ADV Moto expeditions
Ride the Greek Isles with Jim Hyde and see Greece beyond the postcard & off the beaten path!
First let me explain how this trip is being organized… I have partnered with David Johansen from Ride Nordic with whom we also hosted our Norway tour last year. We worked seamlessly with David and his team and had an amazing adventure through Sweden and the Fjords of Norway and now David and I have collaborated to bring you this backroads tour of Greece.
This adventure will reveal a side of Greece few visitors ever experience. Both on road and off road we’ll see the antiquities of Delphi and Olympia and then hit the dirt and ride high into the back country on some off road sections that are simply mind boggling. Greece is literally the cradle of Western Civilization and this ride will give you a glimpse into how todays world evolved all whilst enjoying incredible riding and Greek hospitality. All in all it will be an amazing ride – laced with history, exhilaration and brand new BMW GS’s.
Highlights include:
- Delphi, once considered the epicenter of the ancient world
- The wild Pindus Mountains and remote highland roads
- The serene beauty of Lake Plastiras
- The rugged landscapes of Epirus
- The spectacular Meteora monasteries dating back to the 13th century and built on towering sandstone pillars
- Optional visit to Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games
- A visit to the Corinth Canal, originally built in the 1800’s and is a dramatic engineering feat linking the Aegean and Ionian seas
One of the most memorable moments of the tour is crossing the iconic Rio–Antirrio Bridge, one of the longest cable-stayed bridges in the world — an unforgettable ride connecting the Peloponnese with mainland Greece.
Here’s how the tour will operate:
- Everyone will ride the latest-model BMW R1300GS
- There will be a spare / backup motorcycle in case of mechanical failure
- All fuel is included in the tour price
- We’ll have at least two (maybe 3) tour guides on motorcycles, allowing for groups to split by pace and riding preference
- We’ll have a support vehicle to carry all luggage
- We’ll be staying at carefully selected premium hotels
- And of course we’ll be enjoying excellent local and regional cuisine
SEPTEMBER – THE PERFECT RIDING SEASON
September is widely considered the best time to ride in Greece. Expect comfortable mountain temperatures, cooler evenings and warm seas for swimming. Summer crowds have faded, roads are quieter and conditions are ideal for long, rewarding riding days.
MAP below for a glimpse of our approximate route.
DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY
-
Day 1 – Arrival | WE will gather in Loutraki (about an hour from Athens), meet the team, take some time to set up our bikes, we’ll do a ride briefing along with other information.
-
Day 2 – Loutraki to Delphi 220 km | Asphalt- Today will be a short day to get you comfortable with riding in Greece as well as give you time to visit the archaeological site of Delphi.
-
Day 3 – Delphi to Karpenisi 250 km | Asphalt & Gravel – Today we’ll head up into the Mountains riding with a scenic mix of tarmac and gravel.
-
Day 4 – Karpenisi to Lake Plastiras 250 km / Asphalt & Gravel One of the most scenic days of the tour with panoramic views.
-
Day 5 – Lake Plastiras to Metsovo 200 km | Asphalt Ride north with a visit to the iconic Meteora monasteries.
-
Day 6 – Rest Day or Pindus National Park Loop Optional riding in one of Greece’s wildest regions.
-
Day 7 – Metsovo to Arta 200 km | Asphalt & Gravel Descending into western Greece and Amvrakikos National Park.
-
Day 8 – Arta to Petrochori 275 km | Asphalt & Gravel True back country riding through one of the most remote areas of Greece
-
Day 9 – Petrochori to Kalavryta 300 km | Mostly Asphalt Sweeping roads through the Peloponnese. Optional visit to Olympia.
-
Day 10 – Kalavryta to Loutraki 250 km | Asphalt & Gravel Our last day of the trip, we’ll hit some high Mountain passes, more scenic dirt backroads and the famous Rio–Antirrio Bridge. AND tonight will be our farewell dinner!
-
Day 11 – Departure
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
What riding experience is required?
This tour is designed for confident street riders with basic to intermediate off-road experience. Gravel sections are medium-technical and selected for enjoyment rather than difficulty. If you need any dirt riding tips you’ll be in the company of BMW certified “off road instructors” so we can share some tips to make the ride more enjoyable.
How challenging is the riding?
The route consists of approximately one-third gravel and two-thirds asphalt. Gravel roads are generally good, but there will be medium-difficulty sections, scenic and well suited to the BMW R1300GS. Daily distances are balanced to allow time for breaks, sightseeing and enjoyment.
Can I ride at my own pace?
Yes. With multiple BMW Certified Tour Guides we can split into smaller sub-groups based on riding pace and personal preference.
What motorcycles are provided?
Participants ride the latest-generation BMW R1300GS (also available with ASA and/or adaptive suspension). All motorcycles are professionally prepared for the tour, and backup motorcycles are available throughout the journey.
Is fuel included? Yes. All fuel during the tour is included, allowing you to focus entirely on riding and the experience.
Is luggage transported?
Yes. A support vehicle transports all luggage daily, so you ride without heavy bags on the motorcycle.
What type of accommodation is included?
We stay at carefully selected, high-quality hotels, chosen for comfort, location and local character. Single and twin occupancy options are available.
When is the best time to ride in Greece?
The tour takes place in September, which offers ideal riding conditions: pleasant temperatures in the mountains, cooler evenings and warm seas for swimming. Roads are quieter and summer crowds have diminished.
What should I bring?
Riders are responsible for their own riding gear. A detailed packing list and pre-tour information will be provided prior to departure.