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CYCLING IN GREECE

This trip easily achieves the claims made in the overview’s description: beautiful landscapes, enthralling historical sites and outstanding food. There are some interesting cycling routes which include a few hills but you’re allowed to get up them in your own time and they provide some magnificent sights and fun downhill runs follow your effort.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

If you have the least interest in classical history and culture or enjoy spectacular Mediterranean seascapes you will find this holiday inspirational. Some of my highlights include: glimpses of the Acropolis as one cycles through Athens in the morning, the bike ride to the sanctuary of Hera at Melagavi, the home-cooked food at Mycenae, but every day provided more than one unforgettable high point and each evening the pleasure and enjoyment of good company.

What did you think of your group leader?

Christiana and Christos are excellent hosts for their country and great companions on the road and in the relaxed evenings. Christiana is very knowledgeable about the classical sites we visited and also a great guide to the gourmet events which were dinner every night. Christiana can teach you to dance (in the spirit of Zorba) too.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If you can manage it and you haven’t been there before: a couple of extra days in Athens are worthwhile. There’s obviously much to see and it’s a very lively city. And did I mention that the food and wine is plentiful, inexpensive and good?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Cycling in Greece

This is the Review of Amanda Hubbard. I think this holiday was the 20th trip I have taken with Exodus and most have been extremely good. This trip ranks as excellent, together with recent cycling holidays in Croatia and Romania. Not only did Helios, the Greek God of the Sun, smile on us and give us October days of sun, blue skies and gentle breezes, but we were also blessed with a friendly group of fellow travellers and 2 excellent guides, Yannis and Constantinos (Costos) and their boss, Yiorgos (George) from Head Office in Athens. It was amazing how much activity we crammed into each day and this was not just cycling, but visits to archaeological sites and museums and even a tour of a Nemea Winery. And we also had time to eat the most delicious food, which included picnics prepared by Costos and sumptuous meals at well chosen restaurants. I would recommend this holiday for those, who enjoy not only cycling but also soaking up sun and Greek culture.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The visits to three archaeological sites. Firstly the ancient Theatre at Epidaurus, with such good acoustics that someone at the top of the theatre can hear a coin drop. Secondly Nemea, which was visually very beautiful and where the Hellenic athletic games were held every 2 years. And lastly and surprisingly thanks to our inspirational guide, the Acropolis in Athens, which included the Erechtheion, the Parthenonand the Temple of Athena Nike. All the sites were in well kept grounds and those members of the European Union over 65 pay a reduced rate.

What did you think of your group leader?

We had 2 group leaders, Yannis and Constantinos (Cosmos). Yannis was the Group Leader on the bike and for giving us our daily briefings. He was well organised, warning us of all dangers and conscientious and solicitous of our needs. He arranged for return of items left at every hotel - we moved every day and usually left at 9am. I don't know how he managed the puntuality of 16 of us. And his knowledge of Greek Mythology and churches was excellent, but I still remain muddled! And Cosmos, the Gentle Giant, brought up the rear in the van and arranged the transfer of our luggage, gave rides to those who could not bear another hill and produced Greek salads in the middle of nowhere.. Truly both guides socialised with us and looked after us professionly and patiently, as did George from Head Office , who was charming companion on this holiday.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The usual advice, don't think you are going to lose weight on this trip despite all the walking and cycling uphill. Bring well soled shoes for the trip to the Acropolis - the marble is slippery. And Greece is a hilly country, so the route is more than undulating.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Just experience this holiday and the ancient wonders of the Peloponnese together with some Greek hills!

A wonderful holiday

Cycling in Greece provided a wonderful balance between absorbing the architecture and culture of Greece, both ancient and modern, and enjoying the beautiful landscapes and seascapes on two wheels. The organisation of the whole trip was excellent so that everything went very smoothly but without feeling over – organised. The route was hillier than I had first anticipated (although I should have known as the vertical ascent figure was provided for each day’s ride) but with the distances covered and the relaxed pace, it made for extremely pleasant riding. Add to this the warmth of the Greek people, the delicious Greek food and perhaps most importantly the calibre of our tour leaders and the warm companionship of our fellow cyclists and it truly was a wonderful holiday.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Too many to list!

What did you think of your group leader?

Both Yannis and Kostas were excellent. Yannis led the group on his bike and he clearly had a passion for all things Greek and an extensive knowledge of the history, politics, geography, geology ------- of Greece. Kostas drove the bus, sorted out any mechanical problems, provided delicious lunches and was a great back-up for Yannis. They were both warm, friendly and encouraging as well as being very efficient in the way they operated. A great team.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Amazing trip

I hadn't been on an Exodus cycling trip before but after this week I would definitely go again! Between the stunning scenery, delicious food and incredibly knowledgeable group leaders it was an amazing week that I would certainly recommend to anyone even if they have been to Greece before. We spent 5 days cycling, visiting some of Greece's most famous ancient sites and ending up in a small picturesque town on the coast every night other than at the end of Day 5 where we stayed in a lovely hotel up in the hills near Mycenae. We had a great group and all ate together in the evenings where our group leaders usually selected some typical Greek food for us to try which was delicious. All in all a really amazing trip.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Visiting Epidavros and cycling around the coast near Napflio

What did you think of your group leader?

Yannis and Constantinos were as good as we could have hoped as group leaders. Yannis had a huge amount of knowledge about all of the ancient sites we visited as well as excellent general knowledge on a number of other topics including politics, philosophy, art and geology so he was excellent company and could answer every question we threw at him. Constantinos drove the van behind us and prepared amazing lunches that were waiting for us every day as well as providing constant snacks and water when we stopped for breaks. He dealt with any bike issues that arose quickly and with great humour and was a real asset to the trip.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Cycling in Greece

A wonderful way to see Greece beyond just the beaches and the Acropolis - though you get those as well. Mostly it was small towns , back roads through orange & olive groves, and historical sites in the countryside. Hotels were, Athens aside, beautifully located and near-empty. Going for a swim in the sea to cool down after the day's cycling was a regular event. It was my first cycling holiday but I needn't have worried. I'm someone who cycles for an average 2-3 hours per week and the pace was fine with regular stops for water and snacks. Some steep hills but they were fairly short and the bikes had 24 gears so everyone just went up them slowly. One particularly long but not steep climb on the way from Galatas to Epidavros was the worst bit.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The cycle path cut into the rocky cliff along the coast from Nafplio, ending with a paddle and lunch at a shelter (from the sun!) at the far end of a sandy bay

What did you think of your group leader?

Yiannis the group leader was great - he was a fount of knowledge about all things Greek both ancient and modern. He also led the group at just the right pace. Kostas was the mechanic, support van driver, and lunch chef. Very friendly, he and Yiannis worked well together.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Padded shorts or a padded saddle cover!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

An excellent all-round trip

This was my first Exodus cycling trip and I was thoroughly impressed from start-to-finish. The trip involved five 50-70km days and a 6th day which involved a morning of rest in Loutraki and an afternoon/evening of sightseeing in Athens. We were on the road from 9am -5/6pm each day; stints of cycling along beautiful coastal or mountain roads were split up with fantastic lunches, visits to cultural sites including the theatre at Epidavros and the citadel at Mycenae, and a trip to a winery. We ate as a group in excellent restaurants each evening, and the hotels were all comfortable. There were two nights in Athens (one at the start, one at the end), four in coastal resorts (good for swimming) and one in Mycenae, where the hotel had a pool.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Cycling the coastal path at Nafplio!

What did you think of your group leader?

Yannis and Kwstas did an excellent job all week. Yannis lead the group on his bike and provided plenty of insight into both ancient and modern Greek history. Kwstas followed the group in the van and proved an excellent mechanic and chef, and was v.fun to be around!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Cycling in Greece

A great trip with a mix to keep everyone happy. The support team were excellent and there was never a dull moment.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Taking a plunge in the sea following a day of riding and just before dinner..... heaven on earth.

What did you think of your group leader?

Excellent

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Think about adding a few days to explore Athens as there is lots to see.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Wonderful Greek Experience

A truly wonderful trip. Just the right combination of cycling, great swim opportunities and culture.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The many coastal routes where blue sky met azure seas providing the perfect inspiration to pedal. Wonderful warm blue seas to swim in at the end of most days. Seeing the Acropolis at sunset.

What did you think of your group leader?

Yannis did a really great job. He is passionate and extremely knowledgeable about Greece, has a great sense of humour and loves cycling too. He was ably assisted by Dimitris and Costas. They made a great team and looked after us well, nothing was too much trouble.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The inclines are many but gradual which made the uphill sections seem quite manageable with plenty of snack stops along the way.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I recommend any reasonably fit person to go for this trip, you won't be disappointed!

Cycling in Greece

A marvellous group including 4 Canadians, 2 from the USA and 9 from the UK. We seemed to gel from the start and it was a pleasure to talk with everyone. There was a remarkable consistency in the fitness of the group and so very little hanging around even after some of the longer climbs. Very much enjoyed the cycling and thought the "moderate" rating was spot on. Distances were typically around 40 miles in a day. I found the hills quite manageable; some fairly long climbs but they tended to be steady climbs followed by some exhilarating long descents. There were cultural stops on most days at ancient sites and there was free time to explore. The guided tour on the final day at the Acropolis was particularly enjoyable. Excellent hotels with very friendly staff. Lovely views across the bay from one hotel; another hotel was situated right on the beach; in one hotel run by the family the breakfast included home-made specialties. Enjoyed the food. The group leader normally ordered a selection of local specialities for starters and on a couple of occasionally the main courses which gave the opportunity to taste genuine Greek food. We had a kitty for the lunch snacks fruit and drinks so again sampled many Greek specialities. The weather was the icing on the cake. A little windy and cloudy on the days of arrival and departure but for the most part clear sunny days and warm but not stifling.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

From a cycling perspective one of the long descents with marvellous views and a pleasant breeze in ones face.

What did you think of your group leader?

Both Yiannis and Kristos were extremely friendly helpful and passionate about Greece. One or both were always on hand. Kristos drove the support vehicle which normally tracked the group so minor technical problems including a couple of punctures were dealt with swiftly and efficiently.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Suggest it is best to avoid mid summer trips when it is uncomfortably hot for cycling.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Cycling in Greece

This was a brilliant holiday. I've been on a number of Exodus trips before but this was my first cycling trip with Exodus. It won't be my last! We enjoyed good company, good weather and good cycling, with plenty of stops at interesting places, and we were very well looked after by Yiannis and Angelos.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

I loved the coastal ride to Epidaurus. Although it was hot and much of it uphill, the views were stunning.

What did you think of your group leader?

Yiannis did a great job. I thought he achieved a good balance between keeping the group together and letting people go at their own pace.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

May was hot! I would be wary of June as it might be too hot for the cycling to be pleasant.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

a Greek cycling adventure

A fabulous holiday, with beautiful scenery, a lot of hills and excellent guiding from Yannis and Angelos. The trip went without a hitch and it was great to be on the bikes from start to finish.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The best moments were cycling with beautiful views of the coast and spring flowers - roses in particular which I has never previously associated with Greece.

What did you think of your group leader?

Yannis was great , well organised, efficient., friendly and passionate about Greece. Angelos his support was also excellent - enthusiastic, encouraging and lunch was always a treat.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

There are plenty of hills so be sure to do some training before setting out.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

A great holiday with lots of ancient sites to visit and time to relax in the sea or pool or to sample the odd cocktail!

