Bike and Barge
Ionian Islands for families
- GR005 / Greece
- Bike and Barge Bike and barge In the daytime by bike, in the evening on board a hotel-boat that follows the cyclists along the route. Your luggage stays in the cabin and you can stay on the boat if you don't feel like cycling. Details
- Guided Guided Travel in a group with other participants and a tour leader who knows the route.
- By the sea By the sea Coastal itinerary or travel programme that leaves room for relaxation by the sea. For families For families Travel with children and teenagers: accommodation with family rooms, discounts, itineraries designed for the little ones. Details
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Bronze
Silver
Gold
Platinum
Bronze
Silver
Gold
Platinum
Comfort and accommodation
Four levels of comfort to describe the different types of accommodation.
Find out more about comfort on this trip under comfort and departures.
- Jul 25, Aug 1, Aug 8 2025
- 8 days
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- round tour Corfu Island - Cephalonia - Corfu Island
Highlights
A multi-adventure cruise among the Ionian Islands, along Greece's west coast, suitable for adults and children! Here you can discover a greener Greece, that of Corfu, Lefkas, Paxos and Meganisi. That of picture-postcard villages, where time seems to have stood still to make room again for ancient traditions and the spontaneity of nature. Let yourself be captivated by Greek cuisine and legends while enjoying boating and biking, canoeing and hiking in the timeless beauty of these places.
- The White Cliffs of Lefkada
- The village of Fiskardo and the Melissani Cave, in Kefalonia
- The clear sea and postcard-perfect beaches
What awaits you
A week of boating with a mix of easy biking, hiking and canoeing. The program requires no special preparation: all that is needed is some familiarity with pedals, walking and sea life, along with minimal training that can be acquired by occasional outings. The hilly routes by bike can be tackled calmly, even by a child, but if you don't feel like participating in some of the rides, you can skip them by staying on board to enjoy the sunshine.
Accommodation
Overnight accommodations are provided aboard a two-masted motor sailboat-a floating hotel that follows you during the various excursions and welcomes you aboard in the evening. Available to guests: a spacious salon that becomes a restaurant at mealtimes, a large sun deck equipped with comfortable mattresses, a shady back deck, and comfortable cabins with private bathrooms and air conditioning.
1. Corfu: embarkation and departure from the port of Marina Gouvia
Individual arrival in Corfu, one of the largest Ionian Islands, rich in history, culture and beautiful beaches. Embarkation is scheduled from 2 PM. The captain and crew welcome you with an early dinner aboard the elegant sailing ship that will host you throughout the tour.
2. Navigation to Paxos and short ride along the coast of the island.
After breakfast we set sail for the first stop on the tour: Paxos, the island of olives. The smallest of the Ionian islands is home to more olive trees than people: as many as 250,000 specimens of this wonderful plant can be found in 32 square kilometers, covering the land with its silvery green shimmer. On arrival you are greeted by the natural harbor of Gaios, a small village of colorful little houses and narrow streets among which there is a quiet holiday atmosphere. In the afternoon, everyone in the saddle for a short bicycle tour along the coast to Kaki Lagkada. You will then end the day among the lively clubs of Gaios.
3. By boat to Lefkada with bathing in the sea and a pedal ride
The cruise resumes toward the island of Lefkas, stopping in the vicinity of Antipaxos for a nice swim in the sea and lots of diving right from your boat. After the long sail, you reach a small channel with an original movable bridge that joins the island to the mainland. After disembarking in Lefkada, you ride your bike along the lagoon to the golden beach of Agios Ioannis, where you can stop for a second swim. Back at the boat, you set sail for Nidri where you spend the evening and night.
4. Biking trip to Lefkada, then sailing and walking in Kefalonia
In the morning, set out on your bicycle and, surrounded by olive trees, reach a beautiful waterfall in the vicinity of Nidri: if you are lucky, the water flow will be sufficient to allow you a refreshing swim! At the end of the excursion, you proceed by boat to the village of Fiskardo, located at the northern end of Kefalonia Island: this picturesque harbor welcomes you with the many cafes that crowd the promenade and the delightful colorful Venetian-style houses. A 30-minute walk takes you to the lighthouse, then enjoy the rest of the evening in the lively atmosphere of the village with a good glass of Robola, the white wine of Kefalonia.
5. Sami and Melissani Cave: bike and boat between Kefalonia and Meganisi
After a short sail you disembark in the small port of Sami, the set of the film “Captain Corelli’s Mandolin.” From here you set off by bicycle following the coastline to the enchanting Melissani Cave, which can only be visited aboard small rowboats. Next, a visit to a donkey farm awaits you-a fun, but equally interesting stop to learn about these friendly animals and their host territory. Back in Sami, the boat awaits to set course for the nearby islet of Meganisi where you spend the night.
6. Bike ride in Meganisi before setting sail for the beaches of Arillas
After breakfast, we continue cycling to explore this small island full of crystal-clear water bays, ideal for peaceful swimming. At the end of the excursion, a long sail brings you back to the coast of Corfu, to the idyllic beach of Arillas. You can spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing between sand castles, swimming in the sea, and walking along the bay.
