Greece has a mild climate and a plethora of landscapes and terrain for cyclists: mountain villages, lush forests, pristine beaches and ancient sites. While the islands offer many cycling possibilities, the Greek mainland also has many fantastic biking options, and is often overlooked. Here are some of the most spectacular locations to cycle in Greece.
The north of Greece is a rich wine-producing region. There’s no better way to combine a love for wine and cycling than with a tour along the Goumenissa-Pella wine road, where the xinomavro and negoska grapes are cultivated. Located north-west of Thessaloniki, the Goumenissa-Pella wine road winds its way through the northern part of Central Macedonia. You will pass lakes, gorges, ancient sites and vineyards, ending the trip in Pella, a town that replaced Aigai as the capital of the Macedonian empire at the end of the 5th century BCE. While in town, visit the archaeological sites of the city and its museum.
Just where the Gulf of Patras meets the Ionian Sea is the National Park of Messolonghi and its lagoons. It is one the biggest lagoons in Greece, and a major lagoon complex in Europe. Covering 150 square kilometers, the park includes a complex of wetlands, lagoons and islets, where you can enjoy relaxing rides along the water. Further, the small bike-friendly town of Messolonghi is full of tavernasselling delicious food (make sure to try a seafood taverna) and many cafés in which to relax.
Mount Parnitha, 30 kilometers from Athens, is mostly known as a ski destination, but it is equally perfect for mountain biking enthusiasts. Boasting a network of marked routes perfect for all levels of fitness, the national park is home to over 40 mammal species, including foxes, hares, and deer. You can even cycle to Parnitha from Athens.
Greece’s second biggest island, Evia is a beautiful place for cycling. The 180-kilometer-long island has beautiful mountains, lush forests, ancient monuments, picturesque villages, and a winding coastline bordered by scenic beaches and small coves. Make your holiday a cycling vacation and explore this island, which, according to mythology, was the land of the Cyclops.
Vytina to Ladonas Lake
The Peloponnese is definitely an exciting region to explore, whether by car or by bike. For a scenic bike ride, the Vytina to Ladonas lake route is simply picture-perfect. This little haven in the heart of Arcadia takes you through lush forests, mountainous roads and lakes. The 105-kilometer route is not for the faint of heart and includes a few climbing challenges, but your efforts will definitely be rewarded.
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The Road to Cape Sounio
Starting from Athens, the road to Cape Sounio is an 87-kilometer-long coastal route that takes you through the Athenian Riviera, all the way to the southern tip of the Attica Peninsula, where the Temple of Poseidon awaits. Depending on your time of departure, you may encounter a bit of traffic on Poseidonos Avenue, which connects the city to the southern suburbs. Once the traffic subsides, you will be able to enjoy stunning views of the Saronic Gulf.
Prespa Lakes
Church, Park, Ruins
An historically rich region, the Macedonia region of Greece is blessed with dramatic landscapes and stunning scenery. One of them is the Prespa Lake complex, spread across 48.5 square kilometers, near Florina, by the Bulgarian border. The region is known as a hotspot for birdwatching, since the lakes are home to a wide variety of bird species. Whether you just want to ride and relax, or feel like exploring the neighboring villages where you can admire local stone houses and savor delicious fish, you are in for a treat.
Meteora
Located in the center of the country, the Thessaly region is known for its natural beauty and for Meteora, the UNESCO-listed are where you can visit cliff-top monasteries perched on spectacular rocks. The monasteries are connected by a road, which is perfect for bikers. While the ascent may be a little bit tough, the view from the top is undoubtedly worth it.
Cycle tours
If you’re looking for a cycling tour of Greece, check out Cycle Greece. This creative company offers a wide variety of guided or self-guided cycling tours, ranging from easy to advanced, in Peloponnese, the Cyclades and Saronic islands.
For relaxing cycling holidays, Evia-based Greek Cycle Holiday offers vacations for small groups of cyclists, including accommodation in a villa.
If you are vacationing in Lefkada, Get Active organizes mountain and road biking tours on the island or in Meganisi, another island nearby.
Polyglot (with a Master Degree in Translation), adventure seeker, professional shower singer and food enthusiast, Ethel enjoys spending quality time with friends and family, usually with a certain amount of eating and drinking involved. Brussels-bred and Athens-bound, she loves traveling around the world, uploading photos on her Instagram feed and daydreaming with a good book in her hands. Want to see the world through her eyes? Find her on Instagram at @heyitsetelle
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