Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
WHAT ARE THE MOST SCENIC CYCLING DESTINATIONS IN GREECE?
Greece is more than just ancient ruins and beautiful beaches—it's also a hidden gem for cyclists. With its varied terrain, mild Mediterranean climate, and spectacular views, the country offers something for every type of rider. In this guide, we explore the most scenic cycling destinations in Greece, including mainland mountain routes, coastal rides, and unforgettable island adventures. Whether you’re a road cyclist or a touring enthusiast, you’ll find world-class beauty on two wheels.
Peloponnese coastal roads
The Peloponnese peninsula is a dreamscape of rugged coastlines, traditional villages, and ancient ruins. Its cycling routes are scenic, low-traffic, and rich in cultural appeal, making it a top destination for road cyclists who enjoy ocean views and rolling hills.
Nafplio to Ermioni
This 75 km ride offers mesmerizing views of the Argolic Gulf and winds through olive groves, pine forests, and charming fishing towns. Nafplio is one of Greece’s prettiest towns, while Ermioni offers quiet coves and crystal-clear waters for a post-ride dip.
Monemvasia loop
The ride around the medieval castle town of Monemvasia features coastal cliffs, rock tunnels, and panoramic sea vistas. Cyclists can tackle a 50–70 km loop that includes climbs and descents with very little traffic and plenty of scenic pauses.
Low traffic coastal roads with smooth asphalt
Access to ancient sites and byzantine churches
Mild weather year-round—best in spring and fall
Ideal for multi-day tours and leisure cycling
Combine riding with wine tasting and local tavernas
Meteora and central Greece
For a surreal cycling experience, head to Meteora—where monasteries sit perched on giant rock pillars. Located in central Greece, the area offers both natural wonder and historical mystique, with rolling routes and mountain climbs suitable for intermediate to advanced riders.
Kalambaka to Meteora circuit
This 25–35 km circuit may be short, but the visual impact is massive. Riders ascend gently into the UNESCO World Heritage zone, winding through towering rock formations and serene monasteries. Sunrise and sunset rides are especially awe-inspiring.
Mount Oiti National Park
Just east of Meteora, this national park offers longer rides through alpine forests and remote villages. The climbs are steady, and the descents flow through lush greenery—perfect for cyclists who want a quiet escape off the beaten track.
Meteora offers unmatched scenic beauty and spiritual calm
Routes range from short loops to 100 km training rides
Good road conditions with moderate gradients
Best in early summer or late autumn for cool weather
Plenty of guesthouses and traditional food stops
Greek island adventures by bike
Cycling in the Greek islands combines seaside serenity with challenging terrain. From volcanic ascents to coastal loops, each island offers a unique landscape and pace. Ferries make island-hopping easy, making it perfect for a cycling vacation full of variety.
Crete: mountains and coastline
Crete is ideal for cyclists seeking both coastal roads and steep mountain climbs. Routes from Rethymno to Anogeia or the descent into the Samaria Gorge region provide epic scenery, local charm, and incredible elevation gains. Ride early in the morning to beat the heat and wind.
Naxos and Paros: rolling island roads
These Cycladic islands offer smoother rides with rolling hills and traditional whitewashed villages. Naxos, the largest island in the group, has excellent backroads with almost no traffic. Paros adds seaside rides and ferry-linked loops between port towns.
Crete: for strong riders who enjoy elevation
Naxos: quiet, scenic, perfect for intermediate cyclists
Paros: ideal for couples or casual riders
Ferry networks make multi-island trips easy
Plan for seasonal winds—Meltemi winds pick up in July
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED
