Our trip starts at a junction in the road on the eastern flank of Kalloni Gulf. Our cycling route hugs the coast with views of the entire gulf. We pedal for a long, peaceful stretch before coming to any villages. It's a quiet route with little disturbance from motor vehicles. Birdwatching is popular in this area.

At Skamnioui, we head inland to the therapeutic mineral waters of the hot bath at Lisvorio. These natural hot springs are known to heal arthritis, rheumatism, sciatic, and gynecological and skin ailments. The Lisvorio hotbath is reminiscent of a Turkish hamam with light pouring through the circular spaces in the domed roof. We'll explore the quaint, modest town of Lisvoria, too, before heading back to the sea.

We'll cycle to Skala Polinichtou and linger awhile. And then on to the last village on this side of the gulf, tiny Nifidas. A fresh fish taverna makes a perfect spot to eat and take in the outstanding views before us. Nifidas has a fine waterfront with desirable beaches. We will linger here for the better part of the afternoon.

Our last biking stretch finds us climbing up to Polichnitos to meet the bus. It is not a difficult ascent, and the effort it takes is a good way to finish a cycle tour. An afternoon ouzo in a traditional Polichnitos cafe will cap our enjoyable day of bicycling on Lesvos.