Mythical Greece Peloponnese
Sept 19-Oct 1, 2027

Day 1 – Sunday, Sept 19, 2027  Athens - Nafplio

Your journey begins with a pickup in Athens and a scenic transfer to the charming town of Nafplio, once the capital of the First Hellenic Republic. After setting up the bikes, enjoy a shake out ride along the turquoise coves of Nafplio Bay. Stroll through narrow Venetian era cobblestoned streets to view the Bourtzi Castle floating on an inlet off of the harbor or climb the legendary 999 steps to the Palamidi Fortress for sweeping views. In the evening, we gather for a welcome briefing followed by a celebratory dinner to mark the start of our adventure (D)

Day 2 – May 20  Nafplio - Agios Ioannis, cycling 32m/2230’’

Cycle beside the Argolic Gulf to the picturesque port of Astros where our route turns inland for a gradual ascent into the foothills of Mount Parnon. Surrounded by stunning vistas, we ascend to the holy monastery of Malevis Arkadias. Located in a cedar forest of the mountain’s slopes, this spiritual sanctuary is renowned for its icon dedicated to the dormition of the Virgin Mary. Descending along winding forested roads, you’ll zigzag the slopes of Mount Sarantapsychos to the mountain village of Ag Ioannis. Experience true Greek “filoxenia” while staying in a traditional stone house and enjoying a homemade dinner. (B,D)

Day 3 – May 21  Agios Ioannis - Leonidio, cycling 38m/2427’

After riding south to the coast, we climb to the spectacular town of Leonidio, famed among rock climbers for its sheer surrounding gorge walls. Here we’ll walk through the 18th century Pyrgos Tsirkalioti fortified stone mansion and tower-house. For those seeking an extra challenge, ride the optional loop extension (15mi) to visit the breathtaking Monastery Panagias Elonas perched on a rocky crag of Mount Parnon with stunning views of the Dafnon Gorge. (B,D)

Day 4 – May 22   Leonidio - Kyparissi, cycling 33m/3798’

We begin with a steady climb over rugged mountain passes where sweeping ocean vistas unfold around every bend. A thrilling descent on a road hugging the sea brings us to the coastal village of Kyparissi, considered one of the most beautiful seaside town in Greece. With crystal-clear waters just steps away, the afternoon invites swimming, relaxation, and soaking up the peaceful village atmosphere of this hidden gem. (B,D)

Day 5 – May 23   Kyparissi - Monemvasia, cycling 35m/3566’

Cycling south along the coastline with panoramic views of the Myrtoan Sea, our route passes through olive groves to the picturesque villages of Harakas and Riechia. Our final stretch leads to one of Greece's most iconic landmarks. Rising dramatically from the sea on a rocky islet connected to the mainland by a causeway, Monemvasia is a medieval walled fortress town carved into rock and steeped in history. Passing through its stone gate feels like stepping back in time, with labyrinthine alleys, ancient churches, and sweeping sea views. Explore the preserved Byzantine and Venetian architecture, narrow alleys, and historic churches of this ‘remarkably romantic’ castle town. (B, L)

Day 6 – May 24   Monemvasia, rest day, no cycling

Savor a day of rest amidst the magic of Monemvasia. As the sun warms the ancient fortress walls, you can linger over breakfast with sweeping views of the Myrtoan Sea. History comes alive on a guided walk through narrow cobbled lanes to centuries-old churches, revealing the legacy of Byzantine emperors and Venetian traders. Spend your afternoon hiking up to explore Monemvasia's Upper Town. Perched atop the massive rock, this was the fortified summit of this historic Byzantine castle town. Find a quiet corner for cocktails or just soak in the scenery before dining at your leisure this evening at one of the many excellent local restaurants. (B)

Day 7 – May 25   Monemvasia - Gythio, cycling 44m/1578’

Cycle on rolling hills past olive groves and traditional villages. We’ll visit the unique shipwreck “Dimitris” at Valtaki beach where you can swim on this protected seashore. The wreck gives the beach a cinematic feel: towering, rust-red metal against pale sand and turquoise water. Our afternoon ride with panoramic views of the Laconian Gulf, ends in the fishing town of Gythio. Here, you’ll ride across the causeway spanning the Kranae Islet to visit the historic Tzanetakis Tower and lighthouse, which now serves as the Ethnological Museum of Mani. (B,L,D)

Day 8 – May 26   Gythio - Limeni, cycling 30m/2448’

We start early and cycle through rolling hills to visit the spectacular underground river caves at Diros, Explore the subterranean river system by boat, gliding beneath dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. Our ride continues along the turquoise coastal waters of the Mani peninsula to Limeni, known for its traditional Maniot stone architecture and its importance in the Greek war of independence against the Ottoman empire. (B,D)

Day 9 – May 27  Limeni- Kardamyli, cycling 25m/2110’

With spectacular sea views, we follow the rugged Mani coastline northward, where stark mountains meet the sea. At Areopoli, we visit a traditional olive oil press to sample their world famous Kalamota olives and extra virgin olive oil. Our destination is Kardamyli whose historic old town, with its fortified towers, is popular to Greek tourists and mentioned in Homer's Iliad as one of the cities offered by Agamenmon to Achilles.  (B,D)

