Agia Pelagia: Sunset or Morning Quad Tour & Ghost Town Visit

If you’re looking to spice up your Crete trip with a dash of adventure and some authentic sights, this quad biking experience might be just what you need. We’ve looked into the Agia Pelagia Sunset or Morning Quad Tour & Ghost Town Visit, and it’s clear this isn’t your average sightseeing trip. It offers a combination of fun off-road riding, stunning views, and a visit to a hauntingly deserted village that feels straight out of a movie.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances adrenaline-pumping off-road fun with moments of quiet reflection at scenic viewpoints. Plus, the friendly guides and authentic stops make it feel personal and genuine. One possible downside: if you’re not comfortable on a quad or prefer a more relaxed pace, this might be a bit intense or fast-paced. But for active travelers craving a mix of adventure and culture, it’s a winner.

This experience suits adventure lovers, curious explorers, and anyone wanting a memorable way to see Crete’s countryside without hours on a bus. Families with older kids, groups of friends, and solo travelers who enjoy a thrill will find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Authentic adventure: Ride through rugged trails with panoramic sea and mountain views.
• Historic intrigue: Explore an abandoned ghost town with eerie cottages and a storybook setting.
• Spectacular sunsets: End your day at a coastal vantage point to watch the sunset paint the sky.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides keep the ride fun, safe, and educational.
• Value for money: For around $99, you get a full 3-hour experience including gear, a short lesson, and some local treats.
• Flexibility: Suitable for beginners with a quick training session, plus options for French, Greek, German, Turkish, and English narration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Practicalities

The tour kicks off at ELA Quad Safari, just a minute’s walk from the Blue Bay hotel, marked clearly with a sign. You’ll arrive about 25 minutes before your scheduled start to check in and get suited up. This early arrival ensures you have time for a safety briefing, gear fitting, and a quick practice run on a dedicated course. The equipment provided includes a helmet and hairnet, and fuel is included in the price, so no hidden costs there.

The tour lasts roughly 3 hours, but availability and starting times vary, so checking ahead is wise. The group size tends to be small, making it easier to get personalized attention and feel safe during the off-road sections. The activity is wheelchair accessible, broadening its appeal, although it involves some walking on uneven terrain.

The Safety and Instruction Phase

The safety briefing is about 20 minutes, and guides are praised for their quick, clear instruction—perfect for beginners. One reviewer mentioned, “The guides teach you so quick on how to drive a quad bike for beginners,” making this a good option even if you’ve never been on one before. After the initial instruction, you’ll get a chance to handle the quad in a private practice area, building confidence before hitting the trails.

Off-Road Adventure and Scenic Stops

Once underway, you’ll ride along golden mountain trails with sweeping views of the sea and lush Crete landscape. The route takes you away from tourist hotspots into the rural backroads and mountain tracks. The off-road sections are what make this tour stand out—driving through rugged terrain gives you a true sense of adventure and allows you to truly connect with the island’s natural beauty.

Your first significant stop is at a mountaintop ghost town. Here, you’ll see abandoned cottages that look like they belong in a horror movie. Visitors describe it as an interesting and historic site, filled with atmosphere and stories. One reviewer called it “a very interesting and historic ghost town,” emphasizing the thrill of exploring such a deserted setting.

From this vantage point, the views are spectacular—panoramas of the sea, mountains, and olive groves stretch endlessly. Guides often share insights about the village’s history, adding context to the visual experience. Visiting these ruins offers a sense of stepping back in time, and it’s a highlight for many.

The tour then descends 300 meters down an old donkey trail toward Fodele, a charming village where you can pause for photos and a quick visit. Here, you can browse local shops selling honey, raki, fresh orange juice, and handicrafts. As one reviewer notes, “We stopped at a small village and enjoyed some refreshments and shopping,” which adds a delightful local flavor and a chance to relax.

Sunset at the Coast

The final stretch takes you to a coastal viewpoint to witness the sunset. Even if the weather isn’t perfect, many have raved about the experience—some have described it as “the cherry on the cake,” with beautiful colors illuminating the sea and sky. It’s a peaceful moment to reflect on the day’s adventures and take stunning photos.

