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Island Hopping Ionian Bike & Boat Tour

Experience the ultimate Greek bike and boat adventure with our meticulously curated itinerary, allowing you to combine the joy of cycling through the gorgeous Greek countryside of the Ionian islands with the pleasure of sailing the serene Mediterranean Sea on a traditional gulet.

This is a bike and boat trip, which means almost each night on tour is spent aboard a spacious, handcrafted gulet—a traditional wooden sailing vessel with both sails and motors. As we cruise across the azure Mediterranean under the starlit sky, the gulet offers a perfect blend of comfort and charm, providing cozy cabins, inviting deck spaces, and stunning views of Greece’s coastlines.

We spend our days riding the backroads of 4 out of the 7 Ionian islands, and at the end of each day’s biking, we retire to our gulet to unwind and enjoy the scenery.

Discover the Peloponnese's serene roads before sailing to picturesque Zante. Cycle through Zante's olive groves and vineyards, and explore Kefalonia's rugged terrain and Mount Ainos. Visit resilient villages and Fiskardo's historic charm, then bike around Lefkada's stunning beaches and sail to Meganisi. Explore mythic Ithaca's cultural sites and scenic landscapes, concluding with a visit to Shipwreck Beach.

The Gulet: Your Floating Haven

Experience the Ionian islands aboard a traditional gulet, a handcrafted wooden sailing vessel that combines classic charm with modern comfort. Each evening, return to cozy cabins, a spacious sun deck, and shared lounge areas—perfect for relaxing after a day of cycling. Gulets use both sails and motors, ensuring smooth navigation and allowing you to enjoy Greece’s scenic coastlines in style.

Start

Athens

Finish

Athens

Lodging

casual

Level

moderate

Avg. dist. cycled

60km / 37mi

Cycling Days

7

Fly-In

Athens

Fly-Out

Athens

Group size

Min. 8, Max. 18

Highlights

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Ride Through the Olive Groves of Zante

Nearly the entire island of Zante is covered in picturesque olive groves, vineyards, and pines. The rest of it is beautiful beaches such as the famous Navagio beach with its shipwreck and picturesque limestone caves, and charming villages serving delicious, fresh Greek cuisine.

Itinerary

Brief Itinerary

DayPlacecasual Inns or similarMealsDistanceActivity
DAY 1Ancient OlympiaOlympian VillageD
DAY 2ZanteGuletB,L,D80km / 50micycling
DAY 3ZanteGuletB,L,D55km / 34micycling
DAY 4South KefaloniaGuletB,L,D65km / 40micycling
DAY 5North KefaloniaGuletB,L,D65km / 40micycling
DAY 6LefkadaGuletB,L,D70km / 43micycling
DAY 7IthacaGuletB,L,D50km / 31micycling
DAY 8ZanteGuletB,L,D50km / 31micycling
DAY 9AthensAcropolian SpiritB,L,D
DAY 10DepartureB

Detailed Itinerary

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Day 1: Ancient Olympia

Upon arriving at Athens airport, you will be warmly greeted and escorted to our nearby facility. There, you will enjoy a bike fitting session followed by a casual gathering with beer, coffee, and snacks. Afterwards, we will depart for Ancient Olympia where you will check into your hotel directly.

Meals: D
Accommodation: Olympian Village
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Day 2: Zante

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before cycling to the archaeological site for a brief tour with a local guide. Today's ride will warm up your legs as you navigate the rolling hills of the western part of the region. The day concludes at Kyllini's port, where you'll board a ferry to Zante. Upon arrival in Zante, your private boat will be ready to welcome you.

Meals: B,L,D
Cycling Distance: 80km / 50mi
Accommodation: Gulet
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Day 3: Zante

Discover the enchanting charm of Zante's countryside, where lush olive groves and thriving vineyards define the landscape. Renowned for its premium olive oil and wine, this region offers a sensory delight with its verdant scenery and sweeping panoramic views. As you ride, you'll be treated to a visual feast, with wild peacocks and goats adding to the unique character of the countryside.

Meals: B,L,D
Cycling Distance: 55km / 34mi
Accommodation: Gulet
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Day 4: South Kefalonia

Kefalonia promises an unparalleled cycling adventure, with its rugged terrain and stunning vistas. As the largest of the Ionian Islands, Kefalonia is celebrated for its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. You'll encounter pristine beaches, dramatic mountains, and a choice of three routes, including a challenging ascent to 5,100 feet where an ancient forest, a rarity at such elevations, awaits. The day's highlight is the majestic Mount Ainos, the island's highest peak and a national park. This mountain is renowned for its dense forest of Kefalonian fir, an endemic species adding to the area's ecological significance. The climb to Mount Ainos is not only a test of endurance but also a journey through varied ecosystems, culminating in breathtaking panoramic views at the 1,628-meter (5,341-foot) summit. From here, enjoy stunning vistas of the surrounding islands and the Ionian Sea, making the challenging ascent truly rewarding.

