September 27, 2025 - Greece is known for its fabulous islands, beaches, food and clear blue waters, but it also boasts superb cycling opportunities as well.

Charming Rethymno, on the northern coast of Crete, the largest and most populous of the Greek islands renowned for its famous Samaria Gorge, offers a well-preserved Venetian- era historic centre, and 22 cycling routes for authentic Greek experiences on two wheels.

Certified as a “Bicycle-Friendly” destination, the city has a 20km network of bike paths and flat routes that offer stunning sea views and easy access to cafés and beaches. Rethymno is also a member of the “Civitas Destination Network”.

Explore traditional villages nearby on a 47km round-trip journey to the Monastery of Arkadi, a significant architectural and historical site known for its Renaissance-influenced church.

Many nearby villages showcase beautiful architecture such as Maroulas (8km), Chromonastiri (9km), and Argyroupoli (24km). Don’t miss the Archaeological Museum of Eleutherna, about 25- 30km southwest of Rethymno, for more experienced cyclists.

Mountain bikers will love exploring the routes in the foothills of Psiloritis, about 60km southwest of Rethymno, where Mount Ida, Crete’s highest peak, is located. There is also great mountain biking, for more advanced cyclists, in the White Mountains located about 60km east of the city.

Several local businesses offer rentals, including e-bikes, and there are also companies that specialize in organizing guided tours.

Rhodes is another fabulous Greek island for cycling adventures with more than 330 sunny days each year.

The largest of Greece’s Dodecanese islands, it’s known for its historical sites, stunning beaches and the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Old Town of Rhodes.

Cycling is an excellent way to explore the historic Old City and its surroundings, with guided e-bike tours being a popular option.

Rhodes offers a less crowded environment, and there are a number of local bicycle tour and rental companies. RodosCycling, founded in 1993, is a popular choice offering multiple tours for road, mountain or trekking (hybrid) bikes, along with a wide array of rentals, including e-bikes.

Their road bike tours are for more seasoned riders, ranging from the 87km Psinthos Route to the massive 192km Rhodes 192 route that circumnavigates the island. Offering guided or self-guided tours, you can book a cycling holiday with renowned former Irish pro road racer, Sean Kelly, one of the most successful road cyclists of the 1980s.

RodosCycling’s trekking bike tours are much tamer and include the unforgettable 22km Rhodes Town Route, along with the 43km Valley of the Butterflies tour for entry- and medium- level riders. The more challenging 34km Thari Trophy Route invites you to enjoy the Thari monastery and Kiotari bay.

Their Orange Valley Route is another medium-level ride offered as a 27.5km mountain bike tour where you can enjoy the incredible smell of thousands of citrus trees, the Feraklos Castle, and a monastery. Or try their 48km off-road Butterfly Valley tour and take home some unique cycling memories.

Rhodes offers many more mountain bike adventures along the Gadoura River and Red Water Gorge. The island is a must-visit to enjoy great cycling adventures and renowned Greek hospitality.