e-Bike Cycling Tour to Arkadi Monastery with Lunch included

Captivating Crete by E-Bike: A Full Review of the Arkadi Monastery Tour

This e-bike tour around Rethymno offers more than just a leisurely ride — it’s a journey through some of Crete’s most picturesque spots, sprinkled with historical gems like the legendary Arkadi Monastery. Spanning about 44 km, this six-hour excursion combines scenic coastal paths, hillside villages, and a delicious local lunch. The tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides like Michalis, who make the experience both fun and educational, ensuring you leave with a deeper appreciation for the island’s culture.

Two things stand out immediately: first, how accessible this tour is thanks to the electric bikes which make climbing hills effortless. Second, the opportunity to visit Arkadi Monastery, a site of national heroism and resilience, makes it more than just a scenic ride — it’s an immersive history lesson in a stunning setting.

One potential consideration is that this is a moderate cycling challenge—while the e-bikes smooth out the uphill segments, the total distance and some elevation might be too much for those with very low fitness levels or mobility impairments. This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy cycling, scenic vistas, and learning about local history in a relaxed, guided environment.

Key points / Takeaways

• Accessible e-bikes make uphill riding easy, suitable for most fitness levels.
• Historical insights from guides like Michalis deepen your understanding of Crete’s past.
• Stunning scenery along the coastline and hillside villages offers plenty of photo opportunities.
• Authentic Cretan lunch in a traditional taverna provides a genuine taste of local cuisine.
• The small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures a personalized experience.
• The tour runs rain or shine, so check weather conditions and dress accordingly.

Exploring Rethymno’s Coastal Charm and Hilltop Villages

Starting at Panepistimiou 1, the tour kicks off with a scenic ride along Rethymno’s coastline. You’ll enjoy views of the shimmering Mediterranean, with the chance to pause and soak in the fresh sea breeze. The route then takes you inland toward Arsani Monastery, a peaceful spot with a history of monastic life and spiritual resilience. It’s a perfect first stop to get acclimated to your e-bike and the landscape.

From Arsani, the route ascends through olive groves and quiet villages. These hillside hamlets are the quintessential Crete—whitewashed houses, narrow winding streets, and sweeping vistas across the landscape. You’ll pass through Pagkalochori and Kirianna, where the scenery alone makes it worth the effort. One highlight is Amnatos, home to the Sanguinazzo mansion, marked by an inscription that reads “Initium sapientiae timor Domini,” offering a glimpse into local heritage.

Visiting Arkadi Monastery: The Heart of the Tour

The highlight for many travelers is the visit to Arkadi Monastery. This site isn’t just visually stunning; it’s a symbol of Greek resistance and sacrifice. Guides like Michalis are praised for sharing compelling stories about the monks’ heroic acts during the Ottoman period, which resonate deeply. Here, you’ll have time for sightseeing, a coffee break, and some free time to absorb the peaceful surroundings.

A Traditional Cretan Lunch with Panoramic Views

After the monastery, your journey continues downhill to a family-run taverna. Here, you’ll indulge in a traditional Cretan lunch featuring local dishes that showcase the island’s rich flavors. Thanks to the elevated location, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over Rethymno and the Mediterranean coast — a perfect backdrop to your meal. Multiple reviews highlight how delicious and authentic this meal is, making it a memorable part of the day.

The Final Legs: Pigi and Adele

Post-lunch, the ride takes you towards Pigi Village and Adele, where you’ll pass through more scenic countryside and quiet streets. The relaxed pace and beautiful surroundings make the final stretch back to your starting point a calming end to a full day of discovery.

Price, Logistics, and Overall Value

At a cost of around the price listed on GetYourGuide, this tour offers a surprising amount of value. The inclusion of English-speaking guides, helmets, water bottles, and a hearty lunch cuts down on extra costs and hassle. The tour’s six-hour duration strikes a good balance — enough time to explore, learn, and enjoy without feeling rushed.

While it doesn’t include entrance fees at the monastery or drinks beyond water, the experience’s richness is in the scenery, stories, and authentic meal. The small group size (max 10 people) ensures personalized attention, making it ideal for travelers who prefer a more intimate feel.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy cycling, outdoor adventures, and learning about local history and culture. It’s perfect for those who want a memorable, active day without the exhaustion of a full-day hike. It’s not ideal for pregnant women, small children, or anyone with mobility issues or low fitness levels, due to the 44 km distance and some hills.

The Experience of a Lifetime: Authentic, Scenic, and Educational

What I love most about this tour is how it combines beautiful scenery, historical storytelling, and local flavors into one seamless adventure. The guides, particularly Michalis, are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience feel personal rather than touristy. The e-bikes do a lot of the work, so you can focus on taking in the views and absorbing the stories without breaking a sweat.

The stops at hillside villages and the Arkadi Monastery give a deeper sense of Crete’s character—resilient, scenic, and steeped in stories of heroism. The panoramic views from the taverna are a highlight, providing a perfect spot to relax and reflect on the day’s experiences.

The only thing to consider is whether you’re comfortable cycling 44 km — though the electric bikes make hills manageable, it’s still a significant amount of pedaling for some. If you’re physically active and eager to explore beyond the usual tourist spots, this tour offers excellent value for money and memorable moments.

Final Thoughts

This e-bike guided tour is a fantastic way to see Crete’s diverse landscape, from rugged coastlines to hillside villages, all topped with a visit to the iconic Arkadi Monastery. It’s a well-organized, engaging experience that balances scenic beauty, cultural insight, and authentic local cuisine.

Perfect for active travelers who want a deeper connection to the island’s history and natural beauty, this tour delivers more than just sightseeing — it offers a day of memorable discovery. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, you’ll likely find the guides, scenery, and stories make this a highlight of your Crete trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the e-bikes make it manageable even for those new to cycling. The guide Michalis ensures safety and comfort, making it accessible for most fitness levels.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen are recommended. The guide provides water bottles and helmets, so just focus on dressing appropriately for the weather.

Are there any age restrictions?
This tour is best suited for travelers over 4 ft 9 in (150 cm) and under 220 lbs (100 kg). It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
No, the price covers the guide, bikes, water, and lunch. Entrance fees at Arkadi Monastery are not included, so you might want to bring some cash if you wish to explore further.

Is transportation included?
No, participants meet at the starting point in Rethymno and return there at the end. Organizing your own transport to and from the meeting point is necessary.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Can I book the tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, providing flexibility for your travel planning.

This guided e-bike tour through Rethymno’s countryside, hillside villages, and Arkadi Monastery offers an authentic, scenic, and engaging way to experience Crete. It’s a perfect choice for those looking to combine active exploration with cultural insights and delicious local food.