Sun, Sites & Greek salads

With Yiannis guiding and Angelos supporting the trip was definitely one of my favourites. The cycling was at a steady pace with plenty of breaks and although there were a few hills they were not too extreme. This trip allows you to see many archaeological sites over the week whilst also seeing the stunning Greek scenery. Obviously a week's cycling needs to be rewarded and that is definitely achieved with the great food, drink & company.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Cycling Sunday morning through the streets of Athens so seeing the sights without too many other tourists around. The many kilometres of cycling along the coast looking out to the Aegian sea. The great amphitheatre at Epidaurus.

What did you think of your group leader?

Yiannis did a great job of keeping the briefings short in the evening but still informative. He was obviously passionate about Greece and wanted to pass that passion on. As someone who knew little about Greek mythology the stories that he and Angelos told have given me an insight. Yiannis & Angelos did a fantastic job of keeping us fed, watered & our bikes in working order.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Even in May it is already relatively warm (high 20s) but the regular breaks meant that this was manageable.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Cycling in Greece

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

What did you think of your group leader?

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Undulating around Greece

It isn't just about the cycling. It's about a varied and friendly group, intelligent and humorous leaders, great grub and some history. The cycling was pretty straightforward; the hills were gradual and plenty of breaks so it never became tedious. The hire bikes were OK; they didn't match up to our own bikes, but what do you expect for £70? I particularly liked the fact that we cycled door to door each day. This makes it feel more like a journey rather than decanting into buses etc for part of the journey.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Walking up to Mycenae Palace and seeing the spot where Agamemnon sat on his big chair and decided to go and mix it with the Trojans. Impressive, rather than inspirational, was walking up through the Acropolis entrance and emerging on top to see the Parthenon columns soaring above you.

What did you think of your group leader?

Yiannis (leader) and Kristos (driver/mechanic) were a superb team. Yiannis regularly took time out to explain the history and culture of Greece and the sites we visited. This added to the trip. Great sense of humour and made everyone feel involved. Regular briefings to inform and answer questions. A good person all round. Kristos was always there with food, water, help and big, big smiles - nothing was too much for him. Between them they gave you a deep appreciation of Greece and its people.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Don't worry about whether your legs will be OK, because your bum will wear out before your legs. So get some bum on saddle practice. We took our own saddles. We put 50 euros each into a kitty, mainly for lunches - which lasted all week. Kristos did a great job of using this to provide varied snacks and lunches along the way. We ate altogether (15+Yiannis and Kristos) in the evenings and I think this is best. It made for a good atmosphere and I'm sure we enjoyed the food more with the guys to guide us.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Our thanks to all the other group members. It was heart warming the way we all mixed and looked out for one another. No cliques developed, no moaning, and lots of smiles. Great group.

My Big Fat Greek Vacation

We chose this trip in part because of our schedule and in part because we have never been to Greece. We didn't really know what to expect but the trip delivered more than we could have hoped for. The history, the scenery, the activity, the leaders, the group and the food combined to make this a fantastic week-long adventure. I now have a much better understanding and appreciation of Greece, its culture and its people.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There were inspirational moments every single day of the trip. Whether it was seeing the actual rock from which Paul addressed the Corinthians, bicycling on the most beautiful stretch of coastline I have ever seen (near Nafplio) or simply cresting a challenging hill, the trip was filled with magical moments.

What did you think of your group leader?

