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MTB & Boat

Greek Aegean MTB-Special · Greece

From 1490 €
2 performance levels
Route
from Bodrum / to Bodrum
Duration
8 days /
7 nights
Distance
ca. 170 km
ca. 4,300 hm
MTB Level 2 / 5
MTB Level 1 / 5
Easy mountain bike tours suitable for islandhoppers who can safely handle a mountain bike. Mostly asphalt roads and wide, natural paths (20-30km and 200-400 elevation meters per day, S0)
MTB Level 2 / 5
Easy to moderate mountain bike tours for islandhoppers who are fit, technically able and can ride safely. Mainly natural paths and simple single trails (20-40km and 300-500 elevation meters per day, S0-S1).
MTB Level 3 / 5
Moderate mountain bike tours suitable for islandhoppers who enjoy riding through varied terrain and are comfortable with climbs up to 500m (30-50km and 400-600 elevation meters per day, S0-S2).
MTB Level 4 / 5
Moderate to demanding mountain bike tours suitable for islandhoppers with a very good level of fitness and riding technique. Mostly hiking tracks and single trails (30-60km and 400-750 elevation meters per day, S0-S2).
MTB Level 5 / 5
Demanding mountain bike tours for islandhoppers with excellent riding technique and who enjoy and feel comfortable with technical trails. Mostly on hiking tracks and single trails (30-60km with 500-1,000 elevation meters per day, S0-S3).

MTB adventure and epic trail experiences in the island paradise

The islands are a magical world, and each island offers its own unique character, history and spectacular nature. Explore the islands of Kos, Leros, Tilos and Nissyros by bike. No off-road adventure will be left unexplored. The tours are physically demanding, and the number of trails explored depends on the technical level of the tours offered. After the tours your boat anchors in idyllic bays for refreshing swim stops. In the evening you are free to explore the quaint harbour towns by foot or to relax in the comfort of a local tavern. Sometimes a night is spent on anchor giving everyone the opportunity to swim in the moonlight or with the rising sun at dawn. This tour is operated as an exclusive MTB tour. To meet the different requirements of the guests, each trip is usually accompanied by two MTB guides who, wherever possible, offer two tour of differing performance levels.

Level A: trails up to S3 of the German single trail scale
Level B: trails S0 to S2, short sections of S3 may have to be ridden.

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Highlights

Culture: Visiting the monastery of St. John of Chora followed by a staircase descent on the bikes
Nature: Eye-catching volcanic rock formations of Nissyros
Activity: Biking along natural trails and newly built single tracks on Kos
Culinary: Mezes, the small portioned Greek starters
Souvenir: You can find various great souvenirs in the bazaar of Bodrum
This trip is already updated for the 2023 season. Itinerary, prices and services may vary compared to 2022:

