Pedals & Pause: Cretan wellness journey
Pedals & Pause: The Cretan Wellness Journey:
Imagine waking to the sound of goats on a hillside, practicing yoga beneath olive trees, cycling quiet village roads scented with wild herbs, and ending the day with meditation as the sun sets over the Mediterranean.
Escape the pace of everyday life and immerse yourself in a week of wellness, cycling, and authentic Cretan culture. From serene mountain farms to sun-drenched beaches, this retreat is designed to nourish body, mind, and soul.
With short, relaxed rides and carefully curated wellness experiences, each day invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature.
The retreat is split between two contrasting yet equally restorative settings. The first half takes place at Kamihis Farm in Zaros, a peaceful mountain escape where stone cottages, olive groves, and farm-to-table meals offer a grounding connection to traditional Cretan life. The second half unfolds in Plakias, a laid-back coastal village where a comfortable boutique hotel, gentle seaside rides, beach yoga, and moments by the Mediterranean create a lighter, deeply relaxing rhythm.
Together, these two locations offer a balanced experience of mountain grounding and coastal renewal. For those seeking more activity, longer cycling routes are also available, making the retreat ideal for both experienced riders and those who prefer a gentler pace, as well as non-cycling partners.
WHEN ?
​2027: 20-27 June
​
Contact us for private tours.
​
ITINERARY:
Day 1 | Sunday 20th June – Arrival & Welcome to Zaros
Arrive at Heraklion International Airport and enjoy a scenic transfer through the Cretan countryside to Zaros.
After settling into your traditional stone farmhouse rooms, we come together for a warm welcome circle and a gentle grounding practice, offering a calm and restful start to the journey.
Dinner features a nourishing farm-to-table meal prepared with fresh ingredients grown on the property.
As night falls, take in the peaceful mountain atmosphere and the clear, star-filled skies of rural Crete.
​
Day 2 | Monday 21st June – Countryside Cycling & Ancient Gortys
The day begins with a gentle morning movement session in the farm courtyard, followed by breakfast overlooking the peaceful Cretan landscape.
We then set out on a rewarding ride through quiet valleys, olive groves, vineyards, and traditional farming villages, heading toward one of Crete’s most important ancient sites. Our destination is the remarkable archaeological site of Gortys, once the Roman capital of the island, where guests can explore the remains of temples, basilicas, and the famous Gortyn Code, one of the oldest and most complete legal inscriptions in Europe.
Back at the farm, the late afternoon is left open for rest and quiet time, with the option to join a short relaxation and grounding session before dinner (gentle stretching, or quiet time)
Cycling distance: 34 km / 812 m
21 miles / 2464 ft
Day 3 | Tuesday 22nd June – Farm Life & Slow Living
The day begins with a gentle morning movement session, followed by breakfast at the farm.
Later, enjoy a short and scenic ride through olive groves and quiet village roads, from the peaceful surroundings of Zaros to the tranquil waters of Lake Votomos. Framed by the mountains, this relaxed route offers a beautiful introduction to the natural landscape of the area before continuing on to the hillside Vronitsi Monastery, a hidden gem full of character and history.
With shorter distances and a gentle pace, today’s ride is designed to encourage mindful movement and a deeper connection with the rhythms of rural Crete.
Back at the farm, the afternoon offers a hands-on experience of traditional Cretan life. Guests are invited to take part in milking goats, learning how to make fresh local cheese, and preparing simple, delicious dishes using ingredients from the farm.
As evening falls, we gather in the courtyard for a joyful farm-to-table dinner, celebrating the flavours, traditions, and warm hospitality of Crete.
Cycling distance: 17 km / 512 m
11 miles / 1464 ft
Day 4 | Wednesday 23rd June – Preveli Beach & Arrival in Plakias
After breakfast, we transfer south to the striking natural beauty of Preveli Beach, where guests can enjoy a few relaxed hours surrounded by palm trees, river water, and the turquoise sea.
There is time to explore the palm grove, take a swim, or simply rest and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before continuing the journey.
In the afternoon, we set out on a scenic coastal ride to Plakias, taking in the dramatic views of Crete’s southern shoreline along the way. Arriving in the village, guests can settle into the hotel and enjoy some time to unwind before dinner.
Before the evening meal, there is the option to join a short sunset grounding session by the sea.
Dinner is served in a traditional seaside taverna overlooking the bay.
Cycling distance: 34 km / 812 m
21 miles / 2464 ft
Day 5 | Thursday 24th June – Kourtaliotiko Gorge & Waterfall Swim
Start the day with a gentle seaside yoga and mobility session in Plakias, accompanied by the fresh Mediterranean air and the sound of the waves.
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic ride from Plakias toward Kourtaliotiko Gorge, passing through rugged landscapes and olive groves before reaching the impressive gorge itself. A short walk leads to a hidden waterfall, where guests can cool off with a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear pools.
In the afternoon, cycle back to Plakias, taking in the contrast of mountain scenery and open sea views along the way.
The evening is left free to enjoy at your own pace before gathering for dinner by the sea.
