from 0 review
4.5 hours
Up to 2 days
9 people
English, Greek
Explore the Arkadi Monastery with Electric Bikes: A Unique Journey Through Nature
Our cycling tour from Rethymno to the Arkadi Monastery is one of the most extraordinary experiences you can enjoy in Crete. Equipped with modern electric bikes and accompanied by an experienced guide, you will uncover the hidden treasures of the Cretan countryside, combining comfort with exciting exploration.
The tour begins at our office in Rethymno, heading towards the city’s beautiful coastal road. With the deep blue sea and majestic palm trees as your backdrop, the atmosphere is enchanting. This beach, one of the most important nesting sites for loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta), immerses you in the natural beauty and unique wildlife of the area. As we venture inland, the landscape becomes even more captivating.
The route takes us through charming villages such as Loutra, Kirianna, and Adele—traditional settlements steeped in history and authentic Cretan hospitality. The picturesque streets and stone-built houses offer perfect opportunities for photos and short breaks. Our path winds through lush gorges, olive groves, and verdant landscapes. The soothing sounds of birdsong and the tranquility of nature will rejuvenate your spirit.
The electric bikes ensure an effortless ride, even on steeper inclines, making the journey enjoyable for everyone. Our final destination, the historic Arkadi Monastery, is one of Crete’s most significant landmarks. Nestled in a green valley, the monastery is not just a religious site but also a place rich in history and memories. It became a symbol of resistance during the Cretan Revolution of 1866, when its defenders chose self-sacrifice over surrender.
The entire tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, during which you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, learn about local history, and relax in one of Crete’s most stunning locations. Experience adventure and discover the beauty of Crete in a way that combines comfort, exploration, and a deep connection with nature.
The Arkadi Monastery eBike Tour is designed with participant safety as a top priority. The route follows quiet paths and roads with minimal traffic, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the electric bike ride with peace of mind. The total distance for the Arkadi Monastery eBike Tour is approximately 45-50 kilometers. The monastery is located at an elevation of about 500 meters on the northwestern slopes of Mount Psiloritis.
Accompanied by our experienced and knowledgeable guide, the 4,50-hours tour, priced at €60, combines cycling, cultural exploration, and nature discovery. It’s the perfect choice for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and an unforgettable experience in Rethymno.
NOTE
Departure & Return (our office):
Sofokli Venizelou 4, Rethymno 741 00, Greece
Book your spot today and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Our tour begins at our office, where you will receive a quick 2-minute training session to familiarize yourself with the eBikes. This short lesson will help you feel confident and comfortable before we start.
We cycle along the beautiful Rethymno beach, known for its golden sands, majestic palm trees, and spacious promenades. This area is a significant nesting site for the loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta), offering us a unique opportunity to appreciate the natural environment.
Leaving the coastline behind, we head inland towards the picturesque villages of the region.
We pass through Adele, a traditional village located 8 kilometers east of Rethymno at an elevation of 70 meters. Known for its narrow alleys and stone houses, Adele reflects Venetian influences in its architecture, with arches and stone details that testify to its rich history.
Continuing to Kirianna, a village renowned for its old windmills and extensive olive groves. Its location offers panoramic views of the inland and coastline, making it an ideal spot for photographs. Kirianna maintains traditional Cretan architecture, with houses built from stone and wood, reflecting the authenticity of the area.
We make a stop in the village of Loutra, known for its tranquil atmosphere and Venetian ruins. Here, we will have the opportunity to enjoy traditional Cretan architecture, with narrow streets and well-preserved stone houses. Additionally, we will observe a demonstration of the local weaving art, known as "taspidia," and learn about its history and significance in Cretan tradition. Loutra serves as a characteristic example of Cretan villages, where tradition and history coexist harmoniously with the daily lives of the inhabitants.
We arrive at Arkadi Monastery, a historic site located 23 kilometers east of Rethymno at an elevation of 500 meters. The monastery is known for its heroic role during the Cretan Revolution of 1866 and stands as a symbol of freedom and sacrifice. Its architecture combines Venetian and Orthodox elements, featuring impressive arches, stone details, and intricate carvings.
We offer complimentary soft drinks to participants. Those interested can visit the interior of the monastery for an additional fee of 3 euros to admire its architecture and learn more about its history.
We begin our return journey, following a magical route through lush landscapes, olive groves, and picturesque villages. The path offers stunning views and photo opportunities, making the return as enjoyable as the journey to the monastery.
The tour concludes at our office, leaving you with wonderful memories of this unique experience.
To ensure a personalized experience, group sizes are kept small, typically ranging from 1 to 8 participants. This allows our guide to provide attention to everyone and create a relaxed atmosphere.
The tour is designed for people of all fitness levels and ages, typically from 12 years and above. Minors must be accompanied by an adult, and participants should be able to comfortably ride a bike.
No prior experience is required. Electric bikes are easy to use, and we’ll provide a short demonstration at the start of the tour to ensure everyone feels comfortable and confident.
The tour takes three hours. It starts every hour from 10:00 AM to 15:30 PM at our office and ends at the same location. You should arrive at our office 15 minutes before starting the tour.
we recommend wearing comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes suitable for cycling. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, especially in the summer.
Absolutely! During the tour, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture photos and videos of the breathtaking landscapes and iconic landmarks of Rethymno.
If weather conditions are unsuitable (e.g., heavy rain or strong winds), we will contact you to reschedule the tour or offer a full refund.
Member Since 2024
