Overview
This trip offers a unique experience to explore Crete in the best way, on two wheels! You'll cycle the islands spectacular coastline,...read more passing through the intriguing villages of Agios Nikolaos, Ierapetra and Rethimno. With important archaeological sites to visit and tranquil golden beaches to relax on, there's heaps to admire in between your rides.
The accommodations on this trip are mostly family-run and traditionally Cretan. While Crete is typically home to more simple accommodations, these have all been chosen for their great location, services, and comfort.
Itinerary
Arrive in Heraklion and transfer to your first hotel. Take some time to explore Crete's biggest city with over 3,000 years of history. Visit the famous 'Koule' (castle) which dominates the port or the intriguing archaeological museum of Heraklion. Overnight Atrion Hotel, Heraklion.
Soon after leaving Heraklion, you'll reach Knossos. Known as the biggest and the most important Cretan archaeological site, Knossos is widely regarded as Europe's oldest city. Here you can visit the Minoan Palace and surrounding remains before continuing to the traditional village of Koutouloufari. Overnight Ariadni Palace, Koutouloufari (B).
Ride through spectacular mountain scenery, passing traditional villages like Vrahasi where it appears time has stood still. Visit the Vassilakis Estate in Neapoli to taste the locally produced olive oil before continuing into the picturesque capital of Agios Nikalaos, Lasithi. If you'd like to enjoy an extra day cycling, we recommend adding an extra night in Agios Nikolaos to explore Elounda & Spinalonga (one of the most famous locations on Crete - 32km ride). Overnight Mantraki Hotel, Agios Nikolaos (B).
Begin your cycle following the coastline before winding through the olive groves to reach the waterfront town of Ierapetra. Enjoy a swim in one of the golden beaches you'll pass on todays ride. If time allows, you could also take a boat trip to the unique island of Gaidouronissi (book locally). Overnight Astron Hotel, Ierapetra (B).
Today is a long but beautiful route following the coast and passing through the intriguing villages of Myrtos, Tertsa, and Keratokambos. Enjoy a well deserved rest on the beach in the tranquil town of Tsoutsouros. Overnight Apollon Apartments, Tsoutsouros (B).
You'll be transferred to the start of today's ride in Mesohori. Cycle among the olive trees and through small villages before reaching the highlight of today – The Palace of Phaistos; this is a Bronze Age archaeological site of major importance on Crete. Continue to the small seaside town of Agia Galini. Overnight Petra Hotel, Agia Galini (B).
Begin with a transfer to Spili village where you'll begin your ride. Pass through the mountain villages of Rethimno Province before reaching “Limni ton Potamon”, this is the “Lake of the Rivers”. Cross the dam for beautiful scenery and to sample the local tavernas.
Continue your ride to Rethimno, a historical city founded by the Venetians with its “Fortezza” – the Venetian Era Citadel. Overnight Ideon Hotel, Rethimno (B).
Return to Heraklion airport (B).
Trip Inclusions
- Cycle through the diverse history, culture, mountains, and beaches of Eastern Crete
- Relax on golden beaches and sample the delicious local cuisine
- Visit the important archaeological sites of Knossos and Phaestos
- Management by your local Headwater appointed agent
- Headwater Navigation App
- 7 nights accommodation in mostly family-run, traditional accommodations
- All breakfasts
- Bike hire
- Luggage transfers between hotels
- Car transfers as per the itinerary
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
From gentle rides through the French countryside to challenging expeditions across Asia & more. Read more
Exodus chooses their Leaders carefully. Professional, dedicated and are passionate about sharing their home countries. Read more
Wherever possible, Exodus chooses properties that are locally owned and that reflect the area you are visiting. Read more
Prices & Dates
There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and will no longer continue. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view the general release dates for all destinations.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Exodus. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Exodus. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
