Cycling Through Samothraki

Cycling on Samothraki: Explore the Island on Two Wheels

Samothraki, with its pristine landscapes, quiet roads, and picturesque trails, is a cyclist’s dream. Whether you're an adventurous mountain biker, a leisure rider, or a cycling enthusiast, the island offers routes for all skill levels. From tranquil coastal roads to challenging mountain ascents, cycling here allows you to immerse yourself in the island’s unique beauty and culture. Below, we provide detailed routes, tips, and useful apps to enhance your cycling experience.

Top Cycling Routes on Samothraki

1. Kamariotissa to Lakoma: A Journey Through Tradition

Distance: ~10 km
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Description: Starting at Kamariotissa, the island’s main port, this scenic ride takes you to Lakoma, a traditional village nestled among olive groves. The route is a mix of flat terrain and gentle inclines, making it ideal for beginners and those seeking a relaxed ride.
Highlights:

Pass through olive groves and agricultural fields.
Explore Lakoma, known for its whitewashed houses and quaint alleys.
Stop at a local taverna for authentic Samothrakian cuisine.

2. Kamariotissa to Pachia Ammos: Coastal Serenity

Distance: ~15 km
Difficulty: Easy
Description: A stunning coastal ride, this route hugs the Aegean Sea and leads to Pachia Ammos Beach, one of the island’s most famous beaches. The route is mostly flat, with a few gentle slopes, making it accessible to cyclists of all levels.
Highlights:

Enjoy uninterrupted views of the Aegean Sea.
Visit Pachia Ammos, known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters.
Pass small fishing villages and scenic coves.

3. Chora to Therma: From History to Wellness

Distance: ~8 km
Difficulty: Easy (mostly downhill)
Description: Starting in Chora, Samothraki’s capital, this downhill route takes you to Therma, a village famous for its hot springs and lush surroundings. It’s a short but rewarding ride.
Highlights:

Explore Chora’s cobblestone streets and traditional architecture.
Ride through verdant landscapes with Mount Saos towering above.
Relax in the thermal springs of Therma after your ride.

4. Lakoma to Profitis Ilias: A Mountain Challenge

Distance: ~9 km
Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
Description: This challenging uphill ride takes you to Profitis Ilias, a scenic mountain village with breathtaking views. Cyclists will be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the island’s rugged terrain and sunsets.
Highlights:

Cycle through terraced hillsides and olive groves.
Rest at scenic viewpoints with sweeping views of the island.
Experience the serene beauty of Profitis Ilias.

5. Therma to Ano Meria: Into the Wild

Distance: ~10 km
Difficulty: Moderate
Description: This route starts at the thermal springs of Therma and winds through dense forests and serene trails to the remote village of Ano Meria. The path offers a sense of adventure and solitude.
Highlights:

Ride alongside streams and lush greenery.
Encounter wildlife in Samothraki’s untouched nature.
Discover Ano Meria, a village that feels like stepping back in time.

6. Ano Meria to Kerasies Village: A Secluded Escape

Distance: ~7 km
Difficulty: Hard
Description: This remote route takes you through dense forests and rugged trails to Kerasies Village, known for its rustic charm. This path is best suited for experienced cyclists seeking an off-the-beaten-track experience.
Highlights:

Cycle through trails shaded by chestnut and oak trees.
Explore Kerasies, a quiet village with a peaceful atmosphere.
Enjoy the isolation and natural beauty of the area.

7. Pachia Ammos to Vatos Beach: Coastal Adventure

Distance: ~12 km
Difficulty: Hard
Description: For experienced mountain bikers, this scenic trail offers a mix of coastal and rugged terrain, ending at the secluded and beautiful Vatos Beach.
Highlights:

Traverse rocky paths with stunning cliffside views.
Experience the wild beauty of Samothraki’s coastline.
Swim in the untouched waters of Vatos Beach.

Cycling Tips for Samothraki

Best Time to Cycle: Spring and autumn offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and blooming landscapes.
Hydration and Nutrition: Carry plenty of water, energy bars, and snacks to fuel your rides, especially during summer.
Gear: Use a hybrid or mountain bike for better handling on rugged terrains. Wear a helmet, gloves, and breathable clothing.
Navigation: Download offline maps or use cycling-specific apps to avoid getting lost.
Respect Nature: Stick to marked trails and avoid disturbing wildlife.

Recommended Cycling Apps for Samothraki

Komoot: Perfect for planning and navigating cycling routes on Samothraki. It includes offline maps and tailored recommendations for mountain biking and road cycling.
Strava: A favorite among cyclists for tracking rides, analyzing performance, and discovering popular routes shared by other cyclists.
Trailforks: Ideal for mountain biking, this app provides detailed trail maps, difficulty ratings, and user reviews for routes.
Ride with GPS: Offers turn-by-turn navigation and route planning features tailored for cycling enthusiasts.
Maps.me: An offline map app with detailed paths, including some lesser-known trails on Samothraki.
Outdooractive: Combines route planning with information on elevation, difficulty, and scenic highlights.

Mountain Biking Adventures

For adrenaline seekers, Samothraki boasts mountain biking trails that test endurance and technical skills. Some recommended paths include:

Therma to Mount Saos Base: A challenging climb with rugged terrain, offering sweeping views of the island.
Ano Meria to Kerasies Off-Road Trail: A technical route through dense forests and rocky clearings.
Kamariotissa to Livadi: A mixed-terrain ride combining off-road trails and scenic coastal paths.

Why Cycle in Samothraki?

Cycling on Samothraki is more than just an activity—it’s a journey through the island’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and tranquil atmosphere. Whether you're exploring the rugged cliffs along the coast, the serenity of its villages, or the lush forests, every ride is an unforgettable adventure. Equipped with the right tools and knowledge, you’re ready to discover the hidden gems of this enchanting island on two wheels.