The ~47-kilometer route from Sises to Astiraki is an expansive, rhythm-filled journey that bridges the northern coast with the rugged, rolling hinterlands at the eastern foothills of Mount Psiloritis. Tracing a mix of scenic secondary roads and sections of the historic Old National Road, this fully paved B-road run transitions seamlessly through traditional farming valleys, dramatic limestone landscapes, and quiet mountainside settlements.

1. From the Coast to the Old Highway (Sises to Damasta)
The route starts at Sises, a village nestled just inland from the northern coast. The road immediately heads south, climbing through the olive-strewn hills to pass through the quiet village of Aloides. Shortly after, you join the sweeping, rhythmic tarmac of the Old National Road heading east. This section brings you into Damasta, a historic village built amphitheatrically in a beautiful, green mountain valley.

2. Rolling Through the Mountain Corridor (Damasta to Tylisos)
Continuing east on the old highway, the road flows through a striking mountain corridor towards Marathos, a village confined by summits and famous for its local agricultural traditions. Leaving Marathos, the route offers a highly engaging drive with wide, sweeping bends and expansive views, descending toward the lower eastern slopes of Psiloritis until you reach Tylisos—a lively town rich with thousands of years of history and home to a prominent Minoan archaeological site.

3. Climbing Into the Foothills (Tylisos to Astiraki)
At Tylisos, the journey changes direction, breaking away from the main valley to climb west into the higher, rugged territory of the Malevizi region. The road winds past the quiet settlement of Kamaraki before making its final stretch into Astiraki. Perched at an altitude of roughly 550 meters, this authentic mountain village marks a serene, scenic end to the trip, offering crisp mountain air and sweeping views over the surrounding peaks.

Whispers of the Foothills: Local Secrets
The Doxa Cave: Located near Marathos, right beneath a local tavern along your route, lies this impressive cave featuring beautiful stalactite and stalagmite formations that are easily accessible for quick exploration.
Ancient Tylisos: The three excavated Minoan mansions on the edge of Tylisos highlight the town's immense age; its name has remained completely unchanged for over 3,400 years.
Chainospilios Cave: Situated near the hamlet of Kamaraki just before the end of the route, this magnificent natural monument features an impressive gallery of stalagmite columns and served as a crucial local shelter during historical conflicts.

Rider’s Notes
Road Width: The sections utilizing the Old National Road offer wide, comfortable two-lane asphalt with excellent visibility. The stretches connecting Sises and the final climb from Tylisos to Astiraki revert to narrower, winding provincial B-roads.
Surface: Fully paved asphalt throughout. The grip level along the old highway segments is generally very good, making it a highly satisfying cruise, though you should watch for typical mountain debris or gravel on the tighter provincial curves.
Caution: While the road is heavily paved and smooth, it acts as a major artery for local agricultural traffic. Be prepared for slow-moving trucks, local 4x4s, or occasional livestock near the roadsides as you get closer to Astiraki.