e-Bike Guided Tour to Myli Gorge with Full Lunch included

Discover Crete’s countryside and history on this e-bike guided tour to Myli Gorge, with a full local lunch included. For just $82 per person, you’ll spend around six hours exploring Rethymno’s scenic olive groves, visiting historic sites like Halevi Monastery and Vila Clodio, and hiking through the lush Myli Gorge. This tour offers a balance of gentle cycling, short hikes, and cultural stops that provide a well-rounded taste of Crete’s rural charm.

What we love about this experience is how accessible it makes the stunning scenery and history of Crete. The e-bikes make uphill sections manageable for most, allowing you to focus on the views and the atmosphere rather than sweating buckets. Plus, the authentic village lunch at a family-run taverna elevates the experience from a simple sightseeing trip to a genuine taste of local hospitality.

A possible consideration is that this tour isn’t suitable for everyone — you’ll need to be comfortable riding a bike, as it’s not designed for those with mobility issues or difficulty balancing. Also, the tour covers some hills, so a basic level of fitness helps. But if you’re active and curious about the Crete beyond the beaches, this tour will suit you well.

This experience is ideal for active travelers, history buffs, and anyone wanting to see a different side of Crete away from the crowded resorts. Families with teenagers, small groups of friends, and solo travelers looking for a balanced mix of adventure and culture will find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Comfortable e-bikes make cycling through hilly terrain accessible for most.
• Rich cultural visits include the church of Panagia Halevi and Vila Clodio’s military museum.
• Scenic hike through Myli Gorge offers a peaceful escape into nature.
• Authentic local lunch at a family-run taverna provides a taste of Crete’s cuisine.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with stories and local insights.
• Flexible booking allows you to reserve now and pay later, with full refund options up to 24 hours before.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Overview

The tour begins at Panepistimiou 1, Rethymno, an easy central location. From there, you’re fitted with e-bikes, helmets, and given a brief safety overview. The tour is run by eBikes Rethymno, a local operator with a solid reputation and plenty of positive reviews. The ride covers roughly 20 kilometers, with some uphill sections that are greatly eased by the electric assistance.

Cycling Through Rethymno’s Countryside

We loved the way the tour takes us beyond the town’s hustle, into olive groves and traditional villages. The e-bike helps us conserve energy while still allowing us to enjoy the rolling hills and panoramic views. The first stop is Halevi Monastery, a peaceful site with an impressive church of Panagia featuring flame-shaped windows. The recently renovated monastery ruins reveal a glimpse into cretan religious architecture and history.

During the ride, you’ll pass through Chromonastiri, a small village with well-preserved traditional buildings. Here, Vila Clodio houses a military museum — a surprising but fascinating stop that provides historical context to the area. The guides are praised for their knowledge and personable manner, making the visit informative and engaging. One reviewer summed it up: “Mike was an absolute font of knowledge and a great lead.”

Hiking in Myli Gorge

The highlight for many is the short hike through Myli Gorge, a lush, peaceful area just outside the city. The trail is suitable for most, with a diverse flora and fauna that keeps nature lovers engaged. The gorge itself is described as a small oasis, offering a tranquil environment to appreciate Crete’s natural beauty. The abandoned village of Myli, with its old watermills, adds a sense of history and nostalgia.

Travelers often mention how scenic and quiet this part of the tour is. As one reviewer put it, “The scenery from the hills was beautiful,” and many are impressed by the unique contrast between the lush gorge and the surrounding arid landscape.

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Stopping in Roussospiti and Lunch

After the hike, the tour stops in Roussospiti, a charming Cretan village with narrow streets and traditional architecture. Here, you can relax and take in the stunning panoramic views over Rethymno and the Mediterranean. The lunch at a family-run taverna is a highlight, with reviewers describing the food as “delicious,” “authentic,” and “the best meal of the week.” Expect a variety of traditional dishes, generously portioned and served in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Visiting Aghia Irini Monastery

Post-lunch, the tour continues to Aghia Irini Monastery, where you can chat with the nuns and learn a bit about the religious history. The elevated location offers breathtaking views, making it worthwhile for photography and quiet reflection. This stop provides a gentle, spiritual ending to a day full of activity and discovery.