7. Cycling to Agios Athanasios Monastery, then sailing to Corfu
This morning we enjoy our last bike ride among the ancient olive trees and quiet lanes of a national park. Skirting a small stream you reach the monastery of Agios Athanasios, built on a hill and surrounded by olive and cypress trees. After the visit, get back on the boat for the final crossing to Corfu Town and a final dinner on board!
- comfort Silver
- en-suite bathroom and shower
- A/C in the whole barge
- 1 sundeck
- 20 guests, 10 cabins
Panagiota
- comfort Silver
- en-suite bathroom and shower
- A/C in the whole barge
- 1 sundeck
- 20 guests, 10 cabins
The boat Panagiota is a two-masted wooden motor yacht that was completely renovated in 2001.
Outside there are tables and chairs for an evening aperitif and comfortable mattresses where you can lie and sunbathe.
Why getting on board? For the cozy atmosphere, small size, and charm of sleeping aboard a boat. View more details
Cabins
- 6 double cabins below deck with windows which can be opened. Four cabins can become triple cabins.
- 4 double cabins + bunk bed above deck with doors facing outside
All cabins measure 6-8 sq. meters,, have French beds (200 x 140 cm), private bathroom, air conditioning and hairdryer. Daily cabin cleaning and mid-week towel change are also provided.
Common areas
- seafaring style restaurant
- sundeck with mats, tables and chairs
Only cash payments are accepted on board.
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Accommodation
- 7 nights accommodation
- Sheets and towels
Meals
- 7 breakfasts
- 2 days full board and 5 days half board, drinks excluded
- Drinking water on board
If you are vegetarian, gluten-intolerant or allergic to some specific ingredients/substances please indicate it at the moment of booking. A supplement applies for gluten-free, lactose-free or vegan diets.
Once on board, make sure that the kitchen staff is aware of your allergies, in order to avoid unpleasant situations.
Tour leader
- English speaking tour leader within an international group
Participants come from all over the world, and the common language is English.
Tour information
Before departure, you will receive by email:
- the link to download the tour information material in Pdf
On board you will receive overview-maps for the daily bike tours.
Assistance
In the Final Tour Details you will find the contact phone numbers you can call during the tour in case of emergency.
Additional services included
- Entrance tickets to museums and archaeological sites (group visits only)
Cancellation policy
In the event of unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances occurring at the place of destination or in its immediate surrounding area and having a substantial impact on the execution of the package or on the transport of travellers towards the destination, the traveller has the right to withdraw from the agreement before using the package, without paying withdrawal costs.
In all the other cases of withdrawal from the travel agreement, the traveller is always required to pay a withdrawal penalty. Read more
Withdrawal penalties
- 20% up to 84 days prior to departure date
- 40% from 83 to 42 days prior to departure date
- 60% from 41 to 28 days prior to departure date
- 90% from 27 to 1 day prior to departure date
- 100% no-show
Round trip
Travel to and from start and finish points not included
To pay on the spot
- Meals not mentioned in the section “price includes”
- Drinks on board
- Entrance tickets not mentioned in the section “price includes”
- Tips
The amount is up to your discretion, we suggest 5-7 % of the cost of the trip.
Rental bikes and accessories
You can rent bikes and accessories from our local partner.
The helmet is mandatory, we recommend bringing your own.
Additional excluded services
- Accommodation in single cabin/room
- Special diet supplement €70 (to be paid on board)
- Transfer
You ca nbook a transfer from Corfu (airport or hotel) to the embarkation point and vice versa (available on embarkation and disembarkation days only) - Bike insurance
It is possible to add an insurance against theft and damage of the rental bike (negligence damage excluded): € 20 touring bike, € 30 electric bike - Everything not mentioned in the section “included”
The bike you rented will be waiting for you on board: serviced, adjusted to your height and ready for your tour.
Unisex touring bike
- 28” wheel
- 21/24 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
- the only one compatible with child accessories (where available)
Unisex touring bike
- 28” wheel
- 21/24 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
- the only one compatible with child accessories (where available)
Standard components
- bike bell
- side kickstand
- front/rear lights
- front/rear mudguards
- bottle holder
- rear rack
Accessories included
- rear side pannier
Unisex E-bike
- 28” wheel
- 9 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
Unisex E-bike
- 28” wheel
- 9 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
Standard components
- bike bell
- side kickstand
- cycle computer
- front/rear lights
- rear rack
Accessories included
- Ortlieb rear side pannier
- battery charger
- lock
Child bike
- 21 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
Child bike
- 21 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
Recommended for children min. 100 and max. 150 cm tall.
Standard components
- bike bell
- side kickstand
- front/rear lights
- front/rear mudguards
- rear rack
Tag-along
- age 6-8 years
- child height 120-135 cm
- 20” wheel
Tag-along
- age 6-8 years
- child height 120-135 cm
- 20” wheel
Appendix to be attached to adult bike to carry a child who is not yet independent on a bike. Equipped with gel saddle and puncture-proof tire.
