While researching and planning for our August 2024 trip to Greece we came across an E-Bike guided tour for the Mani Peninsula. We thought what a great way this would be to see this part of the Mani Peninsula and we were right!! We booked through 2407 Outdoor Experience and had a great time. They were professional, knowledgeable and patient! We e-biked on the western coast of the Mani Peninsula. If you prefer you can also book with them through Viator here.
Rise and Shine
We started our morning off with a fantastic breakfast at our hotel, Aria Estates Suites and Spa, located near Areopoli. After that we set off to the village of Gerolimenas where we were to meet our guides for the E-bike tour of the Mani Peninsula. These e-bikes were not scooter like bikes we have used in the past, they were pedal assist so we did have some work to do as well. I was glad Steve and I had been riding our pedal bikes at home all summer!
Gerolimenas
Once arriving at Gerolimenas we had no problem finding our guides. After we were fitted for helmets and an introduction to the bikes we were off. Just the start of this e-bike tour was fun. Our e-bike tour of the Mani Peninsula started as we rode our bikes through the village of Gerolimenas. Stone-built homes and businesses line the quaint and narrow streets which were so lovely to ride past. While fishing boats sitting in the small harbor added a perfect touch to this perfect Greek scene. All in all, a very pretty village.
We rode on, following one of our guides with the other bringing up the rear, we rode along the coast and up through the hills. Even though it was still early morning, the sun was already feeling hot and the only breeze we felt was the breeze against us as we coasted downhill on our bikes. It was a beautiful peaceful ride through this dramatic countryside. We were unable to take photos as we were riding along the road and it didn’t seem like a good idea to snap shots while riding!
Vathia
As we rode along on our e-bike, we came to Vathia, an abandoned village known for its traditional tower houses which you will see scattered throughout the Mani Peninsula. These tower houses, known as Pyrgospita, are characteristic of the Mani Peninsula and are three to four stories tall. They are distinctive in their tall narrow shape, few small windows, and short raised doorways. These stately and sturdy homes are constructed from local stone. Most of these towers were built between the 17th and 19th centuries. They not only housed families and clans, they also served as their fortifications.
The tower houses functioned for defense in several ways. Built out of stone these fortress strenthed homes could withstand the force of enemies. They were tall so the owners could see enemies coming from afar. The few small windows were narrow for the protection of the inhabitants. Arrows could be shot out of windows but it would have been difficult to shoot an arrow in through the window. The doors were short and raised as an attacker would have to duck and step up to get in, this would put the attacker in a rough position for fighting, plus they would only be able to enter one at a time. The first floor was usually a store room and plenty of supplies were stored to withstand a long siege. These towers which have stood for so many centuries are a credit to the creativity and resourcefulness of the Maniots.
We stopped in Vathia and our guide took us around the mostly abandoned village while giving us a history of the village and area. A very interesting site and rich history.
Tainaro Archaeological Site
Continuing our ride through the hills and down towards the sea, our next stop was the Tainaro Archaeological Site. We took the short walk along the dirt path to the Sanctuary and Death Oracle of Poseidon Tainaros. Quite a name, eh?. This temple, in ruins, is quite small. There are two rooms with the inner room being an altar. At times you will see small items on the altar such as coins or sea shells. These are gifts to Poseidon. It is said that if you do not leave a gift you will feel Poseidon’s anger. In its day there is said to have been a statue of Poseidon at its entrance.
Although it was only 10 am when we were here, it was stifling hot. I made decision it was just too hot for me to walk to the light house which is at the end of Cape Tainaro. It didn’t feel as hot while on our bikes so we hopped back on our bikes to our next stop.
Porto Kagio
Back on our bikes up we rode into and around the hills. This rugged countryside is really quite beautiful. We then turned towards the east and road down a steep hill. It was an exhilarating ride just coasting down the hill with a slight breeze cooling us off, although I must admit, I was already thinking of how tough the ride back up would be. We rode into the small village of Porto Kagio and rode along the beach. We stopped at the end of the beach where we walked up several steps to a cliffside taverna, where we took a rest.
The Taverna was quite lovely and felt like an oasis in the dessert! We enjoyed the views, good banter, yogurt with honey, and plenty of water. There was a nice breeze flowing through the open air Taverna. It was all really quite lovely! After we had adequate food, water and rest, we headed back across the beach and on to the road.
