May 2012, Issue # 3
Most travelers know to Greece because of the economic crisis. But Greece has always been known for its archaeological treasures and culture of the Greek islands like Santorini, Delos, Mykonos and Crete! Some of you may know the Peloponnese, Epidaurus, Olympia, or the Mani peninsula - but we know much better throughout mainland Greece and the Peloponnese mainly unknown. We suggest a short break to rent bikes to explore the unknown Peloponnese, enjoying the wonderful landscapes (waterfalls, lakes, wetlands), the famous archaeological sites and beautiful beaches bike riding through the wonderful serpent roads. And even fewer of you know the special offers for motorcycle tourism in Greece. But Motorent 速 Adventure Bike Travel knows best ! Travel with us almost unknown regions of the Peloponnese! Visit the sights, explore with us the challenges serpent mountain roads and hidden villages. Some of these sites may sound familiar, but it is better to have information and advice from within. Our motorcycle tours are composed of relatively small groups on the latest motorcycle models with quality accommodation and excellent personal service and enjoy delicious locally famous Greek dishes.
4 Kavalotti & 11 Kariatidon Str, Athens (Near to Acropolis New Museum & Acropolis Metro Station)
Page 4
Scouting Unknown Peloponnese
Athens - Korinth Canal - Ancient Epidavros Mycenae - Tiryns - Nafplion Daily Km 245 Driving time approximate 4 hours 30 min 8 Stops HOTEL & Dinner at Naflion.
ď ƒ Souvenir pictures in front of the Parthenon ACROPOLIS
After updating hourly, departing from its offices Motorent ÂŽ Rentals Lease Adventure at 10.00 AM to Korinth, passing over the old historical bridge of Isthmus over the Canal of Korinth and then towards the submersible bridge at Isthmia for coffee instructions, photography next to the canal of the Isthmus of Korinth and information about the hazards of the route. We Continue to Nea Epidaurus (stop at village and archaeological site of Ancient Epidaurus - Theatre & The Sanctuary of Asclepius.). Visit the antiquities and depart for Nafplion through a magnificent mountain route through villages of Arachnaio, Limnes, Prosymna, and finally with a stop to Mycenae* and visit the Mycenaeum archaeological site (The Lion Gate, palace complex, Treasury of Atreus or Tomb of Agamemnon.) Check for Argos, towards the other Mycenaeum archaeological site of Tiryns** (the ruins of the acropolis with Cyclopean walls) and continue with a brief stop at the castle of Palamidi (Akronafplia) with panoramic views of the first capital of Greece, Nafplion Arrange the hotel in Nafplio. Our afternoon is free and we have two options. 1. swim in the beautiful beach of Karathona (4 km away) 2. Around the city attractions on foot and by boat to visit the island and the castle Bourtzi.
* Mycenae and Tiryns ** were two of the most important cities of Mycenean Greece, Greece, which flourished between the 15th and 12th centuries BC. The Lion's Gate and Treasury of Atreus at Mycenae have been listed as "outstanding examples of human creative genius" both of archaeological sites are in the List of World Heritage Sites. WEB :http://whc.unesco.org/en/about/ :http://whc.unesco.org/en/about/
Issue # 3
Page 5
Nafplion - Paralio Astros - Leonidion - Elona’s Monastery - Kosmas - Geraki - Monemvasia Breakfast - briefing - (optional walk to pretty old historical center of Nafplion like Old Town, Bourtzi Akronafplia, castle Palamidi). Later we head to castle town of Monemvasia following the route on the east coast of the Peloponnese and approach region of South Kynouria (Arcadia) and the towns of Paralion Astros and Leonidion. Visiting the Monastery of Virgin Mary of Elona, placed at the huge rocks of mountain Parnonas. The nuns at Elona are very friendly and always willing to provide you with information or even a nice hot cup of Greek coffee. We continue to village of Kosmas located in the village Kosmas at an altitude of 1150 m on Parnonas Mountain in the region of Arcadia (optional stop for coffee, cake or snack on its own) and continue for Geraki village and Molai Laconia. Finally we reach the beautiful, picturesque and imposing medieval, Byzantine Venetian castle and town, perched on a rock Monemvasia. Arrange the hotel close to castle. Free time for swimming or snacks or for strolling and shopping. Dinner.
