Crete, the largest Greek island, boasts a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. One of the must-see destinations on the island is the Arkadi Monastery, a historical and architectural gem nestled in the picturesque hills. Exploring this captivating site by electric bike offers a unique opportunity to learn about Crete’s beauty and history. Set out on a guided tour that combines the thrill of e-biking with the chance to uncover the fascinating stories behind the Arkadi Monastery and its surrounding region. This unforgettable experience promises to leave you both exhilarated and enlightened, eager to delve deeper into the wonders of Crete.
This experience made our list of the 14 Best Bike Tours In Crete.
Key Points
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This 6-hour guided e-bike tour covers 44 km along the Cretan coastline, with a 560-meter elevation gain, and includes a visit to the Arkadi Monastery.
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The tour is limited to 8 participants and includes a traditional Cretan lunch at a local taverna, as well as transportation, equipment, and entrance fees.
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The e-bike technology makes the cycling effort more manageable, allowing participants of varying fitness levels to enjoy the scenic route and cultural highlights.
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Participants must be at least 15 years old, have moderate fitness for the cycling distance, and meet the height and weight requirements.
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The tour has received excellent reviews, with high ratings for the guide’s quality, ease of cycling, scenic experience, and value for money.
Tour Overview
The Crete: Arkadi Monastery e-Bike Tour with Lunch is a 6-hour guided excursion that takes visitors on a 44 km e-bike journey through the scenic countryside of Crete, culminating with a visit to the historic Arkadi Monastery.
Priced from $76.18 per person, this small-group tour is limited to 8 participants and is conducted in English.
The e-bike tour features an elevation gain of 560 meters, allowing cyclists to take in panoramic views along the coastline.
Participants will explore the Arsani Monastery, admire the Sanguinazzo mansion in Amnatos, and enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch at a local taverna before concluding the tour in Pigi Village and Adele.
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Itinerary Highlights
Spanning a distance of 44 km, the e-bike tour features an elevation gain of 560 meters (1,800 ft), taking cyclists on a visually stunning journey along the Cretan coastline. The tour makes several notable stops, including the Arsani Monastery, the Sanguinazzo mansion in Amnatos, and the historic Arkadi Monastery. Participants will also enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch at a local taverna and explore the picturesque villages of Pigi and Adele.
Itinerary Highlights | ||
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Distance | 44 km | |
Elevation Gain | 560 m (1,800 ft) | |
Main Stops | Arsani Monastery, Amnatos, Arkadi Monastery, Traditional Taverna, Pigi Village, Adele |
The e-bike technology used in this tour makes the cycling effort more manageable, allowing participants to fully enjoy the stunning Cretan landscapes.
Included Features
This e-bike tour includes a variety of amenities to enhance the experience, such as a complimentary bottle of water, a helmet for safety, and third-party insurance coverage.
Participants will also enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch featuring a variety of local dishes at a nearby taverna.
Plus, the tour provides hotel pickup or drop-off, entrance fees to the Arkadi Monastery museum, and optional gratuities.
The included features ensure a well-rounded and comfortable experience, allowing participants to focus on exploring the beautiful coastal landscapes and historic sites without worrying about additional expenses or logistical details.
With these thoughtful inclusions, the Arkadi Monastery e-Bike tour provides excellent value for the price.
Participant Requirements
To participate in the Arkadi Monastery e-Bike tour, riders must meet certain requirements.
The tour is recommended for ages 15 and older, as it involves cycling and may not be suitable for younger participants.
Riders should also possess a moderate fitness level and the ability to operate a bicycle, as the tour covers 44 kilometers with an elevation gain of 560 meters.
However, the tour’s e-bikes assist with the cycling effort, making it accessible to a wider range of participants.
