Ionian Islands Bike & Sail

Ionian Islands Bike & Sail

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8 Days From

$2581

Ionian Islands Bike & Sail

8 Days Starting in Corfu, Greece and ending in Corfu or Athens, Greece

Visiting: Corfu, Parga, Lefkas Island, Kefalonia, Ithaca, Meganisi, Paxos

Tour operator:

UTracks

Tour code:

IIB

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 20

Physical rating:

moderate to challenging

Age range:

10-

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours, Sailing

Interests:

Cultural, Wildlife Tours

Activities:

Cycling, Walking

From: $2581

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Ionian Islands Bike & Sail tour, exploring the stunning landscapes of Greece. Cycle through captivating scenery, charming small towns, and picturesque villages, while enjoying the warm hospitality aboard a comfortable sailing boat. This tour offers guided cycling excursions on various islands, including Lefkas, Kefalonia, Ithaca, Meganisi, and Paxos, with opportunities to visit historical sites, swim in crystal-clear waters, and savor local delicacies. With 7 nights of accommodation in a twin cabin, delicious meals prepared by the onboard cook, and the option to rent hybrid or electric bikes, this tour promises a perfect blend of relaxation and active exploration.

Highlights

  • Cycling in the Ionian islands with captivating scenery

  • Exploring the small towns and villages en route

  • Visiting Parga with its medieval fort and pretty old town

  • Cycling to a waterfall near Nidri on Lefkas Island

  • Exploring the Melissani stalactite cave on Kefalonia

  • Cycling on the hilly and beautiful Ithaca Island

  • Panoramic cycling tour on Meganisi Island

  • Exploring Paxos Island with its olive groves and beaches

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Board Boat In Corfu

Location: Corfu

Accommodation Name: Boat

Meals Included: Dinner

Make your own way to Corfu town. The boat will be moored in the harbour or a nearby marina. We can arrange a transfer from the airport or hotel in Corfu to the boat (recommended) - please ask for our rates. Check-in from 2:00pm and there is a group dinner in the evening onboard. Overnight in Corfu.

Day 2 : Cycle To Parga, Cruise To Nidri On Lefkas Island (28Km/17.5Mi)

Location: Parga

Accommodation Name: Boat

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning we cross over to Sivota on the mainland for our first cycle tour. We cycle to and visit Parga, with its medieval fort overlooking the pretty old town. From here we cruise to Nidri on the island of Lefkas which is connected to the Greek mainland with an original swing-bridge. We spend the night in the beautiful and lively harbour of Nidri.

Day 3 : Discover Lefkas Island By Bike, Cruise To Fiskardo On Kefalonia (35Km/21Mi)

Location: Lefkas Island

Accommodation Name: Boat

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast we cycle to a waterfall near Nidri and if we are lucky there will be enough water for a swim. Afterwards we'll continue along quiet roads through the hills via Sivros to the harbour of Sivota (on Lefkas). Here we'll board the boat and cruise to Fiskardo on the island of Kefalonia, where we will spend the night. This harbour town on the northern point of the island charms visitors with its colourful houses and numerous cafes and bars along the picturesque harbour promenade. You should definitely try the local Robola wine!

Day 4 : Cycle To Sami Via Melissani Caves, Cruise To Vathy On Ithaca Island (39Km/25Mi)

Location: Kefalonia

Accommodation Name: Boat

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast we will leave Fiskardo by bike and climb an impressive mountain road on the west coast of Kefalonia, from which there are awe-inspiring views over the Assos peninsula and the famous Myrtos beach. We'll then turn inland and cross the island. Shortly before the end of the tour we'll visit the Melissani stalactite cave on board a small row boat and marvel at the incredible blue tones created by the cave formations, sun and water. The ship will await us in Sami and we'll set off to Vathy on Ithaca, where we'll spend the night.

