Macedonia offers a surprising variety of bike touring options that cater to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re after a rugged mountain challenge or a scenic leisurely ride through charming villages, this region delivers. One standout is the Olympus Mountain Biking tour, perfect for those craving a mountain adventure with natural landscapes, and the Half Day e-Bike Tour in Thassos Villages and Mountains offers a relaxed yet scenery-packed ride through unspoiled island villages. Both tours highlight the region’s outdoor appeal, but each offers a different experience—whether you prefer challenging climbs or easygoing sightseeing.
In this list, we explore two of the best bike tours in Macedonia, each with unique appeal. From an exhilarating mountain biking trip to Mount Olympus to an easy, scenic e-bike ride exploring Thassos’s mountain villages and coastline, we’ll help you decide which adventure suits your fitness level, interests, and travel style.
1. Olympus Mountain Biking – Rides tailored to you
Set out on a thrilling mountain biking experience around Mount Olympus, with a tour that adapts to your skills. The ride covers roughly 4 hours, with options for small or larger guided groups. The tour includes cycling equipment such as bikes and helmets, and your guide tailors the route based on your ability—whether you’re an experienced rider or a casual cyclist. The highlight is the mountain’s lake at 1350m altitude, which you reach after about 2-3 hours of riding through forests of fir, oak, and pine.
What makes this tour special is its flexibility and personalized approach. The guide, Thomas, is praised for customizing the experience, making it suitable for different skill levels, while also providing photos and videos of your journey to relive the adventure. The route combines country roads and dirt trails, offering a good mix of terrain. The trip starts early, with a pickup from selected hotels, making logistics easy for travelers based in nearby accommodations.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want an active day with a tailored route, scenic views, and the chance to explore Mount Olympus’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning. It’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy mountain biking and want a memorable, personalized experience.
2. Half Day e-Bike Tour in Thassos Villages and Mountains
For a more relaxed but equally scenic outing, the Half Day e-Bike Tour in Thassos is a fabulous choice. Covering between 3 to 5 hours, this tour takes you through three mountain villages and three beachfront settlements, plus a visit to the Panteleimon Monastery. The e-bike allows you to enjoy the scenery without too much effort, making it suitable for those less keen on intense physical activity.
The ride starts in the picturesque village of Kallirachi, where you can soak in views of the sea. It continues with gravel and paved roads leading to the monastery of Panteleimon, perched at the highest point of the tour. From there, you’ll visit Kazaviti, a lush village with cafes and taverns, and cycle to Sotiras, a mountain village with a quaint tavern. The route offers changing landscapes and chances to meet local goats along the way. This tour is praised for its stunning views, laid-back vibe, and accessibility—especially if you’re interested in combining cultural sights with outdoor activity.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a scenic, low-impact ride that highlights Thassos’s best village scenery and coastal views, with an easygoing pace and plenty of photo opportunities.
How to Choose Between These Tours
Deciding between these options depends on your fitness level, time, and what kind of experience you want. If you’re after a challenging mountain adventure, the Olympus Mountain Biking tour offers a personalized route through impressive forests and alpine scenery. It’s suited for active travelers comfortable on uneven terrain and looking for a full, engaging ride.
On the other hand, if you prefer a leisurely exploration of charming villages and coastal scenery, the Half Day e-Bike Tour in Thassos provides a less physically demanding but very picturesque experience. It’s great for those with limited time or less confidence on rough terrain, yet eager to see the island’s highlights.
Both tours offer excellent value—Olympus’s trip at $130 provides a full, guided experience with photos included, while Thassos’s tour at $86 offers a relaxed yet scenic outing. Think about your fitness level, your interest in natural versus cultural sights, and your preferred pace when choosing.
How to Choose
If you’re looking for a physically demanding day with breathtaking mountain views, go for the Olympus Mountain Biking tour. It’s particularly suited for those with some biking experience who want a tailored adventure. If you prefer a more relaxed ride that still shows off stunning scenery and tiny villages, the Thassos e-bike tour is perfect. For those on a budget or with limited time, the shorter duration of the Thassos tour makes it appealing.
Remember to consider the weather—hot days might make the mountain ride more strenuous, so plan accordingly. Both tours are best booked in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and ensure a smooth experience.
Final Thoughts
Macedonia’s diverse landscape lends itself well to bike touring, whether you want the challenge of mountain trails or the ease of scenic village rides. The Olympus Mountain Biking tour delivers a rugged, personalized outdoor adventure, while the Thassos e-bike tour offers a gentle, scenic exploration of island life. Both are excellent choices depending on your fitness and interest.
For active travelers craving a mountain ride, the Olympus trip promises a memorable day with a guide who customizes the route. If you prefer an easier, photo-worthy journey through traditional villages and seaside views, the Thassos e-bike tour fits the bill. Booking early is advisable, especially in summer months, to secure your preferred date and ensure an enjoyable ride. Happy cycling!