Daily Km 188, Driving time approaximate 4 hours Stops 3 HOTEL & Dinner at Monemvasia area
Page 6
Scouting Unknown
Monemvasia - Gythio - Diros Caves - Vathia Cape Tainaro - Limeni - Stoupa - Kardamili Daily Km 240, Driving time approx.5 hours 30 min, Stops 7, HOTEL & Dinner at Kardamili. Kardamili
Breakfast and Update - Departure to Gytheion with a short stop in Selnitsa (wreck). After acquaintance with the beautiful seaside town of Gytheion we continue driving south from Areopoli, and the village of Pirgos Dirou, where the road forks off to
the famous underground caves set beside the sea and a small beach. Glifada Caves are well-lit and crammed with stalactites where reflections are remarkable. Alepotrypa Caves are huge chambers in which excavations have unearthed evidence of prehistoric occupation. Here the tour is by boat. Unforgettable impressions from the stalactites, stalagmites with weird shapes-tour visit to the unique caves are among the most important natural sites in Greece and with great archaeological significance. Then along the southwest coastline of Mani we found the small village of Gerolimenas have stone houses near the sea. After visiting Gerolimenas, the riders has already assimilated the typical image of Mani but the next stop is the nice stone village with the imposing towers of Mani in Vathia. It's a model maniot village that is going to be entirely restored. There are multi-storied towers and the visitor feels that, wandering through the narrow streets, is reviving another era more inexorable, more dignified, more heroic‌ The Mani peninsula terminates after the little settlement of Kokinoghia at Cape Tainaron, (also known as Cape Matapan) is situated at the end of the Mani (Laconia). Is the southernmost point of mainland Greece the most southern road point of Europe ? and separates the Messenian Gulf in the west from the Laconian Gulf in the east. From here following the famous European Path E4 for 20 min reach the lighthouse of Cape Tainaron, has been an important place for thousands of years. There is a cave at the tip of Cape Matapan that Greek legends claim was the home of Hades, the god of the dead. The ancient Spartans built several temples here dedicated to various gods. On the hill situated above the cave lie the remnants of an ancient temple dedicated to the sea god Poseidon. As the southernmost point of the Balkan Peninsula, the cape is on the migration route of birds headed to Africa. We leave from cape to Puerto Cayo is a historian is a very beautiful natural harbor "Prosilia Mani" in Laconia Bay and then to villages of Lagia, Kokkala, and then arrive at the Limeni the port of Areopoli wonderful options for swimming in turquoise waters, has good accommodation, taverns and traditional towers, Oitilo (Laconia), the "Fairy of the Messinian Gulf," then to Stoupa (beach Kalogria’s or Nun), finally arriving to the Homeric Kardamili. Overnight, dinner and optional evening entertainment near to beach bars and clubs.
Issue # 3
Page 7
Kardamili - Kalamata - Polylimnio - Koroni Finikounda- Methoni - Pilos Breakfast - leaving from the Homeric Kardamili, to village of Verga and reach the capital of Messinia, Kalamata. Departure from Kalamata to unknown “Polylimnio� a small secret paradise, a cluster of several lakes that are due to the rough terrain create lakes and waterfalls such as the waterfall of Kadesh that stands between the large and sharp rocks of the gorge, with the water to burst onto the surface of the lake from a
Daily Km 150 Driving time approx.3 hours 30 min, Stops 5 HOTEL & Dinner at Pilos
height of 25 meters. The number of lakes allows visitors to see and interesting places without very tired as the local road leads next to the other lakes.. Continue to its castle-towns of Koroni. The town is nestled on a hill below an impressive Venetian castle and reaches to the edge of the gulf and then via Finikounda, and Methoni a village attracted by its beaches and its historical castle. (stop for lunch or a snack on its own, optional) and continue to arrive in Pylos. Overnight, dinner and optional evening entertainment.
