Wondering where to go biking or mountain biking in Thassos? Or looking for ideas for an excursion in nature? Either way, you’ll love these insider tips and routes for Thassos mtb. Get ready to uncover the most authentic and unspoiled part of Thassos at the comfort of your Mtb e-bike!
TOP 5 TIPS FOR MTB IN THASSOS
1. Drive on the secondary roads when you can.
Whenever you have the option, avoid the main roads. I’d say at least 50% of the main roads can be avoided. The path from Skala Sotiros to Skala Prinos can be done on the secondary road by the water. Same in Skala Rachoni or Golden Beach or Limenaria to Potos. Or instead of going from Skala Maries to Limenaria from the main road, follow the ring eastern road that most locals prefer. You’ll love the slower traffic there!
2. Don’t look at the time or pace
Biking and Mountain biking in Thassos is not about exercising. At the most, that’s a welcoming byproduct. The highlight of Thassos mtb and biking and the reason you go is no other than exploring its nature and mountains. And exploration always goes hand in hand with observation, taking your time, and paying attention to the beauty all around. And believe me, there is much of it in the Thassos mountains and nature.
3. Take it easy on the way down
Going down the mountain or Thassos roads is one of the most thrilling and exciting parts of cycling and mountain biking. But, since you are in Thassos, why not appreciate and focus on the majestic surroundings instead? Grab those descending opportunities and go easy, with brakes full on. It won’t only be safer, but you will also better enjoy the landscape.
4. Wear long sleeves
Riding a bike can get so exciting that you may forget to put on enough sunscreen. And then you run the risk of getting sunburnt. So, be wise and wear long sleeves. I’ve found dry-fit clothes work the best. Plus, you won’t have to worry about getting scratches from any tree branches that may be on your way.
5. Rent an electric mountain bike in Thassos!
If there is one argument against cycling or mountain biking, it’s that it can be tiring, at least on the way up. However, don’t let that discourage you. Act smart and rent a road e-bike or e-mountain bike instead! The extra push it gives you as you ascend cliffs and dirt roads will be so rewarding that you will never want to switch back to conventional bikes.
Now that you’ve got the basics covered, here are ten of the most unique cycling routes in the mountains of Thassos! Ranking from the easiest to the most difficult, these ten mtb routes have something for everyone. Let’s dive right in!
7 BEST EBIKE ROUTES in THASSOS from PLAKA
#1: My Favorite eMTB Route in Thassos
This is the default route I recommend to all new clients who want to discover the mountains of Thassos and its beautiful villages.
You will start from my station through the olive grove and go to the mountain village of Kallirachi, from where you will cycle to the green village of Sotiras and then to my favorite mountain village in Thassos: Kazaviti.
That’s an awesome place for a snack or drink before you enjoy the downhill to Skala Prinos, where you will cycle on flat, quiet dirt roads among the olive groves before reaching Skala Kallirachi and loop back to Plaka.
LEVEL: MODERATE (google map link)
KILOMETERS: 37km
ELEVATION: 700meters
#2: Plaka to Maries Lake through the Mountains
This is my second favorite route, although, for many of my clients, it is equally beautiful.
You’ll start from my station, climb to Karachi through the olive grove, reach the infamous chapel of Kakirachi, cycle through a lush pine forest, get to a scenic viewpoint of south Thassos, and go downhill on the gravel road to Maries Lake & Waterfalls
Then, have a snack or drink at the traditional mountain village of Maries, enjoy the downhill to Skala Maries where you can find fresh fish, and even swim at a remote beach on the way back completing the loop.
LEVEL: Challenging (google map link)
KILOMETERS: 47km
ELEVATION GAIN: 850meters
#3: Around the island eBike Route 103km
This is the most popular bike route in Thassos and you can do it from everywhere. It’s 100 kilometers and around 1000 meters altitude gain.
If you start from Studios Plaka, I recommend to head south so you’re in the right side of the road to enjoy the stunning views. The batter is more than enough, especially if you use Eco or Tour Mode. I’ll give you the charger just in case.
LEVEL: MODERATE (google map link)
KILOMETERS: 103km
ELEVATION GAIN: 1050meters
#4: Salonikios Beach eBike Route 29km
One of the best beaches to visit from Thassos e-bike rental station is Salonikios beach. You’ll head south along the main road and then on smooth dirt path that leads to Salonikios Beach.
On the way there, stop by Atspas Beach in Skala Maries, have a drink in Linenaria, and enjoy lunch at the cosmopolitan village of Potos. And most of all, don’t forget to stop by the stunning cave of Tripiti. It’s a there-and-back tour.
LEVEL: EASY (google map link)
KILOMETERS: 49km
ELEVATION GAIN: 420meters
#5: Kallirachi Sotiros eBike Route 27km
If you want to go mountain e-biking, I recommend heading first to Kallirachi village through the olive groves. Once in the mountain village, go north along the dirt road to the sister mountain village of Sotiros, where there are only a handful of permanent residents.
Then go downhill to Skala Sotiros and enjoy the picturesque seafront village with its beach. Finally, explore the surrounding flat and smooth dirt roads in the Prinos olive groves before you head back to the eBike station.
LEVEL: MODERATE (google map link)
KILOMETERS: 19km
ELEVATION GAIN: 500meters
#6: Marble Beach eBike Route 68km
One of the best ways to reach Marble Beach is with an e-bike. It’s 25 kilometers to Limenas and then another 3 to Marble Beach along a smooth dirt road around scenic marble formations.
On the way there or back, stop by Karnagio Beach Bar for a quick drub in one of Thassos’s most beautiful coffee locations. Other stop points along the way include Pachis Beach, the Prinos olive groves, La Skala, and Papou Beach in Rachoni.
LEVEL: MODERATE (google map link)
KILOMETERS: 68km
ELEVATION GAIN: 370meters
#7: Maries Waterfalls eBike Route 47km
One of the best and easiest eBike routes in Thassos is getting to the peaceful and unique lake and waterfalls of Maries. You can start from the e-bike Rental Station and head south towards Skala Maries. Once there, leave the main road and follow the paved path to the mountain village of Maries. It’s uphill but the battery will help you go easily while enjoying the surroundings.
In Maries, take a break at a local tavern and then take the smooth dirt road to the artificial lake of Maries. You’ll find the biggest waterfall below the lake and then 3 more smaller but still beautiful waterfalls above the lake.
LEVEL: EASY (google map link)
KILOMETERS: 47km
ELEVATION GAIN: 580meters
10 BEST MTB ROUTES IN THASSOS
Skala Kallirachi MTB Loop 11km
One of the easiest, most accessible mountain bike routes in this list starts from Skala Kallirachi, only 2 kilometers from Plaka, where you can rent your own bike. You will first cycle through olive groves until you reach the mountain village of Kallirachi.
From Kallirachi, continue your way uphill through a cement road until you reach a sharp u-turn. Only a few hundred meters are left, and you are ready to go downhill through the other side of the cliff surrounding the two villages.
Paradise Beach MTB Route 10km
Another easy Thassos mtb route starts from Paradise Beach and continues south until the hill above Agios Ioannis Beach. The first path of the journey may be on the main road, but it will be almost as scenic as the mountain routes of Thassos. This southeast part of Thassos is the most unspoiled.
As you approach Agios Ioannis, you will notice a dirt road that leads to the edge of a small peninsula. Take that route and enjoy panoramic views over Makryammos Bay on the north and Alikes Beach on the west. Because such a beautiful mtb route is best enjoyed when you visit twice, you will return to the starting point from the same path.
Golden Beach MTB Loop 12km
This 12-kilometer Thassos Mtb route starts on the northern side of Golden Beach, in the area also known as Skala Panagia. From here, you will follow a scenic dirt road that leads to the mountain village of Panagia.