Day 5 : Cycle On The Island Of Ithaca, Cruise To Meganisi (20 Or 28Km/13 Or 17Mi)

Location: Ithaca

Accommodation Name: Boat

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning we cycle on the Ithaca Island. The homeland of the mythical king Odysseus is a hilly island with a beautiful landscape. On today’s cycle route we can enjoy the typical character of the Ionian Islands away from the beaten tourist track: gnarled olive trees, crystal clear water and friendly islanders – time appears to stand still on Ithaca. Decide for yourself whether you are up for the challenge of a true hill climb, or would prefer the leisurely alternative of a panoramic ride at half the height. The boat will await our arrival in Frikes before setting off to the small island of Meganisi.

Day 6 : Cycling On The Islands Of Meganisi And Paxos (17Km/10Mi)

Location: Meganisi

Accommodation Name: Boat

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Meganisi is a tiny island with lots of charm, which we explore in the morning by bicycle. The panoramic tour takes us along lonely island roads and through the three villages of the island, giving us a chance to see the traditional island life of the Greeks first hand. At Spartochori beach we can enjoy a coffee and a swim in the sea. In the afternoon we sail to Paxos Island, whose unique natural harbour in Gaios creates a special island atmosphere. We can spend the evening in one of the cozy taverns of Gaios.

Day 7 : Explore The Island Of Paxos, Cruise To Corfu (23Km/14Mi)

Location: Paxos

Accommodation Name: Boat

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Paxos, the smallest of the seven Ionian Islands, is a grove of olive trees, which gives the island its wonderful silver-green color. On our cycle trip today we will circle the island. We can have a last swim in the Mediterranean on one of the many beaches. After lunch the ship will bring us back to Corfu town where we will end our journey with a last dinner on board together with the crew and tour guides.

Day 8 : Trip Concludes

Meals Included: Breakfast

Disembark after breakfast on board around 9am and individual departure.

What's Included

  • Meals

    7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 2 dinners are included. The cook on board is a member of the crew and prepares the meals.

  • Accommodation

    7 nights accommodation in a twin cabin below deck with private bathroom. Supplement applies for above deck or single cabin.

  • Bike Rental

    21 speed hybrid bike rental with pannier. Electric bikes are available on request for an additional cost.

  • Bottled Water

    Bottled water is provided on board and during all activities ashore.

  • Guided Cycling Tours

    Guided cycling tours on the islands and mainland are included.

  • Experienced Crew

    An experienced crew of 4, including an English-speaking tour guide, is provided.

  • Bed Linen and Towels

    Bed linen and towels are included.

  • Entries to Museums and Archaeological Sites

    Entries to museums and archaeological sites for group visits are included.

  • Information Pack

    An information pack including overview maps per cabin is provided.

What's Not Included

  • Travel to and from Corfu

    Travel to and from Corfu is not included.

  • Transfers

    Transfer from Corfu airport or hotel to the boat on embarkation and disembarkation days is available on request for an additional cost.

  • Cabin Upgrades

    Upgrade to a cabin on deck or single cabin is available for an additional cost.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is mandatory and may require cruise cover.

  • Helmets

    Helmets are mandatory on all bike tours.

    You are encouraged to bring your own well-fitted helmet.

    A limited number of rental helmets are available on board.

  • Tips

    Tips for the guide and crew are not included.

  • Optional Bicycle Insurance

    Optional bicycle insurance is payable in cash locally.

    EUR10 per person for trekking bike, EUR20 per person for electric bike.

  • WiFi

    The boat does not offer a WiFi connection.

    Free WiFi is available in cafes or bars in the harbour.

  • Personal Items

    Items of a personal nature are not included.

  • Drinks

    Drinks including mineral water on board and meals not included.

    Bottled water for the week costs EUR25 per adult and EUR15 per child up to age 16, paid locally.

What You Carry

During the cycle day you will carry your daily requirements in the pannier provided with the bike. This may include your lunch, wet weather gear, mobile phone and water. A small daypack which can be kept inside the pannier is useful for sightseeing.

