Travel
Getting to Merciless Gravel is Easier Than You Think
Whether you’re travelling from the UK, mainland Europe, or further afield, getting to Merciless Gravel in Kalamata, Messenia, Greece is straightforward, with multiple options to suit your budget, schedule and travel style. We’ve designed this event to be as accessible and hassle-free as possible—so you can focus on your ride and adventure, not the logistics.
Flights
Flying via Athens (ATH)
Athens International Airport is a major hub with daily connections from across the globe (including most major UK airports). It’s an excellent option if you can’t find a direct flight to Kalamata. Popular airlines servicing Athens include:
- Aegean Airlines
- British Airways
- Ryanair
- EasyJet
- Lufthansa
- Emirates
- KLM
Check connections from your city at www.aia.gr.
Direct Flights to Kalamata (KLX)
Kalamata International Airport is just 15 minutes from the Event Village. Whilst the inaugural Merciless Gravel season takes place just after the main season and flights are limited, you can still fly direct to Kalamata from a handfuld of European cities, including:
- Zurich (ZRH)
- Munich (MUC)
Transfers from Athens
If you fly into Athens, don’t worry about how to get to Kalamata—from car rentals to transfers, you have lots of stress free options.
All holiday packages at Messini Beach Club include return airport transfers from Athens International Airport to the venue.
- Duration: approx. 2 hours 45 minutes
- Scenic drive through the Peloponnese region
- Comfortable, air-conditioned coaches with bike transport
Sit back, relax, and get to know your fellow riders en route.
You can find out more about the Messini Beach Club holiday package and book it here.
Car Rental
For those who prefer more flexibility, affordable car rentals are available at both Athens and Kalamata airports. Major providers include:
- Avis
- Hertz
- Europcar
- Enterprise
- Sixt
Expect prices starting from as low as €25 per day in the off-season. Don’t forget to book early for the best rates.
Pro tip: make sure your rental includes bike racks or bring a soft travel bike case for easy packing.
Driving to Kalamata
Making a road trip of it? Good call.
Kalamata is a stunning drive from Athens or further afield, and a great way to explore more of Greece.
Athens to Kalamata
- Distance: 240 km
- Time: approx. 2h 45m
- Route: Take the A7 motorway via Corinth and Tripoli
- Road conditions: Excellent, well-signposted, and scenic
Driving from elsewhere in Europe?
- Ferry routes are available from Italy (e.g., Ancona, Bari, Brindisi) to Patras
- From Patras, it’s a 2h 30m drive to Kalamata
- Greece accepts EU driving licences. UK drivers must carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) if needed—check current regulations.
Accommodation
While we highly recommend booking the official Messini Beach Club holiday package—which includes transfers, hospitality, and unbeatable access to the Event Village—there are many other options available in and around Kalamata to suit your preferences and budget.
From charming boutique hotels in the city centre to relaxed beachfront resorts and affordable apartments, there’s something for everyone. Recommended platforms:
Search early, especially if travelling with a group.
Visas and Entry Requirements
UK TRAVELLERS
- No visa required for tourism or short stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period
- You must hold a passport issued within the last 10 years and valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended stay
- No ETIAS travel authorisation is currently required.
Stay updated at www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/greece
EU travellers
- No visa or special entry requirements for travel within the Schengen Zone
- Travel freely using a valid national ID card or passport
- No limits on length of stay for EU citizens visiting Greece
international travellers
- Citizens of the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and many other countries can visit visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period
- You must carry a passport valid for at least 3 months beyond your stay
