Cycling and sailing in the Cyclades: 8 days from saddle to deck, island to island

Individual arrival at the Athens marina. Boarding from 2 pm. You discover your cabin, your schooner and the crew. First dinner on board, in the quiet of the harbour. Night lulled by the sea.

The schooner casts off at dawn. First island: Kythnos, renowned since antiquity for its honey and cheeses. Your ride takes you from the port of Merichas to Chora, perched on a plateau, with spectacular views over the coves below. Flower-filled lanes, whitewashed houses, shaded terraces: the charm works immediately. You continue to Driopida, tucked inland, before descending to Merichas for a swim and a drink on a terrace facing the sea.

In the morning, a ride on Serifos, a small island far from the tourist trail. From the port of Livadi, you pedal along a winding road to the upper town, whose cubic white houses stretch along a ridge above the sea, a striking panorama. A stop at the Byzantine monastery of the Archangel Michael, then back via the east coast. In the afternoon, sail to Syros, administrative capital of the Cyclades. A free stroll through Ermoupolis, its neoclassical facades, its lively squares and its wide harbour promenade where the cafes vie for charm.

A morning ride along the south coast of Syros, punctuated by bays and coves. You pedal to the fine beach of Galissas, pass the convent of Saint Barbara, then return to Ermoupolis along the hills. The town, built on two hills, offers a unique atmosphere in the Cyclades: pastel houses, classical facades, a bustling market. In the afternoon, sail to Kea.

From the natural harbour of Korissia, you climb to Loulis, the island's capital, before descending to the white-sand beach of Otzias for a well-earned swimming break. Return to Korissia, then sail to Poros in the Saronic Gulf. Arriving at Poros harbour is a spectacle in itself: white and ochre houses reflected in the calm waters of the channel. A typical Greek evening on the harbour.

After breakfast on board, a ride to the 18th-century monastery of Zoodochos Pigis, then a tour of the island along roads bordered by pines and orange trees. Just before the end of the stage, the Russian Bay welcomes you with its sandy beach and turquoise waters, an irresistible invitation to swim. Back to the port, then sail to Aegina in the golden afternoon light.

A final cycling day on Aegina, famous throughout Greece for its pistachios. A fine climb to the sanctuary of Aphaia, a remarkably preserved Doric temple overlooking the Aegean Sea on both sides, a breathtaking panorama. Return via the Nektarios monastery and a ride across the island to Aegina town. Final sail to Athens harbour. Farewell dinner on board.