Grading

GRADE 4 - The trip requires a good level of fitness from participants, which they should have acquired from steady cycling. If you are concerned about your fitness for this tour we recommend you consider an e-bike - supplement applies. The day-tours from 23 to 39km / 14 to 25mi will take us through hilly and mountainous terrain (and will be completed without any time-constraints. Participants will also need to master some steep climbs (the cycle tours will have an altitude of 300-600m (1,000-2,970 ft) during which you may need to push the bike. 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. We will traverse mostly asphalted roads, which are rarely travelled on outside the holiday seasons. Each day you can either decide to cycle alone, using the information and maps provided, or join the tour guide or other participants. It is considered suitable for active children who are experienced cyclists (minimum 10 years, height minimum is 1.4m or 4.6ft - minimum height for e-bike is 1.5m / 5ft). 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.*For safety reasons, we insist that cycle helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list.

Mode of Transport

Travel by a comfortable sailing boat, with transfers from Corfu airport or hotel to the boat available on request. The tour includes guided cycling tours on the islands and mainland, with bike rentals provided.

Accommodation

Enjoy 7 nights in a twin cabin below deck with a private bathroom. Cabins are compact with a double bed or a double bed and a single bunk above. Upgrades to a cabin on deck or single cabin are available for a supplement.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of meals are included during the tour?

    The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 2 dinners. The cook on board, who is a member of the crew, prepares the meals. Note that the included lunches and dinners may be swapped, and your tour guide will inform you locally when these will be included.

  • What type of accommodation is provided on the tour?

    Accommodation is provided for 7 nights in a twin cabin below deck with a private bathroom. A supplement applies for an above deck or single cabin. If you are traveling by yourself, you can be matched with another passenger. The compact cabins have a double bed or a double bed with a bunk bed above.

  • What kind of bike will I be using during the tour?

    You will be using a 21-speed hybrid bike with a pannier. Electric bikes are available on request for an additional supplement, but supplies are limited. The guides will carry bike locks for the group, or individual locks can be provided on request if you decide to bike alone.

  • Is bottled water provided during the tour?

    Yes, bottled water is provided on board and during all activities ashore.

  • Are there guided tours included in the itinerary?

    Yes, guided cycling tours on the islands and mainland are included in the itinerary.

  • What is the crew composition on the boat?

    The experienced crew consists of 4 members, including an English-speaking tour guide.

  • Are there any additional costs for transfers?

    Yes, transfers from Corfu airport or hotel to the boat on embarkation and disembarkation days are available on request for an additional cost. You can ask the office for details.

  • Is travel insurance mandatory for this tour?

    Yes, travel insurance is mandatory. Cruise cover may be required, so you should check with your insurer.

  • Are helmets provided for the bike tours?

    Helmets are mandatory on all bike tours. You are encouraged to bring your own well-fitted helmet. A limited number of rental helmets are available on board, but reservation is essential, and we cannot guarantee their suitability.

  • Is there WiFi available on the boat?

    The boat does not offer a WiFi connection. If you need to connect during the tour, it is recommended to take your portable electronic device to a cafe or bar in the harbor, as free WiFi is available almost everywhere on purchase of something to eat or drink.

  • What should I carry during the cycling days?

    During the cycling days, you will carry your daily requirements in the pannier provided with the bike. This may include your lunch, wet weather gear, mobile phone, and water. A small daypack that can be kept inside the pannier is useful for sightseeing.

  • What is the fitness level required for this tour?

    The trip requires a good level of fitness, which participants should have acquired from steady cycling. The day-tours range from 23 to 39 km (14 to 25 mi) and will take you through hilly and mountainous terrain. Participants will need to master some steep climbs, and the cycle tours will have an altitude of 300-600m (1,000-2,970 ft). If you are concerned about your fitness, you may consider using an e-bike, which is available for an additional supplement.

  • How fit do I have to be?

    Our adventures are first and foremost holidays and can be undertaken by anyone in a reasonable state of health and fitness - however, please carefully read our Terms & Conditions when booking and view the trip grading. We rank our trips according to our honest Trip Grading System. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with our grading system by reading our detailed trip notes (which you can order through this site) and to speak with us about the physical requirements of your chosen trip.

  • What happens if something goes wrong?

