Self-Guided Argo-Saronic Gulf Bike Tour
Discover the beauty and history of the Peloponnese and nearby Greek islands on this self-guided cycling adventure, moving at your own pace through stunning landscapes and timeless towns. Ride through the legendary walls of Mycenae, feel the ancient drama at the Theatre of Epidaurus, and marvel at the volcanic scenery of Methana. Cycle along sparkling coastlines, past secluded beaches and charming fishing villages, and explore the serene islands of Poros, Hydra, and Spetses, where pine-covered hills meet crystal-clear waters.
Along the way, wander through quaint streets, enjoy traditional tavernas serving authentic Greek cuisine, and soak up the warm Mediterranean sun. With a perfect blend of history, nature, and local culture, this tour offers freedom, flexibility, and unforgettable experiences, making it ideal for independent travelers who love discovery, adventure, and the simple joys of life on the road.
Self-Guided
casual hotels
Nafplio
Ermioni
moderate
54 km / 34 mi
6
Min. 2, Max. 14
Athens International Airport (ATH)
Athens International Airport (ATH)
Highlights

Ancient Civilizations and Timeless History
Cycle through some of Greece’s most legendary sites, including Mycenae and the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, where history comes alive amid UNESCO-listed monuments and remarkable architecture.

Ride through Argo-Saronic Coastline
Enjoy spectacular coastal cycling along the Saronic Gulf, combined with ferry crossings to Poros, Hydra, and Spetses—each offering turquoise waters, pine forests, car-free lanes, and relaxed island charm.

Volcanic Landscapes and Hidden Gems
Discover the volcanic peninsula of Methana and lesser-known seaside towns like Archaia Epidaurus and Ermioni, where dramatic landscapes, thermal springs, fishing villages, and peaceful rhythms define authentic Greece
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | casual Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Nafplio | Nafsimedon Hotel (4-star) | |||
| DAY 2 | Nafplio | Nafsimedon Hotel (4-star) | B | 60 km / 37 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Archaia Epidaurus | Hotel mike | B | 50 km / 31 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Methana | Akti Methana | B | 37 km / 23 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Poros | Dimitra Boutique Hotel | B | 48 km / 30 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Ermioni | Philoxenia Ganossis (5-star) | B | 59 km / 37 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Ermioni | Philoxenia Ganossis (5-star) | B | 71 km / 44 mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Nafplio
Your journey begins in Athens, where you make your way independently to Nafplio. Nestled in the heart of this charming town, your hotel is just a short stroll from the historic old quarter.
Wander through streets lined with elegant neoclassical buildings, lively squares, and cozy cafés that exude a timeless charm. In the evening, savor a traditional Greek dinner at a local taverna, soaking in the magical atmosphere of Nafplio’s winding streets.

Day 2: Nafplio
Today’s ride leads you through picturesque countryside to the legendary city of Mycenae, one of the major centers of Greek civilization during the Bronze Age. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, wandering past its impressive stone walls, the iconic Lion Gate, and the royal tombs of King Agamemnon, famed leader of the Greeks in the Trojan War.
History comes alive as you step back in time. After the visit, return to Nafplio to enjoy another enchanting evening in this captivating town.
Elevation: 520m

Day 3: Archaia Epidaurus
Today’s ride brings you to one of Greece’s most iconic landmarks, the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, famous for its extraordinary acoustics and perfectly preserved structure. Pause to admire the history and imagine performances that have echoed through the centuries.
From the theatre, cycle toward the coastline and arrive at the charming village of Archaia Epidaurus, known for its small harbor, relaxed pace of life, and inviting seaside tavernas. Take some time to enjoy the village’s serene atmosphere, perhaps sipping a coffee by the water or strolling along its picturesque streets, before settling in for a comfortable overnight stay.
Elevation: 729m

Day 4: Methana
Leaving the village behind, your ride today hugs the sparkling Saronic Gulf, revealing breathtaking coastal vistas. Your destination is Methana, a volcanic peninsula connected to the mainland by a narrow isthmus.
Here, dramatic landscapes, soothing hot springs, and tranquil beaches create a hidden sanctuary where time seems to slow. Methana’s natural beauty and serenity make it a perfect escape from the everyday.
Elevation: 702m

