Bike and Moped

You'll find rentals in just about any town on the tourist trail. Expect to pay about €25 a day for a 50cc moped, for which you will need to present only a valid driver's license; law requires a motorcycle license to rent larger bikes. Fees usually cover insurance, but only for repairs to the bike, and usually with a deductible of at least €500. The law mandates that you wear a helmet, despite what you may think from observing the locals. Be careful—the casualty departments of hospitals are full of over-eager tourists every year.

Bicycles are available to rent in most resorts, and are offered by many hotels and car rental companies. For the more adventurous, mountain bike and road tours are available.

Contacts

Blue Sea Rentals. Kosmo Zoutou 5–7, Heraklion, Crete, 71202. 28102/21215; www.bluesearentals.com.

Olympic Bike. Offering a wide range of tours for all abilities, from gentle downhill family rides to hardcore treks in the Ida and Lefka Ori mountain ranges, Olympic Bike can also arrange rental and hotel delivery in most areas. Clued-up guides seems to know every cycling trail in Crete and, more importantly, the best places to stop for refreshment in the heat. Prices from €30. Nikeas 48, Rethymnon, Crete, 74100. 28310/72383; www.olympicbike.com.