Bourolos Pass Road EP1 on Crete Island Greece

The road section discussed here is located on the island of Crete (Κρήτη), Greece's largest island with an area of 9,980.56 square kilometers. The road runs entirely on this island, starting near the village of Επισκοπή (Episkopi). It traverses mountainous terrain, including the Bourolos Pass at an elevation of 807 meters (2,648 feet). This pass is a notable geographic feature of the route. The road is situated within the broader region of Crete, known for its diverse landscapes and historical significance. An interactive map showing the exact route of this road section can be found at the end of the article.

The road, designated as Επαρχιακή Οδός 1 (EP1), extends approximately 15.4 kilometers (9.5 miles). It is a mountain pass road with a moderate level of curviness, rated at 1.68 on a scale where 3 indicates extreme twistiness. The surface is asphalt with a quality rating of 4.3 out of 5, indicating a generally smooth and well-maintained pavement suitable for motorcycle touring.

Regarding lane configuration, about 45% of the road consists of a single lane, while approximately 34% has two lanes. The road width varies, with the majority (about 75%) being wide enough to comfortably accommodate vehicles, 18% of the road is of medium width, and a small portion (3%) is narrow. The route passes through inhabited areas for roughly 16.3% of its length, offering occasional encounters with local settlements.

The elevation ranges from a low point of 148 meters (485 feet) to a high point of 812 meters (2,664 feet), with the Bourolos Pass itself reaching 807 meters (2,648 feet). The road includes viewpoints that provide riders with opportunities to stop and appreciate the surrounding landscape.

The defining feature of this road section is the Bourolos Pass, a mountain pass that provides a natural crossing through the mountainous terrain of Crete. The pass is situated at an elevation of 807 meters (2,648 feet) and is a key point along the EP1 route. The road’s alignment through this pass offers a moderately twisty ride, suitable for riders looking for a balance between technical riding and steady cruising.

Along the route, there are two notable viewpoints that serve as attractions for travelers. These viewpoints offer panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys, enhancing the riding experience with visual rewards. The presence of these viewpoints indicates the road’s integration with the natural landscape and its appeal to riders interested in both the journey and the destination.

Currently, there is no information indicating seasonal or event-related closures for motorcycles on this road. However, as it is a mountain pass road, riders should be aware that winter conditions could affect accessibility, especially at higher elevations like Bourolos Pass. It is advisable to check local sources before planning a trip during winter months.

There are no tolls or entrance fees associated with this road section. Toll conditions may change in the future, so riders should verify current information through official Greek transport or tourism websites. For more details on road tolls and fees in Greece, riders can consult the official Greek Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport website or local travel advisories.

This article has detailed the Bourolos Pass section of the EP1 road on Crete, highlighting its moderate curviness, good surface quality, and mountain pass characteristics. The road offers a mix of riding conditions with single and two-lane segments, wide road widths, and scenic viewpoints. It is suitable for motorcyclists seeking a varied ride through mountainous terrain on Greece's largest island.

An interactive map showing the road section discussed can be found below, providing a visual reference for planning your ride.