Santorini and Naxos are two of the most beautiful islands in the Cyclades but here is where the similarity ends. Santorini feels like no other place on earth: an ancient island that endured one of the largest volcanic eruptions in history. Here everything is bright like the whitewashed cube-shaped houses, the lapis lazuli sea and the sunsets that light up the caldera. Whilst the towns and beaches are understandably popular, the walking opportunities on the island are numerous, through volcanic landscapes and along spectacular cliffs along a series of mule tracks. Naxos on the other hand is the largest of the Cyclade islands with some of Greece's best white sand beaches, a smattering of ancient ruins and a lively town. Away from the coast, life has changed little in the last century. Traditional farming practices abound in a landscape of fertile valleys home to 1000 year old olive groves and impressive mountains beckoning to be climbed. One day is spent ascending the highest mountain of the area: Mt Zas. From its summit enjoy breathtaking views of olive-orchards set in sharp contrast with the deep blue Aegean Sea. The pace of the holiday is dictated by you, with plenty of opportunity after the walks to swim in the sea or hotel pool, wander through markets in the small towns and relax at a taverna to watch the sunset.
Just returned from the Loire Valley cycling trip with Explore and had a fantastic time. Our group leader, Erwin, was absolutely top notch—knowledgeable, fun, and great at fixing bikes on the fly (a very handy skill on a trip like this!). He was incredibly responsive to any issues, whether it was saddle woes or a hotel hiccup—he always did his best to sort it out quickly and with a smile.
The tour itself was stunning. The route took us through beautiful countryside, charming towns, and past jaw-dropping châteaux. There was also plenty of time in the afternoons and evenings to explore off-bike, enjoy a glass (or two) of local wine, and soak in the atmosphere.
We did hit a bit of a heat wave, but that’s just luck of the draw. Erwin made sure we took lots of water and shade breaks to keep the group comfortable, which was much appreciated.
The hotels were as expected—nothing fancy, nothing awful. Some rooms were quite warm due to the unusual heat, but fans were provided and that helped.
We were called the "guinea pig group," as this was Explore’s first time running this particular tour in quite a while. That said, it was an excellent experience, and with Erwin fine-tuning the itinerary along the way, I imagine it’ll be even better for the groups that follow.
Bicycle toursSightseeing Tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Tours, Amboise, Chenonceaux, Blo
Tours, Amboise, Chenonceaux, Blois, Château De Chambord, Cheverny, St. Pierre-des-Corps
22% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
I thoroughly enjoyed this tour. First, our leader, Miriam, was fantastic. She made everyone feel welcome and included. And, her knowledge and love of her country was very visible and contagious. The activities were varied and the pace truly was full-on. We got to pack in a lot that allowed us to see and feel so much while at the same time feeling like vacation.
Sightseeing Tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Tbilisi, Telavi
Tbilisi, Telavi
23% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
We were very satisfied with the arrangements made for our trip which we only booked very close to the proposed departure date. Accommodation was very good and the arrangements for transfer of luggage and ourselves between departure points for the walks worked without a hitch. App for walk was easy to use and accurate. Would use the same organisation again for future walks.
Sightseeing ToursWalking tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Canary Islands, San Cristóbal De
Canary Islands, San Cristóbal De La Laguna, Vilaflor, Teide National Park, Parador De Las Cañadas Del Teide, Garachico, Anaga, Tenerife
