Autumn is in full swing. Autumn has arrived and the weather in the Netherlands is gradually becoming more changeable. Time to get out there and enjoy some sunshine! If you would like to go cycling in a destination that isn’t yet overcrowded but where you have beautiful routes, culture to enjoy and not to mention great food and drink? How about this? GreeceWe are absolutely a fan of this location. We have been to the region before and we are just as enthusiastic. That’s why we’re giving you 10 reasons to go cycling in Greece this autumn.
1. Beautiful Landscape:
Greece offers truly beautiful views and landscapes. You have the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea with the rugged mountains and associated valleys inland. Particularly the Peloponnese and Macedonia (in the north) are known for their diversity of terrain, but also for their beautiful views.
2. Historical places
If there is one thing Greece is known for, it is its history. Discover the extensive history of Greece by bike. Visit famous places in the Peloponnese such as Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, and Mycenae, an important center of Greek civilization.
3. Challenging Routes:
Route 1: Across the Peloponnese
This route takes you from the coast of Nafplion to Leonidas and then via Sparta towards Kalamata. This route is for several days, but you really get to see all the highlights. Here you will find the highlights of ancient Greek civilization and, as we previously reported, the roads here are fantastic and you will hardly encounter anyone on a bike. Ideal!
Route 2: The Mount Olympus route (Macedonia)
Start the route with a nice cup of coffee at CoffeeIndustry in Katerini, then head to the legendary Mount Olympus. This route passes through beautiful forests and along historical landmarks, and finally ends atop the Olympus!
4. Wonderful climate:
With its Mediterranean climate, Greece offers many sunny days and comfortable temperatures in the autumn for cycling, especially in September and October, when in the Netherlands and higher up north the weather is still changeable.
5. The Greek Cuisine:
By now we know that Greece isn’t just gyros and meat dishes. You can indulge yourself in all kinds of delicious dishes. Last year in Northern Greece we ate a delicious salad with wonderful herbs. There are plenty of exceptional Greek dishes that are both delicious and healthy. Enjoy fresh olives, feta cheese, grilled meat and local wines.
6. Hospitality:
Experience the famous Greek hospitality in small villages and towns in the Peloponnese and Macedonia. Local people often welcome cyclists warmly and are happy to share their culture and traditions.
7. Greece = Islands:
From the Peloponnese, it is easy to make the transition to the beautiful Greek islands, with even more incredible cycling opportunities and the chance to enjoy the idyllic island scenery and beaches. Zakynthos and Kefalonia on the west side are very good alternatives for cycling. Of course, Crete, which is located on the south-west side, is also great.
8. Nature
Especially in spring you can enjoy nature. You will find beautiful wildflowers covering the countryside. In the north you can spot beautiful wildlife, including various bird species. Be careful of the bear in the north too! Because they are present, although they prefer to stay away from you. All in all, nature makes your cycling adventure even more beautiful.
9. Well Organized Bike Events:
L’Étape Greece by Tour de France (Peloponnese)
Take part in L’Étape Greece by Tour de France, The event offers cyclists the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of professional cyclists. The route winds through the beautiful landscapes of the Peloponnese and offers a challenging yet rewarding experience. You truly feel like a professional. The organization is in good hands, and the first edition in 2023 was a success right away.
North4Tour (Macedonia)
A new event that is set to take place in the spring of 2024 is the North4Tour in Macedonia. Around Kastoria, it offers a unique cycling experience through beautiful landscapes, along historical sites, and through picturesque villages. It is a great way to experience the beauty and hospitality of the Macedonian region.
Events are an ideal way to discover the region. You use the organization’s knowledge to see the most beautiful places and you don’t have to think about anything.
10. Sustainable Tourism:
- Cycling is an environmentally friendly way to explore Greece, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the country while minimizing your ecological impact.
In short, Greece, and specifically the regions of the Peloponnese and Macedonia, are absolutely the place to be when it comes to cycling, bike tourism, and beautiful cycling adventures. With our 10 reasons to go cycling in Greece this autumn, you have plenty of inspiration for your next cycling adventure.
TIPS:
Want more tips on cycling in Greece? Then go to our special ‘Cycling in Greece‘ page with tips, tricks and more.
Questions & tips
Do you have any questions about this route, or have you been there yourself? Share them here. We read everything and usually respond within a few days.