I cannot say enough good things about our trip leaders, Yiannis and Kristos. Yiannis was generally in charge of bicycling with the group, acting as tour guide, and telling Greek mythological stories. Kristos was in charge of driving the van, bicycle maintenance and was in charge of everything food and alcohol related. Both did a masterful job keeping us safe, informed and well-fed. I was most impressed with how the two communicated with one another and synchronized their actions. It seemed as though Kristos magically appeared at the busier intersections and blocked traffic for us with the van. Yiannis was always aware of the traffic around us and masterfully directed traffic to keep us safe. I especially enjoyed hearing Yiannis' take on current events in Greece and respected his convictions and ideology. Both leaders possess a terrific sense of humor which is perhaps the most important trait for creating an enjoyable trip experience.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Book your trip to Greece and be lucky enough to have Yiannis and Kristos as your trip leaders! You may want to ride a hill or two before you come. I'm from Iowa where the world is still flat so it took me a day or two to get used to the hills.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I'd just like to say thank you to our trip leaders and to the group we traveled with. Peter, Mike, John, Reg, Mary, Kiran, Indu, Dave, kathy, Graham, Jan, Bob and Barb, you made the trip a fun and memorable experience for us. I don't know if we have ever traveled with a group demonstrating so much comradery without any drama. We love to book trips through Exodus because, as Americans, it gives us an opportunity to get to know people from the UK and other parts of the world. Best of luck to all! Come see us next time you get to Iowa.

cycling Greece

Great trip. Cycling quite challenging but scenery was spectacular. Guide was delightful. Nothing was too much trouble.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

We were invited into a family's house for coffee and juice in a little village in the middle of nowhere.

What did you think of your group leader?

Delightful

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Terrific way to see some of the real Greece

Is there anything else you would like to add?

CYCLING IN GREECE

We found this trip very challenging in places, the places we visted made it well worth the effort.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The general scenenary was varied and spectacular, Amphitheatre at Epidaurus, Arcopolis have to be seen, the Corinthian Canal was exceptional we saw boats pass through and rode over it.  Athens by night was a must do.

What did you think of your group leader?

Group Leader and Assistant were exceptional there was nothing that was to much trouble for them, as this was the first time this trip had run things had to be changed on the hoof, they coped with everything thrown at them compentently and most important with humour.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

There are assents.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

We were the first people to book on this trip and we are fairly sure that at some point this trip was described lesiurely/moderate. We feel we fit the brochure description to be able to cycle a Moderate trip. This trip was very challenging for us but others on the tour found it easy. We think the trip notes require rewrittingas they do reflect some long climbs on the early days, day 6 is described as challenging (62k actual 67k) but in our opinion the eaisist.  We think the Bicycles should be Hybrids as a large proportion of the Tour is on Tarmac, Mountain bike tyres really grip the road. We hope the above comments are taken as construtive, we really enjoyed the tour with a lovely group of people, and would recommend it. 

CYCLING IN GREECE

Great cycling with wonderful views - a few hills on the first couple of days but nothing which I found to be too bad or different from any other Moderate cycle trip which I have been on with Exodus.Excellent food - all good but the meal at the hotel near Myceanea was a particulr highlight as was the dinner on the last night in the shadow of the Acropolis. A walk round Athens at night before & after dinner was also great.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

This was my first trip to Greece so it was great to fit in seeing a number of the ancient sites. With time on the final day before returning to Athens, I visited the sites at Acrocorinth and Ancient Corinth, which I would recommend.  All the cycling was great with a mix of views - both mountain and costal. The afternoon cycle from Epidaurus to Tolos I particularly enjoyed. I really enjoyed seeing Athens, both the Monday morning cycle from the hotel to Pireus (Athens rush hour traffic was an experience !!) and the tour of the Acropolis. I wish I had stayed an extra day or two at the end of the tour as there is so much more I would like to see in the city.  The food was particularly good - I would recommend this as a highlight of the trip. 

What did you think of your group leader?

Christiana and Christos are both great ambassadors for Greece ! Nothing was too much bother and with great organisational skills and a professional approach I thought they made a great team. I really enjoyed chatting to both of them. It is when you get the chance to have a good old chat with the local guides that it really adds to your insight of the country. This is an important part of the holiday to me so it was great to have such friendly guides to chat to. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

My only problem was that I found the seat on the bike really quite uncomfortable. Even with a gel cover and padded shorts I still found I was getting saddle sore. I have not had this problem before on the 4 previous cycle trips I have been on with Exodus. No one else had a problem so perhaps I was unlucky. But remember your padded shorts and/or gel saddle ! If you can, add a day or two either side of the trip to see more of Athens - loads to see ! 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Greece is a wonderful country. I would recommend this trip if you want to experience great contrasting scenery, visits to ancient sites, wonderful food and some great cycling ! 