From Panagia, you will follow the main road to Potamia, another picturesque village in the area. Along the way, you will enjoy the panoramic views over Golden Beach Bay below you. Finally, you will descend to sea level through a local olive grove near Skala Panagia.
Kallirachi MTB Loop 14km
The 14-kilometer loop from Kallirachi is one of the most scenic Thassos mountain routes under 15 kilometers. The terrain is ever-changing, from dense pine forests and dry landscape to viewpoints that will leave you breathless.
A great stopover in this mtb route is no other than the chapel of Metamorfosi above Kallirachi. This historical chapel offers unparalleled views over the bay. Plus, it is the highest point in your trip, meaning it is almost all downhill left. Just be careful on the way down as a small part before the church of Anargyroi is a bit tricky.
Panteleimon MTB Loop 18km
A relatively flat mtb route in Thassos, Panteleimon loop starts and ends in the monastery of the same name. You can follow a cement road from Kazaviti to reach the starting point. After a small initial uphill section, it is a smooth downhill for more than half of the remainder.
Once you pass a local marble query, turn right and cycle on a scenic road above Maries. That would be the most challenging part of the route, as the paths are uphill but not too steep. Thankfully, you will be enjoying spectacular views along the way.
Maries MTB Loop 22km
Getting into more difficult cycles in Thassos, the 22-kilometer loop from Maries will leave you in awe of its attractions along the way. Not only will you come to see two different waterfalls along the way, but you will also visit the spectacular village of Kastro.
You will be cycling in the heart of the Thassos mountains, so take your time to enjoy the surroundings. You can even swim in the lake in Maries or bathe at the Apostolus waterfall, which is ideal for a picnic, away from crowds, satellite connection, and routine.
In short, exploring this part of Thassos on an e-bike should be part of your Thassos plans. By the way, if you haven’t decided on your Thassos itinerary yet, check one of my suggested itineraries for your Thassos holidays: a 7-day itinerary, a 5-day itinerary, or a shorter 4-day itinerary.
La Skala MTB Loop 20km
If you are near Pachis or La Skala beach, you cannot but notice how green this area of Thassos is. It is the place that has been the least affected by fires in the past century. As a result, it remains a natural wonder with a spectacular and lush landscape.
The first part of the route is quite uphill, so take it easy and walk with your bike to preserve energy if needed. And remember to turn your back around to check the scenic view over La Skala and soon over Limena. In the end, you will see the mountain’s other side and cycle above Rachoni village.
Limenas MTB Loop 26km
Another beautiful yet challenging mtb Thassos route is the path that takes you from Limenas to Panagia through the hills surrounding Limenas. Although not easy, there is nothing like cycling while having the entire settlement of cosmopolitan Limenas on your feet.
Especially the section just before you reach Panagia will make you wonder why you have not been here before. And to top it all, you will even get a glimpse of Golden Beach! Finally, the descent back to Limenas will be through the main road and quite fast compared to how long it took you to get up here.
Maries to Ipsario MTB 15km one-way
If you feel like a challenge, consider cycling from Skala Maries village to the peak of Thassos in Ipsario. It will be 15 kilometers of non-stop uphill. Hard, but much less so if you have an electric mountain bike.
The reward for your efforts will be a 180-degree view over Golden Beach Bay. No words or pics can fully describe the feeling of awe once you stand on the peak overlooking the east Aegean. And the good news continues! The way back will be relentless downhill fun!
Inner Circle of Thassos Mountain from Kallirachi 47km MTB
When most cyclists aim to complete the 100-kilometer Thassos tour along the main road, you can aim higher! Thassos mountains are a lot more beautiful and scenic. Plus, you don’t have the risk of being involved in an accident with a reckless driver. Hence, it makes sense to do the inner circle of Thassos mountains instead.