Page 8
Scouting Unknown Peloponnese
Pylos - Navarino - Gialova/Voidokilia Beach & Paliokastro Hill - The Costa Navarino Beaches - Filiatra - Kyparissia - Vasses (Temple of Apollo Epikourios) - Neda’s Waterfalls - Figalia - Tholo - Kaiafas Thermal Springs Pirgos - Ancient Olympia Breakfast - Departure Information from Pylos on the beautiful beach and the wetDaily Km 215 Driv- lands Voidokilia of Yalova, a ing time approx. 4 popular beach in Messinia in the Mediterranean area. hours, 40 min. In the shape of the Greek Stops 7 HOTEL & Dinner at letter omega (Ω), its sand forms a semicircular strip of Ancient Olympia dunes. The land facing side of the strip of dunes is Gialova Lagoon (or Yalova Lagoon), and important bird habitat. The beach has been named "A Place of Particular Natural Beauty" We continue our journey through Marathopoli Messinia, Gargaliani, Filiatra, Kyparissia. Then visit to the famous for the well-preserved mid to late 5th century BCE Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae or Vasses (UNESCO World Heritage Site).). It sits at an elevation of 1,131 metres above sea level on the slopes of Kotylion Mountain. We continue with a stop at Neda (famous waterfalls). It is unique in the sense that it is the only river in Greece with a feminine name.! The springs are located on Mount Lycaeum near to the village of Petra to the limits of Messinia and Arcadia. With direction to Ancient Figalia arrive to Kaiafas lake, lies in an enchanting landscape of mountain, thermal springs, pine forest and sea. From here we go to Pyrgos a delightful town with pretty squares and neoclassical buildings, including the municipal market and the municipal theater. But the most famous attraction is in the Ancient Olympia, one of the most important sanctuaries of antiquity, dedicated to the father of the gods Olympian Zeus. Olympia is the birthplace and took place of the Olympic Games. It is located at the foot of the Kronion Hill, set in a valley between two rivers and has become one of the most popular and famous sites in Greece… Ancient Olympia. Overnight, dinner and walk.
Issue # 3
Page 9
Anc. Olympia - Afrodissia Pass - Dimitsana - Aimialon Monastery (Secret School) - Lagadia - Dam & Lake of Ladonas- Planitero - Caves Lakes - Kalavrita Breakfast - Information about Ancient Olympia. (Navigate to stop antiquities museum or archaeological site). You should set aside at least two hours to enjoy the ruins and the museum. There is so much to see and imagine in the archaeological site of Ancient Olympia that brought us the original Olympic Games. We start through the historic villages and districts of Arcadia, to Dimitsana and stop to Water Power Museum. Very close is built in a beautiful location and the monastery of St. John the Baptist position. The monastery church has murals 14th and 16th century. We continue to Lagadia Arcadia a village in Gortyn, built on a steep mountain slope angle 70 degrees and an altitude of 980 meters and is traversed by three streams. Besides the scenery, streams, traditional fountains and bridges, major attractions at Lagadia are the temples of the Holy Archangels and Baptist.
(205 km, 4 hours 30 minutes Stops 5, HOTEL & Dinner at Kalavrita
Both were built in 1808 over 40 days due to time constraints set by the Turks. We continue to of the infamous "Lady in bridge" of the village Mouria connecting the north with the south bank of the Ladon artificial lake with lake scenery is majestic and unspoilt natural environment and is now one of the most important natural habitats in the Peloponnese. Continue to Kleitoria, Planitero (optional stop for a snack on its own) and visit the caves in Kastria lakes. Final destination Kalavryta check in at hotel. Overnight, dinner.
