Wine Roads Cycling Tour

About The Place

Nestled in the heart of the largest Greek island, Crete, lies the central area of Irakleion Prefecture. This captivating region is a tapestry of diverse landscapes, rich history, and a flourishing wine culture that has gained recognition on the global stage. As you explore this enchanting area, you’ll discover a unique blend of ancient traditions and contemporary delights that make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a taste of authentic Crete.

Irakleion Prefecture, is not only the largest prefecture on the island but also its economic and cultural hub. The prefecture’s capital, also named Heraklion, is a bustling city that offers a modern contrast to the traditional Cretan villages that dot the countryside. As you wander through the streets of Heraklion, you’ll encounter a vibrant atmosphere, a lively waterfront, and a rich historical heritage that includes the impressive Koules Fortress and the renowned Archaeological Museum, home to the treasures of ancient Crete, including the Minoan civilization.

One of the crown jewels of Central Irakleion Prefecture is its thriving wine culture. The region’s vineyards and wineries have earned recognition for producing some of Greece’s finest wines. The fertile soils, Mediterranean climate, and the dedication of local winemakers have transformed this area into a haven for wine enthusiasts.

The villages of Peza, Archanes, and Dafnes are at the heart of Crete’s wine country, and a visit to these charming communities provides a glimpse into the island’s viticulture heritage. Here, vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see, with rows of grapevines bearing the fruit that will become the region’s renowned wines.

Central Crete is celebrated for its distinctive grape varieties and exceptional wines. Some of the most notable wines to sample include:

1. Kotsifali: A red grape variety that produces rich, full-bodied wines with a bouquet of dark fruits, spices, and hints of chocolate.
2. Mantilaria: Another red grape variety known for its deep color and complex flavors, often described as having notes of cherry, plum, and herbs.
3. Vilana: A white grape variety that yields crisp and refreshing white wines with citrus and floral aromas.
4. Vidiano: A rising star among Cretan white wines, Vidiano offers a harmonious balance of fruitiness and acidity.

Visiting local wineries is an immersive experience that allows you to taste these wines while learning about the winemaking process from passionate vintners. Many wineries offer guided tours, tastings, and the opportunity to savor traditional Cretan cuisine paired with their wines.

While Central Irakleion Prefecture is celebrated for its wines, it also boasts a diverse range of landscapes that beckon exploration. The region’s countryside is adorned with olive groves, citrus orchards, and picturesque villages where time seems to stand still.

Total Duration

• 6 Hours

Full description

Embark on a delightful cycling adventure through the enchanting inland of Heraklion Prefecture, where endless vineyards, graceful storks, and historic villages await. This captivating route culminates at the renowned Lyrakaki winery, where you’ll indulge in a truly exceptional wine tasting experience.

As we pedal along, immersed in the timeless beauty of the landscape, we’ll pass by vineyards that seem to stretch into eternity, painting the surroundings with vibrant hues of green. Majestic storks gracefully soar overhead, adding a touch of elegance to the scenery. The historic villages we encounter along the way will transport you to a bygone era, where traditional charm and captivating stories unfold.

The climax of this cycling tour lies at the illustrious Lyrakaki winery, a renowned establishment celebrated for its exceptional wines. Here, you’ll have the privilege of indulging in a unique tasting experience, savoring the distinct flavors and aromas of their famous wines. From velvety reds to crisp whites, each sip will transport you to the heart of Crete’s winemaking heritage.

Tour Excludes:

• Personal expenses and beverages
• Wine tasting at Lyrarakis Winery

Route Data:

• Distance: 20 km
• Difficulty: Mild tour
• Elevation Ascent: 400 m

Includes

• Mountain bike & helmet

• Tour guide

• Transfer from / to your hotel to houdetsi village

• Coffee and snacks to a traditional cafe

• Drinking water while riding

• Support vehicle with all equipment follow during the tour

Itinerary

• Starting Time 09:00
• Ending Time 15:00

Meeting point

Cancellation Policy - Flexible

• Whenever you cancel 4 days or earlier than the confirmed activity starting date, your fee will be refunded for the entire activity charge.
• In case of cancellation within 48 and 96 hours before the scheduled activity starting date, you'll get 50% reimbursed.
• Those who cancel 48 hours or beyond are considered last-minute cancellations. There will be no refunds