While Crete is an incredibly welcoming place, the first stage of The Minotour is anything but.

Named after the architect of the labyrinth, Stage 1's route throws you into the maze of unpaved roads that make Crete special. With no idea as to where it might lead them, riders will have . Getting them to navigate and tackle over 50km of varying and rugged terrain that make Crete special.

After paying homage to the site that started it all - Knossos - riders will venture into the mountains for the first time as they climb into the surrounding heights of the Ida Mountains, far above Heraklion. Up here the roads twist and wind, and riders will pedal their way through challenging climbs and around rocky crags before descending back down towards Rethymnon via the infamous Arkardi Monastery. Breathtaking views of the Cretan Riviera await.