Greece: Sparta, Monemvasia & the Peloponnesian Peninsula
If you’re looking for a Grecian cycling adventure that escapes the crowded tourist centers, this VBT vacation is a breath of fresh air. The Peloponnese Peninsula juts into the azure waters of the Aegean Sea, and here you’ll experience authentic Greece. Cycling from historic Sparta, your Greek trip leaders introduce you to local traditions dating back to ancient times. Discover the region’s important role in the Byzantine Empire as you explore the imperial capital of Mystras with a local archeologist. Learn the art of Byzantine cuisine—passed down through the generations to the local chef who guides your cooking class. As you spin past seaside villages dipping their toes in Aegean waters, you may even feel the heart of western civilization pulsing beneath your wheels.
Supplier: VBT Bicycling Vacations
Monemvasia
At the far end of Peloponnese, on the southern east coast of the peninsula looking on to Mirtoon Sea, stands Monemvasia. A distinctly shaped great rock rising from the sea only a few meters from the coast, it is often referred to as the "Gibraltar of Greece". On the north side of the bay there are a few houses in the small village of Old Monemvasia. Visit the cemetery where in 1989 the famous Greek poet Ioannis Ritsos was buried. The lower town of Monemvasia is called "the Fortress" today. A wall protects the lower town on three sides. There are several churches around like Panagia Chrisafitissa, Panagia Mirtidiotissa, Chistos Elkomenos, Agia Sofia. On the east side of the main square stands a house with a garden containing remains of the early Byzantine church. To the west, there is the "Stellakis" house that was reconstructed and gave a lot of information about the architectural details and appearance of the medieval town. A small zigzag path connects lower town with upper town. The Fort city of Monemvasia with a one and only gate turns dream into reality.
Athens
Even though you've probably come here to see the "glory that was Greece," perhaps best symbolized by the Parthenon and the superb statues and vases in the National Archaeological Museum, allow some time to make haste slowly in Athens. Your best moments may come sitting at a small cafe, sipping a tiny cup of the sweet sludge that the Greeks call coffee, or getting hopelessly lost in the Plaka -- only to find yourself in the shady courtyard of an old church, or suddenly face to face with an ancient monument you never knew existed. With only a little advance planning, you can find a good hotel here, eat well in convivial restaurants, enjoy local customs such as the refreshing afternoon siesta and the leisurely evening volta (promenade or stroll) -- and leave Athens planning to return, as the Greeks say, tou chronou (next year).
Mystras
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Elia
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PEGASUS-The Travel Address/Galaxsea Cruises
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Fresno CA 93711
(559) 432-8747
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