From the centre of the Ancient Greek world to the Turkish border
27th September – 16th October
The last weeks in Greece led me to Delphi, Meteora and Vergina in the central mainland of Greece. These sights were all worth the hills and detours required to reach them, particularly the rather unexpectedly magnificent Meteora. I then reached Thessaloniki. What followed was a fascinating cycle through northeast Greece from Thessaloniki to the Turkish border. Travelling slowly across northeast Greece is to witness the gradual changes in religion, culture and cuisine that interchange and meld as you head further east. The finale to the story is that I ended up about 20km from the Turkish border, head down against a fierce headwind, before suddenly remembering that I had forgotten to apply for a Turkish e-visa that you are supposedly meant to apply for 48 hours before crossing the border. Luckily I have learnt on this journey that there is a level of flexibility in everything, so I turned up to the border anyway and sure enough was able to pay £20 and received the visa and entry stamp.
Thanks Cros! Here’s hoping I make it across Turkey before the major snow arrives. There are three other cyclists I know heading on different easterly routes across Turkey. We have a bet on to see who hits the first snow storm!
Such cool places to go! I can’t believe you cycled that highway into Istanbul – driving it was a true adventure. Take care of yourself. Have fun!!
Hi Amy! I cannot believe you drove it! At least on the bike you are in the side lane, driving must have been quite the adventure!
Brilliant Al. What a journey.
Thanks Cros! Here’s hoping I make it across Turkey before the major snow arrives. There are three other cyclists I know heading on different easterly routes across Turkey. We have a bet on to see who hits the first snow storm!