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Cyclades & Saronic Islands
Bicycle Cruise Cyclades and Saronic Islands
Greece
8 Days/7 Nights, approx. 170 km
The Cyclades Islands, comprising of more than 30 islands, was the cradle of the first European civilisation 5,000 years ago. Here we also see a truly authentic side of Greece: Gleaming white cube houses with blue shutters and labyrinth-like alleys dominate the architectural character of the islands’ villages and towns.
Along the mostly ragged coastlines there are impressive geological formations, turquoise-blue sea, and fantastic sand beaches. Experience Greece from its greenest side on the Saronic Islands that lie between the Greek mainland and the Peleponnese. Learn about the Greek Liberation Struggle between 1821 and 1830 without which Greece would not be as we know it today.
Experience the fascinating symbiosis of antiquity and modern times by Bike & Boat and delight in the authentic beauty of the Greek Aegean.
Highlights
Culture: Visit one of the best-preserved Greek temples: the Sanctuary of Aphaia on the island of Ägina
Nature: Discover by bike the island of Poros which is covered by scented pinewoods
Activity: You cycle around the island of Poros, which is covered with fragrant pine forests
Culinary: Sheep's cheese in flaky pastry with honey & sesame
Souvenirs: Colourful pottery from Sifnos
Travel dates
| 10.05.2024 - 17.05.2024 | |
|---|---|
| 14.06.2024 - 21.06.2024 | |
| 23.08.2024 - 30.08.2024 |
Itinerary
Day 1 - Marina Zeas (Piraeus /Athen) – (Embarkation)Individual journey to Piraeus (Marina Zeas), only 25 km (15 mi.) from Athens airport. Check-in on the ship is possible from 2 pm onwards. Dinner on board and overnight stay in Piraeus. |
Day 2 - Kythnos Island (Cycle route aprx. 15 mi./25 km)Early in the morning we sail to Kythnos Island, famous for its cheese and honey since the antiquity. We begin our first cycling tour in the harbour of Merichas and head towards the island’s capital, Chora. Along the way we can enjoy wonderful, scenic views of the coastline. Chora is a lovely town, situated on a high plateau. The town’s alleys are decorated with painted flowers and geometric patterns. We continue on to the picturesque village of Driopida before returning to Merichas, where we can spend the evening in one of the cosy tavernas. |
Day 3 - Seriphos Island (Cycle route aprx. 18.75 mi./30 km)In the morning, our boat takes us to Seriphos, a small island far off the beaten tourist track. The island is characterised by deep valleys, countless bays and coves, and numerous beautiful sandy beaches. From the harbour town of Livadi, we cycle along a serpentine road to the island’s main town of Seriphos, whose cube form houses, nestled into landscape, stretch along the mountain ridge high above the sea. From Seriphos, we continue on through untouched landscape to the Byzantine monastery of the Archangel Michael. We then return to Livadi along a panoramic road on the East coast. In the afternoon, we sail to the island of Siphnos, where we can spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beautiful beach. Overnight stay in Kamares on Siphnos. |
Day 4 - Syros (Cycle route aprx. 20 mi./ 34 km)The town of Ermoupolis on Syros island is the capital town of the Cyclades and offers an unforgettable view upon arrival. This town was built on two hills. Pastel-coloured houses, many of them have classical facades dominant the townscape. We cycle along the coast of Syros which is full of bays and caves along the entire southern half of the island to the beautiful beach of Galissas and past the convent of Saint Barbara back to Ermoupolis. |
Day 5 - Island Kea (aprx. 15 mi./25 km)Our starting point for exploring the north western-most inhabited Cycladic island is the beautiful natural harbour of Korissia. From here we climb up to the island’s capital Ioulis before continuing on to the white sand Otzias Beach where we enjoy a refreshing swim stop. Afterwards we cycle back to Korissia, and then sail to Poros in the Saronic Gulf in the afternoon. The harbour town of Poros is truly spectacular with its iconic clock tower soaring above the rest of the town. Poros in the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing evening and get lost in the authentic Greek island atmosphere. |
