Coastal e-biking from Stoupa

Basic cycling skills and average physical condition are enough. The e-bikes take the sting out of the two short climbs on the route, and the coastal path is largely flat. If you haven’t ridden in years, say so at the briefing — five minutes in the car park is usually all it takes to feel steady again.

From age 14, on their own bike, accompanied by a parent. A written waiver is needed for anyone under 18. Younger children can’t be carried on the e-bikes.

We ride in most conditions — the Mani is dry for most of the year — but if the forecast is genuinely wet or windy we reschedule or refund in full. The call is made the evening before, not on the morning.

Up to twelve on the standard group departure, with a minimum of four for the ride to run. Private departures are available for smaller parties or families who’d rather ride alone.

Yes. Halfway through the paddle we land at a quiet beach for a picnic — freshly baked bread, organic vegetables and fruit from local gardens, our own olive oil, and Messinian cheese. It is a proper stop, not a snack on the kayak.

Swimwear under quick-dry shorts and a t-shirt is the basic kit. Add a hat, sunglasses with a retainer strap, and reef-safe sunscreen. Skip running shoes and socks — they get soggy and cold. Sea shoes, sport sandals, or flip-flops are right. In April and October, bring a thin fleece or synthetic base layer; the water is colder than it looks. We provide dry bags for phones and wallets.

Local paddlers certified by British Canoeing as Sea Kayak Leaders, all carrying current first-aid certificates. They grew up on this coast — they read the wind and the swell before they read the forecast, and they know which cove the seals use in May.