Ultimate Crete Cycling Tour

Begin your journey on the captivating island of Crete, where history, culture, and natural beauty await.

Embark on a cycling journey to the picturesque village of Matala, nestled by the sea on Crete’s southern coast. Legend has it that this is where Zeus, disguised as a bull, brought the Phoenician princess Europa before transforming into an eagle and carrying her further to Gortyn.

In the 1960s, Matala became a haven for hippies from around the world, who found refuge in the Neolithic caves. Notable artists like Cat Stevens, Bob Dylan, and Joni Mitchell even called this place home at times.

This tour is an ideal way to kickstart your cycling week, except for a climb right after the start.

The return journey offers a smooth ride with no major difficulties, allowing you to arrive and get a taste of what awaits you in Crete.

Embark on a 100-kilometer cycling adventure that takes you deep into the heart of the Messara region, starting with an ascent on the slopes of the Asterousia Mountains. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming towns like Petrokefali and Alethini, and reach the historic Gortyn archaeological site, which holds the distinction of being the excavation site for the “Great Inscription,” Europe’s oldest known legal code.

After a visit to Gortyn, the route continues with challenging climbs to Moroni and Kalehorafitis, offering a taste of the final ascent via Klima to Platanos. This climb is not for the faint of heart, with a maximum gradient of 16%, making it one of the region’s most demanding climbs. However, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.

Starting from Agia Galini, the route leads through Mandres to Tymbaki, following the main road and passing through villages like Vori and Fanoromeni. Small climbs characterize this section before descending toward Mires.

The terrain becomes hillier as you enter the slopes of the Asterousia Mountains, passing picturesque Cretan villages that seem frozen in time. After Vagonia, the route ascends again into the Asterousia Mountains, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the Messara. You’ll follow the well-known route through Platanos, Peri, Alethini, Pombia, and Petrokefali before tackling the climb to Festos, where you can explore the excavation site.

The final 25 kilometres lead along the main road via Tymbaki into the climb to Mandres and then into the descent back to Agia Galini.

Explore the picturesque Cretan village of Zaros, nestled on the southern slope of the Ida Mountains at an elevation of 450 meters above sea level. Zaros is renowned for its abundant water sources and the small lake featuring trout farming just above the town.

The tour takes you on a journey westward along the southern slope of Psiloritis, passing through typical Cretan mountain villages like Platanos, Lochria, and Kamares before reaching Zaros after covering 32 kilometres. During spring, you’ll have the pleasure of witnessing snow-capped peaks above 1500 meters and a breathtaking panoramic view of the turquoise Gulf of Messara.

The descent towards Mires is swift, but caution is advised as sheep may occasionally cross the road. After leaving Mires behind, the return journey to Agia Galini spans about 35 kilometres of flat to undulating terrain, passing through villages like Fanaromeni and Vori on the way to Tymbaki. However, take into account the final climb to Mandres, with a challenging gradient of 10%, making it a real test after this rewarding tour.

The journey commences in Spili, where, despite the constant gain in altitude, the terrain gives the illusion of being relatively flat.

Spili offers a chance to replenish your water bottles, and the water quality at the renowned Venetian fountain from the 16th century, adorned with 26 water-spouting lion heads in the village centre, is exceptional. From there, the route descends slightly towards Rethymnon until you reach the junction to Ag. Ioannis.

The initial leg of the journey is a true delight, as the road undulates to Ag. Ioannis before plunging steeply into the Kotsifou Gorge. Extreme caution is required here, as there may be loose stones on the road.

The descent continues, and after passing the village of Myrtihos, a short climb takes you to Moroni. From there, it’s a straight path to the next highlight of the tour, the expansive Kurtaliotiko Gorge. Be mindful of strong downdrafts while passing through this magnificent natural wonder. The panoramic views are endless, making a stop at the parking lot a must for capturing impressive photos.

The route then takes you through the village of Koxare, heading back to Spili with a steady uphill climb. Don’t forget to stock up on fresh drinks in Spili, as there are still approximately 26 kilometres to go before reaching Agia Galini. The road leads through Arkoumia and then via Kria Vrisis before exiting towards Agia Galini.

The tour begins with a climb along the Ida Mountains, passing through Mandres, Apodoulou, and Fourfouras. As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the rugged terrain. Your destination is the village of Agia Fotini, where you’ll continue towards Rethymnon.

The route takes you past the junction to the Agios Antonios gorge, a must-visit for its natural beauty. From there, you’ll face another uphill challenge as you head towards Gerakari. The road steadily climbs via Meronas, offering stunning views of the Psilorites mountains.

Upon reaching Gerakari, you’ll turn right for the tour’s highest point, the pass. The last 5 kilometres to the summit will push your limits.

In Spili, refill your water bottles at the Venetian fountain before tackling the final 26 kilometres to Agia Galini. While the route generally descends, it includes several smaller climbs—a true test of your endurance after this epic tour.

Explore the stunning Triopetra cape and beach on this challenging yet rewarding final cycling stage. Your journey begins in Agia Galini, and you’ll encounter remarkable landscapes and historic villages along the way.

The tour kicks off with an ambitious climb to Melambes, a picturesque village. Take your time and savour the breathtaking views—this is a moment to capture with photos. The 10-kilometre ascent to Melambes, reaching 530 meters above sea level, boasts an average gradient of 6.3% and offers an enjoyable ride.

Afterwards, enjoy a beautiful descent before the next climb to the 16th-century mountain village of Saktouria. This village, like Melambes, seems to have frozen in time, and exploring it is like stepping back in history.

After approximately 5 kilometres, you’ll encounter a small, inconspicuous, steep dead-end road leading to Triopetra. Exercise caution on this steep and occasionally rocky road. After crossing a small bridge, turn left, and you’ll arrive at the stunning Triopetra beach. The Apanemia Bar is a great spot to relax and enjoy sea views.

Beyond the tavern, your journey continues with the challenging climb to Arkoumia, boasting a steady 8% gradient. After 12 kilometres, you’ll reach Arkoumia, the turning point for your return to Agia Galini. Descend, traverse a flat section, and conquer a final climb to Kria Vrisi before embarking on the last descent to Agia Galini.

As your cycling adventure in Crete comes to a close, take a moment to reflect on the incredible landscapes, historic villages, and memorable moments you’ve experienced. Cherish the memories and the bonds forged during this journey as you bid farewell to the enchanting island of Crete. Until we meet again on new adventures!