Greece - Island-hopping in the Ionian Islands

Depending on the arrival time, one could immediately test the bike. You could cycle to the church on top of the Ano Gerakari hill. The route is ideal to get familiarized with the gears and during descend with the breaks. You could also take a dip in the blue waters, at the beach nearby, or just stay around the hotel pool.

Hotel (example): Hotel Zante Garden
Cycling distance: 9km or 12km (optional)

Before you’ll set off and start the bike Odyssey, the local representatives will tell you all about the coming week. After packing your cases a wonderful route is designed, running over narrow paved roads through olive groves and vineyards. You’ll cycle from village to village; be aware the road may be blocked by crossing sheep and goats. In the quaint village of Macherado you could have lunch before setting of the capitol of the island. Here you’ll be reunited with your luggage while you’re expected to board the ferry. Via the mainland of Greece, the ferry sets its course to the harbor of Poros on the island of Kefalonia. On the pier you’ll be greeted by the hotel owner and here you’ll stay for the night.

Hotel (example): Astir Rooms
Cycling distance: 26km

In the fresh morning mist, just after check-out, a serious climb follows. Your reward will be cool water from the well at a little church on top of the summit. Rolling over a gallery road with amazing views, along the slopes of the majestic Mount Aenos, ends in the capitol of Argostoli. This town of stately avenues with palm trees is well worth a visit. The city has been Venetian for centuries and Italian influences are present everywhere. The central 'piazza' is a place to see and especially to be seen.

Hotel (example): Hotel King Agamemnon
Cycling distance: 40km

Argostoli is a lovely place to have a break. It offers several beaches, with your bike just a short ride away. Real gems are the popular sandy beaches of Lassi or the remote beaches of Gradakia (which are tucked away by coves and caves). Keen cyslists could cycle to the Mycenean wall of Krani, hidden up in the hills. Or challenge yourself by cycling the tough ride to the monastery of Kipourion, hanging above the cliffs, on westcoast of the peninsula of Pelaki. But, you could also park your bike for a day, shop on the hightstreet Lithostroto. Discover the huge Caretta Caretta sea turtles, which can always be spotted behind the vegetable market of town. Or stroll over the Dam along the Koutavos lagune and rent a small electric boat around the bay.

Hotel (example): Hotel King Agamemnon
Distance: 9km / 11km / 30km

Today it’s going to be a full day, but also one of the best cycling days. The morning starts with a short ferry service to the opposite side of the bay. From the town of Lixouri the route follows north along the tidal of Livadi. Again, the road will descend, but not for very long. Your reward is the spectacular view of Mirtos Beach, with its white pebbled sharply contrasting the azure blue water, it is one of the most photographed beaches of Greece. With a long ascend through the green and fertile valley of Pilaros, you’ll end up in the fishing village of Agia Efimia.

The afternoon ferry to Ithaka will take just half an hour and arrives on the pier of Piso Aetos. Immediately the road will go straight uphill for almost two kilometres, during the descent you have a sudden and fantastic view of the main town of Ithaca. Vathi is stunningly sheltered in a natural bay. Enjoy this charming town, wonder through the many narrow streets or enjoy a cold frappe coffee on one of the outdoor cafes. Visit the small archaeological museum with local ancient finds from early as Mycenaean times. During the evening Vathi very lively village and you can enjoy fresh caught fish in one of the traditional fish tavernas on the quay.

Hotel (example): Vaso Polymnia Apartments
Cycling distance: 56km

You could have a rest day, chill on your balcony or enjoy beach and pool. Although, you’d miss out on a great cycling day. Today’s optional cycling itinerary will take you to the small fishing port of Frikes. There is a choice between two routes, one via the monastery of Katheron that resides on the top of Mount Neriton. The other is a slightly less challenging route along the coast, with fantastic views of Kefalonia on the other side of the sea. Eventually both routes will meet in the beautiful little village of Stavros. Once upon a time Odysseus, the hero of the epic tale “the Odyssey” by Homer, presumed to have lived here. With a walk of about 4 kilometres, you will get to ruins of a Mycenaean palace deeply hidden in an olive grove, which the
islanders believe to be the Palace of Odysseus. After continuing on bike you will end up in Kioni, this lovely Venetian harbour town is on the nomination list for Unesco heritage for its authentic monumental harbour front.

Hotel (example): Vaso Polymnia Apartments
Cycling distance: 0km / 24km / 34km

Early morning the ferry will take you back to Kefalonia. From Sami you will follow the last challenging bike route. A climb, with thankful shade of cypress and pine trees, runs over the pass of Digaleto. The strenuous climb is soon forgotten as you zoom down the slopes. An impressive canyon forms the entrance to the port of Poros, where the ferry (via Kilini) departs to Zakynthos. In the late afternoon you’ll arrive in the port of Zakynthos town. Upon arrival, your bicycle will be returned and you could stroll to your hotel. The best way to celebrate your last night is in one of the traditional tavernas where Kantades are sung. These local songs praise the beauty of the Ionian Islands, with everything you’ve seen you could easily sing-along.

Hotel (example): Hotel Strada Marina
Distance: 33km

Unfortunately this is your final day on the tour. You are transferred to the airport in time to catch your flight home.