Return Journey

The day winds down with a leisurely ride back, allowing you to reflect on the diverse experiences — scenic views, historical insights, and authentic culinary delights — before returning to the starting point. The guides are praised for their flexibility and attentiveness, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and engaged.

The Practicalities

Price and Value

At $82 per person, this tour offers excellent value when you consider the included guiding, bike rental, water, helmet, insurance, and a full traditional lunch. The reviews consistently mention how worthwhile the cost is for such a comprehensive experience. One reviewer noted, “Great value for money,” and others appreciated the high-quality bikes and well-chosen stops.

What’s Included and Not

Included in the price are an English-speaking guide, bottle of water, helmet, insurance, and a local lunch. You’ll want to bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and cash for optional extras or museum entrance fees. The tour is suitable for those comfortable riding bikes; it’s not designed for mobility-impaired travelers or those under 4’9”.

Duration and Meeting Points

The tour lasts roughly six hours, making it a full but manageable day trip. The meeting point is conveniently located in Rethymno’s town center, with the tour ending back at the same spot, so no fuss with transportation afterward.

Booking Flexibility

With a “reserve and pay later” option, you can book confidently, knowing you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility makes it easier to plan your trip without worry.

The Authentic Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviewers collectively praise the knowledgeable guides, especially Michalis, for their storytelling and local insights. One said, “Michalis’s passion and information made the experience even better,” highlighting how guides can elevate the tour from just a sightseeing ride to a memorable learning experience.

The scenery and landscape consistently receive high praise — many mention the beautiful views from the hills and the peacefulness of the gorge, making the effort feel well worth it. The lunch is often singled out as a highlight, with many calling it “delicious,” “authentic,” and “a feast of traditional Cretan dishes.”

Some reviews mention the manageable pace and how the e-bikes make hills effortless, which broadens the appeal to a wider range of fitness levels. Others note the delight of learning about Crete’s cultural history through stops at sites like Vila Clodio and Halevi Monastery.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for active travelers who want to combine cycling, nature, and culture. It’s well-suited for families with teenagers, small groups, or solo travelers eager for a day outside the city. If you enjoy moderate physical activity, scenic hikes, and authentic local food, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and a personal touch will especially enjoy Michalis’s storytelling. If you’re looking for a laid-back, scenic adventure that balances outdoor fun with cultural insights, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the e-bikes help you cycle with minimal effort, making it accessible even if you’re not an experienced cyclist. The route is designed to be manageable with some hills, thanks to the electric assistance.

How strenuous is the hike through Myli Gorge?
The hike is described as short and suitable for most, with a focus on enjoying the scenery and flora. It’s not overly demanding, but some light walking is involved.

What should I bring with me?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a sun hat are recommended. You might also want to bring cash for souvenirs or additional drinks, as these aren’t included.

Are the meals truly traditional?
Yes, the lunch is served at a local family-run taverna with a variety of classic Cretan dishes, praised for its authenticity and flavor.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing flexible planning.

What is the maximum group size?
While not explicitly stated, reviews mention small groups of just a few people, which helps ensure a personal experience with the guide.

To sum it up, this e-bike tour to Myli Gorge offers an engaging blend of scenic beauty, cultural sites, and authentic Cretan hospitality. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want a physically active, yet relaxed day exploring the countryside, with plenty of opportunities to learn about local history and enjoy traditional food. The positive reviews speak to the quality of guides, the value of the experience, and the memorable nature of the scenery. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a unique way to see Crete, this tour is well worth considering for a well-rounded, enriching day outside Rethymno.

You can check availability for your dates here: