When we think of holidays in Greece, we often imagine visiting the islands during the summer to enjoy the beaches. However, Greece offers so much more than that and if you've been following our journey on My Greek Island, you will know that George and I seek out adventures during our annual trips. These adventures usually include trekking to ancient cities, exploring caves which were once mines, or visiting castles that once protected the islands from pirates.
Adventures in Greece provide a unique experience that will satisfy your wanderlust and ignite your inner explorer. This post is for all enthusiasts eager to uncover the hidden treasures of Greece and embark on a captivating journey filled with thrilling outdoor activities. Imagine cycling along rugged coastal paths, hiking through ancient ruins, and immersing yourself in the untouched beauty of nature.
Recently, we had the honour of interviewing a remarkable company called Breakaway, which offers cycling and outdoor holidays in the Peloponnese. Keep reading to find out more about Breakaway and some great tips offered the My Greek Island way.
Breakaway Greece
The founders of Breakaway Greece are Chris and Helen Ward, and the idea was born when Chris, with a long backlog of cycling trips around the world, discovered an outdoor paradise when he cycled along the Peloponnese coast from Poros island to Athens. Helen with Greek Cypriot roots, and coincidentally from the same village as my grandmother (isn't it such a small world?), is in charge of the hospitality. As a Cypriot myself, I can vouch for the hospitality. It's as if it runs in our veins!
So, get ready to pedal through the picturesque landscapes of Greece. Whether you are an experienced cyclist or a novice looking for an adventure, Breakaway provides experiences for all levels of expertise and can further personalise trips even for professional teams. Feel the cool breeze on your face as you ride along the azure coastline, with the sun casting a golden glow over the crystal-clear waters. Explore quaint villages and ancient sites, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Greece.
Location
Breakaway is located in the village of Epidaurus which is about 50 kilometres from Athens. I know you are probably wondering now where you have heard that name before? Maybe in a previous blog post Celebrating Art and Culture in Greece: The Magnificent Athens - Epidaurus Festival or the podcast episode The Athens Epidaurus Festival.
The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus is a stone theatre dating back to the 4th century BC, has a capacity of 14,000 people and is renowned for its excellent acoustics. It is one of the main venues of one of the most important cultural events in Greece, the Athens-Epidaurus Festival, which takes place every year from June to September, featuring a wide range of performances, including theatre, dance, music, and opera.
Activities
Breakaway Greece tours take place during Spring and Autumn, when the weather conditions are just right to enjoy the acitivities to the maximum. Activities include a cycling week, hiking and other outdoor activities such as running, walking, natural spring baths, visiting historic and ancient sites.
The most popular activity Breakaway offers is the cycling tours, whether these are cycling holidays or cycling the lap of the gods. You can join by yourself or with a partner or bigger crowd. So even if you are solo, their cycling tours are available even for you!
In addition to the cycling tours, one of the hiking trails offered is the Menalon trail, which is one of the most highly rated hikes in Europe. The route, approximately 75km lasting between 5-8 days, is not only mountainous but also full of canyons, massive natural plateaus, and bare peaks. For more information on hiking in Greece read my dedicated blog post Trekking in Greece; 10 of the best hiking trails in Greece and tune in to the dedicated podcast episode.
More information
Do you want to hear from Chris himself and learn more about Breakaway? Then tune into to the dedicated podcast episode available on all podcast platforms, where George and I heard over to Epidaurus to talk to Chris and learn more about the adventures you can embark on with them. Click here to listen on Spotify and note that we have obtained a discount code from Breakaway, exclusive for all our paid patreon subscribers. Sign up to patreon here.
My Greek island has also created a free guide for you with all additional info that could be useful during your cycling or outdoor holiday with Breakaway. Click below to download.
Getting to Epidaurus
Now with all this information I have given you, you are probably wondering how to get to Epidaurus to join in on the fun with Breakaway. And of course although they do offer private transfers from the airport of Athens, if you would like to combine your trip, then here are a few alternative ideas to plan your trip.
