The best MTB trails in Σελάκανο Ιεράπετρας

There are several mountain bike routes in the Σελάκανο Ιεράπετρας region, offering a range of experiences. Currently, komoot lists 5 distinct mountain bike tours in the area, with more being added by the community regularly.

The terrain in Σελάκανο Ιεράπετρας is characterized by its wild beauty, featuring dense pine forests, rugged gorges, and challenging mountainous landscapes. You'll encounter a network of forest roads, particularly within the significant Selakano Forest, along with steep slopes and varied paths suitable for mountain biking.

While many routes in Σελάκανο Ιεράπετρας are rated moderate to difficult, the region does offer paths that can be enjoyed by those with good fitness and some riding experience. For a moderate option, consider the Myrtos Beach loop from Mirtos, which explores coastal surroundings and is 43.8 km long.

Experienced mountain bikers will find several demanding routes. The Myrtos Beach – Estavroménos loop from Mirtos is a difficult 51.6 km trail leading through mountainous landscapes, often taking over 5 hours to complete. Another challenging option is the Sarakina Gorge – Myrtos Beach loop from Mirtos, covering 40.2 km with significant elevation changes.

The region's climate generally allows for mountain biking during many months. Spring and autumn are often ideal, offering milder temperatures and lush scenery. Summer can be hot, so early morning or late afternoon rides are recommended, especially on more exposed trails.

Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in Σελάκανο Ιεράπετρας are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Myrtos Beach – Mirtos Beach loop from Mirtos is a moderate 36.7 km route featuring varied terrain and significant elevation gain.

The Selakano Forest is part of the Natura 2000 network, making it a significant ecological area. You might observe various bird species, including birds of prey like buzzards and hawks, especially near the vertical rock walls close to Metaxohori. The forest is predominantly composed of Pinus brutia pines, maples, firs, and cypresses.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You'll ride through the ancient Selakano Forest and encounter magnificent gorges and steep slopes. Numerous springs with clear, gurgling waters are present, such as one at the crossroads between Selakano and Metaxohori. While not directly on every route, the broader Ierapetra region offers attractions like Myrtos Beach and the Sarakinas Gorge.

The village of Selakano itself offers traditional taverns where you can refuel. Guesthouses like Pezoulia provide comfortable stays with amenities and traditional cuisine, offering a relaxing end to an active day of riding.

The mountain bike routes in Σελάκανο Ιεράπετρας are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 3 reviews. Over 50 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the challenging landscapes and the natural beauty of the Selakano Forest.

Yes, for those looking to explore the Sarakinas Gorge area, the Sarakina Gorge – Myrtos Beach loop from Mirtos is a difficult 40.2 km mountain bike route that incorporates this impressive natural feature into its challenging terrain.

Yes, the Trouloú loop from Amiras is a difficult 30.4 km mountain bike route that starts and ends near Amiras, offering a challenging ride with significant elevation changes.