Explore ancient routes from Heraklion to Rethymno

Welcome to the ultimate journey through Crete, a captivating blend of history, nature, and laid-back charm. Starting in Heraklion, the island's buzzing capital, you'll cycle along scenic paths from the coast to the mountains, stopping to explore archeological sites and savor traditional Cretan cuisine.

This bike tour is an invitation to experience the soul of Crete. Along your path, you'll discover ancient treasures like Knossos and Phaestos, where the Minoan civilization once thrived over 4000 years ago, leaving behind incredible stories etched in stone.

This tour is also a celebration of Crete's coastal allure. Picture yourself soaking up the sun in Agios Nikolaos, Lerapetra, and Palaiochora, dipping your toes into serene beaches. And the food! Enjoy local delicacies at charming tavernas, savoring every bit of Cretan cuisine.

Most importantly, get ready to be embraced by Cretan warmth. It's not just about what you see but also about the people you meet. Immerse yourself in their traditions and the vibrant tunes of Cretan music, and you'll find yourself falling for the island's irresistible charm. You might even consider adding days within the itinerary to allow for a more in-depth experience, lingering a little longer in charming towns.

This self-guided cycling adventure isn't just a tour—it's an invitation to be a part of Crete's story, where history and modernity meet to create an unforgettable journey.

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Highlights

• Heraklion - historically rich capital of Crete
• Knossos - the ancient center of Minoan civilization.
• Koutouloufari - charming traditional Cretan village.
• Spinalonga- an idyllic island that once housed a leper colony.
• Island of Gaidouronissi - golden beaches and unspoiled natural beauty.
• The Palace of Phaistos - Bronze Age Minoan palace
• Rethymno - an ancient Venetian city with old-town charm and coastal allure.
• Olive oil tasting at the Vassilakis Estate

Daily program

This tour is also available as a 14-night itinerary providing you with extra nights in each location. *For more details, please see the day-to-day descriptions and summary below.

Day 1: Arrival in Heraklion
Arrive at Heraklion airport and transfer to your hotel. Drop your bags and explore the city freely throughout the day. As Crete's largest city with a 3000-year history, Heraklion blends ancient Minoan history, Venetian architecture, vibrant markets, cultural landmarks, and modern living in a stunning natural setting. Visit the iconic “Koule” overlooking the port or the archaeological museum. With so much to see, you may decide you'd like to spend more time here!

Extra day in Heraklion- If you choose to extend your stay, explore archaeological wonders or enjoy a cycling adventure. Ride up to Rogdia for stunning views or visit Arolithos village with its charming kafeneio, taverns, and a café featuring a pool.

Day 2: Heraklion - Knossos - Hersonissos/Koutouloufari (23 mi / 37 km)
Your cycle tour begins today as you pedal to Knossos, an ancient archaeological site showcasing incredible Minoan architecture and historical significance. The intricate palace structures and layout provide a glimpse into Minoan life during the Bronze Age. The site's labyrinth design and association with myths like the Minotaur add to its allure. From here, pedal on to the Cretan aquarium, where you'll discover different marine ecosystems, coral reefs, and underwater habitats. End the day in either Ano Xersonisos or Koutouloufari, both quaint villages boasting cozy streets filled with taverns and stunning sea views. These places offer a break from the busier coastal areas, letting you experience genuine Cretan life.

Extra day in Ano Xersonisos or Koutouloufari- If you decide to extend your stay here, consider a cycling trip to a local mountain town or unwinding at a nearby beach.

Day 3: Ano Hersonissos/ Koutouloufari - Agios Nikolaos (26 mi / 41 km)
Today's cycling route offers breathtaking mountain views! You'll pass by timeless villages like Vrahasi, preserving an old-world charm, before arriving at Agios Nikolaos, the capital of Lasithi. Along the way, stop for a visit at the Vassilakis Estate in Neapoli to taste traditional olive oil. This estate, featuring an olive museum and an original 1865 olive mill, shares insights into Crete's olive oil history, culture, and flavors. Once in Agios Nikolaos, take a stroll around Lake Voulismeni, explore the waterfront and harbor, browse local shops, and indulge in Cretan cuisine.

Extra day in Agios Nikolaos- Consider extending your stay and bike to Elounda and Spinalonga Island, home to a former Venetian fortress turned leper colony.

Day 4: Agios Nikolaos - Lerapetra (23 mi / 37 km)
Begin the day cycling to Lerapetra, Europe's most southern town that dates back several millennia and was a historically significant port for trade. Along the scenic coastal paths and amidst olive groves, Lerapetra offers golden beaches for a leisurely swim and a lively town center with cozy cafes and eateries.

Extra day in Lerapetra- Extend your time here and take another day to explore the serene coastline. Another option is a boat trip to Gaidouronissi Island, situated just across from Lerapetra. This small island is celebrated for its golden beach and crystal-clear blue waters.

