My friend has previously done same tour and like myself felt it was too many countries in timeframe .Perhaps breaking the trip into two segments with option for longer tour with mote time to appreciate.Instead much of the group got viruses from being run down and practically living on coach. Also my preference would be to have guides who reside in those areas as they are truly invested in their homeland. Much of the group noticed the obvious sell for guide receiving top score and top daily tip if 6euro a day. I don't appreciate the sell and English based guides are doing it as a lifestyle,also said blank lovenotes in tip envelope would only encourage people to feel obliged to give more.Perhaps there needs to be a fairer system in place as many travellers cannot afford the said almost 100 euro each to guide and driver. The driver however was incredibly competent and professional,perhaps his feedback would be helpful.On the trip however, I suggest a two week trip that ends in Budapest with option for three nights in Budapest and add on week for remainder of tour ending in relaxed location before ending in Athens
A marvellous group including 4 Canadians, 2 from the USA and 9 from the UK. We seemed to gel from the start and it was a pleasure to talk with everyone. There was a remarkable consistency in the fitness of the group and so very little hanging around even after some of the longer climbs.
Very much enjoyed the cycling and thought the "moderate" rating was spot on. Distances were typically around 40 miles in a day. I found the hills quite manageable; some fairly long climbs but they tended to be steady climbs followed by some exhilarating long descents.
There were cultural stops on most days at ancient sites and there was free time to explore. The guided tour on the final day at the Acropolis was particularly enjoyable.
Excellent hotels with very friendly staff. Lovely views across the bay from one hotel; another hotel was situated right on the beach; in one hotel run by the family the breakfast included home-made specialties.
Enjoyed the food. The group leader normally ordered a selection of local specialities for starters and on a couple of occasionally the main courses which gave the opportunity to taste genuine Greek food. We had a kitty for the lunch snacks fruit and drinks so again sampled many Greek specialities.
The weather was the icing on the cake. A little windy and cloudy on the days of arrival and departure but for the most part clear sunny days and warm but not stifling.
Overall it was a good tour but there are certain aspects that I would change. On the first day when we went to dinner in Athens we took the metro to Syntagma square and walked to the restaurant. Instead of walking in the park we should have gone for a tour of the Plaka which would have been so much more interesting and had more shops. Our tour leader did take us down one main avenue but that wasn't where most of the quaint shops were. Also I do recommend she use some sort of flag or umbrella so we can spot her in a crowd. I also would arrange the tour so we can spend more time in Slovenia as Lubljana was delightful.