The trip starts and ends in Kallirachi in the west part of the island. The 47 kilometers will take you on a journey through ever-changing terrain, breathtaking viewpoints, lakes, waterfalls, and lots more surprises. One of those will be your encounters with local wild goats, some of which may get curious about your whereabouts. In the end, those 47 kilometers will feel like a blessing second to none.
Frequently Asked Questions for Cycling in Thassos
1. What types of cycling routes can I find in Thassos?
Thassos offers a variety of cycling routes including flat, hilly, uphill, downhill, quick rides, and long tours. With more than 100 cycle routes mapped, there’s something for every level of cyclist.
2. When is the best time to cycle in Thassos?
The optimal months for cycling in Thassos are May and June. During this time, the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the island’s scenic routes.
3. Are there any mountain biking trails in Thassos?
Yes, Thassos has several mountain biking trails. The longest trail, Mikros Prinos – Agios Panteleimonas Monastery – Skala Sotiros – Papalimani, stretches 33.5 miles, offering a challenging ride through beautiful landscapes.
4. What is the most challenging mountain biking trail in Thassos?
The Skala Marion – Panteleimonas Monastery – Marble Quarry – Maries Loop is considered the most popular and difficult mountain biking trail in Thassos, providing an exhilarating experience for seasoned bikers.
5. How can I find the right cycle route for me in Thassos?
You can explore routes based on your preferences such as road bike routes, mountain bike routes, or city bike routes. Thassos offers a wide range of options to suit different cycling styles.
6. Who are the most active cyclists in Thassos?
Harald Röhsa, with 22 routes, and Eric Moussambani, with 12 routes, are among the most active cyclists in Thassos. They contribute significantly to the cycling community on the island.
7. Are the roads in Thassos suitable for road cycling?
Yes, the main roads in Thassos are generally suitable for road cycling. However, it’s important to be prepared for hilly and hard-going sections, especially on the East coast.
8. Can I cycle around the island of Thassos?
Cycling around Thassos is a popular choice for many cyclists. The island offers a 126 km route that circumnavigates Thassos, providing stunning views and varied terrain.
9. What should I bring for cycling in Thassos?
It’s important to carry plenty of water, sunscreen, and appropriate cycling gear. Considering the terrain and climate of Thassos, preparing for both climbs and heat is advisable.
10. Are there any tips for cycling in Thassos during the summer?
Given the potential high temperatures, it’s best to cycle early in the morning or in the late afternoon. Always stay hydrated and wear sun protection to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.
What do you think?
I hope you enjoyed this ultimate MTB Thassos guide.
In case you would like a customized itinerary or a guided cycling tour, feel free to message me or check my TripAdvisor listing.
You can also join a guided eBike Tour in Thassos for the ultimate experience and piece of mind!
In any case, I would love to see any review or comment from you below.
And if you like what you see, follow StayThassos on Facebook or share this post!
Remember, cycling in Thassos is among the top 21 Reasons to visit Thassos.
To explore more, view these Top 17 Day Trip Ideas in Thassos.
If you’re convinced you should cycle and visit the island, here is how to get to Thassos via air and ferry routes.
And if you want to make that move a little bit more permanent, here is a guide to moving to Thassos!
You also want to be smart about the timing of your holidays, so check the Thassos weather patterns and the best time to visit the island.
My favorite times are late spring and early autumn, but you may also want to visit Thassos in winter.
Whichever season and time you arrive on the island, make sure to follow these 24 Thassos Travel Tips and avoid the following 20 common Thassos Travel mistakes.
And when you want to read something fun about the island during your holidays, here are 35 fun facts about Thassos.
If you want to show off your Thassos holidays on Instagram, visit the 20 most Instagrammable places in Thassos or these 22 off-the-beaten-path Thassos locations.
To look even cooler in your posts, remember to spice up your Instagram or Facebook feed with one of these 106 Captions and Quotes about Thassos.
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