Hike, Bike & Golf in the Mediterranean
Secluded Mediterranean islands are perfect for exploring Old Towns, discovering UNESCO-awarded landmarks and historic sites, wandering farmers’ markets, and enjoying quiet walks on sun-kissed beaches. Although this may be enough to entice you to go yachting with SeaDream Yacht Club, the Mediterranean has much more to offer than rich history, ancient cultures, and celebrated yachting harbors. In fact, the most unassuming islands and seaside towns are perfect for hiking, biking, and teeing off, adding another layer of dimension to your already robust vacation.
Whether you join a crew-led morning hike, sign up for a Yachting Land Adventure, or simply explore on your own, get ready to discover SeaDream’s Mediterranean, with unmissable destinations in Italy, Greece, France, Croatia, and Montenegro.
Hiking
The Mediterranean is heralded for its historic architecture, delectable regional cuisine, quaint seaside villages, and UNESCO-awarded Old Towns. But did you know these aren’t the only natural attractions that Italy, Greece, Croatia, and Montenegro have to offer? Hiking is one of the most underrated yet rewarding activities in these countries. Join your Club Director for a morning jaunt to stretch your legs and get your day started or consider afternoon independent exploration.
Capri, Italy
Sitting pretty in the Gulf of Naples, the island of Capri is well known today for its breathtaking landscapes and upscale beach resorts. While human presence on the island can be dated back to the Neolithic and the Bronze Age, it was Emperor Augustus who most famously developed Capri by building villas, temples, and planted gardens. Mount Solaro marks the highest point of Capri, at 589 meters (about 1932 ft) at its peak. There is also a statue of Emperor Augustus on the mount, who first landed on Capri, over 900 species of vegetation, and of course, incredible views. Two different hiking routes lead up the mountain. Despite standing as the highest point on the island, the hiking path is relatively easy. As you plan your day in Capri, take advantage of these hiking trails and all that they have to offer.
Hydra, Greece
The rocky island of Hydra is located in the heart of the Saronic Gulf, neighboring the islands of Spetses and Paros. This island town with no vegetation and no cars (all goods being transported by donkey) fascinates discerning travelers for its perfectly well-preserved 18th- and 19th-century architecture. Hydra has remained unspoiled over the years, unlike several of its neighboring islands. Join your Club Director for a hike to the Monastery of Prophet Elias, located approximately 500 meters (about 164 feet) above sea level, just 100 meters (about 328 feet) below the highest mountain peak of the island, Mt. Eros. The journey up, though steep and challenging, is rewarded with breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding sea. Founded in 1813, the monastery, with its traditional Orthodox architecture and serene atmosphere, offers a peaceful retreat and a window into the island’s religious heritage.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Jutting into the southern Adriatic Sea coast, Dubrovnik—dubbed the “Pearl of the Adriatic”—is perhaps the most picturesque city on the Dalmatian Coast. A key Mediterranean maritime power from the thirteenth century, Dubrovnik has preserved its storied mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces, and fountains. Its Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site adorned with the ancient city walls and Rector’s Palace. SeaDream anchors off the walled city as a port of call and tenders directly to the town gate—just steps away from exploration.
The city’s medieval walls are one of the town’s most iconic features and a must-experience attraction. They were built from the twelfth to the seventeenth centuries to protect the city from invaders. Walking the full circuit of the walls offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, the red-roofed buildings of the Old Town, and key landmarks like the Minceta Tower, Bokar Fortress and St. John's Fortress. Dubrovnik is a highly walkable city, thus the best way to get around is on foot. In fact, the entire Old Town is pedestrianized. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes, and those ancient flagstones will thank you for it later.
Kotor, Montenegro
The Bay of Kotor is one of the most distinctive landscapes anywhere in the Mediterranean, with its spectacular views and sheer mountains plunging into the Adriatic. The port of Kotor is surrounded by grandiose grey mountains and an impressive city wall built by the Republic of Venice and the Venetian influence remains dominant among the architectural influences. In 1979 the Bay of Kotor, City of Kotor and the surrounding territory were listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Cultural site. SeaDream usually navigates close by the small islands of St. George and Our Lady of the Reef, with easy access to hiking trails both directly in, or just outside, Kotor. Our Club Directors also typically offer a hike to San Giovanni Castle, just above the Walled City, providing spectacular views.
Biking
SeaDream’s complimentary mountain bikes provide the perfect opportunity to explore ashore. While there are so many destinations to walk, stroll, and explore by bike, here are a few of our top picks.
