Seeing the island at your own leisure on the back of a bike is an unforgettable way to experience Rhodes. Cycling became popular on the island under Italian rule in the early part of the 20th century. They built a riding track at Diagoras Municipal Stadium and regularly used bikes to get around.
These days bikes can be rented all over the island and you can take any route you want at your own speed. But the best way to explore is to get on one of the many cycling tours that wander through the forest areas and nearby the tourist resorts. The beauty of getting on an organized tour is that you will have an opportunity to learn a bit about the history of the island. No matter if you are only a beginner or an experienced cyclist, these trips will get you off the main roads and out into the off the beaten tracks that wander through small villages and farmlands.
The outfits that run tours of the island will often arrange to show up at your hotel in the morning with bikes and protective gear all ready for you. They will make adjustments to the cycles so that you have the correct height and comfort level. They know the island well, and which roads and bike paths are in the best condition. Before you embark on a tour, simply discuss with them the difficulty in relation to your level of fitness. There are tours on dirt roads, paths, trails and rural asphalt roads. Most avoid main roads with regular traffic.
If you are already an accomplished cycler and want to make the adventure your own, you may want to consider one of the self guided options . A food place to start would be Rhodes town, where picking up a bike that suits you is quite easy. Just make sure everything is in good working order before you start. Some suggested rides might be the Butterfly Valley via Psinthos and Elousa, wine region of Kritinia and Embonas or the pine-wooded forest of Profitis Illias Mountain.
No matter where you choose to ride on the island, you will find a delight around every corner, with charming family run tavernas everywhere, quaint accommodation and friendly locals who are more than happy to show you some of the more interesting un-touristed spots of the island.