Greece is bursting with excitement and renewal. Political and
economic stability, coupled with Greece’s new status in the European
Community, help explain a vibrant transformation. The Olympic ideal
still resonates, accenting the trinity of mind, body, and spirit.
White marble columns, gnarled olive trees, clear blue skies - these
are reflections of Greece. Sunsets radiate along spectacular
coastlines. Archeological monuments reflect Greece's glorious past.
This is the essence of Greece highlighted by your tour guide.
Our route avoids difficult mountains and traffic near Athens. Most
cycling is along the scenic coast. Beginning cyclists in good
physical shape can negotiate the tour, with the challenge of a few
hills.
The Island of Zakinthos with lovely beaches, intricate network of
roads, and friendly people, is a highlight.
Highlights
Archeological sites
Theater at Epidauros
Acrocorinth
Poseidon Palace
Keri sea caves
Hotel Europa
Alphios River
Ancient Olympic stadium
Museum at Olympia
Itinerary
Day One
Afternoon arrival in Ancient Corinth. Wander in the footsteps of St.
Paul, Periander, and Nero. Warm-up ride. Walking tour of Ancient
Corinth with your tour guide.
Day Two
Ride through small villages and vineyards to Ancient Nemean athletic
and religious site. Your guide will discuss Greek history and
significance of sport in ancient life. (36 miles) Late afternoon
hike up the Acrocorinth, most natural fortification in Europe and
worship site for Aphrodite. (2 hour hike)
Day Three
Tour archeological sites at Mycenae and Epidauros. Your guide will
bring to life the ancient Myceneans, chronicled by Homer’s Iliad and
Odyssey, as well as the life of controversial excavator Henry
Schliemann. Lunch in quaint Nauplion, visit famous theater at
Epidauros. Option to visit ruins and museum in Ancient Corinth.
Day Four
Follow Corinthian Gulf to beach village of Diakofto. Scenic cog rail
train ride to mountain village Kalavrita. (35 or 48 miles)
Day Five
Exquisite ride through mountain villages to 5-star luxury class
Poseidon Palace seaside hotel. Sample “old Greece.” Brake for sheep
and goats! (36 or 47 miles)
Day Six
Transfer to Port of Killini; ferry to beautiful Island of Zakinthos
(three night stay); bicycle through vineyards, olive groves, small
villages. Wine tasting; traditional pottery. (23 miles)
Day Seven
Explore remote regions and spectacular vistas, including the most
photographed overlook in Greece. (“The Shipwreck”)
(36 or 49 miles)
Day Eight
Ride across the island for small boat ride to Keri sea caves. Swim
off the boat around the caves. Optional wind surfing, scuba diving.
(35 miles)
Day Nine
Cycle to Olympia, site of ancient Olympic Games. Splendid 4-star A
class Hotel Europa overlooks village and Alphios River.
(25 or 51 miles)
Day Ten
Morning ride past ancient Olympic stadium, along Alphios River to
village of Vassilaki. Glimpses of “old Greece” as you encounter
flocks of sheep and goats, as well as old men and women travelling
by donkey. Afternoon guided tour of archeological site and museum at
Olympia. (20 or 35 miles)
Day Eleven
Transfer to Ancient Corinth via the picturesque Peloponnesos. Mid -
day arrival.
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