Activity Snapshot
Activity description
Discover unique and beautiful hidden places not many people get to see with conventional means of transportation. Mount a brand new powerful quad bike and follow us on unique off-road routes into the wild nature.
After the practical session and equipped with useful riding techniques, we begin the quad safari by riding on a peninsula in the Mononaftis area and head to our first destination:
The deserted village of Achlada
Almost the entire western part of the village and its central core consists of now closed houses. It is full of visible signs of time and abandonment, while many old mansions have now been turned into piles of ruins.
This village was once full of life. When Agia Pelagia became a famous tourist resort, Achlada’s inhabitants abandoned their village and migrated to Agia Pelagia to work in tourism.
Enjoy a quiet stroll in the picturesque alleys of Achlada and appreciate the architecture whilst learning a few things about its history. Of course, you can also take some unique photos!
After the ghost village of Achlada, we are heading off-road through the Cretan mountains. You will have exclusive access to some of Crete’s most beautiful landscapes and of course loads of off-road fun on unique routes.
The amazing view from Rodia
The next destination is the village of Rodia which is situated 300 meters high in the Cretan mountains. Rodia is offering far-reaching panoramic views of Heraklion city. It is home to the 15th-century Modino mansion, a Venetian-era feudal villa. We stop right outside the Modinos villa to take a picture of this unique stone-built mansion. After we can enjoy a short walk through the beautiful alleys, where we have the chance to meet and talk to locals. They always have to say interesting facts about this charming village.
Fodele – The home of El Greco
Filled with fresh oxygen in our lungs, we mount the quad bikes and head off-road to wonderful routes. We cut through green mountains descending towards our last stop, the beautiful village of Fodele.
This traditional village is home to the famous Renaissance painter Dominikos Theotokopoulos also known as El Greco. We are taking a 30-minute break in Fodele for a rest and a drink next to a river in an iconic cafe.
The village is built on orange groves and offers delicious freshly squeezed orange juice which will be the best you ever had!
Whilst in Fodele you will have the time to walk through the streets of the village. Visit El Greco’s parental home which has been turned into a museum, explore the surrounding area and see a Byzantine church that dates to the 11th century.
Return to Mononaftis
From Fodele village we take the road back to our starting point where we are enjoying beautiful sceneries on and off-road. Our fun does not end up until the last minute of the Safari. We return to Mononaftis, having lived an unforgettable experience through unique routes specially designed by ‘ELA Quad Safari’. Discover natural and cultural elements with wonderful memories and collect rich photographic material of wildlife in Crete!