Itinerary

image/svg+xml S Kos Leros Kalymnos Lipsi Patmos Pserimos Nissyros Tilos Kos Lakki Emporios Nikia Livadia Bodrum Yalıçiftlik Mandraki Mikrochorio MEDITERRANEAN Izmir Athens Greece Turkey Airport Kos Embros Therme
1st Day
Bodrum (Embarkation)
Individual arrival to Bodrum harbour. A collective transfer from Bodrum Airport to the harbour is available for an extra cost on request. Check in begins on the Gullet at 2 pm. Use the afternoon hours to enjoy the lively atmosphere in the city of Bodrum and relax with a typical Turkish tea. In the evening a shared dinner on board can be enjoyed in the company of your travel companions and tour guides.
2nd Day Bodrum – Yalıçiftlik – Kos
A: aprx. 22 km, aprx. 580 m of elevation
B: aprx. 19 km, aprx. 460 m of elevation
The first bike tour of the week takes us to Kızılağaç, famous for its local farmer’s market. After a break we continue cycling. Once we have arrived in Yalıçiftlik we board the boat for lunch and a cruise to Kos town. A wealth of cultural sights in Kos town provide an insight into the town’s turbulent historical past including the Roman Forum, the Crusader fortress, and the mosques from the time when Kos was part of the Ottoman Empire. The evening can be spent in one of the numerous bars or cafes in the town.
3rd Day Kos Island/Kos Town - Tilos Island
A: aprx. 30 km, aprx. 720 m of elevation
B: aprx. 23 km, aprx. 780 m of elevation
We bike through town before cycling on through fragrant pine forests on a gradually ascending natural trail to the peak of the backyard mountain of Kos. While riding along the island’s ridge, we can enjoy plenty of breath-taking panoramic views. Our descent takes us along diverse trails back in the direction of Kos town. Technical sections combined with flowy corners and berms will offer all riders a multifaceted experience. In the afternoon, a relaxing cruise takes us to Tilos Island.
4th Day Tilos Island - Nissyros Island
A + B: aprx. 26 km, 730 m of elevation
Today an exceptional trail cocktail takes you to the abandoned village of Mikrochorio, who’s unique charm will leave a lasting impression on all who visit. A long coastal trail, rated amongst the top ten best coastal trails in Europe by BIKE magazine in Germany, brings you back to the boat. After a delicious lunch you can relax on board and enjoy the sea breeze during the approx. two hour boats crossing to Mandraki on the island of Nissyros.
5th Day Nissyros Island – Kalymnos Island
A + B: aprx. 26 km, 770 m of elevation
Today’s bike tour starts by taking us on tar sealed roads (saving our energy) from Mandraki to Nikia, a mountain village built directly on the edge of the volcanic crater at 1,400 ft./430 m above sea level. From here we can enjoy a spectacular view into the crater of the volcano. The volcano, white houses, and numerous pebble mosaics are a truly special highlight of this tour. From here we cycle on, close to the crater with its steaming sulphur springs, before heading back along diverse trails to our ship in the small port town of Mandraki. Once back at the harbour we board the boat for a four-hour cruise to an anchorage on the island of Kalymnos for the night.
6th Day Leros Island – Pserimos Island
A: aprx. 5 km, aprx. 3,000 m of elevation
B: aprx. 26 km, aprx. 680 m of elevation
Early morning crossing to the scenic Island of Leros. Today’s ride leads us to the fort of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem in Agia Marina and down an epic flight of stairs to the small alleyways of the town. Passing the picturesque town harbour, we cycle on to the seaside chapel of Agios Isidoros, a popular place to get married on the island. Following the coastline, we reach a beautiful sandy beach where we can stop for a swim and a coffee. The highlight of the day is the newly constructed Kalamari Trail, which merges directly with the Lighthouse Trail. After cycling these, we continue along the coastline back to the boat. On board we enjoy a three-hour cruise to the island of Pserimos.
7th Day
Kos Island – Bodrum
A: aprx. 30 km, aprx. 700 m of elevation
B: aprx. 24 km, aprx. 300 m of elevation
In the morning we cross over to the town of Kos. The last bike ride of our tour begins here, leading us either once more along a myriad of trails to the backyard mountain of Kos or on a more leisurely route to one of the lovely beaches. After having lunch ashore, we enjoy our last cruise to Bodrum. Once back in Bodrum, there will be plenty of time for another walk through the bustling old town. Here there is plenty to see including the impressive castle of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem and the remains of the famous Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. An final evening meal is enjoyed together in the company of guides and guests.
8th Day Bodrum (Disembarkation)
Disembarkation after breakfast. Collective transfers to Bodrum Airport on request.

Accommodation

Love Boat (Premium Class)

The Love Boat is an exquisite Turkish gullet built of wood following traditional construction methods. A truly elegant motor yacht with great attention to detail.

In contrast to most Turkish gullets, the Love Boat has six generous cabins on deck. A further nine large cabins can be found below deck. The saloon and decks are spacious and furnished tastefully. Good weather allows for true indulgence as mealtimes are served out in the open on deck.

The professional and experienced crew run a tight but friendly ship and cater to your safety and wellbeing throughout your stay on board.…

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Osman Kurt (Premium Class)

The Osman Kurt is an elegant, wooden Turkish gullet which has been navigating the Mediterranean since 2000 and was completely overhauled in 2013.

Seven stylish cabins provide our guests with comfortable lodgings and the spacious saloon offers a great communal space for everyone on board. Comfortable sunning mats on the sundeck are great for making the most of the good weather during a cruise from one island to the next. Enjoy the incredible landscapes pass on by.