Before heading back, there’s another off-road ride, giving you more of the rugged terrain that makes this tour special. The return to the starting point wraps up a well-rounded experience, combining adventure, history, and natural beauty.

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What’s Included and What Not

The cost includes the quad, guide, safety gear, fuel, and a shot of raki plus a sweet treat at the end—an authentic local touch. Food and drinks, aside from the raki, are not included, so you might want to bring some water or snacks if you’re hungry. The guides are attentive, ensuring safety and fun, which many reviews praise.

Many reviewers emphasize how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, often making the experience more memorable. One said, “The guides teach you so quick and keep you entertained,” while others appreciated the informative commentary about the sites visited. The scenic views are a recurring theme, with visitors describing the landscape as “unreal,” “beautiful,” and “breathtaking.”

The ghost town visit stands out as a unique feature, with several reviewers noting how atmospheric and historically interesting it is. The combination of off-road riding and cultural exploration creates a balanced day that appeals to both adventure and history enthusiasts.

Several reviews also highlight the great value for money, given the variety of stops, scenic views, and the personal touch of the guides. Many mention that this tour was “the highlight of their trip,” especially for those looking for a fun, active, and authentic experience.

• Wear clothes that can get dirty—off-road trails can be dusty.
• Bring a scarf to protect against dust and sun.
• Arrive early to ensure you have time for safety briefing and practice.
• Bring your driver’s license; it’s required to operate the quad.
• Consider bringing snacks or water; food isn’t included, though you can buy local treats during stops.
• For photos, a phone or camera with a good zoom will capture the spectacular views.

This quad adventure is best suited for active travelers who want a taste of off-road fun combined with cultural and scenic stops. It’s great for those who aren’t afraid to get a little dusty and enjoy spectacular natural vistas, especially during sunset. Families with older children, groups of friends, and solo adventurers will find it equally rewarding.

If you have limited mobility or are pregnant, you’ll want to consider other options, as the tour involves some walking on uneven ground and riding a quad. But if you’re craving an authentic, lively experience that blends nature, history, and adrenaline, this is a solid choice.

This Agia Pelagia quad tour offers a well-balanced mix of adventure and authenticity. For around $99 per group, you get a scenic mountain ride, a spooky ghost town, and a stunning sunset view—all led by guides who are knowledgeable, friendly, and safety-conscious. The experience is rich in moments that will make your trip to Crete memorable, whether it’s for the breathtaking scenery, the historical intrigue, or the simple thrill of driving a quad through the countryside.

It’s perfect for those who want a fun, active day that goes beyond standard sightseeing. If you’re after adrenaline, scenic beauty, and local flavor, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides provide a quick, clear safety briefing and a practice session on a private course. Many reviewers mention that even first-timers felt confident after the intro.

What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license, clothes that can get dirty, and a scarf for dust protection. It’s also wise to arrive early to prepare and get comfortable.

Are food and drinks included?
No, only a shot of raki and a sweet are included at the end. You might want to bring snacks or plan to buy refreshments during the stops.

Can I participate if I don’t speak French, Greek, German, or Turkish?
Yes, the tour also offers English narration, making it accessible for most travelers.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity is described as wheelchair accessible, though some walking on uneven surfaces may be involved.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 3 hours, including safety briefings, riding, stops, and sunset viewing.

What about safety on the off-road trails?
Guides are attentive, and safety gear (helmets, hairnets) is provided. The reviews consistently praise the professionalism and care taken during the tour.

To sum it up, this quad biking tour around Agia Pelagia offers a memorable mix of breathtaking scenery, historical intrigue, and lively off-road fun. It’s ideal for travelers seeking an active, authentic experience with plenty of opportunities for photos, exploration, and a taste of local culture. Just brace yourself for dusty trails and a little adventure — the views and stories you’ll gather make it more than worth it.

You can check availability for your dates here: