The HUB: Katharo Plateau Loop Bike Tour

This tour starts from Lassithi Plateau (850 m).

To start off, you'll gently traverse the plateau in an eastward direction, reaching the village of Mesa Lassithi. From there, you'll encounter your initial ascent towards the Katharo Plateau at an elevation of 1,200 metres.

As you ascend, you'll pass by the Havgas Gorge, treated to stunning vistas from below.

Upon reaching the Katharo Plateau, you'll navigate along well-maintained dirt roads, providing you with a glimpse of the Cretan countryside at these higher altitudes.

Some time ago, this area was also the site of paleontological discoveries, including fossils of the pigmy hippopotamus and the pigmy elephant.

A brief second ascent will guide you off the plateau and lead you to the tour's highest point. From this point onward, the terrain is downhill as you traverse the pine forest of Kroustas. This location marks the narrowest stretch of Crete, affording you the unique chance to behold both the northern and southern coasts of the island simultaneously.

Following the breath-taking vista, you'll ascend once again to Katharo Plateau, where you'll enjoy lunch and have the opportunity to explore some of the paleontological discoveries.