Ultimate Crete Cycling Challenge
Conquer challenging climbs with panoramic views
Marvel at the stunning landscapes of the Messara region
Discover the serene beauty of Triopetra beach and Saktouria village
Challenge yourself on the demanding Agios Antonios route
Ride through the breathtaking Kurtaliotiko and Kotsifou Gorges
Explore picturesque Cretan villages like Zaros and Melambes
Cycle through the mythic landscapes of the Greek gods
Ride along the breathtaking Cretan coastline
Conquer the diverse terrains of Crete on your bike
Explore ancient Minoan ruins along your ride
Experience the warmth of Cretan hospitality en route
Itinerary
The journey begins on the stunning island of Crete, where a mix of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes awaits. Upon arrival, you can settle into their accommodation in Agia Galini, a charming seaside village on Crete’s southern coast. The first day allows time to unwind, explore the area, or take a walk along the beach to soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
Hotel in Agia Galini
The first cycling day leads to the village of Matala, nestled by the Libyan Sea. Known for its iconic Neolithic caves carved into sandstone cliffs, Matala was also a popular gathering spot for hippies in the 1960s. You’ll encounter a short climb at the start, but the effort is rewarded with gentle terrain and beautiful scenery. The return trip to Agia Galini offers a smoother ride, allowing time to appreciate the surrounding olive groves and coastal views.
60 km and 830 m of elevation gain
Hotel in Agia Galini
This challenging 100-kilometer ride takes cyclists into the rugged Asterousia Mountains, showcasing Crete’s dramatic landscapes. The day begins with an ascent through the Messara region, passing traditional villages like Petrokefali and Alethini. Soon, you’ll reach Gortyn, a significant archaeological site famed for the Great Inscription, Europe’s oldest legal code. The route then rises steeply to Moroni and Kalechorafitis, testing endurance with gradients reaching 16%. The reward lies in panoramic mountain views and a sense of accomplishment before descending back to Agia Galini.
100 km and 1620 m of elevation gain
Hotel in Agia Galini
Today, the route winds through peaceful villages like Mandres, Vori, and Fanoromeni before descending toward Mires. The terrain becomes more challenging as the ride progresses into the foothills of the Asterousia Mountains, where small villages seem frozen in time. You’ll be able to enjoy sweeping views of the Messara Plain while cycling through picturesque stops like Platanos and Alethini. The climb to Festos, an ancient Minoan palace, adds a historical highlight to the day before you return to Agia Galini for the night.
125 km and 1560 m of elevation gain
Hotel in Agia Galini
It’s time to head west toward Zaros, a scenic village located on the southern slopes of the Ida Mountains. Known for its natural springs and serene lake, Zaros provides a tranquil setting for a short stop. On clear spring days, snow-capped peaks above 1500 meters form a stunning contrast to the turquoise Gulf of Messara. The descent toward Mires is swift but requires attention, as sheep often wander onto the road. The final stretch back to Agia Galini includes gentle climbs and quiet rolling terrain.
70 km and 1260 m of elevation gain
Hotel in Agia Galini
Today begins in Spili, a village famed for its Venetian fountain adorned with lion-headed spouts. From here, the route gently climbs before descending steeply into Kotsifou Gorge, where dramatic cliffs require caution as there is a high chance of loose rocks on the road. The journey then continues toward the expansive Kurtaliotiko Gorge, offering endless vistas and opportunities to pause for photos. Along the way, traditional villages like Agios Ioannis and Koxare add to the charm before you ascend back to Spili and transfer to Agia Galini once more.
90 km and 1550 m of elevation gain
Hotel in Agia Galini
This day features some of the most demanding climbs of the tour, with spectacular views of the Ida Mountains and Psiloritis peaks. You’ll pass through traditional villages as the road climbs steadily toward Gerakari. Near Agios Antonios Gorge, a highlight of the day, nature reveals its beauty with rugged cliffs and serene pathways. The route continues through Meronas before reaching the highest point of the day, where views of the surrounding mountains stretch endlessly.
110 km and 2470 m of elevation gain
Hotel in Agia Galini
The final cycling stage takes you to Triopetra, a beautiful cape with striking rock formations and a sandy beach. The day begins with a challenging climb to Melambes, a village perched at 530 meters above sea level, where breathtaking views reward the effort. The route then descends before rising again toward Saktouria. A small detour down a steep road leads to Triopetra Beach, a peaceful spot perfect for relaxation or a visit to the Apanemia Bar. The ride concludes with one last climb to Arkoumia, followed by a gentle descent and a reflective final stretch back to Agia Galini.
55 km and 1340 m of elevation gain
Hotel in Agia Galini
As the tour concludes, bid farewell to Crete, carrying home memories of dramatic landscapes, historic villages, and rewarding rides. You can always opt to extend your stay on the island, exploring on your own or revisiting your favourite lookout spots.