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, those unable to ride a bike, those under 4 ft 9 in (150 cm) in height, or those over 220 lbs (100 kg) in weight, or those with a low fitness level.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Reviews
Consistently, the Arkadi Monastery e-Bike tour garners overwhelmingly positive customer reviews, with an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars based on 19 reviews. Reviewers praise the friendly and informative guides, who expertly lead the tours and provide fascinating historical insights. The ease of cycling on the e-bikes, which assist with the hilly terrain, also earns high marks. Travellers rave about the breathtaking scenery and the delicious traditional Cretan lunch served at a local taverna. The tour’s value for money is rated 4.8/5, reflecting its exceptional quality and customer satisfaction.
Metric | Rating |
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Overall | 5/5 |
Guide | 5/5 |
Transportation | 5/5 |
Value for Money | 4.8/5 |
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Booking and Availability
The e-Bike tour of Arkadi Monastery can be booked through the tour operator’s website, with availability subject to date and group size. Guests can select their preferred tour date and secure their spot by completing the online booking process and making the necessary payment.
Reservations are limited to a maximum of 8 participants per tour to ensure an intimate and personalized experience. Customers are encouraged to book their tours well in advance, as these popular excursions tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.
Those interested in this activity should check the website for the latest availability and pricing information. Flexible cancellation policies allow guests to adjust their plans if needed.
What to Expect
Participants can expect an engaging and immersive e-bike tour that showcases the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Crete’s Arkadi Monastery region.
The 44-kilometer journey takes riders on a scenic route along the coastline, climbing 560 meters in elevation as they visit several highlights.
Admire the charming Sanguinazzo mansion in Amnatos, then explore the historical significance of the Arkadi Monastery, a site of great importance in Greek history.
Refuel with a traditional Cretan lunch at a local taverna before continuing to the picturesque villages of Pigi and Adele.
Throughout the tour, knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights, and the e-bikes make the cycling effortless, even for those with a lower fitness level.
Getting There
The tour starts at the meeting point in Adelianos Kampos, Rethymno, where participants can arrange their own transportation or opt for hotel pickup if selected.
From the starting location, the guided e-bike tour makes its way along the scenic coastal roads, providing a convenient and efficient way to reach the various stops throughout the day.
The route is well-suited for cyclists of different skill levels, thanks to the electric-assisted bikes that make the hills and distances more manageable.
With the guide leading the way, participants can focus on taking in the stunning landscapes and historical sites without worrying about navigation.
The tour ensures a seamless and enjoyable journey from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Type of E-Bikes Are Used on the Tour?
The tour uses electric-assisted bicycles, or e-bikes, that provide power support to riders, making the cycling experience easier and more enjoyable for participants of varying fitness levels. These e-bikes allow riders to tackle hills and longer distances with less effort.
Can Participants Bring Their Own E-Bikes?
Participants cannot bring their own e-bikes on this tour. The tour provides e-bikes for all participants, ensuring a consistent experience and safety. Bringing personal e-bikes is not permitted, as the tour operator manages the equipment and logistics.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?
The tour has a limited group size of up to 8 participants. There is no minimum group size requirement, as the tour operates even with a single participant. The small group size ensures a personalized experience for all travelers.
What Kinds of Cretan Dishes Are Served for Lunch?
The tour includes a traditional Cretan lunch featuring a variety of local dishes. Participants can expect to savor classic fare like moussaka, dolmades, tzatziki, and fresh salads, all prepared with high-quality regional ingredients and served in a picturesque setting.
Are There Any Stops for Swimming or Beach Time?
This tour does not include any stops for swimming or beach time. The focus is on exploring the historical Arkadi Monastery and cycling through the picturesque Cretan countryside. Participants will enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch but won’t have opportunities for swimming or relaxing on the beach.
Recap
The Arkadi Monastery E-Bike Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Crete’s stunning coastline and take in the island’s rich history.
With assistance from e-bikes, a traditional Cretan lunch, and knowledgeable guides, this 6-hour excursion delivers an unforgettable experience for adventurous travelers aged 15 and older.
Whether you’re seeking breathtaking views or a deeper understanding of Crete’s cultural heritage, this tour is an exceptional choice.
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