e-Bike Cycling Tour to Arkadi Monastery with Lunch included

Imagine cycling through lush olive groves, quaint hillside villages, and along the shimmering coastline of Crete—all with minimal effort thanks to a reliable e-bike. This 6-hour guided e-bike tour promises a perfect blend of scenic beauty, historical insight, and local flavor, culminating with a hearty Cretan lunch at a traditional taverna. Whether you’re a cycling enthusiast or a history buff, this journey offers something genuinely enriching.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert guidance of local guides like Michalis, who brings the history of Arkadi Monastery and nearby sites vividly to life. Second, the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean from elevated points that turn every photo into a postcard. Third, the opportunity to visit authentic villages, each with its own charm and stories, away from the crowds.

One thing to consider is the distance and elevation—44 km with some uphill sections—although the electric assist makes it accessible for most fitness levels. This adventure is ideally suited for travelers who love a mix of active exploration and cultural discovery but should be avoided by those with mobility issues or who can’t comfortably ride a bike.

This tour is best for curious travelers eager to see Crete’s countryside, appreciate its history, and enjoy local cuisine without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Key Points

• Balanced Mix of Cycling and Sightseeing: Covering 44 km, the route offers diverse scenery and historical stops.
• Expert Local Guides: Guides like Michalis are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, enriching your experience.
• Incredible Views: Elevated stops provide panoramic vistas over Rethymno and the Mediterranean.
• Inclusive and Accessible: E-bikes make uphill riding easier, suitable for a broad range of fitness levels.
• Authentic Cultural Stops: Visit small villages like Amnatos with traditional architecture and stories.
• Delicious Traditional Lunch: A hearty meal at a local taverna adds a satisfying end to the day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Full Experience

Starting Point and Route Overview

The adventure kicks off from Panepistimiou 1 in Rethymno, where you’ll meet your guide and gear up with helmets and bottled water. The tour begins with a leisurely ride along the coastline of Rethymno, giving you a first glimpse of the area’s scenic charm. As you pedal, you’ll pass through Adelianos Kampos and Pagkalochori, small communities that showcase everyday life in Crete, away from tourist hotspots.

First Stop: Arsani Monastery

Your first significant stop is Arsani Monastery, where you can stretch your legs and absorb the peaceful atmosphere. While the tour skips the entrance fee, the monastery’s quiet beauty offers a moment to unwind and take photos of the surrounding countryside. It’s a perfect introduction to the area’s spiritual and historical significance.

Uphill Through Olive Groves and Villages

After Arsani, the route heads uphill through olive groves, which dominate much of Crete’s landscape, and small villages like Amnatos. Here, you’ll appreciate the quiet charm of rural life and see notable sights like the Sanguinazzo mansion, marked by the inscription “Initium sapientiae timor Domini,” symbolizing wisdom and reverence.

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The Highlight: Arkadi Monastery

The tour’s centerpiece is undoubtedly the Arkadi Monastery, a site famed for its role in Greek resistance. Guides like Michalis share stories of the monks’ heroic acts during the Ottoman occupation and the monastery’s place in Greek history. Visitors can explore the grounds, learn about the monastery’s spiritual and national importance, and enjoy some free time for photos and reflection.

Culinary Break at a Traditional Taverna

Post-visit, a delicious Cretan lunch awaits at a local taverna perched at an elevated location. Reviewers highlight the stunning panoramic views over Rethymno and the coast, making this a memorable dining experience. The menu features a variety of regional dishes, offering a taste of authentic Crete.

Final Legs: Pigi Village and Adele

After lunch, you’ll cycle towards Pigi Village and make a final stop at Adele—a peaceful spot to soak in the last scenic views before heading back to Rethymno.

Return and Reflection

The tour concludes back at the starting point, having covered a diverse range of landscapes, historical insights, and local flavors—all with the ease of electric pedal assist.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour lasts around six hours, including stops, lunch, and cycling time. It’s designed for small groups (limited to 10 participants), ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. The guides speak English, making storytelling accessible and engaging.

Included in the price are an English-speaking guide, helmet, bottled water, third-party insurance, and the traditional lunch. Not included are entrance fees (though the monastery itself doesn’t seem to charge), coffee, drinks, or hotel transfers, so plan accordingly.

The e-bike helps with uphill sections, making what might seem like a challenging ride quite manageable. Reviewers note that even those with limited cycling experience found the trip enjoyable, thanks to the e-bikes’ performance.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes are a must, along with sun protection like sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen. The tour’s outdoor nature means you’ll be exposed to sun and possibly some dust, so prepare accordingly.

Suitability and Restrictions

This experience isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or anyone under 150 cm tall. People over 100 kg or with low fitness levels may also find the ride too demanding without the assistance of the e-bike.

Authentic Insights from Past Participants

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, especially Michalis, for his friendly demeanor and depth of information. One traveler mentioned that the uphill ride was surprisingly easy due to the e-bikes, which was a relief for those worried about fitness levels.

Another noted that the sights of the monastery and the picturesque villages made the effort worthwhile, emphasizing the stunning views and the delicious local food as highlights. The balance of active cycling, cultural learning, and relaxing meals creates a well-rounded experience that feels authentic, not touristy.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, if you’re looking for a balanced day of active sightseeing combined with culture. The small group setting ensures you won’t feel rushed and can ask questions freely. The inclusion of lunch and the manageable distance mean you get a lot without it feeling exhausting.

The price reflects the all-inclusive nature—guidance, bike, lunch, and some entry fees—making it a good value for a full-day experience. Plus, the flexibility of booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.

This tour particularly benefits travelers who appreciate history, scenic views, and local cuisine. It’s suitable for those with moderate fitness who want a comfortable, guided way to see parts of Crete that are off the beaten path.

The Sum Up

This e-bike tour to Arkadi Monastery offers a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally engaging experience in Crete. It combines the ease of electric cycling with authentic visits and a delicious traditional meal, making it ideal for curious travelers of most fitness levels. The knowledgeable guides, especially Michalis, elevate the experience with their storytelling, ensuring you leave with a deeper understanding of the island’s significance.

If you’re after an active yet relaxed day full of stunning views, local flavor, and historical insights, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s perfect for small groups looking for personalized attention and a genuine taste of Crete’s countryside.

For those eager to enjoy Crete’s landscape without strenuous effort, this tour provides a fantastic way to explore, learn, and indulge all in one go. Just remember to bring comfortable clothes, sun protection, and an appetite for adventure—and you’ll be in for a memorable day.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels? Yes, the e-bike assistance makes uphill riding easier, so most people with a moderate level of fitness can participate comfortably.

Does the tour include entrance fees for Arkadi Monastery? The tour does not include the entrance fee; however, the monastery is a significant site where you can learn about its role in Greek resistance.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen are recommended to stay comfortable during the outdoor cycling and sightseeing.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch? The tour includes a variety of traditional dishes, but specific dietary options aren’t detailed. It’s best to check directly with the provider if you have dietary restrictions.

Is hotel pickup included? No, the meeting point is at Panepistimiou 1 in Rethymno. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the start.

How long is the cycling portion? You’ll cycle approximately 44 km over the course of the tour, with stops along the way for sightseeing and breaks.

Can children participate? The tour is suitable for most ages, but children should be able to ride an e-bike comfortably and meet height and weight restrictions.

What is the group size? Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience with plenty of attention from guides.

Is the tour available year-round? Availability varies, so check the booking calendar for current options and starting times.

This guided e-bike tour to Arkadi Monastery offers a wonderful blend of scenery, history, and local flavor—perfect for travelers seeking an authentic Crete experience with minimal fuss.

You can check availability for your dates here: