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8 Days
From
From IntroductoryTo Challenging
In the South Aegean off mainland Greece is a group of more than 30 islands known as the Cyclades, whilst closer to Athens are the Saronic Islands, dripping in history. Whitewashed houses with blue shutters, a labyrinth of narrow streets flowing through cobblestoned villages, sandy beaches and a relaxed island lifestyle attract visitors from all over the globe. Taking in these obvious attractions, this cruising and cycling adventure delves further into the interior and coastlines, exploring little known coves and impressive geological formations, ancient sites and untouched villages. Cruising from island to island, we'll spend plenty of time ashore exploring fishing villages and historic sites by bike or just relaxing on the secluded beaches far away from the busy resorts and enjoying authentic Greek hospitality.
Greece
Athens-port
193kg of CO2-e PP per day
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Day 1
Arrive Athens, optional transfer to Piraeus Port, ferry to Salamis Island, board boat
Make your own way to the embarkation port on Salamis Island. (an optional group transfer from Athens airport or town is available to the main port in Athens - supplement applies). From the mainland port of Piraeus, catch a local ferry to Paloukia Port on Salamis Island. Journey time approx. 35min. On arrival catch a taxi to the ship. Check in from 4.00pm. Dinner will be on board and the night will be spent in port. An optional extension in Athens is available before the trip.
Meals: D
Day 2
Explore Kythnos Island (25km/15mi)
This morning we cruise to Kythnos Island, known since ancient times for its traditional cheese and honey. Our first cycle ride begins from the harbour of Merichas and winds its way up to Chora, the island’s charming hilltop capital. Expect coastal views and classic Cycladic character – whitewashed lanes adorned with hand-painted flowers and geometric designs. From Chora, we continue to the quaint village of Driopida before looping back to Merichas. This evening, enjoy time at your leisure – perhaps in one of the welcoming tavernas by the water.
Meals: B,L
Day 3
Cruise to Seriphos, round cycle to the Byzantine monastery, cruise to Syros (28km/17mi)
This morning we cruise to Seriphos, a lesser-known island with rugged valleys, hidden coves and quiet sandy beaches. From the port of Livadi, our cycle route climbs a winding road to the main town, where whitewashed, cube-shaped houses sit perched high on a ridge above the sea. We ride on through an untouched landscapes to visit the Byzantine Monastery of Archangel Michael, before looping back to Livadi via a panoramic route along the island’s east coast. Later, we cruise to Syros, where you can wander the elegant old town and unwind at a café along the lively harbour promenade.
Day 4
Explore Syros by bike then cruise to Kea (34km/21mi)
Ermoupolis, the capital of the Cyclades, makes a striking first impression as it comes into view – set across two hills, it has a distinct character unlike other Cycladic towns. Pastel-coloured houses with neoclassical facades line its streets, adding to its charm. Today’s ride follows the scenic southern coast of Syros, passing a series of peaceful bays and coves enroute to the beach at Galissas. From here, we continue past the convent of Saint Barbara before returning to Ermoupolis. In the afternoon, we cruise onward to the nearby island of Kea.
Day 5
Cycle to the white sand Otzias beach and return to Korissia, cruise to Poros (25km/15mi)
We begin today’s ride from Korissia, a lovely natural harbour on Kea. Our route climbs steadily to the island’s capital, Loulis, a traditional village with scenic views. From there, we descend to the white-sand beach of Otzias, where there’s time for a refreshing swim before cycling back to Korissia. Later, we cruise to the island of Poros in the Saronic Gulf. With its hillside homes and vibrant waterfront, Poros offers a relaxed and authentic island feel – the perfect place to unwind for the evening.
Day 6
Explore Poros island by bike before returning to the boat (23km/14mi)
Today’s ride begins in the sheltered harbour of Korissia on Kea. We follow a gentle uphill route to Loulis, the island’s peaceful capital set among rolling hills. From here, we descend to the sandy beach at Otzias, where you can enjoy a swim in the clear Aegean waters. The ride then loops back to Korissia. In the afternoon, we cruise to Poros in the Saronic Gulf – a charming harbour town with traditional character and a laid-back island vibe, ideal for a relaxed evening by the water.
Day 7
Cycle on Aegina island to the Sanctuary of Aphaia, return to Salamis Island (35km/22mi)
The island of Aegina is known far beyond the Greek borders for its incredible pistachio nuts! Our route takes us up to the Sanctuary of Aphaia, where the impressive temple stands proudly above the sea, offering views of the Aegean on both sides of the island. From here, we cycle through the island’s interior, passing the Monastery of Saint Nektarios before arriving in Aegina town. We rejoin the boat for our final cruise back to Salamis Island, where we share a farewell dinner and reflect on a memorable week of cycling and island discovery.
Meals: B,D
Day 8
Trip concludes
After breakfast on board it is time to disembark for your onward travels. Return to Athens by ferry.
Meals: B
Arrive Athens
This 3 day extension is available pre or post tour, supplement applies. Included in the extension: 2 nights accommodation, transfers: airport - hotel - boat (or v.v), entrance fee to the Acropolis, 1 dinner at “To Kafeneion” tavern (drinks excluded) in the old district of Plaka, 1 guided city bike tour by “Athens by Bike” for 3hrs with an English speaking tour guide, and all tourist taxes. Pre-tour: On arrival at Athens airport you will be transferred by taxi to your centrally located hotel. Your driver will handover your hotel and activity vouchers. Post-tour: transfer from the boat to the hotel. The guide will hand over your voucher on the boat. We generally use Hotel Pan or similar for 3 star, and Hotel Hera or similar for 3-4 star. Your rooming requirements and hotel category are required to book, also your flight details for the airport transfer in advance. We also need your preferred day and time for the dinner and dietary requirements (meat or vegetarian), and your preferred day for the guided city bike tour (departs daily at 10am). Free day to explore Athens.
Meals: Nil
Explore Athens
The day is free to continue exploring this historic city and its many interesting sites.
To the boat (or transfer to the airport if post tour)
Pre-tour: You will be transferred by taxi from your hotel to the boat for check-in from 2:00pm. Post-tour: transfer to the airport (please advise your consultant of your flight details).
What's included
What's not included
Double / Triple / Twin Cabin
The cabins are clad in fine wood while the saloon offers a warm and cosy atmosphere creating a homely ambience onboard. Each of the six guest cabins below deck offers ample space, en-suite bathrooms with a shower and WC, as well as storage for your luggage.at every meal.
Cabin size: 10 - 12 m²
Cabin features: Air-conditioning, tiled bathroom with hairdryer, mirror, shower cabin, washbasin & WC
Beds: double 200 x 140 cm
single and twin: 200 x 80 cm
Service: Daily cabin service, mid-week towel and bedding change
An electric bike (e-bike) is provided for this tour, designed to give you a helpful boost when pedalling. E-bikes make cycling more accessible, allowing experienced riders of varying fitness levels to enjoy the journey together and tackle routes that might otherwise feel too challenging. Each bike comes with a pannier to carry your day gear, though please note there are no water bottle holders. Helmets are mandatory on all cycling tours. We strongly recommend bringing your own well-fitted helmet for comfort and safety. A small number of helmets are available for hire on board (pre-booking required), but we can’t guarantee fit or availability. Please note: the minimum rider height for e-bikes is 1.50m (5 ft).
GRADE 3 - This is an e-bike tour and requires a good level of fitness from participants to fully participate in the cycling, which you should have acquired from steady cycling. The tours are approx. 23-35 km / 14.3-21.7 mi and 350-700m / 1148-2296ft elevation per day. The route traverses mostly asphalted roads, which are rarely travelled on outside of the holiday seasons. You are free to set aside a half or full day to swim or spend on board the boat, instead of taking a planned bike-tour. Each day you can either decide to bike alone, using the information and maps provided, or join the tour guides. It is considered suitable for fit beginners and active children (minimum 10years, minimum height 1.5m/5ft for e-bike).
Per Person, Twin Share
From Piraeus Port/Gate E9 on the mainland in Athens, catch the ferry to Paloukia Port on the island of Salamis. Journey time approx. 35min, purchase tickets onboard. On arrival taxis are located directly opposite the ferry terminal. From here catch a taxi to Salamina Town where the ship will be docked.
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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Personal Experience
We've been exploring the world on foot for over five decades, and our passion for walking runs deep. Having hiked nearly every corner of Europe, we take pride in sharing the joy, freedom and perspective that only travelling on foot can bring, all with the exceptional service and care our travellers know us for.
Great Value & Quality
Our trips offer excellent value for money, with everything you need for a seamless walking holiday. Each package includes detailed route notes, maps and navigation app, luggage transfers, and comfortable locally run accommodation. We take care of the planning, so you can simply enjoy the walk.
Self-Guided Specialists
We've been operating self-guided active holidays since 1973, taking care of every detail so you can relax and explore at your own pace. With many walking and hiking tours departing daily, you'll enjoy the freedom and flexibility to travel when it suits you.
self guided walk
hotel, guesthouse
8Days
Moderate
guided cycle
boat
guided walk
pension, inns
hotel
9Days