Four great cycle routes in Peloponnese, Greece

Start: Analipsi Finish: Kalamata Distance: 70km Height gain: 1300m Duration: 3.5 hours Difficulty: For experienced road riders

Ready for a proper adventure? This epic route packs in 1,300m of climbing, stunning national park scenery and a time travel moment at the awe-inspiring ruins of Ancient Messini.

You’ll start in the sleepy village of Analipsi and head straight out onto quiet, newly tarmacked roads. The route winds through a string of rural gems, Likotrafos, Pilialistra, Spilali and more, as you steadily climb for around 40km. It’s a leg burner, no doubt, but the views make every push worthwhile.

At the top, you’ll reach Ancient Messini, where you can wander centuries-old ruins, trace the grooves left by Spartan carts and take a well-earned break at a taverna overlooking it all.

Then comes the payoff: a sweeping, traffic-free descent through olive groves and vineyards, cruising past Lampena and Aristodimio before popping out near Kalamata. It’s challenging, yes—but for fit riders, this is one for the bucket list.

Start: Analipsi Finish: Kalamata Distance: 50km Height gain: 1300m Duration: 3.5 hours Difficulty: For fit road riders

This one’s all about adventure, with steep climbs, rolling descents and barely-touched back roads winding through hidden villages at the foot of the Kalamata Mountains. It’s the perfect blend of effort and escapism.

Starting in the peaceful village of Analipsi, you’ll cut across the main road and head straight into quiet countryside. The route climbs gently to Medina, then threads through Spilali and Vasilada (famous for its winemaking) before continuing north to the traditional village of Androusa. It’s the ideal rest stop, especially if you find the family-run patisserie.

After fuelling up, head west through Ithomi and Aristodimio, then cruise back towards Analipsi. You'll skirt the edge of a Greek air force training base (spot the jets if you're lucky), before rolling gently home through olive groves and sleepy lanes.

This ride skips the biggest hills, but still packs in plenty of challenge and a whole lot of Greek charm.

Start: Analipsi Finish: Messini Distance: 7km Height gain: 12m Duration: 1 hour Difficulty: Easy

Easy, scenic and full of charm, this ride is the perfect warm-up. You’ll cruise along quiet roads, gravel paths and sandy beach trails, all the way to the buzzing little town of Messini. Pick up a few bits, soak up the local vibe, and don’t miss a scoop (or two) from one of the area’s best ice cream spots.

Starting from the beach at Analipsi, you’ll head inland along a gentle track that winds through countryside and quiet lanes, before swinging onto a seafront trail that’s all flat, all scenic, and all good vibes. It leads you straight into Messini’s main square, where a cold treat and some proper Greek hospitality await.

Start: Analipsi Finish: Analipsi Distance: 29km Height gain: 551m Duration: 3 hours Difficulty: Moderate

A laid-back adventure with big views, this 24km off-road ride is all about discovery. Think white sandy beaches, shallow streams, and wide, flat gravel tracks leading you to the charming seaside town of Petalidi.

You’ll roll out from Analipsi and quickly leave the roads behind, swapping tarmac for trails as you head south. The route winds through peaceful countryside, splashes through a couple of gentle stream crossings, and picks up a rugged coastal track near Velika Beach, an untouched stretch of shoreline where the only traffic is the occasional goat.

Eventually, the trail leads you right into Petalidi, a picture-perfect harbour town that’s well worth the ride. Grab a drink at a waterfront café, take in the views, and if you’ve packed your swimmers, dive into the crystal-clear sea before heading back. This one’s not about speed, it’s about soaking it all in.