Get ready to see a side of Crete that most visitors never experience—all from the seat of an e-bike! We kick off our journey from the west side of Heraklion, heading south into the heart of the island.
Just three kilometres in, the city fades into the background, and we find ourselves surrounded by open landscapes and rural charm. Along the way, we pass by the University of Crete and the renowned University Research Centre, offering a glimpse into Crete’s academic and scientific hub.
This ride isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the thrill of the journey, the fresh Mediterranean air, and the hidden gems of inland Crete. Ready to ride?
We continue our uphill ride through vineyards and olive groves, experiencing the peaceful rural landscapes of Crete. After 12 kilometres, we reach the village of Stavrakia, a quiet spot nestled in the hills. Just two kilometres later, we take a break in a scenic olive grove, where we can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views. From here, we can see both Mount Juktas, the mythical resting place of Zeus, and Psiloritis, Crete’s highest peak.We continue our climb for another 3 kilometres, reaching the highest point of our route at 470 metres in the village of Agios Myron, located 17 kilometres from Heraklion. Here, we visit the Skete of Saint Myron, home to a miraculous holy spring. Saint Myron, who lived in the 4th century AD, was the first bishop of Crete, and his legacy remains deeply rooted in the island’s history.After leaving Agios Myron, we begin our descent north, passing through three traditional villages—Pentamodi, Petrokefalo, and Voutes. The ride back is much easier, as the route is almost entirely downhill, allowing us to relax and enjoy the scenery as we make our way back towards Heraklion.
The route is 34 km in total and anyone who knows how to ride a bike can participate. The net cycling time is about 2 hours and the altitude difference of the route is 590 metres.