Cycling distance: 34 km / 812 m
21 miles / 2464 ft
Day 6 | Friday 25th June – A Free Day in Plakias
Enjoy a well-earned free day in Plakias, with time to slow down and experience the relaxed rhythm of Crete’s beautiful south coast.
After several days of cycling, nature, and shared experiences, today is an opportunity to rest, explore, and enjoy the day at your own pace. Spend the morning swimming in the clear waters of the Libyan Sea, relaxing on the beach, or enjoying a leisurely coffee in one of the village’s waterfront cafés.
For those who feel like a little more movement, there is the option of a gentle coastal walk or a short independent ride nearby.
The afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish, whether that means unwinding by the pool, browsing local shops, treating yourself to a massage, or simply soaking up the atmosphere from a seaside taverna.
As evening falls, Plakias offers the perfect setting for a relaxed dinner and a beautiful Mediterranean sunset.
Cycling distance: No scheduled cycling
Day 7 | Saturday 26th June – Coastal Ride to Rodakino & Farewell Dinner
The day begins with gentle morning movement by the sea in Plakias, offering a calm and uplifting start to the final full day of the journey.
After breakfast, set out on a scenic coastal ride from Plakias to the peaceful seaside village of Rodakino, passing olive groves, rugged hills, and sweeping views of the deep blue Libyan Sea. Along the way, enjoy the quiet beauty of Crete’s southern coastline before arriving at Polyrizos Beach, a hidden gem with crystal-clear water and a relaxed atmosphere.
There is time to enjoy a refreshing swim or a leisurely seaside coffee before cycling back to Plakias along the same beautiful route.
In the evening, we come together for a short closing grounding session, followed by a relaxed farewell dinner in the village to celebrate the week’s shared experiences.
Cycling distance: 20 km / 560 m
13 miles / 1695 ft
Day 8 | Sunday 27th June – Departure
After breakfast, we begin the return transfer across the island to Heraklion International Airport.
As the journey comes to an end, guests leave with a renewed sense of wellbeing and a lasting connection to the natural beauty, culture, and spirit of Crete.
Prices:
€1680 per person (based on double occupancy).
·Single room supplement €750
Option bike hire :
Gravel Bike : €180
Aluminium hybrid bike : €140
e-bike : €270
For those wishing to bring their own bikes access to the farm is via a 3 mile gravel road so a bike with suitable tyres is recommended, the remaining rides are all tarmac
Custom Tour:
If you would like this, or any of our tours customising to your specific needs and request please dont hestitate to contact us
What's Included:
-
Airport Transfer to and from starting and end points
-
luggage transfer
-
3 x nights’ Accommodation rural farm house with breakfast
-
4 x nights accommodation in boutique hotel with breakfast
-
6 X Dinner
-
Cooking class and farm experience
-
Daily yoga and meditations sessions
-
Personalized GCH retreat Mousette bag
-
Yoga mats and props
-
TCX or GPX files for each days route
-
Supported rides
-
GCH bidon
-
Bike box transfer/ storage
Not included:
-
Flights
-
Travel insurance (*mandatory for each participant)
-
Hotels before and after the tour
-
Bike hire
-
1 x dinner
​
ACCOMODATION:
FARM HOUSE
Nestled among olive groves on the slopes above Zaros, Kamihis Farm House offers a truly authentic escape into traditional Cretan country life. This charming agritourism retreat is surrounded by gardens, orchards, and grazing animals, creating a peaceful setting where the rhythm of the day follows nature rather than the clock. Guests stay in beautifully restored stone cottages with wooden beams and rustic furnishings that reflect the simplicity and warmth of rural Crete.
One of the most unique aspects of Kamihis Farm is its wonderfully off-grid atmosphere. The farmhouse has no electricity, and as evening falls the property is illuminated by the soft glow of traditional oil lamps, creating a magical and deeply calming environment. Meals are prepared using fresh ingredients from the farm — vegetables from the garden, local olive oil, homemade cheese, and bread baked in a wood-fired oven. The result is a place where guests can truly disconnect from modern life, slow down, and reconnect with nature, food, and the timeless traditions of Crete.
Boutique Hotel in Plakias
Located just a short walk from the beach in the relaxed seaside village of Plakias, our boutique hotel offers a comfortable and stylish base for the coastal part of the retreat. With modern rooms, balconies overlooking the mountains or the sea, and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of yoga and cycling.
At the heart of the hotel is a beautiful outdoor swimming pool, surrounded by sun loungers and quiet garden spaces where guests can relax, read, or enjoy the warm Mediterranean sunshine. The design blends contemporary comfort with subtle Cretan touches, creating a calm and welcoming space to recharge. Its location close to the beach and village centre means you can easily stroll to seaside tavernas, cafés, and the clear waters of the Libyan Sea whenever you wish.
After the simplicity of the mountain farm, the hotel in Plakias provides a more relaxed coastal comfort, giving guests space to rest, swim, and enjoy the laid-back rhythm of Crete’s beautiful south coast