Sam Wood, an avid cyclist and classical archaeology enthusiast, embarked on an extraordinary journey in 2009. He and his two brothers set out to retrace the route of Hannibal's famous crossing of the Alps with war elephants in 218 BC. This adventure, however, was just the beginning of Wood's unique career. He later founded a bike touring company, Bike Odyssey, inspired by Homer's Odyssey, a journey that resonates with the spirit of exploration and adventure.
Wood's fascination with Homer's epic poem led him to create an itinerary that follows the path of Odysseus, blending physical geography and myth. The challenge of condensing Odysseus' decade-long voyage into 27 days required careful planning and a touch of creative liberty. Wood's solution was to focus on Turkey and Greece, combining well-known sites with other significant archaeological locations.
The journey includes stops at Lesbos, Mount Parnassus, Ephesus, Delphi, and Mycenae, among others. Wood's expertise in Roman archaeology and his historical focus on famous journeys throughout history have made him a trusted guide for these epic adventures. However, the complexity of the itinerary is not without its challenges.
Wood has had to navigate cancelled flights, closed borders, and even a mad dash along empty highways during the COVID-19 lockdowns. But the greatest challenges often come from guests who keep vital information to themselves. Wood has encountered riders with no bike experience, highlighting the importance of thorough preparation.
Despite these obstacles, the Odyssey tour offers a unique blend of physical activity, historical exploration, and personal challenges. Most days include rides of 50-70km, with ebikes making the tours accessible to a wide range of fitness levels. However, traditional bikes can still present a challenge, as experienced by Penny Clowry, a 52-year-old Canberra resident.
Clowry's journey through the Mediterranean landscape, filled with ruins and ancient history, added a new depth to her understanding of the Odyssey. The experience of riding through villages and encountering traditional ways of life felt like stepping back in time. The themes of longing, perseverance, and the battle between fate and free will in Homer's poem still resonate with contemporary travelers.
Wood's passion for the Odyssey and its themes is evident in his dedication to sharing this ancient story with modern audiences. He believes that the Odyssey's emotional journey and its exploration of personal challenges make it a relatable and captivating adventure for people of all ages. The Odyssey tour has not only allowed Wood to share his love for history and cycling but has also inspired others to embark on their own epic journeys.
