Greece: Ionian Islands from/to Corfu

Individual arrival by plane on the island of Corfu and subsequent transfer to the ship.  Check in on the Panagiota from 2 pm on. Dinner on board. Overnight stay in Corfu town.

Cast off! In the morning we cross over to Sivota on the mainland of Greece. There our first cycle tour starts and leads us to Parga beautifully situated below a Venetian fortress which towers over the old town. Here the boat awaits us to take us on a long cruise to Nidri on Lefkas Island. On our way we pass a witty swing-bridge which connects Lefkas with the Greek mainland. You spent the night in the lively harbor of Nidri.

After breakfast we start with a short tour to a waterfall nearby Nidri. With a bit of luck enough water will tumble for us to have a refreshing swim. Afterwards we continue on quiet roads over the hills via Siyros to the picturesque harbor town of Sivota. Here we board the boat and cruise to Fiskardo on the Island of Kedalonia. Situated on the northern tip of the island, the harbor town enchants with its colorful houses and many cafes and bars along the lively waterfront promenade.

We leave Fiskardo by bike and climb an impressive mountain road on the west coast of Kefalonia, from which we are met by awe inspiring views over the Assos peninsula and the famous Myrtos beach. After the climb we turn inland and cross the island. Shortly before the end of the bike tour we visit the Melissani stalactite cave on board a small row boat and marvel at the incredible blue tones created by the unique cave formations, sun and water. In Sami the boat welcomes us and once on board, sets off for Vathy on Ithaka.

In the morning we cycle on the Ithaca Island. The homeland of the mythical king Odysseus, is a hilly island with a beautiful landscape. On today’s cycle route we can enjoy the typical character of the Ionian Islands away from the beaten tourist track: gnarled olive trees, crystal clear water and friendly islanders – time appears to stand still on Ithaca. From Frikes the Panagiota takes us to the small island of Meganisi. On the way we pass the private island of the influential ship-owner Aristoteles Onassis. Meganisi is a tiny island with lots of charm, which we explore in the afternoon in no time by bicycle.

Early in the morning crossover to Mytikas on the Greek mainland. From Mytikas we cycle along the coast and further on panoramic roads, passing some mountain villages like Paleiros until we reach Lefkas town, where our ship awaits us.  In the afternoon we sail to Paxos Island, whose unique natural harbor in Gaios creates a special island atmosphere. We can spend the evening in one of the cozy taverns of Gaios.

Paxos, the smallest of the seven Ionian Islands is a grove of olive trees, which gives the island its wonderful silver green color. On today’s cycle trip we circle the island. We can have our last swim in the Mediterranean on one of the many beaches. After lunch the boat will take us back to Corfu town where we can explore the city once more before enjoying a last evening meal on board together with friends, guides and crew reflecting on the experiences of the week.

After breakfast, check-out and individual return home or extended stay in Greece.