Cycling In Greece

Day 1
Arrival in Athens, transfer to hotel in Athens centre. After meeting with our leader, there is time to walk around the Plaka, arguably the most picturesque part of Athens.

Day 2
In the morning, we will explore some of the main sights in Athens by bike. Our route around the city takes us at a relaxed pace to some of the must-see sites: the Temple of Olympian Zeus & Hadrian's Arch, the Roman Forum & Tower of the Winds, the Ancient Agora, Kerameikos, the Ancient Theatre of Dionysus and towering Acropolis. Athens is built on the slopes of a number of hills and valleys, and although the distances are not huge on this tour there are a number of ups and downs before our final descent to Piraeus harbour. Here we catch the ferry across the Argosaronic Gulf (approximately 2h15min) to Poros Island.
In Poros, we cycle around town before heading to one of the many beautiful beaches where we can enjoy a refreshing swim. After dinner, we cross to the Peloponnese mainland and spend the night in Galatas.
Cycling distances: 18kms around Athens, 20 to 30kms in Poros.

Day 3
Today's ride follows the coast north west to Epidaurus, one of the famous places in the Peloponnese. The undulating route takes us through olive groves and quiet hamlets, with astounding views of the Aegean Sea. The views are just reward for the number of short ascents along the way which eventually lead to a 5km long descent in to the ancient city of Epidaurus. Palia Epidaurus (or 'Old Epidaurus') to give it its full name is built around a natural harbour and is our base for the night.
Cycling distance: 40kms.

Day 4
There is free time this morning for an optional visit to the ancient site of Epidaurus before getting on our bikes for the gentle, undulating ride along quiet roads to the seaside town of Tolos. The route starts with a 3km ascent but is then mostly straight and gently descending. The last 6kms offer some beautiful views of the sea.
Epidaurus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its amphitheatre that was built in honour of Asclepius, the God of Medicine and son of Apollo and Coronis. The huge theatre, renowned for its size, symmetry and acoustics held up to 15,000 spectators in its peak.
Cycling distance: 39kms.

Day 5
Leaving Tolo we make our way to Nafplio, one of the most beautiful and picturesque cities of Greece and capital of Modern Greece in the early 1800s. Situated on the hillsides at the northern end of the Argolic Gulf the town contains numerous neoclassical buildings as well as the Palamidi Castle. Riding to the heart of the Peloponnese, we leave the coast behind and make our way to the world famous site of Mycenae. The imposing Lion Gate, dating back to 1350-1200 BC awaits us on our arrival. Outside the walls we can see many of the wonders Mycenae is known for: the vault-shaped tombs of Lions, Aegisthus and Clytemnestra, and the Treasury of Atreus. An optional visit of the site is possible (2km ascent from the town).
Cycling distance: 37kms.

Day 6
A challenging start to today's ride see us climb to the village of Nemea. The town is nowadays famous for its exceptional wine and we get the opportunity to visit one of the wineries, see the process and perhaps taste (a little!) before we continue on quiet country roads to Corinth and then onto Loutraki where we will spend the night.
For those who wish to do a little extra, it is possible to cycle to the Acrocorinth site for an optional visit.
Cycling distance: 62kms.

Day 7
Before heading to Corinth, from where we catch the suburban railway back to Athens, there will be the opportunity to cycle to the Lake Vouliagmeni. After some time to swim in the lake, we cycle back to Loutraki and then onto Corinth.
Back in Athens we enjoy a free evening to sample some more delicious greek food and maybe have a last walk in the city centre.
Cycling distance: 45kms.

Day 8
Transfer to Athens airport; fly to London.