TOUR GUIDE
If time off in Greece brings to mind crowded beaches and half-built hotels, it’s time for a rethink. Away from the tourist traps are great roads, quiet villages, amazing scenery and truly wonderful food. It’s not to be missed…
Forget its crowded beaches and halfbuilt hotels, riding in Greece is ace.
Route 1: Mparos Pass
The special 33-mile Mparos Pass in the Epirus region of Greece is the highest mountain pass in the country at 6250ft above sea level. The pass is a must-ride for any motorcyclist taking time out in the area, and is arguably the most scenic road in the whole country.
For the best route begin your journey at Anilio and head towards Kalarites – your final destination.along the way pass through ancient villages with views of snow-capped mountains (yes snow) and sweeping countryside. It takes a couple of glorious hours to get to Kalarites where you will find traditional stone-built houses and plentiful eateries: this region is famous for its handmade pasta, tsipouro (pomace brandy) and Zitsa and Metsovo wines.
Route 2: Kalamata to Sparta
One way to negotiate part of the brilliant Taygetos mountain range in southern Greece is to ride the 37-mile stretch between Kalamata and Sparta. This winding road comes with numerous elevation changes, overhanging rocks, tunnels and a shed load of switchbacks, providing an hour and a half of riding bliss. After 15 miles stop at the village of Artemisia. Pick one of the traditional restaurants and ask for ‘pasto’, which is pieces of pork in wine, olive oil, and spices, along with eggs and locally sourced bread. Once suitably recharged, continue riding towards Sparta and Mystras – a walled medieval town and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Route 3: Athens to Lake Plastira
Lake Plastira – also known as Little Switzerland – is an artificial lake created by and named after former Greek prime minister, General Nikolaos Plastiras. It sits 210 miles from Athens and 146 miles from Thessaloniki.
From Greece’s capital take the E75 motorway. Stick with it for about 125 miles before taking the E65, and then twisty mountain roads to the lake itself. When you get there you’ll find delicious alpine-like mountain peaks, rushing gurgling streams and the kind of green expanse you’re more likely to associate with Scandinavia… but without the trolls. This artificial paradise is a real favourite with motorcyclist thanks to the roads, views and plentiful villages. Try Kalivia Pezoulas and Neohori which has a botanical garden within walking distance. At Karitsa there is a monastery carved out of a huge rock while Mesenikolas is well known for its red wine. Spend a day or two around the lake and have a go at rafting, mountain-biking, horse riding or numerous other outdoor pursuits.
Route 4: Pyli to Kalambaka
This great 80-miler runs from Pyli to Kalambaka in Greece’s Meteora region, complete with mountains and beautiful villages with historic churches and awesome views from rugged cliffs. Start your ride from the town of Pyli and visit the extraordinary arch bridge/ waterfall combo at Paleokaria. Then, continue north for 37 miles before stopping off for a coffee and the Church of the Holy Cross in the village of Doliana. The last leg of the journey takes you through bend after bend of mountainous countryside until you finish the ride in Kalambaka. While in Kalambaka, make time to visit the
Meteora Monasteries – another UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as trying the famous local dish – mushroom and lamb stew. And yes, it’s as good as it sounds.
Route 5: Nafpaktos to Karpenisi
Start your ride from Nafpaktos before heading the 25 miles towards the village of Thermos for panoramic views of
Lake Trichonida. Continue north from the lake for more meandering roads until you see the Monastery of Proussos – a historic orthodox Greek monastery set within a beautiful, sweeping landscape. Take time to have a look around and soak up its rich history. The ride from the monastery to Karpenisi passes through numerous quaint Greek villages which are perfect lunchtime or evening meal stops. The village of Gavros is a particularly good choice – just pick a restaurant and indulge in their famous meat dishes.