Welcome to the Peloponnesus, the heartland of Greek history!

 

We'll start near Corinth and then cycle across the northern part of the Peloponnesus. This region is rife with sites of ancient history: Corinth (where the apostle Paul preached), Nemea (where the Olympic games were originally held), Mycene (legendary castle of the great warrior Agamemnon), Epidauros (a beautiful theatre) and finally to Olympia (where it all started from 754 BC). We will visit them all!

 

We’ll also explore Nafplion and the Lousios valley, as well as the areas from the eastern coastline across the hills and into the woods are called Arcadia. Here, the mythological Pan and his troops would roam for pleasure– it's a landscape we'll also have the pleasure of roaming. 

 

The riding ends in Olympia; nothing can beat the ancient remnants of the first Olympic Games! The last night at Athens Airport enables you to book your return flight at any time you like.

​

​

Bicycling

Moderate to difficult riding, with hills (particularly in the middle of the trip, but framed by flatter days). Most days are between 35 to 40 miles of riding. Some days are shorter for sightseeing.  

 

Pricing: 

Trip price includes 6 dinners and all breakfasts, accommodations in mainly 4-star hotels (one 5-star and one 3-star hotel) in Vrahati, Nafplio, Tripoli, Demitsana, Olympia and Athens Airport; all accommodations (3 two-night stays, 1 three-night stay and 2 one-night stays). 

​

Arrival and Departure

Pick up at Athens Airport and downtown, drop off at Athens airport.

 

Day by Day

• Vrahati (2 nights):  5-star resort just outside modern Corinth, ride to see the impressive ruins and interesting museum of ancient Corinth. Ride to ancient Nemea, with a great stadium (games were being held here before Olympia got popular).
   

• Nafplio (3 nights): Well-preserved historical town at the sea, considered the most beautiful of Peloponnesian towns. Ride to Epidauros to visit the fantastic ancient theatre. Ride to Mycene to visit the imprressive stronghold of Agamemnon, immortalized by Homer.
   

• Tripoli (1 night):  Ride from the coast into the rugged mountains, fantastic views and scenery, enjoy a picnic lunch, explore Tripoli.
   

• Demitsana (2 nights): Visit to an impressive watermill complex (with ingenious gunpowder making facilities). Next day: Ride to the Lousios Valley, a rugged landscape in a deep valley where there are monasteries, some hewn into the rocks.
   

• Olympia (2 nights): Gorgeous and spectacular but not always easy ride from Demitsana to Olympia. Round trip through the Olympia area, wine tasting at a local family farm, party evening with traditional Greek music. 

​

• Athens Airport (1 night): Morning visit to the Olympic Games grounds, which date back to 754 BC. Transfer to luxury Athens Airport hotel.  Enjoy a great farewell dinner.