Valletta, Malta
Established in the 1500s by the Knights of St. John, this fortified city on a hilly peninsula soars between two of the finest natural harbors in the Mediterranean. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Valletta is defined by its sites of historical significance, with architecture dating back to the 16th century. Valletta is a pleasant and charming city to bike or stroll, with little vehicle traffic and lots of stories to be discovered around every corner.
Livorno, Italy
The Italian port city on the west coast of Tuscany is celebrated for its seafood cafés, Renaissance-era fortifications and modern harbor. Its access to Florence and Pisa makes Livorno the perfect gateway to two of Italy’s finest locales. Its very strollable Terrazza Mascagni, a waterside promenade with checkerboard paving, is Livorno’s main gathering place, and the perfect place to spend an afternoon. It also happens to be perfect to explore by bike! The bastions of the 16th-century Fortezza Vecchia face the yacht-dotted harbor and open onto Livorno’s Venezia Nuova quarter, comprised of multiple islands interlaced with canals.
Crete, Greece
Located in the southern part of the Aegean Sea, Crete features abundant natural beauty, intricate architecture, and archaeological sites worthy of exploration. In the old port, visit Castello a Mare, a Venetian fortress, and the Palace of Knossos, one of the largest and most significant Bronze Age finds the region has to offer. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of its capital, Heraklion, by spending an afternoon biking to one of its many museums and sidewalk cafés. On the northwest coast of the island, explore Chania, known for its 14th-century Venetian harbor, narrow streets and charming waterfront restaurants—perfect for biking. At the harbor entrance stands a 16th-century lighthouse with Venetian, Egyptian, and Ottoman influences; the former monastery of St. Francis houses the Archaeological Museum of Chania. In true SeaDream style, we anchor in the harbor and tender guests right into the heart of town.
Golfing
Warm weather, beautiful scenery, and close proximity to the sea make these Mediterranean locations a golfing dream.
Monte Carlo, Monaco
Chic Monte Carlo is famous for its casino and Monaco Grand Prix Formula 1 race. But did you know that this resort town boasts an incredible golf course? The Monte Carlo Golf Club is an 18-hole, par 71 mountain golf course in La Turbie, France, offering sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea and the French and Italian Rivieras. Nearby, Golf de Cannes Mougins is a private, 18-hole golf course in Mougins, France, set in the protected Valmasque Forest, and definitely worth the 45-minute drive.
Porto Cervo, Sardinia, Italy
The Italian seaside resort of Porto Cervo sits pretty in northern Sardinia along the Costa Smeralda (Emerald Coast). Due to the small size of our yachts, SeaDream is most likely the only commercial vessel permitted to call to this amazing destination. As we dock next to the superyachts “stern to” (backing into the pier using the Marina platform to access the port), you are just steps away from the main village. The village houses some chic boutiques, bars, and restaurants, nearby incredible properties such as Cala di Volpe, Patrizza, Romazzino, and the Pevero Golf Club. Designed by Robert Trent Jones, the 18-hole course is set among gorgeous lakes, heralded for its natural beauty, panoramic views, and challenging gameplay.
Nice, France
Ooh, La La! Located a short drive from Cannes, Nice, and Saint-Tropez in the Provence Côte d'Azur region of France, Golf de Terre Blanche - Le Chateau is part of the Terre Blanche Hotel Spa Golf Resort in Tourrettes, Var, France. The course is known for its water features, challenging gameplay, and championship-level conditions. Defining features include two 18-hole championship courses, including Le Chateau, and a golf academy for all ages.
Bonifacio, Corsica, France
Bonifacio, also named Bunifaziu in Corsican, is a commune at the southern tip of the island of Corsica, with strong ties to both the Italian peninsula and France. (The native Corsican language, whose northern variant is closely related with Tuscan, is recognized as a regional language by the French government.) Dubbed “the island of beauty” by locals, Corsica boasts an authentic, undeveloped habitat. Built atop towering limestone cliffs and surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea on three sides, Bonifacio offers spectacular panoramas, hikes along the coast (including a “don’t miss” to the La Modonetta Lighthouse), a cobblestone-streeted Old Town, and just the right mix of historical monuments, including the Bonifacio Citadel—all within walking distance of this charming medieval village. For those who are looking for an opportunity to golf in this incredible location, consider teeing off at Golf de Sperone, an 18-hole, par 72 golf course featuring panoramic views of the Lavezzi Islands and the Mediterranean Sea. Designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., this Golf de Sperone is named one of the most sought-after courses in the world.
Ready to hike, bike and golf the Mediterranean? SeaDream provides you with an intimate view of these destinations unlike any other boutique travel line. Click here to check availability and reserve your next voyage.
