Back in 2019 the EuroVelo Cycle Route 8 was opened. The 300 mile route running along the Aegean Coast takes around four to five days to finish with many aiming to complete the route in a single day.
The route will begin near the city of Pergamon and will finish in Ehpesus.
Along the way, cyclists will enjoy passing through seaside villages, ancient ruins, nature reserves and more. There are in fact four must see highlights to visit whilst on the journey.
Let’s take a look……
Pergamon
It is here the cycling route begins, nearby to one of Turkey’s most important ancient sites which is thought to be established between the 7th and 6th centuries BCE and was a powerful and rich city for almost 150 years. The site was once the capital of the Attalid Kingdom before becoming the capital of the Roman Empire’s Asia Province. You can explore the sites remains and even use the cable car to the Acropolis with views over the countryside, plus below you will find the city of Bergama and at the top you will see the Altar of Zeus, a theatre as well as the Temple of Trajan.
Foca
This stunning coastal village certainly brings in the crowds. The village features a castle, city walls, a promenade with many boats in the harbour, pastel coloured houses draped by bougainvillea, cliffs where seals can be see gathered on the rocks and much more. The village offers charm, beauty, plus here cyclists usually celebrate completing the first stage of their route.
Gediz Delta
From Foca the route will lead down the coast to Gediz Delta, a large protected wetland home to flamingos and birds. There are 300 species living here, many of which are in fact a threatened species. You can enjoy cycling along the dirt roads along the edge of the water or take a break and enjoy watching these incredible birds.
Izmir
Lastly another great site to see on route is Izmir. In the town you will find Agora, an ancient site established in the 4th century BCE. You will see its remains and get a sense of what life was like back then. The next stages of the route are to Urla and Cesme, but you must take the ferry to the Gulf of Izmir, before you do this take a ride over and explore the Kemeralti Bazaar.
Source: www.nationalgeogrpahic.com
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