Page 10
Scouting Unknown
Kalavrita, Holocaust Museum - Mega Spileo Monastery Zachlorou - Akrata - Xilokastro - Ancient Korinth Posidonia Bridge - Heraion - St. Patapios - Loutraki Athens (Motorent’s Office) 227* / 290 km, 5 hours 30 minutes - 6 stops Breakfast - Briefing Visit to Holocaust Museum; (optional) and visit to monastery of Mega Spilaio, is situated Built on the wild and steep side of a 120-metre high rocky hill there is a unique view from the monastery's balcony. The monastery was founded at this location in 362 A.D. by two brothers, Symeon and Theodore, because an icon of the Virgin Mary was found deep inside the cave. The icon was created by Apostle Luke from mastic and wax and was discovered by a shepherd girl. Then, through the magnificent gorge Vouraikos admire the cog railway and continue to scenic village of Kato Zachlorou is built on a mountain slope on the left bank of the river Vouraikos, which forms a narrow gorge. The narrow gauge Diakofto–Kalavryta Railway runs through the village. Stop for coffee and end up on the beach of Akrata. We continue to Xylokastro, and follow the old highway admiring the clear blue waters of the Corinthian Gulf and the beautiful lake settlements and villages. In Ancient Corinth (optional stop), then we go to Posidonia (submersible bridge), and Loutraki. Towards Perachora, and Lake Vouliagmeni, we arrive at the Heraion (Lighthouse - Archaeological site). Along the road to Perachora, on an imposing site and at an altitude of some 700 m., on a spur of the Geraneia mountains and above the calm waters of the Gulf of Corinth, stands the nunnery of Hosios Patapios Monastery*. Finally through Megara, Attiki Odos, Metamorphosis, national Road, Metamorfosis, we arrive finally at the headquarters of the company Motorent ® Adventure bike travel in the city of Athens. Audit and delivery of equipment and motorcycles. Souvenirs. * if time is not enough after Monastery of St. Patapios back through direct in Athens.
Issue # 3
Page 11
7 Days Peloponnese Adventure - Daily distances: average 250 - 350 km's - Riding level: Intermediate - Surfaces: Good asphalt, optional B and C roads. If you have any further questions please use the contact us to e-mail: info@motorent.gr Please check our web pages (www.motorent.gr) of individual tours, however we normally include the following. What’s included in the rental price::
• • • • •
•
•
Motorcycle Rental of late model fully equipped motorcycles (BMW R 1200 GS, Honda XLV1000 Varadero, Honda XL700V Transalp, Suzuki DL650 V Strom) Bi-lingual motorcycle tour guide Luggage storage, Top case & 2 side Panniers Suggested routes and pre-booking of hotels if required Roadside assistance - One cell phone for emergencies - One Satellite navigator Office and 24 hour support Full Motorcycle Service All prices include 23% VAT Motorcycle insurance (damage excess applies) 6 nights single / double occupancy high class Hotel 3 or 4 * accommodations, including full breakfast Transfers to and from Airport Spata, Athens International Airport , "Eleftherios Venizelos" by Mini-Bus Office support in Athens for travel, connections, luggage etc. English road maps - Your free T-shirt - Souvenir Travel Diploma - Traveler's guide of The Peloponnese.
What’s not included? You must provide : • • •
• • •
Gasoline (fuels) for the motorcycle Air fare Flights and airport taxes and Flight to Athens, Greece is not included Entrance to historical sites, Tolls, Ferries, Lunches and Dinners - Alcohol - Personal travel insurance Protective Gear - All participants are responsible for providing their own protective gear. In your Info package will be a suggested list of clothing and riding gear to pack. Helmets are mandatory equipment Although you will be visiting the land of sunshine, we strongly recommend good rain gear. Must provide a valid motorcycle license in conjunction with a valid International Drivers License. (A.A.A.) Alternative activities e.g. boat trips, events …
Additional options include;
Support vehicle (optional) The first and last days mentioned in the itinerary are the arrival and departure days for tour start and end. Depending on the country you start in, you may have to leave a day early, subsequently, you will arrive one day later back home. Book your flights accordingly! Please enquire for longer period rental rates. Route and overnight places may change due to unforeseen events.