Day 5: Poros
Begin the day with a scenic loop around the Methana peninsula, uncovering secluded coves, picturesque fishing villages, and panoramic sea views. Later, cycle toward the port of Galatas, where a short ferry ride carries you to the enchanting Poros Island.
Pine-clad hills, a lively waterfront, and elegant neoclassical buildings offer a harmonious blend of nature and culture, making Poros a true Greek gem.
Elevation: 1254m

Day 6: Ermioni
A day of exploration awaits! Start with a ride around Poros, enjoying its scenic streets and coastal charm. Then, return to Galatas and cycle along the sparkling coastline toward Ermioni. Midway, stop at Metochi to catch a ferry to the captivating island of Hydra, where stone mansions, narrow lanes, and a complete absence of cars transport you to a timeless world.
After a light lunch and a leisurely stroll, return to Metochi and continue your ride to Ermioni, a charming seaside town brimming with history and Greek coastal beauty.
Elevation: 1028m

Day 7: Ermioni
Today, a short ride takes you to the port of Kosta, where a brief boat crossing carries you to the enchanting Spetses Island. Famous for its elegant mansions, horse-drawn carriages, and car-free streets, Spetses blends history and natural beauty effortlessly.
Cycle around the island, discovering hidden beaches, shady pine forests, and quaint harbors tucked along the coastline. Pause for a relaxed lunch at a charming taverna, soaking in the island’s serene charm, before returning by boat to Kosta. From there, enjoy a scenic ride back to your hotel in Ermioni, taking in the sparkling coastal vistas along the way.
Elevation: 828m
Day 8: Departure
On your final morning, savor a leisurely breakfast and perhaps take one last stroll along Ermioni’s promenade, enjoying the gentle sea breeze and the tranquil ambiance. When you’re ready, a comfortable shuttle will transport you back to Athens, concluding your unforgettable journey through the Peloponnese and its idyllic islands.
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.

Nafsimedon Hotel (4-star)
A charming boutique hotel set in a beautifully restored 19th-century neoclassical mansion, with elegant rooms adorned with antique furniture and art, and a rich buffet breakfast served in a lovely courtyard garden.

Hotel mike
A welcoming waterfront hotel in the heart of Ancient Epidaurus village, offering comfortable rooms with sea or harbor views and a restaurant serving Greek dishes just steps from the beach.

Akti Methana
A historic seaside property built in 1901 with rooms overlooking the Saronic Gulf, combining timeless charm with modern comforts and easy access to the volcanic landscapes and natural hot springs of Methana.

Dimitra Boutique Hotel
A cozy boutique hotel just a short walk from the port of Poros, surrounded by a garden with stunning views of the sea and harbor, where guests enjoy a daily breakfast buffet and warm Greek hospitality.

Philoxenia Ganossis (5-star)
A relaxed and comfortable coastal hotel with stylish studios and apartments just steps from the seafront, ideal for soaking up the laid-back charm of the town with shops, cafés, and sea views nearby.
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: For scheduled group departures, your 20% deposit is fully refundable until 60 days before departure. Solo travellers booking 120+ days in advance can avoid a mandatory Single Supplement. See terms & conditions.
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
Airport pickup
Enjoy a hassle-free group airport pickup to start your journey. Available only on the tour start date.
Airport drop
Enjoy a hassle-free group airport drop to finish your journey. Available only on the tour end date.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
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.
Bikes
A great ride begins with a great bike. Our tours typically include the models listed below, though in some cases—due to height or availability constraints—we may provide an equivalent alternative.