    On our guided tours, you travel in small groups with a local multi-lingual guide whose knowledge of the terrain, flora, fauna and history of the region is exemplary. Our self guided tours give you the freedom to explore at your own pace - but they're not unsupported. We provide detailed route notes and maps and our local partners are on hand throughout the day in the unlikely event that something goes wrong. All we request is that you select a program that matches your level of fitness to ensure that you have a comfortable experience.

  • I'm travelling solo on a self-guided trip. Do I pay the single supplement or the single traveller surcharge?

    Most of our self guided trips are priced based on twinshare. If you are travelling solo the single traveller surcharge will apply. The single supplement would apply if you were travelling in a party with others and you had chosen to book a single room. You would never pay a single traveller surcharge and a single supplement.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

C. McAllister(Glasgow, United Kingdom)  

Ionian Islands Bike & Sail

10 Oct 2023

Had a fantastic time on the Ionian Bike and sail holiday. The cycling was great, the food was terrific and the crew worked really hard to make the best of things. We had a terrible storm, but the Captain adapted so we could get the best out of our time.

L. Balding(Norwich, United Kingdom)  

Ionian Islands Bike & Sail

6 Jun 2023

I had the time of my life. The guides were great, the boat was clean and the bed super comfy and the cycle rides challenging but achievable with breathtaking scenery.

J. Patterson(Hamilton, New Zealand)  

Ionian Islands Bike & Sail

16 Jun 2023

A feature of the rides were the wonderful long downhills with switchbacks and amazing vistas. Of course the were preceded by corresponding uphills but an e-bike takes the pain out of it! We visited several ancient ruins, rock tombs and historical ruins with commentary from an very well informed guide. All up a great experience….and the food on board was to die for!

P. Sapsford(Bronte, NSW)  

Ionian Islands Bike & Sail

10 Jun 2015

It was all fabulous, great boat,crew guides, food.

J. Stokes(Bicton, Australia)  

Ionian Islands Bike & Sail

1 Oct 2024

Just recently completed the Ionian bike boat trip. Can’t fault the trip, we had some logistic issues due to weather and the guides Alex and Katerina handled the complexities well and came up with satisfactory alternatives. The guides were very personable and very caring, we had one member who could not cycle due to an injury sustained a few days before joining and they went out of their way to accommodate her participation in visits to features throughout the trip. The food was excellent and the crew did an amazing job catering for our needs. We were not on e-bikes and found it quite hard going, as most rides required long uphill ascents, if I had my time again I would have selected an e-bike, even though I managed the rides it took away from my enjoyment as in my opinion it was very extreme. Both guides were on e-bikes which probably says a lot for the extreme nature of the climbs.

N. Sheta(Bristol)  

Ionian Islands Bike & Sail

30 May 2022

Our trip did not go according to plan for personal reasons, but the guides and crew could not have been more thoughtful and helpful, above and beyond the call of duty. The food was outstanding , the planning was impeccable, and the Ionian islands truly stunning in their springtime glory.

T. Brown(Petaluma, United States)  

Ionian Islands Bike & Sail

15 Aug 2024

I would definitely tour with them again. The tour guides and accommodations were wonderful and I met some lovely fellow travelers from all over the world. 5 stars!

M. McAllister(Glasgow, United Kingdom)  

Ionian Islands Bike & Sail

10 Oct 2023

Absolutely amazing holiday. Staff work like Trojans. Especially Nellie! Great food from Nondas. Fabulous guides Alex and Raphael. Great company onboard. Comfy bed. Great cycling. Perfect holiday, really!

S. Lichtblau(Mill Valley, CA)  

Ionian Islands Bike & Sail

6 Jul 2022

What a fabulous trip with incredible guides! The crew was fantastic and made the trip very enjoyable. The rides are short but there are challenging hills for those who are riding without an electric assist. Good swim spots and great food. Thank you!

J. Paskalides(Hernando, United States)  

Ionian Islands Bike & Sail

20 Jun 2023

We had a good time on our trip. The tour guides were great and the boat crew was excellent. The food was very healthy and delicious. The Greek islands are amazing.

Read all 15 reviews

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Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    UTracks allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform utracks, 70 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    UTracks requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of utracks charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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