Western Crete - Coastal Charms & Mountain Vistas

Day 1: Chania
Day 2: Omalos - Palaiochora, 33 mi. (52 mm) or Samariá Gorge Hike, 9 mi. (14Km) 
Day 3: Palaiochora - Elafonissi - Innachori, 9 or 21 mi. (15 or 34 km) | 560 or 1000m
Day 4: Innachori - Kissamos, 25 or 31 mi. (40 or 49 km) | +675 or 943 meters
Day 5: Kissamos - Chania, 29 or 35 mi. (46 or 56 km) | +444 or 644m
Day 6: Chania - Georgioupoli, 27 or 34 mi.  (44 or 54 kilometers) | +780 or 950m
Day 7: Kournas Lake - Rethymno, 24 mi. (38 km) | +516m
Day 8: Departure

Distances are approximate. The itinerary is subject to change due to weather, local authorities, or unforeseen events. Temporary deviations may occur due to roadwork or other factors. Follow local directions in such cases.

This tour can be extended as you desire.  A 14-day tour would entail two nights in each location. See pricing.

Day 1: Chania
Upon reaching Chania, widely regarded as the most enchanting city on Crete, you'll be greeted by its picturesque harbor, captivating old town, and imposing castle. With a rich historical tapestry, Chania left an indelible mark on the region, particularly during the Venetian era.

Sample accommodation: Arkadi Hotel

Day 2: Omalos - Palaiochora, 33 mi. (52 mm) | Elevation: +800 m/-1834m or Samariá Gorge Hike, 9 mi. (14 km) 
In the morning, you will be transferred to Omalos, nestled in the heart of the renowned White Mountains, also known as the "Lefka Ori". Upon arrival, you have two options to choose from.
The first option traverses a breathtaking mountainous landscape until you reach Palaiochora. This route boasts a series of invigorating ascents and descents, culminating in an exhilarating downhill stretch that is bound to thrill and delight.

The alternative option finds you off the bike on a hike through the extraordinary Samariá Gorge, recognized as the longest gorge in Europe and celebrated for its unparalleled beauty. Once you reach the coastal endpoint, a scenic boat transfer to Palaiochora is offered. The Samariá Gorge holds the distinction of being a designated National Park, home to unique wildlife and rare species. The hike entails 5-7 hours of walking on uneven terrain, emphasizing the necessity for appropriate footwear. Please be aware that Samaria Gorge is accessible from May to the end of October.

Sample accommodation: Relax Hotel

Day 3: Palaiochora - Elafonissi - Innachori (Inachoria), 9 or 21 mi. (15 or 34 km) | 560 or 1000m
Today, you have two choices once again. The first entails embarking on a boat journey, culminating on Elafonissi Beach with its golden sand and crystal-clear waters. This is the perfect place to savor a delectable lunch at a seaside taverna, and afterward, embark on a ride up to Inachoria.

Alternatively, the second option involves a direct ride to Inachoria, extending your journey by 19 kilometers. The route meanders through mountainous terrain on quiet roads, showcasing a unique beauty. It's important to note that the ascent involves approximately 1000 meters.

Upon reaching Inachoria, the choice is yours, either explore Elafonissi by bike or reserve it for the following day to circumvent the return journey. Inachoria, a picturesque cluster of mountain villages in southwest Crete, earned its name from comprising nine villages (Enniachoria in Greek). It is a serene haven for the discerning traveler, boasting tavernas and traditional Cretan houses set amidst an exceptional natural backdrop.

A crucial note: Weather conditions may impede the boat transfer to Elafonissi. In such cases, the only viable option would be to cycle directly to Inachoria. Should any emergencies arise, 24-hour assistance is at your disposal for transportation support.

For those opting for an extra day, several enticing choices await. Naturally, a leisurely day at Elafonissi Beach is a prime option. For more adventurous riders, a cycling excursion to Kandanos village and back (34 mi./54 km/+1000m) provides an exploration of a historic mountain town immersed in local culture. Another possibility is a northward cycle to Topoliano Gorge, including a visit to the Saint Sofia cave (6 mi./10 km). This extraordinary location unveils a small church nestled among stalactites and stalagmites deep within the cave.

Sample accommodation: Panorama Hotel

Day 4: Innachori - Kissamos, 25 or 31 mi. (40 or 49 km) | +675 or 943 meters
Two route options are proposed, with one being 9 kms longer and involving an additional 300m in ascent. Both routes guide you along the captivating west coast of Crete, weaving through breathtaking landscapes until you arrive at Kissamos (or Kastelli), a coastal town that has successfully preserved its character amid regional tourism.

