Cycling holidays in Greece is a trend that’s becoming very popular lately. The stunning Greek landscape offers varying terrains that adventurous cyclists would love to discover, from lush forests to mountaintops with panoramic sea views to picturesque mountain villages and secluded bays. Cycling in Greece is popular every season, thanks to the Mediterranean’s temperate climate. If you’re curious to know where you can cycle in Greece, here are the Greek hotspots for road cycling you should know about.
Crete
Crete is the largest island in Greece, lying at the southernmost tip of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s a mountainous place, making it a top choice for those who want to try mountain biking in Greece. More than half of the island’s total area lies at over 500 meters of altitude. What makes cycling in Crete exciting is its varied terrains, where you cycle through deep canyons, incredible plateaus, majestic mountains, lush valleys, stunning vineyards, scenic coastal roads, and picturesque mountain villages.
The route through the Lasithi plateau is a dreamy destination for cycling in Crete, taking you past white-sailed windmills, which look splendid with the majestic mountains in the backdrop. Lasithi lies in a fertile and tranquil region of Crete, surrounded by the mountains of Dikti and other smaller plateaus, which makes for an even more fantastic cycling experience. The route starts and ends in the small coastal village of Sisi and has a total distance of 73 km, which you can complete in five hours.
Another cycling route to consider for your cycling holiday in Crete ends in the charming Mochos village. It also begins in Sisi, taking you to Mochos, one of the island’s most picturesque villages, with small narrow streets lined with traditional stone houses, cafes, and taverns. You can also bike through the small plateau of Mochos, where you’ll find olive groves with ancient trees, many of which are more than five hundred years old.
Naxos Island
If you plan to cycle on several islands in Greece, your best bet is to book some excellent Greek Island Cruises, allowing you to visit multiple islands with your bike. For instance, you can go to Naxos after your cycling adventure in Crete. Naxos is another island well-suited for cycling and has several fantastic cycling routes in the upland and coastal areas.
Naxos offers varying cycling trails, offering something for all kinds of cyclists. There are routes for novice cyclists or those who prefer to bike on flat roads. You will also find trails in the upper mountain areas of the island, which are more suited for advanced cyclists and those who want to push themselves to the limit. The streets of Naxos are full of gravel and asphalt and are well-suited for cycling.
Naxos’s most popular cycling routes are on the island’s western side. As you cycle in this area, you’ll pass along famous beaches like Agios Prokopios, Plaka, and Agios Prokopios. Feel free to stop for a refreshing dip. On your way back, cycle through the charming villages of Vivlos and Agios Arsenios. Stop by a traditional tavern for lunch before arriving in Mesi Potamia.
Rhodes
While most visitors would come to Rhodes for a relaxing beach holiday, the island also offers scenic trails for avid cyclists, all with good-quality surfaces and various gradients. The island’s varied terrain and unique environment provide the perfect setting for unforgettable cycling, with some roads leading to remote paths, scenic beaches, and lush forests.
Those who want to cycle along coastal roads can start in the village of Lachania, where you paddle along its narrow streets and stop by the historic square. Wander around a charming Greek village and admire the houses featuring local architecture. Pass through an off-road section leading to an abandoned Italian village, then follow the road towards a sandy beach, where you can stop to swim in its crystal-clear waters.
Those who prefer to cycle through the forest can start the journey in Monolithos, a lovely village along the island’s west coast. After a short ascent, you’ll cycle through some flat sections on dirt roads, taking you through the forest. Enjoy spectacular views along the way, including the west coast and the nearby islands.
Mykonos
Mykonos may be more famous for being the party island of Greece, but it also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, including cycling. While it’s possible to cycle on your own, it’s a good idea to book a guided tour, a fascinating way to discover the island’s top attractions. Elevate the experience further by booking luxury private tours in Greece, which is a perfect way to see even more of the island.
You will find several bike rental shops in Mykonos, so you won’t have any issues renting a bike for your cycling adventures. In addition, many roads are bike-friendly, and cars often give way to cyclists. While it’s fun to cycle in the town centre, don’t hesitate to get off the beaten path, with some leading up the hills where you can enjoy the island’s gorgeous views.
Mykonos’ most popular cycling route is the road that takes you to the famous whitewashed windmills, passing along a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses and beautiful churches.
Kefalonia
Boasting breathtaking landscapes with gorgeous beaches, charming fishing villages and enchanting underground caves, Kefalonia is a lovely island to explore on a bike. While most visitors would come here for the beach, you’ll also enjoy biking around the island’s many cycling trails.
Cycling in Kefalonia is the best way to soak up its scenery – lush forests, majestic mountains, and beautiful meadows where horses freely roam. You can also cycle past monasteries, windmills, vineyards, olive groves, and Venetian fortresses. Of course, some paths have the glittering Ionian Sea in the backdrop.
Argostoli, Kefalonia’s capital city, is an ideal base for your cycling adventure. Along the way, you’ll cycle through quiet roads past charming villages. You also have the opportunity to take a break on a seaside terrace or a lovely port lined with restaurants and cafes.
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