Falling off My Bike
Just shortly after starting up the steep hill I had enjoyed coasting down, I slipped the e-gear, lost my balance, and fell off my bike! I was very embarrassed, yet I am sure those of you who know me well are not surprised. I am not known for my grace and can be quite clumsy at times. My elbow, knee and shin were scraped as I sported a bit of road rash, but none the worse for the wear. Our guides were right on it. Not only helping me up, but also producing a top notch first aid kit from his backpack. In no time I was cleaned up, bandaged and back on my bike! We continued riding up and around the hills, back towards Gerolimenes.
The Heat
Well, I definitely was the problem child on this e-bike tour of the Mani! We were riding up one last hill, I didn’t know it was the last one, and I just could not take the heat any longer. I had to stop, knowing I would be okay if I just sat for a minute in the shade. I saw a small tree, pulled over, sat on a rock and drank plenty of cool refreshing water.
Once again our guides were there for me. They were very patient while I rested. They offered to call a car for me but I knew would be better after sitting for a bit. Both guides were supportive and told me exactly what the rest of the tour consisted of. All I had to do was pedal to top of this hill, around it and after that it would be much easier. As I hopped back on my bike, they were encouraging, making sure I was okay and knew I had options. I could not have asked for better guides. I hated the realization that I was the weakest link!
Back to Gerolimenes
Once back at Gerolimenes, I felt not only great relief that I made it, but I felt a sense of pride that I finished without having to return in a car. I also felt gratitude for the kindness shown by our guides who went above and beyond to give us not only a great tour, but a safe one as well. Their knowledge and quick responses was much appreciated.
Places We Stopped on Our Route
Conclusion
After returning to our hotel, we enjoyed a much needed relaxing swim. I would definitely recommend an e-bike tour with 2407 Outdoor Experience while visiting the Mani Peninsula. They also offer hiking. This was a fun way to see the area and the guides were knowledgeable, safety oriented, compassionate and very capable. We are returning to the Mani in 2026 and are thinking of contacting them again to enjoy their Sunset tour by e-bike. Assuming they will take me on again!!
Planning
There is so much to do in the Mani Peninsula. I had a hard time finding resources such as tour books for the area so in retrospect we realized we missed a lot. That being said, we are planning to return in 2026 so I just ordered this Mani Tour Guide and will report back on what I think of it.
As always I like a good road map and once again used the National Geographic Maps for this area. It includes all of mainland Greece and even after using this map on prior trips it still looks good as new.
I did find resources for visiting the Mani at Greeka.com and I actually use this source a lot.
Matt Barrett also has great information on his website. His website is a very comprehensive site that covers so many areas of Greece. Lots of information.
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Click on the links below to follow my 2024 Greek Travels and also my Past Greek Travels:
The Old Sparta to Kalamata Road, August 2024
To the Top of Monemvaisa-August 2024
Exploring Ancient Sparta-August 2024
Anthemion Suites and Villas, Greece-August 2024
A Bit of Charm in Nafplio, Greece-August 2024
Acronauplia Fortress-August 2024
Argos Theatre and Agora-August 2024
Exploring the Larissa Castle of Argos,Greece-August 2024
Snorkeling the Sunken City of Epidaurus. August 2024
Ancient Epidaurus: Birthplace of Modern Medicne August 2024
Mycenaean Bridge and Acropolis of Kazarma-August 2024
Ancient Nemea Greece-August 2024
The Gen-X Travels recommendations for hotels, restaurants, activities or tour companies are based on our own experiences unless noted. We are not sponsored by any business or company and all trips are at our expense. All photos are by myself or my husband unless otherwise noted. We are affiliates of some companies such as Amazon,Viator, and others which we do receive a small commission from, at no cost to you if you buy or book through one of our links.
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I’ve never ridden an e-bike before, but I’ve seen many of them zooming through here in Los Angeles, and they look scary! However, I imagine that an e-bike makes for a faster and efficient way to see the Mani Peninsula in a shorter amount of time than otherwise. Vathia and Porto Kagio look especially stunning!
I do like E bikes. This one was pedal assist so you did a lot of the work yourself which made for a good workout. I have written an E bike so that almost feel like they’re a motorbike and those I don’t care for as much!
What a nice way to see this area. E-bikes are a godsend, especially as we age and the knees can’t handle the hills. Sorry to hear you fell off your bike Lori. That is never fun. My worst fall was in Nice of a regular bike. Thanks for sharing. Have a good evening. Allan
We have found a love for e-bikes! They really are a great way to see the countryside no matter which country we are in! Well, as long as I stay upright!! Thanks for reading!
What an amazing way to explore, it looks beautiful 🙂
We really enjoyed this tour! Even with my mishaps!!