Greek Odyssey

Greek Odyssey

​
Our ride through Greece is almost due for a switch of country. Such a privilege to have been able to explore this iconic Ionian Coast. I had expected a touch of Mediterranean coastal beauty, but the ride has delivered a constant stream of “wow” moments. The combination of scenery and the magic interactions along the way that only bicycle pace makes possible. On top of that there is the layers of history. Some barely noticeable on the tops of climbs, some on a scale of the early Christian walls near Preveza.

The tent has stayed on the bike, partly due to closed camp grounds, partly due to cheap hotels dotted at every village. Likewise the camp cooker has been sidelined by cheap restaurants. Food has been without exception fresh, interesting and tasty. Our number one meal is without doubt the shrimps in white sauce in the tiny restaurant in Mytikas. The proprietress treated us like visiting family, finishing the feast with two complimentary deserts each.

The climbing has steadily increased, yesterday completing over 1100 metres of climb. Our EuroVelo GPS track has taken us off main roads at every opportunity. Quaint village lanes and tracks through olive groves. Yesterday our path climbed up and down to a series of sandy beaches with holiday preparations in full swing. Summer season will start in earnest next week at Greek Orthodox Easter, so we are ahead of the crowds. Some of our “garden route” paths end with pedal testing 16degree climbs. The trusty trailer causes a lot of sweat. The intricate track requires constant navigation and a few stops to check direction.

For me this has been a totally new bike experience, luxury of warm showers every night, food and beds prepared. Great also to have the company of two great cyclists, Buck and Brian (despite them pushing me on every hill).

​A bike ride with slightly more regular luxuries than the Australian desert

​Beautiful coast keeps rolling by

​Our route meanders through village backstreets

History crosses paths frequently

Once again Buck waits for the trailer to catch up

Seaside routes with no traffic - cycling mecca (the beauty of travelling before the Easter rush)

Lots of quiet back road diversions

The long drop into Igoumenitsa last night - 100km 1100 metres of climb