Not enough? Why not spend a few more days here! Extend your holidays with a pre- or post-holiday extension. Accommodation, sightseeing, and activities can be arranged. Add as many extra days to your holiday as you wish.
Not enough? Why not spend a few more days here! Extend your holidays with a pre- or post-holiday extension. Accommodation, sightseeing, and activities can be arranged. Add as many extra days to your holiday as you wish.
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Description
Crete, a land of myth and mountains, offers cyclists a playground of rugged peaks, tranquil coastal roads, and timeless villages. The island’s southern region, where the Asterousia Mountains rise dramatically from the Libyan Sea, sets the stage for an unforgettable cycling experience.
This journey is not for the faint of heart – here, every climb rewards you with sweeping vistas, and every descent whispers stories of a land shaped by time.
The Asterousia and Ida mountain ranges define much of the route, promising challenging ascents with gradients that push your limits, some exceeding 16%. These climbs cut through landscapes where olive groves thrive on hillsides, shepherds guide flocks along winding roads, and the scent of wild thyme drifts through the air.
Long, meandering roads pass through villages seemingly untouched by modernity – places like Zaros, Melambes, and Saktouria, where time slows, and locals greet you with a nod as you ride by.
The region’s raw, untamed beauty challenges cyclists to immerse themselves fully. Each day presents its own rhythm – undulating hills, sharp climbs, and fast descents – demanding both physical resolve and mental focus.
All logistics are taken care of, from personalized digital guidebooks, round-the-clock support and well-planned GPS routes to comfortable accommodations, so you can focus on what matters: the ride, the views, and the stories that will stay with you long after you leave.
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Things to know
Self-guided cycling tours are crafted for a personalized and flexible experience on two wheels. Discover wonders at your leisure, with the liberty to modify your route or itinerary as you wish. Our committed team meticulously takes care of all aspects, including accommodation arrangements, comprehensive planning, GPS navigation assistance, and ongoing support, to ensure a peaceful and captivating trip. This journey celebrates independence, personal discovery, and authentic cultural encounters.
Our tours are divided into three levels of difficulty: Leisurely, Moderate, and Challenging, defined by the typical daily itinerary, though there can be variations in challenge during the trip.
Leisurely tours are perfect for those looking for a relaxed journey amidst beautiful landscapes, without the need for long-distance cycling or navigating difficult terrains. Typically, these tours cover 30-50 km per day, with an elevation gain of up to 500m. This allows for numerous opportunities to enjoy the scenery, sample local cuisine, and visit quaint villages and towns along the route.
Moderate bike tours cater to those who desire a combination of picturesque routes and a bit of a challenge. Covering 50-80 km per day with an elevation gain of up to 1000m, these tours take you through beautiful landscapes and charming villages, featuring both flat and hilly terrains. They provide plenty of chances for exploration and also offer a rewarding cycling experience.
Challenging bike tours are designed for seasoned cyclists looking to challenge themselves. These tours cover 80-120 km daily with an elevation gain of up to 2000m and involve steep climbs and challenging routes. Suitable for those with a high level of fitness and stamina, they offer a sense of achievement and stunning views, making the effort worthwhile.
We are dedicated to finding the ideal match for your cycling journey. We work closely with a range of accommodation providers, all of whom adhere to our quality criteria, though their availability might change, particularly during high-demand seasons. Moreover, we offer the flexibility to customize your trip according to your personal tastes and budget, guaranteeing that we find the accommodation that best suits your needs.
We recommend booking your tour as soon as possible, particularly for sought-after tourist destinations where accommodation options are limited. Top choices tend to be reserved quickly, often getting fully booked for the summer season well before the arrival of spring.
The optimal cycling season in Greece extends from mid-April to mid-October. In higher elevation areas, such as the mountainous regions, it’s best to plan your cycling trips from mid-May to September.
Tours in Greece are feasible in light rain, provided you have suitable attire. Summer often brings afternoon thunderstorms, so starting your tours early in the day is advisable. Should challenging weather conditions be anticipated, we will endeavour to adapt the tour schedule accordingly.
On cycling trips, luggage transfer allows you to ride without carrying heavy bags. Each morning, you leave your luggage at the designated spot—often the hotel reception—and it’s transported to your next overnight stop. Your bags are usually waiting for you when you arrive. Weight limits and pickup times can vary slightly depending on the service provider.
Yes, bike transfers are often available when needed—such as before, after, or during your trip. Bikes are typically transported in secure vehicles or trailers designed for bicycles. You may need to notify the provider in advance, and some services require the bike to be clean or partially disassembled. Exact procedures vary depending on location and logistics.
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