Autumn is in full swing. Autumn has arrived and the weather in the Netherlands is slowly becoming more changeable. Time to catch some more sunshine! If you like to go cycling in a destination that is not overcrowded yet, but where you have beautiful routes, culture to lick your fingers at, not to mention food and drink? Then how about Greece! We are absolute fans of this location. We have been to the region before and we are unabatedly enthusiastic. Therefore, we give you 10 reasons to go cycling in Greece this autumn.
1. Beautiful Landscape:
Greece really does offer exceptionally beautiful views and landscapes. You have the azure waters of the Mediterranean with inland the rugged mountains and accompanying valleys. The Peloponnese and Macedonia (in the north) in particular are known for their diversity of terrain. But also for the beautiful views.
2. Historic sites
If there is one thing Greece is known for, it is its history. Explore Greece's extensive history on a bicycle. In the Peloponnese, visit famous sites such as Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, and Mycenae, an important centre of Greek civilisation.
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 then you really do get to see ALL the highlights. Here you will find the highlights of ancient Greek civilisation and, as we reported earlier, here the roads are fantastic and you will hardly meet anyone on a bike. Ideal!
Route 2: The Mount Olympus route (Macedonia)
Start the route with a delicious coffee at CoffeeIndustry in Katerini and then set course for the legendary Mount Olympus. This route goes through beautiful forests and past historical sights, eventually ending on top of Olympus!
4. Lovely Climate:
With its Mediterranean climate, Greece still offers many sunny days and comfortable temperatures for cycling in autumn, especially in September and October, when the weather in the Netherlands and higher up north is still changeable.
5. Greek Cuisine:
By now we know that Greece is not all Gyros and meat dishes. You can feast on all kinds of delicious dishes yourself. In northern Greece last year, we sat down to a delectable salad, with delicious 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 famous Greek hospitality in small villages and towns in the Peloponnese and Macedonia. Local people often warmly welcome cyclists and are happy to share their culture and traditions.
7. Greece = Islands:
From the Peloponnese, it is easy to transfer to the beautiful Greek islands, with even more incredible cycling opportunities and the chance to enjoy the idyllic island landscape and beaches. Zakynthos and Kefalonia on the western side are very good alternatives for cycling. Of course, Crete, which is on the south-west side, is also great.
8. Nature
Especially in spring, you can enjoy nature. You will find beautiful wild flowers covering the countryside. In the north, you can spot beautiful wildlife, including several bird species. In the north, watch out for the bear! For it is present, although the bear would rather be away than near you. All in all, nature makes your cycling adventure even more beautiful.
9. Well-organised Cycling Events:
L'Étape Greece by Tour de France (Peloponnese)
Take part in L'Étape Greece by Tour de France, an event that offers cyclists the chance to follow in the footsteps of professional cyclists. The route passes through the beautiful landscapes of the Peloponnese and offers a challenging but rewarding experience. You will actually feel like a professional. The organisation is in good hands and the first edition in 2023 was an instant success.
North4Tour (Macedonia)
A new event on the cards in spring 2024 is the North4Tour in Macedonia. Around Kastoria, this offers a unique cycling experience through beautiful landscapes, past 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 organisation's knowledge to see the most beautiful places and you don't have to think about anything.
10. Sustainable Tourism:
- Cycling is an eco-friendly way to explore Greece, allowing you to enjoy the country's beauty while minimising your environmental impact.
In short, Greece, and specifically the Peloponnese and Macedonia regions, are absolutely the place to be when it comes to cycling, cycle tourism and great cycling adventures. With our 10 reasons to go cycling in Greece this autumn, you will 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.
