In this series, we travelled through Europe at the hand of Rik de Voogd. This summer, through him, we were already in Germany (here, here and here), Italy and also all the first share at Greece. We really enjoyed this series and especially the cool photos, including those by Maarten Zuur (of Acid Films). So this is the last leg of this series. Rik on travel: Greece part 3. Enjoy it, just like we did (again).
Text: Rik de Voogd - Photos: Maarten Zuur
Stage 5 - Kalamata - Kalamata
On the penultimate day of my trip, I am presented with perhaps the toughest programme of all. Not only because of the 152-kilometre round trip from Kalamata, combined with 1800 altimeters. The accompanying temperature hovering between 30 and 36 degrees makes it even more challenging than it already is. Fair is fair, it is absolutely worth it!
Greek coffee cult
I have to get something off my chest right now. I absolutely love Greek coffee culture. Not only do they have insane espressos, but also the vibe is fantastic. In Italy, for instance, espressos are drunk almost on the way out. Greeks actually take the time to enjoy their coffee. The social aspect is much more important there, as is the relaxed atmosphere. It is only natural that we start our cycling day with a coffee in the streets of Kalamáta.
Against the clock
We drive out of town for a counter-clockwise tour of the Missienia Peninsula. Before we reach the sea, we tackle a few delightful hills. Then we follow the coastline and to our right there is a multitude of small hidden beaches and coves where you can relax. A lap along the coast is always great. We stop very often along the route, to enjoy the views, to take photos but also to have coffee with a local delicacy. I end up losing 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 drive is amazing. You can literally get it everywhere and it is really delicious. It comes straight from the countryside. Grapes, peaches, plums, you name it. Delicious.
In the end, I also stop taking fruit and energy bars on the ride. Why should I? Again, really kudos to the guys from Pedal Greece, who make sure we get to see the best spots. They also indicate which fruit I should try. Perhaps fuelled by the amazing conditions, everything tastes fantastic. I'm really going to miss that when I get back to the Netherlands.
Especially after days like this, I appreciate the beautiful locations where we are staying. It is pure luxury and this time we are so close to the beach. That's totally my thing!
SMALL FINAL: STAGE 6, KAMPOS - LIMENI
On the final day, I can still cross one item off my bucket list. The 57-kilometre ride has only 800 altimeters in store. But that is certainly not the most important thing. We end our ride on the beach today. Ending with a fresh dip in the sea, just in my bib shorts. I hadn't done that one before. This place will be pretty hard to beat.
This day, so to speak, is my last day here on the Greek Peloponessos. That it is going to be an insane climax is hardly possible. This is the icing on the cake. Something I probably won't forget all my life. So good.
Despite the fact that my brand-new Greek cycling buddy Doros and I start off like crazy, we manage to enjoy the views of the Mani Peninsula quite nicely. The fast start means we arrive at our first stop just a little earlier than expected. I really don't get tired of the fast hairpin bends here. Especially when you have a view of the Mediterranean sea after every turn. After we get back to sea level, we make our first real stop. We end up choosing 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 a bit. Combined with a nice sea breeze, it was pure enjoyment.
Pure enjoyment
Once back on the bike, we push ourselves a little more on the final climb of the trip. Once again beautiful views we are spoiled with, challenging hairpin turns and we basically ride the whole trip with the shirt zip open, with a load of sweat drops on our handlebars. Arriving at the summit, there is a simple 'well done'. Then I dive into the descent. Like a consummate pro, I go all out. All in. I don't stop for photos, no instagram stories. I am totally absorbed in the moment. Just me and the road ahead. Again, no one else ind e around. A smooth left turn, a sharp right turn, another sharp left turn and a delicious right turn. Meanwhile, I hear the sound of real speed. I fill up completely and tears of happiness roll down my cheeks.
Once down, I drive straight to the beach and as told beforehand, I jump straight into the water to end this memorable trip.
Want to know more?
WIl you want to know more about this crazy trip? Then check out the instagram of Rik. Would you also like to hit the road with the men of Pedal Greece? Then check their website here!
