illustrated map of Hersonissos
3 June 2023How to follow a route for free with Wkiloc
19 September 2025What bike should you choose in Crete?
Road or Gravel?
Many cyclists ask us whether they should choose a road bike or a gravel bike during their vacation in Crete.
They heard from friends who visited Crete in the past that the roads in Crete are in bad condition and full of potholes. So it is more comfortable and safer to rent Gravel bikes.
This is not true. Although we do not have highways like Germany, the roads of Crete that connect the villages are very good for road cycling. They are wide and with quality tarmac. Most roads are 6 meters wide or more, and cars can easily overtake bikes.
The recent years, the prefecture of Crete has started restoring the roads of Crete from Village to village. They have done a very good job. They put new tarmac on roads where previously there were dirt roads and restored roads that were in bad condition.
Of course, there are still potholes and roads that are not perfect in some places, but this is not a reason to avoid road bikes. Only through the villages, the roads are not so smooth. This is because of the work for the internet, water, irrigation, etc. After the last house of the village, the roads are smooth again.
One thing that you have to consider is the water drains. Many (or most) drains have openings that are wide enough for a road bike tire and parallel to the road. So when you see them, slow down and ride carefully.
Drains at the square of Mochos village
What cyclists should also consider is that at some places, there are bumps that you do not see from a distance. This is because of the summer heat on some roads, as the heavy trucks pass, they pull the tarmac and create small bumps. Mostly at the side of the road that goes down or the external side of a turn. So when you ride down and you are relaxed, be careful. This is a warning especially for those who like to ride no hands (and maybe later no teeth)
So, what is better to choose, a road bike or a Gravel bike?
It depends on what you want to do.
Choose a Road bike:
if you are a training-focused cyclist. They are lighter, so you can climb easier on the hills. Less rolling resistance, a more aerodynamic position, and bigger chainrings mean higher speed. You have to ride only on tarmac roads.
Choose a Gravel bike:
if you need a more comfortable upright seat position and the ability to ride some easy off-road sections (but not rocky roads, which is better to ride with a mountain bike). Big tyres, with lower pressure, give extra comfort. They have bigger gears, so it is easier on the steep uphills. Many gravel bikes also have bolts to attach extra stuff for a trip around Crete with your luggage.
At some places, maybe there are potholes,
At some places, there are cracks on the roadbed, but it is rare.
Skinakas Observatory. The highest paved road of Crete. 1740 meters of altitude.
Kaminaki Pass. The highest paved road pass in Crete. 1240 meters of Altitude.
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