Day 5: Lerapetra - Tsoutsouros (36 mi / 57 km)
Today's route marks the longest and highest ascent, but you'll find many scenic places along the way offering the perfect excuse to pause and enjoy the journey. The route primarily hugs the coastline, winding through charming villages like Myrtos, Tertsa, and Keratokambos, finally leading to the town of Tsoutsouros. Expect a blend of coastal scenery, idyllic villages, and peaceful roads.

Extra day in Tsoutsouros- Stay another day and cycle if you'd like, but consider a well-deserved rest after yesterday's journey. Unwind by the beach, and later, enjoy the authentic Cretan experience at the local tavernas and restaurants.

Day 6: Tsoutsouros - Phaistos - Agia Galini (40 - 45 mi / 65 - 73 km)
You have a choice this morning; you can begin earlier for an additional 8 km of cycling or opt for the more relaxed route via car. Either way, the cycle path won't disappoint as you pedal through olive trees and past small villages. You'll reach Phaistos Palace, a Bronze Age archaeological site showcasing Minoan architectural excellence, cultural significance, and unusual artifacts like the mysterious Phaistos Disc. End the day in Agia Galini, a seaside village with a picturesque harbor, relaxed atmosphere, and stunning coastal views.

Extra day in Agia Galini- Add a day here to enjoy more time relaxing on the beach or cycle to Malata and explore its beautiful beaches and historic Roman caves.

Day 7: Agia Galini - Rethymno (20 - 29 mi / 32 km - 47 km)
On your final cycling day, you'll pass through mountain villages towards the artificial 'Lake of the Rivers,' allowing a break at the dam to enjoy the views and local tavernas. Continuing to Rethymno, a historic Venetian-founded city, explore its old town, wander around the Fortezza citadel, and embrace its noble past.

Extra day in Rethymno- An extra day offers options like relaxing on the expansive beach, exploring cultural sites in the town center, or cycling to ancient Eleftherna and the Arkadi Monastery, a UNESCO-listed Liberty Monument.

Day 8: Departure
The tour ends this morning in Rethymno. If time allows, continue exploring its historic old town, Venetian architecture, and beautiful beaches

*For those seeking an extended tour, there's the choice of a two-night stay at each designated stop. These extra days offer diverse cycling routes, boat excursions, daily trips, and various alternative activities. Additionally, you have the option to add extra overnight stays at any location. Tailored programs are also available for an additional fee, customized based on factors like participant count, duration, and specific tour components.

Surface and terrain

All routes are carefully chosen to avoid heavy traffic and prioritize safety, avoiding main roads whenever possible. Approximately 95% of the terrain consists of well-maintained asphalt, with only a few small sections of dirt roads.

Hotels

These are sample hotels and may vary by availability.

You will have accommodation in locally managed 3-star hotels or apartments. All accommodations have been carefully selected for their high standards in cleanliness, breakfast quality, location, and services.

Heraklio: Atrion hotel

Koutouloufari: Village Club

Agios Nikolaos: Mantraki hotel

Ierapetra: Astron hotel

Tsoutsouros: Apollon apartments

Agia Galini: Petra hotel

Rethimno: Ideon hotel

How to get there

Nearest airport: the Heraklion International Airport (HER), also known as Nikos Kazantzakis Airport

From the airport, you can book a private transfer to the hotel (to be requested at time of booking) for an extra fee, or you can travel by taxi or bus.

If you do not book both arrival and departure transfers, there will be a bike delivery/pick-up fee of €60 per booking.

Dates

Prices

Included services

Bike rentals

Bikes available for rent on this tour (must be reserved at time of booking):

• Men's and women's 27-speed standard touring bikes
• Road bikes
• Electrically assisted bikes*
• Tandem bikes

*More about electrically-assisted bikes >

Equipment available with bike rental:

• Pannier
• Mobile Phone mount for the handlebar
• Tool kit
• First aid kit
• Water bottle holder (Standard bikes)
• Bike lock

Bike Protection:
Bike protection can be purchased at the time of booking. You can read more about that HERE.

Pedals:
The bikes will have flat pedals. If you want to bring your own pedals, please bring your own shoes and also the necessary equipment to change the pedals.

Helmets:
Helmets are available to rent on this tour for €10. We recommend that you bring or buy your own helmet for safety and hygiene purposes.

Specifications on standard touring bikes:

• Men or women's aluminum frame
• Shimano 27 speed
• Shimano hydraulic disc brakes
• Breezer comfort saddle
• Flat pedals
• Schwalbe Citizen w/K-Guard, 700 X 40c tires

Specifications on electrically assisted bikes:

• Step through aluminum frame
• Integrated 575Wh battery
• Bafang M420 motor interface
• Shimano hydraulic disc brakes
• Selle Royal Loire black saddle
• Flat pedals
• Schwalbe Energizer Active+ 28" tires

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