mystras 13

Untamed South Peloponnese E-Bike Tour

An unforgettable 8-day cycling journey through the South Peloponnese, where every pedal reveals a new layer of Greece’s timeless charm. This isn’t just a tour, it’s a soulful ride through landscapes shaped by wind, sea, and centuries of history. Begin in Areopoli, a stone-built village echoing tales of the past, then cycle toward the fortress town of Monemvasia, rising from the rock like a dream above the Aegean. Feel the calm of Elafonisos, with its clear turquoise waters and peaceful shores.

Wander deep into the Diros Caves, glide through quiet villages like Vatheia and Gytheio, and explore the fortress of ancient Sparta. The journey ends with the majestic ruins of Mystras, a UNESCO World Heritage Site resting on the slopes of Mount Taygetus. This route offers more than adventure. It embraces you with history, breathes through nature, and connects you to Greece’s living heritage.

Tour Type

Guided

Lodging

Casual+ hotels

Start

Athens

Finish

Athens

Level

moderate to challenging

Avg. Daily Distance

48 km / 30 mi

Cycling Days

5

Group size

Min. 4, Max. 14

Fly-In

Athens International Airport (ATH)

Fly-Out

Athens International Airport (ATH)

Highlights

Highlight Image

Scenic Rides Through Timeless Landscapes

Ride through peaceful countryside, coastal roads, and small villages that offer a real taste of 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.

Detailed Itinerary

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Day 1: Athens

Step into the timeless charm of Athens, where history whispers through every street. After checking in, take time to wander the vibrant lanes, lively cafés, and ancient landmarks of the city at your own pace.

IIn the afternoon, meet your tour leader for a warm welcome drink, a comfortable bike fitting, and a short guided ride through the city center. It’s a gentle start that blends modern life with ancient wonders.

Want to see more? Optional experiences, available at an extra cost, include the Athens City Bike Tour for a charming ride through lively neighborhoods and the Acropolis Walking Tour for a closer encounter with Greece’s legendary past.

Meals:
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Day 2: Areopoli

Your journey begins with a comfortable private transfer from Athens to Areopoli, the gateway to the wild and captivating Mani region. Hop on your e-bike and cycle through dramatic landscapes, with your first major stop at the legendary Diros Caves, once believed to be an entrance to the Underworld ruled by Hades and Persephone. Explore this natural wonder and feel the mystery of ancient myths surrounding you.

Continue riding to the peaceful village of Charouda, where you’ll be enchanted by traditional Maniot stone houses and the quiet rhythm of village life.

Later, take a refreshing swim at a beautiful nearby beach, with some well-earned free time to relax by the sea.

As the sun sets, return to Areopoli and experience the magic of its lively night atmosphere. Stroll through its stone-paved streets, soak in local vibes, and enjoy traditional Greek cuisine. Elevation gain: +258m day 2 sp.jpg

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 20 km / 12 mi
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Day 3: Areopoli

Embark on a mesmerizing ride from the historic town of Areopoli to the enchanting stone village of Vatheia, perched high on a hill and famed for its tower houses that whisper tales of a proud and untamed past.

Your journey continues to the coastal gem of Gerolimenas, where clear blue waters meet a peaceful beach, perfect for a refreshing swim or simply soaking in the sun.

Cycle through the raw beauty of the Mani Peninsula, where dramatic cliffs, ancient olive groves, and winding coastal roads offer views that feel straight out of a dream.

Midway, pause for a handcrafted picnic lunch with fresh local delicacies, an authentic Greek experience that tastes as rich as the land you’re exploring.

This day blends adventure, culture, and indulgence, setting the tone for an unforgettable journey ahead.

Elevation gain: +942m day 3 sp.jpg

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 67 km / 42 mi
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Day 4: Monemvasia

Start your morning with a breezy ride from Areopoli to Gytheio, once the ancient port of Sparta. This charming coastal town welcomes you with its colorful fishing boats, pretty harbor, and cozy waterfront cafes. Take a stroll through the narrow streets, enjoy the relaxed seaside vibe, and treat yourself to a tasty lunch at a local taverna.