The friendly and experienced crew tend to all your needs and provide professional assistance for a care-free experience. The…

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Elara 1 (Deluxe Class)

The Turkish gullet, Elara 1, offers spacious and air conditioned cabins with tiled bathrooms including a shower, washbasin and WC.

The Elara 1 also has a very spacious saloon, half of which is the on board restaurant and the other half a lounge. A great place to gather for meals, to laugh, to play, and to lose yourself in conversation with fellow travelers.

The main deck and top deck provide enough space for everyone to find a relaxing space for themselves. A number of comfortable seats and recliners are at your disposal. The top deck is partly shaded and is the perfect place to enjoy the…

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  • Love Boat
  • Osman Kurt
  • Elara 1

Rental Bikes

Our Mountain Bikes

On our mountain bike tours, we only use high-quality full-suspension rental bikes from GIANT and SCOTT, whose components are perfectly tailored to the demands of the Mediterranean terrain. For effortless climbing and ultimate trail fun, our lightweight fullys are usually equipped with 27.5 inch rims, 140 - 150 mm travel, suspension forks and shocks, Shimano or SRAM shifting and brake groups as well as dropper seat posts. In order to meet the highest material requirements, we will also be offering premium full suspension rental bikes from SANTA CRUZ….

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Our E-Mountain Bikes

If you’re looking for an easy uphill ride with an epic downhill trail experience, then our e-mountain bikes are the perfect rental bike for you. Our full suspension e-MTBs are equipped with 27.5’’ wheels and robust tires ready for exploring fantastic trails. The powerful Bosch motor, large battery, 150 mm RockShox suspension, Shimano or SRAM gear and brake systems as well as hydraulic dropper posts make these e-MTBs a biker’s best friend during our tours in the Mediterranean. For fans of superlatives, from 2024 we will also be offering 29-inch E-MTB premium rental bikes in Croatia. …

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  • Our Mountain Bikes
  • Our E-Mountain Bikes

Services, Dates & Prices

 

The below calendar lists the basic cruise price per person. The final cruise price depends on cabin type, cabin occupancy and any additional optional services. The prices for additional optional services are listed below the travel calendar. The green checkmark indicates that the trip is secured.

Included services
  • 8-day trip on a gulet with crew
  • 7 nights in a twin cabin below deck with shower/toilet
  • 7 x half board
  • Guided bike tours and sightseeing as described in the itinerary
  • Entrance fee to museums and archaeological sites (group visit only)
  • Bed linen and towels
  • English speaking tour guide
Not included in the basic tour price
  • Journey to Bodrum
  • Beverages on board (tally sheet; to be paid to the captain)
  • Flat rate for bottled water: 25 euro/person/week
  • Meals and beverages ashore
  • Entrance fee for sights not included in the tour price
  • Beach towel for off the boat (if needed)
  • Tips for tour guides and crew
Prices for Additional Optional Services 2023
Shared twin cabin
(limited)
Available on request
Surcharge for a cabin above deck 250 euro/person (Love Boat only)
Surcharge for a double cabin for single use below deck
(limited)
600 euro
Surcharge for a double cabin for single use above deck
(limited)
800 euro
Rental bike with Ortlieb pannier Full suspension MTB (fully): 200 euro/week
Full suspension e-MTB (E-fully): 300 euro/week (limited)
Insurance against theft and damage of the rental bike
(not insured: grossly negligent damages)
25 euro/week
Transfers between Bodrum airport and Bodrum port
(available on embarkation or disembarkation days only)
Prices on request
Exclusive transfers Prices on request
Additional nights in Bodrum Prices see additional nights Bodrum
4-day additional program Istanbul Prices see extension program Istanbul
Discounts
  • Children up to age 16 receive a discount of 25 % on the basic tour price (not combinable with any other discount).

  • If you place your booking for a tour in 2023 by the 31.12.2022, you will receive a 5% Early-Bird discount on the tour base price (can be used in combination with the SEA-YOU-AGAIN discount).

  • If this is your third or more Islandhopping tour booked directly with us, you will receive our 5% SEA-YOU-AGAIN discount for a tour in 2023 if you book it before the 31.12.2022 (can be used in combination with the Early-Bird discount).

