Bike to Gyaliskari Beach

Gyaliskari is one of the most beautiful beaches at the southwest of Crete, near the small town of Palaiochora. It is approximately 4km away from the town and the route is perfect to cycle.

Once in Pakaiochora, if you haven't brought your own bike, you can rent one as there are numerous bike rentals. In the description, I have marked as a starting point the main street of the town where you can find two or three bike rentals.

The road to Gyaliskari starts from the seafront of Palaiochora where you can follow the road signs to Anydri village. The first part of the route towards Gyaliskari follows the coastal paved road towards the said village and it it really enjoyable as you will be passing by fields with olives trees, small rivers and bridges. After about 2km you will encounter a cross road with a dirt road. There you have to turn right on the dirt road. This road will eventually take you to the beach after approximately another two kilometers. This is the best part of the ride, as you will be cycling above the sea and vistas are amazing, especially if you choose to cycle early in the morning or during the sunset.

The dirt road has gravel and sand, therefore you have to use a mountain bike. Apart from one or two short ascents, all the rest of the road is flat (or downhill). As such you only have to be reasonably fit. 

Once you arrive to Gyaliskari, there are actually three beaches. The first two you encounter have large pebbles and crystal clear waters. Apart from that they are secluded and there are no facilities and few people as well, so you may enjoy the beach to yourself. (note: there used to be a small canteen but when I last visited the place it was closed, however this means that it is possible that someones reopens it in the future).

The third beach is on the left side and you will see some signs naming it "Sunny Beach". This beach has both sand and pebbles and it is also very nice. The main advantage for me is that in Sunny beach there are a lot of trees so you can find natural shade. There are also facilities on this beach, so you can get food or drinks and also sun beds. Although, cycling to Gyaliskari won't take you long, here you can find water and snacks, if you don't want to carry them with you.

To get back to Palaiochora, you follow the same route.

I should not that this route is very enjoyable to cycle at all seasons (even in winter days if the conditions permit it) even if you don't plan to swim at the beach. I have done multiple times in winter/spring/autumn, when there is almost no one on the road and it is pure joy!

Also, once on the dirt road, you will be cycling just above the sea. Besides the beach at the end of the road (Gyaliskari) there are numerous small or larger spots, where you can stop and swim and these in most cases are not preferred by people, so you can enjoy them entirely on your own.

Also as the overall cycle time is not long and the distance is not too large, it is excellent to do this with your family.