Day 6 - Island Poros (aprx. 14 mi./23 km)We start our day with a bike tour from Poros to the Zoodochos Pigis monastery, which dates back to the 18th century. We cycle on and almost completely circle the entire island, which in ancient times was dedicated to the sea god, Poseidon. Shortly before the end of the tour we arrive at Russian Bay, a sandy beach with turquoise blue waters, the perfect place for a relaxing swim! Once back in Poros, we board the boat and enjoy a delicious midday meal as we cruise to Aegina. |
Day 7 - Aegina Island (aprx. 22 mi./35 km)The island of Aegina is known far beyond the Greek borders for its incredible pistachio nuts! Today’s bike tour takes us up to the sanctuary of Aphaia, towering high above the azure blue of the sea. The incredibly well-preserved temple is located on the only point on the island where the Aegean Sea can be seen on both sides. On our way back to the boat, we cycle across the middle of the island past the monastery of Nektarios all the way to the town of Aegina. Here we board the boat for our last cruise back to Piraeus. The last evening on board concludes with a communal dinner and last get-together in a cosy atmosphere with crew, fellow travellers, and tour guides. |
Day 8 - Piraeus/Athen (Disembarkation)After breakfast check-out and individual return home or extended stay in Athens. |
Map and profile
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The bike routes vary in length between 15 – 35 km/10 – 22 mi. and lead through hilly or mountainous terrain. There are some longer climbs; however, you are welcome to take breaks or push your bike if necessary. The roads are mostly asphalted. Your tour guide will inform you each day about the tour details.
This tour is primarily a guided group tour however, upon consultation with your tour guides, it may be possible to cycle on your own along recommended, suitable routes. You are free to set aside a half or full day to swim or spend on board the boat, instead of taking a planned cycle tour.
Boat
Thalassa (Deluxe)
The 38 x 7.6 m Thalassa is an impressive three mast motor yacht built in 2002. On board elegance and comfort combine to create one of the most majestic ships in our fleet. A true eye catcher in any harbour. The saloon and the 10 guest cabins are spacious and modern. The vast decks provide plenty of comfortable spaces to recline and relax. The crew spoil their guests at mealtimes with a delicious selection of local specialties prepared in the ships own galley.
Dates / Tour Price
2.790 Euro per person in a twin cabin below deck
April:
19.4.-26.4. 2024
26.4.-3.5. 2024
May:
3.5.-10.5. 2024 Fully booked
10.5.-17.5. 2024
17.5.-24.5. 2024 Fully booked
24.5.-31.5. 2024
June:
7.6.-14.6. 2024 Fully booked
14.6.-21.6. 2024
21.6.-28.6. 2024 Fully booked
August:
23.8.-30.8. 2024
30.8.-.6.9. 2024
September:
6.9.-13.9. 2024
20.9.-27.9. 2024 Fully booked
27.9.-4.10. 2024 Fully booked
Included
Included services
• 8-day trip on a motorized yacht with crew
• 7 nights in a twin cabin below deck with shower/toilet
• 2 x full-board and 5 x half-board on board
• Bottled mineral water on board during all activities ashore
• Guided bicycle tours and sightseeing as described in the itinerary
• Entrance fee to museums and archaeological sites (group visit only)
• Bed linen and towels
• English-speaking tour guide
Not included in the tour price
• Journey to Athens
• Beverages on board (tally sheet; to be paid to the captain)
• Meals and beverages ashore
• Entrance fee for sights not included in the tour price
• Beach towel for ashore use (if needed)
• Tips for tour guides and crew
Optional services (on request)
• Shared twin cabin
• Surcharge for a double cabin for single use: 1200 Euro (limited)
• Rental bike with Ortlieb pannier: hybrid bicycle: 80 Euro /week;
e-bike: 200 Euro/week (limited)
• Insurance against theft and damage of the rental bike: hybrid bicycle: 10 Euro/week;
e-bike: 20 Euro/week (not insured: grossly negligent damages)
• Collective group transfers (on embarkation and disembarkation days only):
between Athens airport and the boat: 40 Euro per person/way;
between a hotel at Athens city and the boat: 25 Euro per person/way
• Exclusive transfers
• Additional nights in good hotels in Athens on request
Price reduction
• With three persons sharing a cabin, we allow a 50 % discount on the basic tour price for the third person, regardless of age. When booking the above-deck cabin, the above-deck surcharge will not be charged for the third occupant.
