Western Crete cycling holiday

Description of Western Crete cycling holiday

If you want to explore a destination in depth, a self-guided cycling tour is a great way to do it. That’s certainly the case with this journey around Western Crete, taking you from mountain plateau to picturesque beaches, through historical Chania to Rethymno, with the option to extend the trip by adding overnights at every way station.

You’ll climb into the saddle in Omalos, amid the famed ‘White Mountains’, headed for Palaiochora. An alternative option on this day is to hike through the stunning Samaria Gorge, which is one of Crete’s most popular natural attractions, and the longest in Europe. The following day, you can either cycle directly to Inachoria, or visit the spectacular beach at Elafonissi beforehand, shortening the route.

Over the next few days you’ll follow a coastal route, with opportunities for island boat trips, wine tasting, or visiting historic sites such as the church in a cave at Agios Ioannis. As you approach your final destination, Rethymno, you’ll pass Kournas Lake, one of the few freshwater lakes on Crete, and a fantastic place for swimming, pedalo excursions or simply dining out at a tavern with lake views. In Rethymno you’ll find plenty of traditional bars and restaurants, an inviting stretch of beach, and interesting archaeological sites such as the ancient city of Eleftherna or the 1000-year old Arkadiou monastery within easy reach.

For convenience, this tour includes comprehensive maps, as well as 24-hour support and luggage transfers between accommodations. Plus, as it is self-guided, you have total freedom to detour from the suggested routes, and if you prefer, you can easily extend the trip by a few days to slow the pace down a little.

Note that daily riding distances and ascents make this trip most suitable to recreational cyclists of at least moderate fitness.

Check dates