Guided cycle tour through Albania

Day 1: Individual arrival in Tirana

Welcome to Tirana, the lively heart of Albania! In the evening, get to know your fellow travelers and the tour guide and receive an introduction to your guided cycle tour through Albania over dinner together in a traditional restaurant. Let yourself be enchanted by the charm of the city – between colorful house facades, lively squares and an exciting mix of Ottoman, Italian and communist architecture.

Day 2: Tirana – Lin – Pogradec, approx. 40 km + transfer

After a morning transfer, we reach Lake Ohrid, a natural jewel and UNESCO World Heritage Site. The first cycling stage takes us along the shore through picturesque villages to Pogradec. A special highlight is the lunch break in the idyllic Drilon National Park before we cross the border into North Macedonia to visit the impressive St. Naum Monastery. Back in Pogradec, the day comes to a relaxed end.

Day 3: Pogradec – Korcë, approx. 50 km

We leave Lake Ohrid and cycle through a spectacular mountain landscape up to a plateau with wide fields and traditional farms. In Korcë, the "city of serenades", we stroll through the picturesque old town, visit the lively bazaar and enjoy the unique flair of this charming city. The day ends with a short tour of Korcë, which is often referred to as the "Paris of Albania", before we enjoy the local cuisine in a cozy restaurant. Optionally, it is worth making a detour to the National Museum of Medieval Art, which houses an impressive collection of Albanian icons.

Day 4: Korcë – Sotirë, approx. 70 km

Our adventure takes us over the Barmash Pass (1,159 m) into the untouched nature of the Grammoz Mountains – an impressive panorama accompanies us on every kilometer. After a break in Albania's highest town, Ersekë, a little paradise awaits us at our destination: The farm of Sotirë is idyllically situated between wooded slopes. Here we enjoy homemade red wine made from grapes that ripen at an altitude of 1,000 meters and end the day in the peaceful countryside – a real insider tip on this guided cycle tour through Albania.

Day 5: Sotirë – Bënjë, approx. 50 km

We start with a ride across a high plateau lined with pine forests and impressive mountain peaks until we reach the source of the Vjosa River. After a spectacular descent to Çarshovë, we cycle along the panoramic road to Përmet, known for its cuisine and strong raki. After lunch in Bënjë, we reach the thermal springs of Langarica, where an Ottoman bridge from the 16th century marks the entrance. If you wish, you can hike upstream and discover remote pools created by locals.

Day 6: Bënje – Gjirokaster, approx. 70 km

We cycle through the valley towards Këlcyrë and cycle along the Drino river to the impressive town of Gjirokastër, which is picturesquely perched on a hill. Gjirokastër, known as the "city of 1,000 steps", impresses with its traditional architecture and unique flair. After check-in, we explore the old town on a guided tour past the white walls and historic houses. If you are lucky, you may be able to experience the National Folklore Festival, which is one of Albania's most important cultural events.

Day 7: Gjirokaster – Muzina Pass – Sarandë, approx. 70 km + transfer

After a short transfer, our spectacular descent from the Muzina Pass begins. The Albanian Riviera lies before us – the bright blue of the sea, the lush green of the mountains. A ferry takes us to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Butrint, where traces of Greek, Roman and Byzantine history come together in a fascinating city of ruins. On the way back to Sarandë, we are accompanied by fantastic coastal views with the island of Corfu on the horizon – one of the most magical moments of this guided cycle tour through Albania.

Day 8: Sarande – Himarë, approx. 50 km

An unforgettable day begins: We climb a rocky high plateau and ride along winding coastal roads that reward us with breathtaking views. Again and again we pass through small bays until we reach the beautiful bay of Himarë. Here, the turquoise waters of the Albanian Riviera beckon us to take a refreshing dip. On the way, we explore the mysterious Porto Palermo Castle, a Venetian fortress full of legends.

Day 9: Himarë – Vlorë, approx. 65 km

Today, the most challenging but also the most spectacular stage awaits us. We climb steeply up to 1,000 meters, past forests and gorges, until we reach the Llogara Pass – a vantage point with breathtaking views of the coast. After lunch in the national park, we head downhill to Vlorë, where we can spend the afternoon on the Ionian coast. Historically, Julius Caesar landed here in 48 BC with his legions before moving over the pass. For a long time, the Llogara Pass was a remote place from which the inhabitants had easier connections to Corfu than to the Albanian interior.

Day 10: Individual departure

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Tirana Airport or continue your journey individually. If you wish, you can stay longer in Tirana and explore the vibrant Blloku district or visit the exciting Bunk'Art Museum. Perhaps you will simply enjoy a last Albanian coffee before ending your guided cycle tour through Albania with many unforgettable impressions.

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Minimum number of participants to be reached by 21 days before departure: 8 persons
Maximum number of participants: 16 persons

Not included is the city or visitor's tax (if payable).

Children discounts

No child discount is offered on this trip.

*Single rooms are available on request. Please note that single rooms may not be available in the guesthouses in Germenj and Benje due to the limited number of rooms.

Types of rental bikes

• 30-gear trekking bike
• E-bike / pedelec

Fittings

Pannier