EXPLORE CRETE
Crete is the destination for your next cycling vacation. Why? The island offers everything that you, as a cyclist, are looking for. Especially because you wouldn't expect it. Let's be honest, did you ever think that Crete would be the ultimate cycling spot? We think so!
We will give you all the tips and tricks you need to know if you want to discover Crete by bike. We focus on central Crete, because the island is large. Larger than you think! In central Crete, you will find the highest mountains. And that is the perfect reason for cyclists to visit that part of Crete.
Crete is known for its super friendly people, delicious food, and relatively long distances for an island. When you explore Crete, you will be guaranteed to be surprised. The roads are well maintained, and apart from a few stones and potholes, you can safely hit the road. Despite the fact that the Cretans are not as familiar with cyclists as the residents of Mallorca, the roads are certainly wide enough to cycle comfortably and without worries.
The nature in Crete is varied and impressive. The interior in some places reminds you of the romantic countryside of Tuscany, and in the mountains, you can feel like you are in the Swiss Alps. Crete is an island that steals your heart.
Exploring Crete by bike is a unique and adventurous way to discover this beautiful island. One of the highlights is the ride over the mountains to Skinakas, where you have a breathtaking view of the mountains and the sea. At the top of the mountain, you'll find a stargazing telescope, which fits perfectly with the theme. Because the higher you go, the more the environment resembles a lunar landscape. However, be careful because as the altitude increases, the chance of a flat tire also increases. So, be sure to bring an extra tire. But don't let a few loose stones stop you, because the route is truly magnificent! It's amazing to be so high in the mountains while seeing the sea below.
Chania is a charming city with a rich history and a beautiful harbor. Around the harbor, there are countless restaurants where you can enjoy a bite to eat and a drink, while admiring the stunning view over the water. Chania is perfect for a small city trip. The old city center is full of narrow alleys, colorful houses, and historic monuments. It is also one of the most touristy towns on the island, so be prepared for crowds. Nevertheless, Chania is a cultural highlight of Crete that you should not miss.
For those who are looking for a cultural stop during a beautiful ride, a visit to Agia Triada is worth the effort. This old monastery is the ideal place to soak up some culture. The range of colors makes this location so special. The clear sun on the orange walls and the beautiful flowers create a beautiful scene. The monastery is still inhabited by monks who are happy to tell you about the history of this special piece of architecture.
Another must-see location is Agia Galini, a picturesque fishing village on the coast where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The village is built against a rock, giving you the feeling that the village is vertically constructed. Those who love local restaurants and authentic souvenir shops can indulge in Agia Galini. It is the ultimate base to discover Crete and to relax on the beach or enjoy delicious food upon returning. And another plus point: the blue staircase by the sea is the ideal location for a beautiful summer photo.
On Crete, you can discover various gorges that are perfect to explore on a bike. You cycle past waterfalls, churches in rock walls, and impressive nature. Sometimes you come across a goat here and there, but the most fun are the endless turns through the gorges. In the Kotsifou Gorge, you will find a beautiful church built into a rock wall. In the Theriosios Gorge, it's all about nature, and you bike for kilometers through a green world of beautiful trees and bushes. For novice cyclists, the gorges are ideal for discovering Crete in an accessible way. Gorges are located low, which means it's nice and cool there. And the asphalt is superb.
EXPLORE CRETE
Crete is the destination for your next cycling vacation. Why? The island offers everything that you, as a cyclist, are looking for. Especially because you wouldn't expect it. Let's be honest, did you ever think that Crete would be the ultimate cycling spot? We think so!
We will give you all the tips and tricks you need to know if you want to discover Crete by bike. We focus on central Crete, because the island is large. Larger than you think! In central Crete, you will find the highest mountains. And that is the perfect reason for cyclists to visit that part of Crete.
Crete is known for its super friendly people, delicious food, and relatively long distances for an island. When you explore Crete, you will be guaranteed to be surprised. The roads are well maintained, and apart from a few stones and potholes, you can safely hit the road. Despite the fact that the Cretans are not as familiar with cyclists as the residents of Mallorca, the roads are certainly wide enough to cycle comfortably and without worries.
The nature in Crete is varied and impressive. The interior in some places reminds you of the romantic countryside of Tuscany, and in the mountains, you can feel like you are in the Swiss Alps. Crete is an island that steals your heart.
Exploring Crete by bike is a unique and adventurous way to discover this beautiful island. One of the highlights is the ride over the mountains to Skinakas, where you have a breathtaking view of the mountains and the sea. At the top of the mountain, you'll find a stargazing telescope, which fits perfectly with the theme. Because the higher you go, the more the environment resembles a lunar landscape. However, be careful because as the altitude increases, the chance of a flat tire also increases. So, be sure to bring an extra tire. But don't let a few loose stones stop you, because the route is truly magnificent! It's amazing to be so high in the mountains while seeing the sea below.
Chania is a charming city with a rich history and a beautiful harbor. Around the harbor, there are countless restaurants where you can enjoy a bite to eat and a drink, while admiring the stunning view over the water. Chania is perfect for a small city trip. The old city center is full of narrow alleys, colorful houses, and historic monuments. It is also one of the most touristy towns on the island, so be prepared for crowds. Nevertheless, Chania is a cultural highlight of Crete that you should not miss.
For those who are looking for a cultural stop during a beautiful ride, a visit to Agia Triada is worth the effort. This old monastery is the ideal place to soak up some culture. The range of colors makes this location so special. The clear sun on the orange walls and the beautiful flowers create a beautiful scene. The monastery is still inhabited by monks who are happy to tell you about the history of this special piece of architecture.
Another must-see location is Agia Galini, a picturesque fishing village on the coast where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The village is built against a rock, giving you the feeling that the village is vertically constructed. Those who love local restaurants and authentic souvenir shops can indulge in Agia Galini. It is the ultimate base to discover Crete and to relax on the beach or enjoy delicious food upon returning. And another plus point: the blue staircase by the sea is the ideal location for a beautiful summer photo.
On Crete, you can discover various gorges that are perfect to explore on a bike. You cycle past waterfalls, churches in rock walls, and impressive nature. Sometimes you come across a goat here and there, but the most fun are the endless turns through the gorges. In the Kotsifou Gorge, you will find a beautiful church built into a rock wall. In the Theriosios Gorge, it's all about nature, and you bike for kilometers through a green world of beautiful trees and bushes. For novice cyclists, the gorges are ideal for discovering Crete in an accessible way. Gorges are located low, which means it's nice and cool there. And the asphalt is superb.
We'll end with the most dangerous road in Crete, also known as the Highway to Heaven. This climb is only for the real die-hards. Even for experienced cyclists, this mountain is a challenge. But once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with a stunning view. The many hairpin bends are extremely steep and sharp, making it even challenging to drive up by car. The advantage of this is that there are hardly any cars and as a cyclist, you often have the road all to yourself. So, if you're up for a challenge, Kalikratis is a must-try! A mountain you want to tick off your bucket list.
We'll end with the most dangerous road in Crete, also known as the Highway to Heaven. This climb is only for the real die-hards. Even for experienced cyclists, this mountain is a challenge. But once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with a stunning view. The many hairpin bends are extremely steep and sharp, making it even challenging to drive up by car. The advantage of this is that there are hardly any cars and as a cyclist, you often have the road all to yourself. So, if you're up for a challenge, Kalikratis is a must-try! A mountain you want to tick off your bucket list.