After a little exploring, head to Skoutari Beach. It’s a peaceful spot where you can relax on soft sand and swim in the clear blue waters of the Aegean Sea. Later in the afternoon, hop on a bus to Monemvasia, a fairytale-like medieval town set on a rocky island. As evening falls, wander through its stone-paved alleys, admire old-world buildings, and take in the quiet magic of Monemvasia under the glow of sunset.

Elevation gain: +723m day 4 sp.jpg

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 53 km / 33 mi
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Day 5: Monemvasia

Set off on a captivating ride through charming Greek villages and stunning landscapes as you make your way to the peaceful seaside village of Gerakas. Here, discover Europe’s southernmost fjord, a hidden gem where crystal-clear waters meet rugged cliffs, creating views that will take your breath away. After soaking in this natural wonder, indulge your senses at a local winery. Taste some of the region’s finest wines and hear the stories of generations who have crafted these rich flavors. Let the calm surroundings invite you for a refreshing swim and a moment of pure relaxation.

As afternoon approaches, pedal back to the enchanting town of Monemvasia. Cap off your day with a rewarding hike to the top of its ancient fortress. From this vantage point, feast your eyes on sweeping panoramas of the rolling landscape and the shimmering Aegean Sea, sealing your day with unforgettable memories. Elevation gain: +693m day 5 sp.jpg

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 50 km / 31 mi
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Day 6: Neapolis

Start your day with a pleasant bike ride through rolling hills and enjoy wide views of the beautiful Aegean Sea as you make your way to the coastal village of Pounta.

From Pounta, take a ferry to the lovely island of Elafonisos, known for its amazing natural beauty. Once you arrive, visit Simos Beach, famous across Europe for its soft white sand and clear blue waters. Spend some time swimming, relaxing under palm trees, and enjoying the calm island feeling. After the beach, ferry back to Pounta and cycle along the coast to the town of Neapolis. Enjoy the beautiful seaside views on your ride and end your day with a relaxed evening exploring the streets of Neapolis and soaking up the local atmosphere. Elevation gain: +592m

day 6 sp.jpg

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 48 km / 30 mi
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Day 7: Athens

Begin your day with a scenic bus ride to Mystras, a UNESCO World Heritage site and ancient Byzantine city built on the slopes of Mount Taygetus. As you explore this historic place, you will be amazed by its well-preserved medieval ruins, including beautiful palaces, churches, and monasteries that tell stories from a different time.

After a rich tour of Mystras, enjoy a delicious lunch at a traditional local tavern chosen by our company. Here, you can taste authentic Greek dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

Once you have finished your meal, relax on the bus as you return to Athens, reflecting on the many wonders you experienced throughout the day.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
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Day 8: Athens

Spend your final day in Athens at a relaxed pace. Take time to shop, stroll through the lively streets, and pick up some unique souvenirs to remember your journey.

As your trip comes to an end, we say goodbye to all our cyclists, hoping your adventure was both memorable and exciting. We look forward to welcoming you again on another journey.

If you’re eager to explore more of the city, we offer optional tours at an additional cost. Choose the Athens City Bike Tour for a fun guided cycling experience, or the Acropolis Walking Tour to discover Greece’s most iconic ancient landmark up close.

Meals: Breakfast

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

Map

Dates and Prices



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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.

Luggage Transfer

Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.

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.

Bikes

When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.

Bike Image

2023 Ideal FUTOUR-610FX EP600 or similar

ebike

Included in your trip price

Weather

The South Peloponnese welcomes you with changing moods through the year. January and February are quiet and cool, with a soft winter chill in the air. March brings a gentle shift, where spring slowly awakens between sunny spells and light rain. April and May shine as the best months, offering blooming landscapes and perfect cycling weather. June stays bright and pleasant, ideal for coastal adventures. July and August arrive with strong summer heat, making them the least suited for long rides. As September comes, the sun softens and the warmth returns, followed by October’s golden light and crisp breeze another perfect time to ride. November stays mild and peaceful, while December steps into the calm of the off-season once again.

January

Offseason

February

Offseason

March

Mixed

April

Best

May

Best

June

Good

July

Offseason

August

Offseason

September

Best

October

Best

November

Mixed

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:

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.

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.

Is proof of travel 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.

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

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.

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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