Pieria Joins Greece’s ‘Bike Friendly Destination’ Network

Photo source: NatTour

Pieria, situated in the southern part of Central Macedonia, was recently awarded the “Bike Friendly Destination” certification by NatTour and the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature (EEPF).

The recognition was presented during a ceremony at the finish line of the “2nd Pilgrimage Bicycle Race”, an event organized by the Holy Metropolis of Kitrous, Katerini and Platamonas, in collaboration with the Regional Unit of Pieria, the Municipality of Pydna-Kolindrou, and other local organizations.

Pieria’s inclusion in the EuroVelo 11 route

With a strong tradition of cycling, Pieria is set to become part of the developing EuroVelo 11 route, which connects destinations across Eastern Europe. The route will highlight key cultural and tourist sites within the regional unit, further establishing Pieria as a prime destination for cyclists.

Pieria has a long history of hosting major cycling events, including the Pan-European Downhill and Fourcross Race at the Elatohori ski center. Many of these events take place on the scenic slopes of Mount Olympus and the Pieria Mountains. In recent years, cycling tourism has seen a significant rise in popularity across the destination.

Pieria now an official Bike Friendly Destination

Photo source: NatTour

The “Bike Friendly Destination” seal was officially presented by NatTour General Manager Vicky Karantzavelou to Pieria Regional Unit Vice Governor Sofia Mavridou and President of the Pieria Tourism Development and Promotion Organization (POTAP) Giorgos Karalis.

“We are delighted to receive this seal as we continue our efforts to develop various forms of tourism in Pieria, guided by the principles of sustainability,” Mavridou said when receiving the recognition.

POTAP President Karalis highlighted the significance of the certification. “By being recognized as a Bicycle Friendly Destination, we are advancing the organized development of cycling tourism in Pieria, establishing a new segment within our alternative tourism market,” he said.

On her part, Karantzavelou from NatTour said that Pieria has made tremendous efforts to diversify its tourism offerings.

“The regional unit’s natural assets, including its stunning beaches and the iconic Mount Olympus, play a central role in this initiative,” she said.

Cycling destinations and routes in Pieria

Photo source: NatTour

According to NatTour, local authorities view cycling tourism as an ideal fit for Pieria, a destination that offers a unique combination of picturesque seashores and the towering peaks of Mount Olympus, Greece’s highest mountain.

In addition to the Elatochori ski resort, which transforms into a prime mountain biking destination during the summer, Pieria offers an exceptional seaside cycling route. This road stretches from the Agathoupolis wetlands in the north to the Neoi Pori residential area in the south, passing through charming villages, pristine beaches, archaeological sites, quaint ports, fish taverns, and cafes along the way.

Visitors staying in Katerini, the capital of the regional unit, can easily cycle from the city to nearby beaches such as Katerini Beach, Olympic Beach, Korinou beach, and Alykes Kitrous. The route also connects to surrounding residential suburbs, offering cyclists a wide variety of scenic experiences.