European Tours

Bicycling magazine called Classic Adventures bicycle tour of Crete "one of the 50 best rides on the planet". For more than 30 years we have been refining our tour of this island paradise, with two optional hikes. Majestic mountains sweep down to emerald-blue seas. Lyrical sheep bells and the aromas of wild oregano and thyme add to the Mediterranean magic. Delight in feta cheese, thick homemade yogurt, honey-soaked walnuts, and grilled seafood.

We explore Venetian ruins of Heraklion and visit the Archaeological Museum with its fabulous Minoan pottery and jewelry. A guided tour brings to light the reign of King Minos. Relive stories of the bull jumpers and Theseus daring descent into the labyrinth to slay the Minotaur.

Highlights include the Lassithi Plateau where donkeys and old windmills echo a bygone era. Mountain vistas surround the village of Spili, noted for spring water. The famous Samarian Gorge (the most natural wonder of Western Europe) provides a spectacular hike essentially downhill! Six nights of lodging are on or near the beach.

Crete's magic also lies in its vestiges of the past. Our guides unfold rich layers of history for you. Our stories bring to life the real Crete, where Zeus was born and Europa was loved.

Ask about cycling options for 2017 - we still offer Extreme Crete rides for couples with different riding levels - choose either Crete trip: Land of Zorba or Extreme Crete.