• Children up to age 16 receive a 25 % discount on the basic tour price (does not apply for single occupancies).
Bikes
Hybrid Bikes
Price: 80 Euro/week
Those choosing to rent a hybrid bike will receive a reliable, low-maintenance, aluminum frame bike in a suitable size. Our hybrid bikes are equipped with 28 inch hollow chamber rims with puncture-proof touring tires, high-quality derailleur gears and break systems, a carrier and a sturdy bike stand, touring saddle as well as mudguards and a pannier rack. All components are selected based on our twenty years of experience in bike tourism, insuring that they fulfill the necessary criteria to provide the rider with an uncompromised cycle experience.These high-quality hybrid bikes are rented for 80 euro pe
E-Bikes
Price: 200 Euro/week (limited)
Clients who wish to be supported by a tail-wind and seek to hire an e-bike will receive a high-quality pedelec, powered mainly by a Bosch motor capable of covering long distances, and characterized by their lightweight and great components. Alternative drive systems may also be used. Standard components of our e-bikes in varying frame sizes include, 28 inch hollow chamber rims with puncture-proof touring tires, high-quality derailleur gears and break systems, a carrier and a sturdy bike stand, touring saddle as well as mudguards and a pannier rack. With our e-bikes you will conquer the hills with a smile, they are a true declaration of independence for all who wish to cycle and seek the support of a little push.These high-quality hybrid bikes are rented for 180 Euro per week. Unfortunately there is no possibility to reserve one particular bike-brand in advance.
Bringing private bikes & EXCLUSION of private E-BIKES
The tour which you have booked requires a bike with a fully functional set of gears. Our partner can offer you high-quality, fully serviced rental bikes perfect for the terrain of this tour.
Should you however wish to bring your own hybrid or MTB with you, please make sure to check the condition of your breaks, gears, and tires and don’t forget to bring along a puncture repair kit and the essential spare parts for your bike (e.g. brake pads and tubes). Your bike should be in perfect mechanical working order.
We do not allow private e-bikes on board of our boats. This decision has been made due to health and safety regulations. If you wish to ride an e-bike for the duration of your tour, please get in touch with us about the rental options.
We do not recommend bringing along private road bikes, as the thin tires are not suitable for some of the road surfaces encountered on the tours.
Liability disclaimer: Radurlaub Zeitreisen GmbH. Will not be held liable for any damages caused to private bikes during loading, unloading or other logistical handling thereof.
Good to know
Language aboard
Due to our international audience the tour is conducted bilingually, in English and German.
Time zone
Please note that Greece is on Eastern European (Summer) time, i.e. GM(S)T + 2 hours.
Group riding pace & Requirement to wear a helmet
On our regular cycling tours, the cyclists on regular bicycles determine the pace. We ask guests who have reserved an e-bike to be mindful of this and to acknowledge that the regular cyclists need time to rest and take longer to climb the hills. We thank you for your understanding.
Helmets are mandatory on our bike tours. It is advised to bring your own, well fitted, helmet with you as our rental helmet numbers are limited (reservation required)
Bringing Children
We believe that only children with a good physical condition and previous bicycle tour experience and a minimum age of 10 are able to master the cycle tours with their own strength. Please note that the minimum height for a rental bike is 1.30 m (4.3 ft.) for hybrid bikes and 1.50 m (5 ft.) for e-bikes.
Catering
The on-board chef is a member of the crew and prepares the breakfast and one or two warm meals a day. The catering starts with the dinner on the arrival day and ends with the breakfast on the departure day.
Internet availability
Please note that there is no WiFi available onboard the ship. If you need to connect to the internet during the tour, we recommend bringing your portable electronic device to a cafe or bar somewhere in the harbour. Free WiFi is on offer almost everywhere. If you order something to eat or drink, then you are able to use the WiFi to your hearts content
Booking