Meals: B,L,D
Cycling Distance: 65km / 40mi
Accommodation: Gulet
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Day 5: North Kefalonia

In 1953, Kefalonia endured three massive earthquakes that caused extensive damage across the island. Thanks to international assistance, the island has been beautifully restored, leaving little evidence of these seismic events. Remarkably, a few villages emerged nearly unscathed, and today's journey takes you to these resilient historical pockets. As you explore the island's northern region, you'll ride through charming traditional villages, each rich in heritage. Your first stop is the delightful Rosie's Cafe, where you can savor the day's special pie, a true taste of local culinary artistry. The highlight of the day is Fiskardo, renowned for its beautifully preserved 18th-century buildings, vibrant with pastel hues, which have survived the earthquakes and stand as a testament to the island's enduring spirit.

Meals: B,L,D
Cycling Distance: 65km / 40mi
Accommodation: Gulet
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Day 6: Lefkada

Today's ride takes you on a scenic journey around Lefkada Island, renowned for its breathtaking beaches like Porto Katsiki and Egremni, famous for their turquoise waters and striking white cliffs. Lefkada's unique geography, combining mountainous terrain with idyllic coastlines, offers cyclists a rich variety of landscapes to explore. You'll pass through Lefkada Town, a lively hub of activity and culture with its vibrant marina, colorful buildings, and bustling squares. After a refreshing break on board, you'll sail to the charming nearby island of Meganisi to conclude your cycling day, where you can unwind and enjoy the crystal-clear waters.

Meals: B,L,D
Cycling Distance: 70km / 43mi
Accommodation: Gulet

Day 7: Ithaca

Ithaca, renowned for its connection to Odysseus, combines rich culture with exceptional cycling opportunities. The island's verdant slopes and crystal-clear waters create a cyclist's paradise, promising a divine experience. Your ride will take you through diverse landscapes, from charming coastal villages to lush hills, each offering breathtaking views and a tranquil setting. Immerse yourself in Ithaca's rich history as you visit archaeological sites and explore the picturesque main town of Vathy, where quaint cafes and shops line the waterfront. This day is not just about cycling scenic routes; it's also about delving into the cultural and mythological heritage of Ithaca, where every turn reveals a story and connects you to the legendary past of Greek mythology.

Meals: B,L,D
Cycling Distance: 50km / 31mi
Accommodation: Gulet
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Day 8: Zante

A visit to the renowned Shipwreck Beach, where an iconic rusting vessel rests against dramatic cliffs, awaits you. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely bike ride from Agios Nikolaos to Zante port, providing a perfect final opportunity to soak in the island's stunning beauty before your departure.

Meals: B,L,D
Cycling Distance: 50km / 31mi
Accommodation: Gulet
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Day 9: Athens

Conclude your journey with a morning ferry to the mainland, followed by a comfortable transfer to Athens. You'll arrive in Athens around 3:00 PM, providing ample time for further adventures or a relaxed conclusion to your trip.

Meals: B,L,D
Accommodation: Acropolian Spirit

Day 10: Departure

Travel further as per your onward travel plans.

Meals: B
Accommodation:

Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.

Map

Accommodation

Each hotel has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.

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Gulet

The boats are large Gulets. Each cabin features its own ensuite bathroom and spacious bed. Indulge in a variety of fresh vegetables, cheese, olive oil, bars, fruits, and nuts throughout the day, ideal for a light meal, especially if you decide to skip a ride. For coffee enthusiasts, we provide both espresso capsules and traditional Greek coffee.

Dates and Prices

Members get an estimated 10% off when booking at least 6 months in advance.

$75/yearLearn more

Single Supplement

From US $1,895



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Essential Info

Inclusions

LODGING

All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).

trip leader

Expert Trip Leader(s) who look after your every need and add meaning to your vacation.

bike

Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.

shuttle

A Van support follows the group of riders and carries all belongings.

meals

Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.

refreshments

Refreshments and mineral water while cycling.

entrance

Entrance fees to most of the monuments and temples.

Exclusions

Airport pickup and drop

We recommend to book direclty from airport or hotel.

Beverages

Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.

Gratuity

Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.

What to Pack

Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.

Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear

  • Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
  • Padded cycling shorts.
  • Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
  • Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
  • Synthetic cycling socks.
  • Sunglasses with UV protection.
  • Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
  • Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
  • Rain jacket or windbreaker.
  • Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).

Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.

Clothing

  • Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
  • Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
  • Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
  • Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
  • Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
  • Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.

Other Necessities

  • Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • Plug socket adaptor.
  • Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.

Pro Tips

  • Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
  • Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
  • Pack light to leave room for shopping.

Luggage

Please limit your luggage to one soft-sided medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.

Frequently Asked Questions

This tour is on largely paved roads.

The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.

Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.

Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)

Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.

Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.

We've designed this itinerary such that most of the cycling happens on quieter countryside roads far from busy traffic.

While your tour price covers most common expenses, a few meals not included in the itinerary may require additional spending. As a general guideline, budget approximately US $20–40 per person per day for these extra expenses.

You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.

You can pack your regular riding gear such as jerseys and shorts. You should also pack a fleece jacket for wearing during evenings and early mornings, and rain jacket/covering just in case it rains.

The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.

For answers to broader questions, please visit our Comprehensive FAQs section.

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