Arrival - How to get there

Port of embarkation Bodrum

This tour begins and ends in Bodrum harbour, Turkey, easily reached by airplane via Bodrum Airport. In order to avoid any travel complications whilst crossing the borders, we request that all guests obtain the appropriate travel documentation and visas before arrival on site. Check in begins at 2 pm. The Boat will leave from Bodrum at 4 pm.

 

Bodrum harbour is very large. Therefore, we recommend booking a transfer with us to save yourself the time looking for the Islandhopping-boat.

How to find our boats in the harbour

Should you wish to make your own way to the boat, you will find our boats Love Boat and Elara 1 in the Halikarnas Marina (when looking out to sea, on the left-hand side of the fortress of St. Peter). The Osman Kurt will be located in the big yacht harbour (when looking out to sea, on the right-hand side of the fortress of St. Peter). Most commonly she will be moored next to the Datca Ferry dock, however in the height of summer it is possible that she will be moored directly below the fortress of St. Peter in the vicinity of the customs office. In order to locate the boat as quickly as possible, please contact our regional manager. You will find his mobile phone number in your travel documents.

Arrival by plane

A flight is the fastest, easiest, and most economical way to get to Turkey.

 

The closest airport is Bodrum (BJV). Most flights go to Izmir airport (ADB), which is situated about three hours from Bodrum. During the high season it is also possible to fly directly to Bodrum Airport.

From the airport to the harbour

You can prebook an exclusive airport transfer from Bodrum Airport to Bodrum Harbour for 30 euro/person/way (day of embarkation/disembarkation only).

 

If you prefer an exclusive airport transfer, please contact our office by email or phone:

 

Contact Us

  • Embarkation
  • Berth
  • by plane
  • Airport - Harbour

If you would like to extend your trip

Additional nights in Bodrum

We are happy to arrange additional nights with breakfast in Bodrum, the starting point of your trip. Bodrum, the ancient Halicarnassus, is one of the liveliest coastal towns in Turkey. It owes its importance above all to its coastal location and its beautiful seafront promenade which comes to life in the evening with street artists, restaurants, bars, and a beautiful view over the sea. There are also many cultural sights and great beaches.

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Outdoor pool area with seating and greenery

Extension program in Istanbul

With so much to see in Istanbul, you surely want to see it all! If so, we recommend our 3-day additional program in the metropolis on the Bosporus for a truly incredible holiday experience.  Istanbul is the only city in the world that bridges two continents. It is a city which immediately captivates with its liveliness and contrasts. The additional program includes transfers, three nights in a hotel, a boat trip on the Bosporus, a 2-day guided cultural tour, entrance to the Hagia Sofia, and dinner in a local restaurant.

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Silhouette of Istanbul city and mosque at sunset
  • Additional nights Bodrum
  • Extension program Istanbul

Important information

Cycling Tour Requirements

MTB Level 2

Moderate to challenging daily tours in hilly terrain at distances of 16 – 30 mi./25 – 50 km and 985 – 3,150 ft/300 to 1,200 meters of elevation. The terrain in this region is very diverse and changes from island to island: technical and demanding single trails alternate with wide gravel 4x4 roads and, on occasion, quiet asphalt stretches; there are very few unrideable passages. Our tours may be adjusted on site by the guides depending on weather conditions, time schedules and the ability of the group. Various sections in the tour are offered at a higher or lower technical degree, leaving you to make the final decision.

Special Corona rules in Greece

Please note: because of very high number of COVID cases in Greece, from NOW ON there are new measurements which we have to follow on our Greek boats.

 

  • For embarkation a negative Covid test result in paper form is required (self-tests are not accepted, only Rapid tests not older than 48 hrs or PCR tests not older than 72 hrs).
  • Additionally, guests temperature will be measured daily and recorded in a list.
  • In case that any guest is tested before or during the trip positive they will have to disembark the same day and make it their own way and on their own expense back home.

 

Archaeological Sites & Museums: Open-air sites may be visited without any special requirements. However, only fully vaccinated or recovered persons may visit museums (2G rule). Wearing a mask is also mandatory in enclosed exhibition rooms.

Spoken language

Due to our international audience all Islandhopping tours are conducted bilingually, in English and German.

