13°C
The 1st cultural e-bike experience in Crete!
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Crete, tracing the footsteps of Soulouksina, a young woman whose poignant love story and connection to the land echo through the ages. Mounted atop the eco-friendly and effortlessly stylish Specialized Como e-bikes, our adventure begins in the quaint village of Episkopi, nestled amidst the rugged beauty of the island’s interior.
Pedaling along winding pathways and sun-dappled olive groves, we immerse ourselves in the rich tapestry of Soulouksina’s world. Guided by local historians and storytellers, we unravel the tale of her forbidden love with a shepherd, a narrative steeped in the traditions and customs of 19th-century Cretan life.
Our journey takes us past the weathered remnants of Soulouksina’s ancestral home, where the whispers of bygone days linger amidst the crumbling stone walls. Here, amidst the tranquil embrace of nature, we pause to reflect on the enduring bond between the Cretan people and their land, a bond forged through centuries of stewardship and reverence.
Continuing our odyssey, we traverse the picturesque landscape of Pediada’s Province, where ancient churches and timeless vistas beckon us forth. Amidst the serenity of these sacred sites, we delve into the spiritual and cultural heritage of Crete, marveling at the architectural splendor and the profound sense of history that permeates the air.
As the sun begins its descent, casting a warm glow upon the horizon, we turn homeward, our hearts alight with the memories of our journey. Returning to Episkopi, we gather at the village’s beloved kafeneion, where laughter and camaraderie abound. Here, amidst the rustic charm of this quintessential Cretan gathering place, we unite to prepare a traditional Cretan aperitivo, a feast for the senses comprised of locally sourced delights and time-honored recipes.
Savoring the flavors of the land and the company of newfound friends, we toast to the spirit of Soulouksina and the enduring legacy of her love story. For in her tale, we find not only a glimpse into the past but also a timeless reminder of the importance of living in harmony with nature and embracing the principles of sustainability and stewardship.
As twilight descends upon Episkopi, we bid farewell to this enchanting journey, our hearts brimming with gratitude for the memories shared and the connections forged. And as we depart, we carry with us the echoes of Soulouksina’s world, a world where love, resilience, and the beauty of Crete endure for eternity.
The Rural Greece is an online portal that connects travellers with unique destinations and local businesses in the countryside, offering authentic experiences through activities that highlight nature, traditions and culture.
For the Rural Greece accessibility is fundamental to enhancing an inclusive tourism experience. Following the principles of inclusion and equality, the epaithros Rural Tourism Network and its member businesses are constantly working to enhance the tourism services provided, ensuring that all visitors have the opportunity to experience the authentic beauty of the Greek countryside.
Sustainability in tourism refers to a way of developing tourism that respects and protects the environment while strengthening the local economy and preserving cultural traditions. The aim of sustainable tourism is to provide unique and authentic experiences for visitors without harming the natural and social environment, while ensuring that local communities benefit from tourism activity.
This type of tourism is based on three pillars:
With sustainable tourism, visitors can have authentic experiences, knowing that the impact of tourism on the region is positive and lasting for future generations.
For Rural Greece, localism is one of the most important factors for the development of sustainable tourism, as it promotes a strong link between the tourism product and the local society, economy and culture. Through localism, visitors get the opportunity to explore authentic elements of the destination, such as local products, traditions and culture. This not only boosts the local economy, but also helps to sustain and strengthen local businesses, creating new jobs and supporting the development of local communities.
Furthermore, localism contributes to the sustainability of the tourism sector, as it reduces the use of resources from other regions and encourages the use of local goods and services, reducing the ecological footprint of tourism activities. Thus, integrating localism into tourism practices enhances sustainability awareness, both among visitors and local businesses, creating a more responsible and sustainable tourism destination.