Child seat
- age: 1-5 years old
- weight: max 22kg
Child seat
- age: 1-5 years old
- weight: max 22kg
Accessory to be attached above the rear rack of the adult bike. Recommended for carrying one child aged 1-5 years, maximum weight 22 kg.
Side bag
- waterproof
- to be attached to the roof rack
- Ideal for carrying useful items for the daily stage
Side bag
- waterproof
- to be attached to the roof rack
- Ideal for carrying useful items for the daily stage
Route profile
- Level: easy
- Total length: 60 km
Embarkation
Embarkation is scheduled from 2 PM, you will receive more details about the embarkation point before the departure. Here you will meet the tour leader and other participants.
How to get there
Corfu is the starting point of the tour to be reached independently.
By plane
The closest airport is Corfu International Airport (CFU):
From Corfu International Airport (CFU):
- bus line 15 until the port and then walk to the point of embarkation
- alternatively, you can request a transfer (available on days of embarkation and disembarkation only).
For an overview of prices, airlines and flight schedules we suggest rome2rio.com or Google Maps, which also show options via train or bus, even for the last mile. For reliability and security, we recommend purchasing your flight on the official website of your chosen airline.
Documents
If you are a citizen of the EU or of a Schengen country – i.e. most EU countries and four European Free Trade Association (EFTA) member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland – you are free to travel to other Schengen countries without having to go through border controls.
Even if you don’t need a passport for border checks within the Schengen area, it is still always highly recommended to take a passport or ID card with you.
If you are a non-EU national wishing to visit or travel within the EU, you will need a passport:
- valid for at least 3 months after the date you intend to leave the EU country you are visiting,
- which was issued within the previous 10 years
- and possibly a visa
You should apply for a visa from the consulate or embassy of the country you are visiting. If your visa is from a Schengen area country, it automatically allows you to travel to the other Schengen countries as well.
Do not forget your travel, health and/or car insurance documents.
For further information visit Your Europe official website.
Do not forget your travel, health and/or car insurance documents.
Always thoroughly check the document you travel with: expiration date and integrity.
Registration of documents is compulsory at check-in in hotels.
Language and time zone
The official language is Greek. English is not spoken in all businesses and public offices.
Internet, telephone, electricity
Internet and telephone
With a European SIM card, roaming services are free throughout Europe. Please check your rates with your mobile/internet provider before departure.
Electricity
The Greek electrical net is 220 volts – 50 Hz. F-type power sockets.
Type C, D, E, and H sockets are found in older installations.
We recommend to always carry a universal adapter for electronic devices.
Currency
The currency in Greece is the euro (€).
Equipment and clothing
Luggage
- Bags instead of suitcases (space on board is limited)
Personal equipment
- a reusable water bottle
- a holder to fix for your mobile phone on the handlebar
- a power bank
- basic first aid kit which includes sticky bandages, gauze and low grade disinfectant
- sun glasses for eye protection
- protective sun lotion
- insect repellent
Clothes
- padded cycling shorts
- comfortable shoes with stiff soles
- light weight waterproof/windproof tops
- leggings and long sleeved tops for cooler mornings or evenings
- small close-fitting rucksack to carry small items during the day while cycling
- swimsuit
- clothes to cover your shoulders when you visit churches
Sustainable traveler
Per viaggiare nel rispetto dell’ambiente, dei luoghi e delle persone che ci accolgono:
- informati sugli usi e i costumi del Paese che stai visitando
- fai attenzione ai gesti, che possono assumere significati diversi o offensivi
- chiedi sempre prima di fotografare le persone
- nei luoghi di culto indossa un abbigliamento adeguato
- non lasciare traccia del tuo passaggio, non abbandonare rifiuti
- non raccogliere “souvenir” da ambienti naturali protetti e siti archeologici
- cerca sempre di seguire i sentieri, non disturbare gli animali e non danneggiare le piante
- non sprecare acqua ed energia, risorse preziose per tutto il pianeta
- rispetta le regole stabilite dai proprietari delle strutture ricettive
Read carefully
Tour programme variations
- Due to organisational reasons, weather conditions or provisions issued by local authorities, the itinerary may be subject to some changes before and/or during the holiday.
- Issues with high and low water, as well as logistic obstacles such as officially ordered – previously not announced – repair work on locks or bridges can modify some of the daily stretches or overnight stays and may even request a transfer by bus. These decisions are only taken by the boat’s captain.
Travel insurance
- It is advisable to take out an insurance policy against expenses arising from cancellation of the tour package, accidents, luggage (loss and damage), as well as a contract covering expenses in case of repatriation. Insurance policies are not included in the tour package offered by the operator.
Chiara
Published: 24 Aug 2019
Un viaggio a portata di grandi e piccini, in cui c’è il giusto spazio per pedalare, nuotare e visitare posti nuovi. Fiore all’occhiello: i bagni all’ancora nelle acque più cristalline!
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