Rethymno: Guided e-Bike tour at Undiscovered Amari valley

Rethymno: Guided e-Bike Tour at Undiscovered Amari Valley

If you’re looking to see a side of Crete that few travelers experience, this guided e-bike tour from Rethymno might just be your perfect fit. For around $136 per person, you’ll spend about five hours exploring the undiscovered Amari Valley, visiting a medieval village, walking through a lush gorge, and relaxing by a picturesque lake. Led by friendly guides, usually bilingual in English and Italian, this tour combines adventure with authentic scenery and local charm.

What immediately caught our eye is the use of modern electric bikes—they make the 45km route accessible to a wide range of fitness levels, and the relaxed pace allows plenty of time for photos, breaks, and enjoying each stop. Another highlight is the chance to step into Crete’s history and nature in one go, with visits to well-preserved Venetian houses and stunning natural sights.

A small consideration might be the physical requirement—participants should have a good fitness level and be comfortable on a bike. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 14, pregnant women, or anyone with certain health issues. Still, for those ready to enjoy a well-planned day of cycling, this tour offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, history, and local culture.

This experience suits travelers who want to see beyond the beaches and cities, enjoy comfortable riding without strenuous effort, and love nature and history equally. If you’re keen on a guided small-group adventure that mixes sightseeing with active exploration, this is a top choice.

Key Points

• E-bike Comfort: Modern electric bikes make pedaling easy, even over varied terrain.
• Authentic Stops: Visit a medieval village, walk through Patsos Gorge, and relax at a scenic lake.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Beautiful Views: Expect stunning vistas, from coastal lines to mountain peaks.
• Wildlife & Nature: Encounter local birdlife at the lake and lush vegetation in Patsos Gorge.
• Flexible & Small Group: Limited to 7 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Crete E-Bike Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour begins at Hortatzi 25 in Rethymno, with a leisurely ride along the coast. We loved the way the route starts smoothly, giving everyone a chance to get comfortable on the bikes while enjoying panoramic views of the sea. About fifty minutes into the ride, you’ll arrive at Prasies, a medieval village with remarkably preserved Venetian houses. Walking through its narrow streets transports you back in time, making for a delightful photo opportunity and a chance to stretch your legs before hopping back on the bikes.

From Prasies, the route continues downhill into the Amari Valley—a lush, green pocket of Crete framed by mountain peaks. Here, the stunning views of the highest summit of Crete are hard to beat. As you cycle, you’ll appreciate the easy pedaling the e-bikes provide, allowing you to soak in the scenery without fatigue.

Next, the tour takes you to Patsos Gorge, a verdant corridor surrounded by wild vegetation. We found that walking down into the gorge was a highlight—it’s a peaceful, green escape with abundant birdlife. The viewpoint at the end offers a perfect spot for photos, and the walk itself is just long enough to enjoy nature without feeling rushed.

The Lake of the Rivers is the next stop—and by far the most picturesque. This artificial lake is considered one of the most beautiful around Crete, with seagulls, falcons, and wild geese frequenting the area. What’s special is the underwater village, now submerged beneath the water, adding an element of mystery and history. Adjacent to the lake, a charming cafe offers a well-earned break, where you can sip juice and sample local snacks.

The final stretch takes you back toward Rethymno along the main road, with beautiful coastal views lingering in your memory. The entire route totals approximately 45 km, but thanks to the e-bikes, it feels manageable and enjoyable.

What Makes This Tour Special

Our favorite part is how thoughtfully it balances active exploration with relaxed sightseeing. The stops are well-spaced, and the guides—like Panos, who gets glowing reviews—are friendly and knowledgeable. They share interesting tidbits about the Venetian architecture, the geology of Patsos Gorge, and local bird species, enriching the experience.

The small group size (limited to 7) means you really get personal attention and easy interaction with the guide. This creates a friendly, inclusive atmosphere, especially helpful if you’re new to cycling or traveling with others who prefer a slower pace.

Potential Drawbacks or Considerations

While most found the ride accessible and enjoyable, a good fitness level is recommended. The route includes some downhill and uphill sections, and the terrain can vary. Participants should be comfortable riding bikes and able to handle a moderate physical effort—especially because some walking in Patsos Gorge can be a bit uneven.

Also, this isn’t a tour for those seeking luxury or gourmet meals; there are no included food or drinks at the cafe, and participants should bring cash for purchases. The tour is about authentic scenery and local flavor, not fine dining.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re an active traveler who enjoys cycling and nature, you’ll find this tour very rewarding. It’s perfect for those curious about Crete’s rural life and history, and who want a balanced mix of outdoor activity and cultural insight. The scenic stops at the medieval village, Patsos Gorge, and the lake make for memorable photo moments and peaceful escapes.

Travelers who appreciate small-group settings and engaging guides will also feel well-cared-for. It’s a wonderful choice if you want to avoid the crowds and explore off-the-beaten-path spots with local flavor.

This tour is particularly praised by past participants for its knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery, making it a highlight for those visiting Rethymno and seeking a meaningful outdoor adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Since the bikes are modern electric models and the route is designed to be manageable, most people with a decent fitness level can participate. However, you should be comfortable riding a bike and have a good fitness level.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, cash, a daypack, and a reusable water bottle. You’ll want to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are included in the package for safety.

How long are the stops?
Stop durations vary—about 50 minutes in Prasies, 1.5 hours at Patsos Gorge, and around 2.5 hours at the cafe and lake area. These allow for sightseeing, rest, and refreshments.

Can children participate?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 14 years old, due to safety and physical requirements.

Is lunch included?
No, food at the cafe is not included—participants should bring cash if they want to purchase snacks or drinks.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak English and Italian.

What is the maximum speed of the bikes?
The bikes have a maximum speed of 50 km/hour and 3 adjustable stages, but the tour pace is relaxed for sightseeing.

How many people are in the group?
Small groups are limited to 7 participants to ensure personalized attention.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

In essence, this guided e-bike tour of the Amari Valley offers a wonderful blend of history, nature, and gentle adventure. It’s an excellent way to see Crete beyond its beaches, especially if you enjoy cycling, scenic vistas, and learning about local life from friendly guides. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a nature enthusiast, this experience promises memorable views and authentic touches of Crete’s rural charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: