Motorcycle tour Crete: over coasts, mountains and old paths

At Heraklion Airport, the guide welcomes you before heading through the countryside to Matala - a place that perfectly sets the mood for your motorcycle tour of Crete with its rock caves and tranquil bay.

After check-in, there is time to inspect the machines and meet the group. In the evening, we sit in a small taverna right by the sea, as the sun sets behind the rocks. A quiet start before the dusty roads of the coming days call.

After briefing and bike setup, we roll out: first gravel roads, easy trails, and short technical sections, ideal for getting into the rhythm of the island.

The route leads through olive groves and over gentle hills to the region around Kefali-Bathi - a remote area where Crete still feels wild and unspoiled.

Those who wish can visit an old monastery that stands lonely on a rock plateau. Back in Matala, Mediterranean cuisine awaits and a first glimpse of the upcoming off-road stages.

Today, the group follows one of the most spectacular coastal routes of the motorcycle tour Crete. Narrow paths wind over cliffs and rocky ledges, with views repeatedly falling on the Libyan Sea.

In a hidden cove we take a break - swimming is explicitly allowed. We continue along old shepherd paths to Lentas and through small settlements back towards Matala. A day full of panorama, heat, salty air, and the feeling of freedom.

The route takes us deeper into the Cretan mountains today. Behind Kamares, a network of gravel roads begins, leading through scattered villages and wide plains.

In traditional kafenions, we strengthen ourselves with Cretan mountain tea or a small meze. The roads are winding, the air smells of thyme, and views of the southern slopes open up again and again.

The combination of relaxed off-road passages and cultural moments makes this day particularly intense.

We follow trail tracks along the south coast: lonely pebble bays, rock plateaus, and narrow paths that run right above the sea.

A detour takes us to Agios Pavlos - a remote, wind-swept coastal village. On the way, we pass small fishing villages and finally reach a hidden cove that can only be accessed via a short gravel path.

The afternoon belongs to driving: dusty, rhythmic trails with a sea view. In the evening, we enjoy Cretan specialties and stories of the day.

Today’s kilometers initially lead relaxed through the wide Messara plain before we ascend into the mountains. The paths become narrower, the ground rockier.

A winding section towards Tripiti requires attention - but rewards us with views that extend far beyond the southern coast. A short stop at a small village tavern provides insight into the real rural life of Crete.

After that, there’s a mix of flowing mountain trails and off-road sections back towards Matala.

This day belongs to you. Some relax on the beach or stroll through the caves of Matala.

Others take a short voluntary round, visit markets, or enjoy the cuisine in the taverns. Optionally, a small boat tour along the coast can be organized - perfect for discovering hidden caves and bays.

A calm conclusion before the journey home begins tomorrow.

After a last breakfast, it is time to say goodbye.

The memories of mountains, gorges, coastal paths, and the special atmosphere of this motorcycle tour in Crete will remain - just like the feeling of having experienced an island that reveals its true character away from the tourist paths.