under 12, so budget accordingly if you want to indulge.
• Check the weather forecast—good weather is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. In case of poor weather, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled with a full refund.
• With a maximum of 999 travelers, it’s a popular choice, so booking in advance is advised—on average, people book about 69 days ahead.

The Bottom Line: Is It Right for You?

If you’re craving a full-day adventure that combines off-road driving, scenic beauty, and local flavors, this Rhodes self-drive tour hits most marks. The guided element and well-curated stops make it accessible for those with a sense of curiosity and a little bit of adventure spirit. Many guests rave about the stunning views and excellent guide service, which can turn a typical sightseeing day into something memorable.

That said, if you’re looking for a more relaxed, less physically demanding experience, or if your main focus is lounging on the beach, this might not be your best fit. The tour’s unique appeal lies in its active, immersive approach—perfect if you want to get your hands dirty and discover Rhodes from a different angle.

In short, this experience offers a good balance of adventure, culture, and taste. It’s a great way to see a less-visited side of the island, with enough flexibility to enjoy some authentic Rhodian moments along the way.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel or port pickup, making it easy to start your day without extra hassle.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, from the morning start at 9:00 am to a return that fits into your day.

Are the vehicles modern and comfortable?
Yes, the vehicles are modern, air-conditioned 4x4s, suitable for off-road exploration.

Is food included in the price?
The tour includes a tasting of local produce at Archipoli village. The optional Greek lunch costs extra, around 15 euros per adult.

Do I need any special skills or experience?
A moderate physical fitness level is recommended, especially since you’ll be driving and walking at some stops.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, there’s a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity and walking. Bring sunscreen and water, especially in warm weather.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It can be, especially for older children or teens who enjoy adventure and driving, but it might not be ideal for very young kids.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
Many guests love the scenic drive to the Seven Springs and the chance to taste local wines and produce, making it a well-rounded cultural experience.

In the end, this Rhodes self-drive adventure is about discovering the lesser-known, scenic, and flavorful sides of the island. If you’re up for some moderate physical activity, enjoy authentic local experiences, and want to create unique memories, this could be a rewarding day on Rhodes.