The best way to reach Epidaurus is from Athens. So flying into the International airport of Athens is probably your best option. From there, if you would like to add an additional layer of independence you could hire your own car and embark on a scenic journey from Athens. By car, the drive takes approximately two hours, following the National Road towards Corinth and then heading south on the Epidaurus exit. On the way you could combine your visit with the area of Nafplio, or the wine region of Naoussa. Otherwise, you could look to take a boat from Athens and combine your visit with one of the islands or areas in the Argosaronic like Hydra, Poros, Aegina or Methana.
If you would like to take a car with you, check out our podcast episode with a local car rental company Cosmorent and sign up to our patreon (paid or free) to unlock the MGI Cosmorent discount code.Nearby
When visiting the ancient sanctuary of Epidaurus in Greece, travelers have the opportunity to explore a wealth of nearby attractions that enrich their journey through this historic region. Combining a visit to the UNESCO-listed Epidaurus Theater with the picturesque town of Nafplio provides a perfect blend of cultural heritage and scenic beauty. Nearby are also the charming islands of Poros, Hydra and Aegina, accessible by a short ferry ride. Together, these destinations create a diverse and captivating itinerary that showcases the best of Greece's Peloponnese region.
Nafplio
Nafplio, a historic town in the northeastern Peloponnese of Greece, is a captivating blend of medieval architecture and coastal charm. Often regarded as one of the most romantic towns in Greece, Nafplio boasts picturesque streets, neoclassical mansions, and a beautiful waterfront promenade. Dominated by the imposing Palamidi Fortress and the quaint Bourtzi Castle situated on a small island in the harbor, Nafplio offers a rich tapestry of history and culture. Visitors can explore its narrow alleys filled with vibrant shops and cafes, enjoy stunning views of the Argolic Gulf, and immerse themselves in the town's enchanting atmosphere. With its blend of historical significance and scenic beauty, Nafplio is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a taste of Greece's rich heritage and charm.
Argosaronic Gulf
The Argosaronic Islands, including Poros, Hydra, and Aegina, are a captivating cluster of islands in Greece, each offering its unique charm. Poros, with its lush pine forests and vibrant harbor, is perfect for a serene getaway. Hydra, known for its preserved architecture and ban on motor vehicles, exudes timeless elegance and tranquility. Aegina, rich in ancient history and famous for its pistachio groves, offers a delightful blend of culture and natural beauty. Easily accessible from Athens, these islands provide an idyllic escape with their stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and rich heritage.
For more information check out the dedicated podcast episodes:
Methana, a picturesque town on the northeastern coast of the Peloponnese in Greece, is renowned for its volcanic landscape and therapeutic hot springs. This charming town boasts a tranquil atmosphere, with its waterfront lined with traditional tavernas and cafes, offering stunning views of the Saronic Gulf. Methana's lush surroundings and hiking trails lead to fascinating volcanic craters and ancient ruins, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Its unique blend of natural beauty and rich history provides a serene retreat from the bustle of modern life.
Naoussa
Naoussa, a renowned wine region in northern Greece, is primarily known for cultivating the indigenous Xinomavro grape, which produces some of Greece's most esteemed red wines. Xinomavro is celebrated for its deep color, complex aroma profile, and high tannin content, resulting in wines that are robust, aromatic, and capable of aging beautifully. While Xinomavro is the star of the region, Naoussa also experiments with other grape varieties, including international ones like Merlot and Syrah, often blending them to create unique and versatile wines. The wines from Naoussa, particularly the Xinomavro-based reds, are characterized by their rich flavors of red fruit, tomato, olive, and spice, offering a distinctive taste of the region's terroir and winemaking expertise.
Book Me
Do you need help deciding where to go in Greece? Book a travel consultation session with me and I will help you narrow it down to a destination. Prior to the consultation, a questionnaire will need to be completed. During the session we will discuss the questionnaire and your needs and post the consultation, an overview of the destination proposed will be provided with key information and an e-map with places of interests and other tips and tricks.
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