ROUTE 8 Days Vacation - 7 day Riding Tour 6 Overnights in Comfortable Hotels **** Day 0: Arrival Athens Airport GR Day 1: Athens - Nauplion 245 Km Day 2: Nauplion - Monemvasia 188 Km Day 3: Monemvasia - Kardamili 240 Km Day 4: Kardamili - Pylos 150 Km Day 5: Pylos - Ancient Olympia 215 Km Day 6: Ancient Olympia - Kalavrita 205 Km Day 7: Kalavrita - Athens 227 Km | 290 Km Day 8: Departure from Athens Total driving route ~ 1.470 Km | 1.533 Km
Address: 4 Kavalotti & 11 Kariatidon Str, Athens (Near to Acropolis New Museum & Acropolis Metro Station)
(+30) 210 92.34.939 (+30) 210 92.34.885 www.motorent.gr
info@motorent.gr
http://facebook.com/motorent www.motorent.blogspot.com https://www.youtube.com/user/MotorentMoto http://issuu.com/motorentmoto motorent_rentalleaseadventure https://plus.google.com/101058187151830340588/
The first and last days mentioned in the itinerary are the arrival and departure days for tour start and end. Depending on the country you start in, you may have to leave a day early, subsequently, you will arrive one day later back home. Book your flights accordingly! Route and overnight places may change due to unforeseen events.
TOUR PRICE (valid at least 4 bikes & Riders) MOTORCYCLES
PRICE PER PERSON
One Rider (Solo) One Bike (Single Room)
Suzuki DL 650 V Strom Honda XL 700V Transalp Honda XL 1000 V Varadero BMW R 1200 GS
€ € € €
1.875,00 1.875,00 2.205,00 2.205,00
One Rider + One Bike Two Passengers (Double Room)
Suzuki DL 650 V Strom Honda XL 700V Transalp Honda XLV 1000 Varadero BMW R 1200 GS
€ € € €
1.010,00 1.010,00 1.175,00 1.175,00
Two Bikes Two Passengers (Double Room)
Suzuki DL 650 V Strom Honda XL 700V Transalp Honda XL 1000 V Varadero BMW R 1200 GS
€ € € €
1.740,00 1.740,00 2.070,00 2.070,00
Medical Assistance Rider Tour Support Van
(Optional) (Optional)
Upon request with extra charge Upon request with extra charge
Motorent ® Rentals Lease Adventure Bike Travel owns a fleet that includes all the types of motos and scooters needed to achieve the perfect vacations or business trip. For a day or for three months. We suggest a short break to rent your bikes in Athens and then to explore the unknown Peloponnese, enjoying the wonderful landscapes (waterfalls, lakes, and wetlands), its famous archaeological sites and the beautiful beaches riding your bikes through the wonderful serpent-like roads. Moreover, very few of you are aware of the special offers for motorcycle tourism in Greece. But Motorent Adventure Bike Travel is here to inform and guide you so that you time spent in this beautiful corner of Earth, will be unforgettable! BOOK NOW with Motorent ® and you will be visiting the almost unknown regions of the Peloponnese! explore the challenges of the mountain serpent-like roads and hidden villages. Some of these sites may sound familiar, but it is going to be a quite different experience when have information and advice from our experienced staff and guides. Our motorcycle tours are composed of relatively small groups on the latest motorcycle models with quality accommodation and excellent personal service. To top this you will also taste and enjoy the famous and delicious local Greek dishes. For more info visit our sites; http://www.motorent.gr www.motorent.blogspot.com www.facebook.com/motorent
For more info visit our sites : http://www.motorent.gr info@motorent.gr www.motorent.blogspot.com http://facebook.com/motorent http://issuu.com/motorentmoto motorent_rentalleaseadventure https://plus.google.com/101058187151830340588/ www.youtube.com/user/MotorentMoto