Day 10 – May 28  Kardamili - Kalamata, cycling 22m/1908’

Cycle to Kalamata, capital of the Peloponnese region, a bustling town on the gulf of Messenia known for its vibrant cultural scene and beautiful beaches. Explore Kalamata's historic Old Town with its narrow cobblestoned alleys, neoclassical buildings, and famed Kalamata Castle offering panoramic city views. In the evening, we transfer by bus to a local olive oil farm for a guided tour followed by a traditional dinner showcasing regional flavors  (B,D)

Day 11 – May 29  Kalamata – Koroni, cycling 29m/1206’

Ride south through fertile olive groves and rolling countryside along the Messinian coastline. Our route ends in Koroni, one of the Peloponnese's most poetic fortress towns. Here, crowning the peninsula’s tip, rises Koroni’s Venetian fortress, a limestone sentinel where two seas meet: the Messinian Gulf surrendering to the Ionian’s deeper blues. Koroni’s colorful harbor and sandy beaches provide for an ideal afternoon of swimming, strolling the old town, or enjoying sunset views from beneath the castle walls. (B,L,D)

Day 12 – May 30  Koroni - Pylos, cycling 23m/2100’

Our final ride follows the coast on quiet backroads westward though Messinia, featured as the top pick of The NY Times ‘52 Places to See in 2026. Messinia received a global spotlight as the filming location for Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey,” The road leads to the magnificent Methoni Castle, a vast medieval fortress dramatically set above the water. Methoni is among the best-preserved castles in Greece, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s strategic past when the Venetian fortified city flourished between the 13th-15th centuries. After exploring the castle, we continue to the elegant harbor town of Pylos, beautifully situated on Navarino Bay, where the journey comes to a memorable close over a banquet dinner. (B,L,D)

Day 13 - Friday, October 1   Departure, transfer by bus to Athens

After breakfast, we bid farewell to the Peloponnese and transfer by bus to Athens airport (ATH), carrying with us memories of legendary landscapes, ancient stories, and an unforgettable cycling adventure through mythical Greece. (B)

Post-Tour self guided option: taxi inland to Ancient Olympia, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Amidst tree-shaded ruins, tour the captivating Altis sanctuary, home to the magnificent temples of Zeus and Hera. Altis boasts one of the highest concentrations of preserved masterpieces from ancient Greece, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of this historic era. There is a bus service from Ancient Olympia to Athens via Pyrgos.

Joining the ride

“Request to participate" below. Upon acceptance you will be asked to sign a waiver and pay the People Cycling registration fee, The deposit will be paid directly to Greek Cycling Holidays (GCH) after ride confirmation. If you have any questions please contact the ride leader, Bruce Rayvid, bprojects@gmail.com

Payments and Cancellations

The total tour cost per person is $3390 USD based on two persons sharing a room, calculated at a current currency exchange rate of $1.145 USD equals 1 Euro (€2960 Euro). As  exchange rates fluctuate, there may be an adjustment in the amount of the final payment. Singles are welcome at a surcharge of approximately €1100 Euro per room. If you do not have a riding partner, we will do our best to connect participants as roommates. A deposit of €800 Euro is required on booking with the balance due 90 days prior to the tour. The People Cycling ride fees  are not refundable unless the entire tour is canceled. GCH requires a minimum of ten participants for the ride. Refunds of deposits and payments will depend upon whether a replacement rider signs up, and on costs that can be recovered.  If the canceling participant is replaced, a refund will be made when the replacement has paid their fees.  If the canceling participant can't be replaced, any refund will be determined after the ride.  Refund calculations are based on the principle that a canceling participant will not increase the cost for others.  All cancellations are subject to an administrative fee of €150 Euro, which GCH will  deduct from the deposit.  If a participant that is sharing a room cancels and another roommate cannot be found, in addition to other costs that cannot be recouped, the canceling roommate may also be liable for the supplement for a private room of the roommate remaining on the tour. You are highly encouraged to purchase trip cancellation, travel and medical insurances. The itinerary and menus are subject to change depending on availability, local conditions and size of the group.

Tour includes:

-12 x nights’ Accommodation in 3 * hotels or private villa

-10 x Dinner with wine, beer and soft drinks unless otherwise indicated

-12 x Breakfast

-4 x Light Lunch

-Happy Hour

-Light snacks, energy bars and electrolyte drinks for the rides

-Transfer to and from starting and end points

-Basic spare parts. inner tubes

-Vehicle support and luggage transfer

-Entrance fee to archaeological sites and guided tours per itinerary

-GCH cycle jersey

-Map of the area

-TCX or GPX files for each day’s route

Not included:

-flights

-bike hire

-tips and gratuities

-travel and medical insurance

-post tour Ancient Olympia option

-pre/post tour hotel nights in Athens

-transfers, activities or anything not mentioned in itinerary above

Bike Rentals

Carbon road bikes, as well as a  limited number e-bikes, are available for rental at a costs of €350 (road) and €540 (e-bike). Participants who bring their own bikes are encouraged to use compact or collapsible bike boxes to fit our limited available van storage space.

Weather

May weather in the Peloponnese region is excellent, ranging from daytime highs of 75  to nighttime lows of 55.  Rain is always a possibility; participants should be prepared to ride regardless of weather