In this series, we traveled through Europe with Rik de Voogd. This summer, we already went to Germany through him (here, here en here), Italy and also the first Share in Greece. We really enjoyed this series and especially the wonderful photos, including those by Maarten Zuur (from Acid FilmsThis is the last episode of this series. Rik on a Trip: Greece part 3. Enjoy it, just as we did (we did it again).
Text: Rik de Voogd – Photos: Maarten Zuur
Stage 5 – Kalamata – Kalamata
On the penultimate day of my trip, I might be presented with the toughest program of all. Not only because the 152-kilometer round trip from Kalamata combined with 1,800 meters of elevation gain. The corresponding temperature, which fluctuates between 30 and 36 degrees, makes it even more challenging than it already is. To be honest, it is absolutely worth it!
Greek coffee culture
I really need to get into the Greek coffee culture. I am absolutely crazy about the Greek coffee culture. Not only do they have amazing espressos, but the atmosphere is fantastic as well. In Italy, for example, espresso is almost always drunk on the way out. Greeks actually take the time to enjoy their coffee. The social aspect is much more important there, just like the relaxed atmosphere. It’s only logical that we start our bike day with a coffee in the streets of Kalamata.
Against the clock
We drive out of town for a round in the opposite direction around the Missienia peninsula. Before we reach the sea, we tackle a few lovely hills. Then we follow the coastline and on our right there is a multitude of small hidden beaches and coves where you can relax wonderfully. A round along the coast is always great. We stop quite often along the route to enjoy the view, to take photos but also to have coffee with a local treat. I eventually lost count of the number of stops.
One of the things I really love about this country is the abundance of places where you can stop for fantastic food. In particular, the amounts of fresh fruit you can buy on your ride are amazing. You can literally get it everywhere, and it’s really delicious. It comes straight from the countryside. Cherries, peaches, plums, you name it. Delicious.
In the end, I also don’t bring any fruit and energy bars with me on the ride anymore. Why would I? Again, a big compliment to the guys from Pedal Greece, who make sure we see the best places. They also tell me which fruit I should try. Maybe fed by the amazing conditions, everything tastes fantastic. I’m really going to miss that when I’m back in the Netherlands.
Especially after days like these, I appreciate the beautiful locations where we stay. It's pure luxury and this time we are so close to the beach. That's absolutely my thing!
SMALL FINALE: STEP 6, KAMPOS – LIMENI
On the last day, I can still tick off an item from my bucket list. The 57-kilometer route only has 800 meters of elevation gain. But that’s definitely not the most important thing. We end our ride today on the beach. Ending with a refreshing swim in the sea, only in my bib shorts. I’d never done that before. This place will be quite difficult to beat.
This day is, so to speak, my last day here in the Greek Peloponnese. That it will be a crazy climax is almost inevitable. This is the icing on the cake. Something I will probably never forget in my entire life. So good, then.
Despite my newly minted Greek cycling buddy Doros and I starting off like a madman, it works quite nicely to enjoy the view of the Mani peninsula. Thanks to the quick start, we got to our first stop a little earlier than expected. I really don’t get tired of the fast hairpin bends here. Especially not when you have a view of the Mediterranean Sea after every bend. After we reached sea level, we make our first real stop. In the end, we choose a small bar in a small bay of a village called Kardamylli. There, we treat ourselves to a huge homemade lemonade. That did a lot to cool us down. Combined with a nice sea breeze, it’s pure bliss.
Pure enjoyment
Once back on the bike, we push ourselves a little more on the final climb of the trip. Once again, beautiful views that treat us to breathtaking views, challenging hairpin bends, and we actually ride with the zipper of our shirt open the whole trip, with a load of sweat droplets on our handlebars. Upon reaching the top, there is a simple ‘well done’. Then I dive into the descent. As a true pro, I go all out. All in. I don’t stop for photos, no Instagram stories. I immerse myself completely in the moment. Only me and the road in front of me. There’s no one else around. A smooth turn to the left, a sharp turn to the right, another sharp turn to the left, and a delightful right turn. Meanwhile, I hear the sound of real speed. I shoot full throttle and tears of happiness roll down my cheeks.
Once I get down there, I head straight to the beach and, as I said beforehand, I jump into the water immediately to end this memorable trip.
Want to know more?
Would you like to know more about this crazy trip? Then check out the Rik's instagram. Do you want to go out with the men of Pedal Greece? Then check their website here!
Questions & tips
Do you have any questions about this route, or have you been there yourself? Share them here. We read everything and usually respond within a few days.