SPECIALIZED Crosstrail or similar
Included in your trip price

RIDLEY Fenix C Ultegra or similar
Included in your trip price

KREIDLER Vitality Eco 7 Sport CX or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
Your tour begins in Nafplio which is served by Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos – ATH). You will be transferred from Athens Airport to hotel in Nafplio. The transfer takes approximately 2–2.5 hours.
Departure
Your tour ends in Ermioni which is served by Athens International Airport. You will be transferred from Ermioni back to Athens International Airport.
Weather
The Peloponnese and nearby Greek islands enjoy a classic Mediterranean climate, ideal for cycling and exploring.
The best months are April–May and September–October, with mild temperatures of 18–28°C, perfect for comfortable rides and sightseeing with fewer crowds.
June is considered good season, with warm, sunny days of 25–32°C.
July falls into the mixed season, with hot and dry conditions reaching 32–38°C, making early-morning or late-afternoon cycling more comfortable, while midday can be intense.
The off season from November to March is cooler (10–18°C), with occasional rain and limited ferry and tourist services.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Offseason
April
Best
May
Best
June
Good
July
Mixed
August
Mixed
September
Best
October
Best
November
Offseason
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
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 medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Is proof of medical insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
A self-guided bike tour allows you to explore independently using our detailed app-based navigation and pre-arranged logistics. We provide route notes via app, luggage transfers, hotel bookings, and emergency phone support. There is no local guide riding with you, so you manage your own navigation and basic bike upkeep.
For self-guided tours, the fitting process is designed to be simple and flexible while ensuring you start with a bike that suits your measurements.
Before Your Tour
When you book, we ask for your height. This allows our local partners to select the correct frame size and prepare the bike in advance so it’s close to your ideal fit when you arrive.
At the Start of the Tour
The setup experience varies by destination:
-
In some locations, you may receive an in-person handover with basic adjustments made by the local partner.
-
In others, especially in more remote regions, you may receive a bike that is pre-set based on the measurements you provided.
All self-guided bikes include basic tools, so you can make simple adjustments such as raising or lowering the saddle yourself.
During the Tour
You can adjust the bike as you ride using the provided tools. If anything feels off and you need assistance, our local partners are reachable and will support you as promptly as the location allows.
What to Expect
The self-guided bike fit is practical and rider-adjustable. It ensures:
- You start with the correct frame size
- You can fine-tune your comfort easily
- You have the flexibility to adjust as needed along the route
It’s not an in-depth professional fitting, but it’s perfectly suited for multi-day touring comfort.
We provide an app-based navigation system that includes all your daily routes, points of interest, and important trip notes. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we’ll share your login details before your trip.
Yes. Once the routes are downloaded, the app works completely offline, so you don’t need mobile data while riding. You can even use it in airplane mode, which helps conserve your phone’s battery.
To extend battery life further, we recommend reducing screen brightness and carrying a small power bank for longer days on the trail.
A mobile holder is not provided. Since you’ll be using your phone for navigation, we strongly recommend bringing your own sturdy, handlebar-mounted mobile holder to ensure a safe and comfortable riding experience.
We do not provide GPX files separately. All routes are available within our navigation app, which is the most reliable and up-to-date source for your trip. Once you receive the login details for the navigation app — generally shared about one month before your departure — you can explore the routes and, if needed, also download the GPX files directly from the app for use with your personal Garmin or GPS device. We recommend getting familiar with the app and its features before your tour starts to ensure a smooth experience on the road.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.
Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
Yes, each rider will be provided with at least one pannier to carry personal items during the tour. Please note, road bikes do not support panniers.
Yes, we provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.
It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.
We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.
We provide local support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our local team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
Airport transfers are not included unless specifically mentioned in your trip inclusions.
For airport pickup, we recommend booking directly from the airport upon arrival — most airports have reliable taxi, shuttle, or app-based options.
For airport drop, please book a transfer through your last hotel — they can easily arrange it for you.
We focus on delivering exceptional experiences during your tour. For logistical simplicity and flexibility, we do not handle pre- or post-tour hotel bookings. However, we’re happy to share a list of recommended hotels near the starting and ending points of your trip so you can plan your stay independently.
We are happy to pass on your room preference for a twin or double setup, and our hotel partners do their best to accommodate these requests. However, room configurations are always subject to availability at each property.
On some of our trips—especially those that travel through remote regions or small boutique inns—room types may be limited. In such cases, despite our best efforts, you may need to stay in a double room instead of a twin, or twin instead of a double, depending on what is available.
Given the nature of our journeys and the unique places we visit, we kindly ask for your understanding and support if such adjustments are required.
We will always inform you in advance wherever possible and work closely with our partners to ensure the most comfortable arrangement for your stay.
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.
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.
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.
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