The rugged hills, rolling olive groves and coastal trails of Crete are best explored in an access-all-areas 4x4 vehicle – and you can be behind the wheel. Head for the north coast of Crete, where you'll explore the countryside to rumble through hidden villages and travel down dirt tracks to discover a world untouched by time.
Leave the hustle and bustle of Malia behind and start your day with a visit to Milatos Cave. As well as framing Cretan countryside views, it holds historical significance as a key site for villagers in the 1823 conflict, where many were killed. You'll find a small church built inside the cave to commemorate them.
After a quick café stop, the real off-road driving begins as you head north to reach the abandoned Monastery of Xera xila for a quick tour. Then you'll start your descent to Mirabello Bay and stop for a swim at Vlihadia Beach while a delicious stone-oven-cooked lunch is prepared for you.
Round off your tour in a traditional village where you'll taste local olive oil and honey. These are the true tastes of the island and you'll get to see the time-honoured ways these goodies are produced before heading back to Malia.