For those opting for an additional day, a myriad of possibilities await. You can take a boat excursion to Balos, renowned as one of the most popular beaches on Crete, or consider exploring Agria Gramvousa island. Alternatively, cycling to the splendid beach at Falasarna is an option, where you can also explore the ancient town. If a more relaxed day is preferred, the beaches around Kissamos, such as Mavros Molos (just in front of the town), Livadia, or Telonio, offer serene alternatives.

Sample accommodation: Kissamos Hotel

Day 5: Kissamos - Chania, 29 or 35 mi. (46 or 56 km) |+444 or 644m
Your route features the coast of northern Crete as you pedal towards the capital, Chania. Along the way, you have the option to make a detour for a visit to Karavitakis Winery near Pontikiana village (an additional 10 km and +200m) for a delightful wine-tasting experience. Alternatively, consider a stop at the Agios Ioannis Cave, featuring an astonishing church within (+ 3 km/+110m). Your day concludes with an overnight stay in Chania.

For those with an extra day to spare, a cycling tour of the Chania Peninsula is highly recommended. Covering approximately 53 km with a total ascent of 665m, this route promises breathtaking scenery, pristine beaches, and captivating monasteries. The Gouvernetou Monastery is particularly noteworthy. In the north, Stavros village beckons with its green waters and sandy beaches, a perfect place for lunch.

Sample accommodation: Arkadi Hotel

Day 6: Chania - Georgioupoli, 27 or 34 mi.  (44 or 54 kilometers) |+780 or 950m
Today's journey unfolds as you head eastward, making your way to Georgioupoli, a coastal town blessed with a splendid beach. Notably, the town is famed for its church, perched on rocks in the sea just off its shoreline. Along the route, a highly recommended detour takes you through ancient Aptera (+10 km/ 170m of climbing), among the most significant archaeological sites on Crete. Explore the ancient Greek theatre and the ruins of the ancient Greek city dating back to the 8th century BC. About 1 km away stands the imposing Ottoman tower (Koule), a remarkable example of 19th-century military architecture situated atop a hill.

Sample accommodation: Riverside Hotel

Day 7: Kournas Lake - Rethymno, 24 mi. (38 km) |+516m
On this final day of your cycling adventure, you pedal south to Kournas Lake, an extraordinary freshwater lake, a rarity on Crete. Swim, sunbathe, and explore the lake with canoes, kayaks, or paddle boards.  One of the inviting tavernas is the perfect place for lunch before continuing your journey to Rethymno, the provincial capital with a rich and storied history.

Rethymno expanded significantly after the Venetian conquest, and evidence of this era's architecture abounds. Stroll through the old town's narrow lanes that wind down to the "Fortezza," the Venetian citadel. Charming small shops, bars, and tavernas enhance the atmospheric environment. And, of course, be sure to savor once again the local raki accompanied by Greek meze.

For those with an extra day to spare, relish the expansive beach in front of the town and explore the central walk. Alternatively, you can cycle to ancient Eleftherna (29 mi. / 47 km |+685 meters), a prominent archaeological site founded in the 9th century BC, featuring an impressive museum. Just 5 kilometers further lies the 1000-year-old Arkadi Monastery, a UNESCO-designated European Liberty Monument commemorating the Greeks who sacrificed themselves in 1866 rather than surrender to the Ottomans.

Sample accommodation: Ideon Hotel

Day 8: Departure

You will be accommodated in 3-star hotels, rooms, or apartments, meticulously chosen to meet high standards for cleanliness, breakfast quality, prime location, and exceptional services. Operated by locals, these accommodations offer an authentic experience during your journey. In cases of non-availability, accommodations of similar quality will be offered. Additionally, room upgrades are available for an extra charge, allowing you to customize your stay according to your preferences.

Bicycles

Touring Bike

Breezer Liberty r2

• 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

Electric Bike

Breezer Powertrip 3.2 LS

• 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

Road Bikes

Fuji Sportif 1.3 Disc

• Alloy frame
• Shimano Tiagra 20-speed
• TRP Spyre C mechanical disc
• Selle Italia X3 Boost saddle
• Vittoria Zaffiro V, 30-622
• Weight: 10.33 kg