Itinerary changes

We reserve the right to make changes to the itinerary, depending on wind and weather conditions or organizational requirements. Sometimes the tour will be run in reverse order. Our tours are dependent on weather conditions and the final decision is that of the captain. You are free to set aside a half or full day to swim or spend time on board the boat, instead of taking a planned bike-tour.

Single-Trail Classification

To ensure that you are well prepared for your bike tour with Islandhopping and know what technical difficult level to expect, we have created a classification for all single trails that could be ridden on our tours. The difficulty levels included in our classification coincide with the Single Trail Scale which can be found here

 

Blue (easy, S0 – S1): small obstacles such as small roots, small stones, some erosion, gradients of up to 40 %, loose surfaces, tight corners but no hairpins, obstacles can be rolled over. Skilful braking and weight shift required, riding while standing.

 

Red (medium, S2): loose surfaces, larger stones and roots, steps and shallow stairs, gradients of up to 70 %, light hairpins. Constant readiness to brake, shift of centre weight to overcome obstacles, accurate braking, consistent body tension required.

 

Black (heavy, S3 – S5): blocked single trails, many large boulders, and roots, smooth/slippery surfaces, loose scree slopes, large steps/drops, extremely steep gradients of over 70 %, tight hairpins. Expert level of bike control/handling required.

Requirement to wear a helmet

Helmets are mandatory on our bike tours. It is advised to bring your own, well fitted, helmet with you as our rental helmet numbers are limited (reservation required). Furthermore, we recommend riders to carry arm and leg protectors during the bike tours.

Group Riding Pace

On our regular bike tours the riding pace is determined by the cyclists on regular bikes. We ask guests who have reserved an e-MTB to be mindful of this and to acknowledge that the regular cyclists need time to rest and longer to climb the hills. We thank you for your understanding.

Bringing Children/Teenagers

We believe that only children with a good physical condition and a minimum age of 14 who have previous MTB riding experience can keep up with the demands of our  mountain bike tours. In addition, they should have prior experience with riding techniques needed for descending on narrow trails and technical terrain. Please be aware, that our smallest rental mountain bikes are suited to a body height of 1.50 m and above (XS frame). The Croatian law requires children under the age of 16 to wear a bicycle helmet when riding a bike.

 

For the best tour experience with children, we recommend our Multi-Adventure tours in Croatia or Greece. We are convinced that these itineraries provide the best all-round experience for each individual family member.

Bringing private bikes & exclusion of private e-bikes

The tour which you have booked requires a bike with a fully functional set of gears. Islandhopping can offer you high quality, fully serviced rental bikes perfect for the terrain of this tour.

 

Should you however wish to bring your own hybrid or MTB with you, please make sure to check the condition of your breaks, gears, and tires and don’t forget to bring along a puncture repair kit and the essential spare parts for your bike (e.g. brake pads and tubes). Your bike should be in prefect mechanical working order.

 

We do not allow private e-bikes on board of our boats. This decision has been made due to health and safety regulations. In addition, e-bike batteries cannot be transported on aircrafts. If you wish to ride an e-bike for the duration of your tour, please get in touch with us about the rental options.

 

We do not recommend bringing along private road bikes, as the thin tires are not suitable for some of the road surfaces encountered on the tours.

 

Liability disclaimer: Radurlaub Zeitreisen GmbH. Will not be held liable for any damages caused to private bikes during loading, unloading or other logistical handling thereof.

Noise on board

Please do not forget that the ship is your hotel as well as a machine, which has to be maintained and operated – day and night. A certain level of noise is therefore inevitable.

Internet availability

Our Turkish boats do not offer a WiFi connection. If you need to connect to the internet during the tour, we recommend bringing your portable electronic device to a cafe or bar somewhere in the harbour. Free WiFi is on offer almost everywhere. If you order something to eat or drink, then you are able to use the WiFi to your hearts content.

Custom formalities when crossing the border / Alternative Arrival via Kos

Our tour in the Greek Aegean will start from Bodrum. In order to avoid any travel complications whilst crossing the borders, we request that all guests obtain the appropriate travel documentation and visas before arrival on site. At this time, some travellers are sceptical about flying into Turkey. Therefore, all of these tours offer an alternative flight route via Kos Island, followed by a ferry connection to Bodrum harbour (details can be found under ‘Journey’).

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