Cretan Cycling Challenge

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SP Hellas are totally convinced that Crete has the assets to become the new cycling paradise in Europe. As successful cyclists themselves, they can point to several advantages that the beautiful island of Crete offers for cyclists…

Firstly it would be difficult to find other places in Europe with so many sunny days and so little rain annually. The climate in Crete is temperate with more than 300 (over 330 in Southern Crete) days of sunshine per year.

Between May and October rain is rare; normally there is lots of sunshine and an average temperature of 25C. During summer time, July and August, you can expect daytime temperatures of 30C, but the heat is bearable because of the low humidity on the island. Water temperature, which gradually increases from May is approximately 25C. From the middle of September temperatures are on average around 27C. For many fans of Crete this time is considered the best time to visit the island.

In October it starts becoming colder in the morning and during the evening hours, but the water temperature is still a welcome 23-24C. The first rains are expected around late October. Even winter is mild, especially near the coasts and the temperature ranges between 16C -20C – ideal temperatures for cyclists! From November until May, you can enjoy the combination of snow peaked mountains (higher than 2,400m) and the sea, something which is difficult to find in other places worldwide.

Crete covers an area of 8,336 km2 (3,219 sq mi), with a coastline of 1,046 km. It is the fifth biggest island in the Mediterranean with 8.331km² and has more than 5.000km of road network. Most of these roads can be used for cyclists. There is a high variety of courses with different levels for free time cyclists as well as for professional athletes. See the website for routes and more information. Sports Promotion Hellas choose routes that combine the beauty of the island and places of high cultural value with the athletes’ demands.

Population density on Crete is very sparse, only 72/km². This means that there are no congestion problems on the island, especially in the winter and cyclists are free to enjoy the peace and quiet of the island without the hustle and bustle associated with peak season – no rented cars and no excursion buses so cyclists can really enjoy their training!

Crete is the birthplace of Greek civilization and this is evident everywhere on the island. Historical and cultural sites can be can be spotted everywhere and the influences from the glorious past mingle harmoniously together with the contemporary face of the island, making a visit an unforgettable experience, not only for you, but also for your friends and family members.

The crime rate in Crete is one of the lowest rates in the world, which means that athletes and their friends and family members can feel really safe and can truly enjoy this peaceful island.Cretan people are hospitable, eager to help you and cater for every wish of yours. Services for the guests are always offered in different languages and nearly everybody on the island speaks German and English. You will be amazed by their openness and hospitality.

In antiquity, even before the Classical era on Minoan Crete, exercise played an important part in daily life. In fact, the Greeks credited several mythological figures with athletic accomplishments, and male figures such as Apollo and Herakles (patrons of sport) were commonly depicted as athletes. It gives all the athletes a wonderful feeling to train in such a historic place.

The prices for flights, hotels, bike rental are absolutely competitive with other regions for cyclists and special charter flights can be arranged for large cycling groups.

So discover this new cycling paradise, where you are promised a unique experience and they are sure that you will be back – see Sports Promotion Hellas for more information.

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