CYCLING IN GREECE

Finally reviewing my late summer holiday in January; perhaps that's a good distance, to see what I remember! I'd never been to this part of Greece before, and visiting by bike, plus the initial ferry, was a great way to do it. My overwhelming recollection is of sparkling blue seas; a fascinating introduction to the history of Greece, both ancient sites and the creation of the modern country; and a good mix of some tough hills and gentler cycling.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Probably the walled town of Napflio, which was an unexpected pleasure as I'd never heard of it before. We had a few hours to choose our own method of exploring and were spoilt for choice; some of us decided to cycle up the hill to the fortress dominating the town, and were rewarded with the most fantastic views (and a lovely freewheel back down). Or was it the optional cycle from Corinth, and swimming in the sea on the site of a Greek bath house and Roman villa?

What did you think of your group leader?

Christiana, the leader, couldn't have done more for us. This was the inaugural trip, so there were a few adjustments needed - eg a change to the autumn ferry timetable meant a quick change to the first morning's plans. Her co-driver, Christos, was equally charming and capable, and his huge enthusiasm for cycling meant we got two guides from time to time, as well as the usual Exodus luxury of an expert puncture-mender. Alongside the cycling and guiding expertise came an infectious enthusiasm for the country, the countryside, the history, the food and the wine. What more could we want?

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Having been on several Exodus Moderate trips, I would place this firmly in the same bracket. Some of the climbs were in full sun, so these can get pretty hot.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thank you, Christiana and Christos; and our "bonus couple", Anna from the Exodus office and her boyfriend Francesco, who helped make this trip such a pleaseure. And the other members of the group; a thoroughly sociable team.

CYCLING IN GREECE

This is our 5th cycling trip with Exodus and we feel this is the best trip that we had. We were blessed with nice blue sky every day. The cycling was just right (as we all made the climbs as a team without any stops in the middle); the roads were quiet and scenic; the ancient monuments and sights were great and the food and hotels were both 1st class.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

There were many inspirational moments on the trip. Being able to cycle to visit Athen's Acropolis, Mycenae and other great Greek monuments etc. is amazing. For me, the best moment must be having the most wonderful dinner on the beech (10 ft away from the calm water edge) drinking Ouzo after a great day cycling followed by a relaxing swim in the sea.

What did you think of your group leader?

Christinana is a most wondeful leader with great attention to details. She planned out everything so well and the whole trip went without a hitch (no mechanical problems, no waiting around and always, always abel get us to a great restaurant and have the most wonderful food in the evening). She is a great cyclist and we feel so safe cycling as a group with her. The trip turned out to be something like a "foodie" trip as we sampled different type of local food every day. Because we were quite a fast group + we managed to cycle together, we even managed to have time to go for a swim for most days. Christos is also a great cyclist and he looked after us well too and we really appreciated that the luggage were loaded and unloaded daily without fuss and he also get us really yummy trail food and ice cold water enroute which was wonderful.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Don't forget your camera as the historical sites were wonderful and great to visit. We were lucky to have 7 days of blue sky so make sure you bring plenty of sun cream and drinks lots. We also had plenty of chances to go for a dip (the hotels we stayed in either have a pool or right by the sea) so swiming custumes and flip flops are useful.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

We had been to a number of Exodus cycling trips before and this one really stands out as the best. We managed cycle all the way (hotel to hotel) without needing to do certain legs using the truck which is quite unusual. The roads were quiet and scenic and there is a daily highlight (either visiting some wonderful historical site or do wine tasting etc.) so it is never dull. The hotels that we stayed in were all very nice and some were family run and very friendly and in great locations. Christiana will tell you the most wonderful stories and the food that we had were just great.