Cycle the Balkans

This itinerary offers a stunning cycling tour through the Balkans, covering diverse landscapes, rich history, and a mix of cultural exploration. The journey spans across four countries: Albania, North Macedonia, Kosovo, and Montenegro. The tour balances beautiful countryside, mountain climbs, and historical landmarks with leisurely cycling near the coast.

Highlights

• UNESCO Town of Ohrid: One of the oldest and most biologically diverse lakes in the world.
• Mavrovo National Park: Known for its deep canyons, snow-capped peaks, and blue lakes.
• Durmitor Mountains: Part of the Dinaric Alps, known for rugged terrain and breathtaking views.
• Bay of Kotor: A dramatic coastal setting in Montenegro.
• Historical and cultural landmarks: Including monasteries, old towns, and Ottoman and Byzantine architecture in Kosovo and Montenegro.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Start in Tirana

• Arrive in Tirana, meet the group, and have a welcome dinner.
• Stay: Hotel Austria or similar.

Day 2: Transfer to Lake Ohrid (Macedonia)

• Ride along Lake Ohrid to the historic St. Naum Monastery and cross into Macedonia.
• Stay: Villa Royal View or similar.

Day 3: Climb to a High Plateau, End in Debar

• A mix of climbs and scenic gorges toward Debar.
• Stay: Hotel Leon or similar.

Day 4: Cycle towards Lake Mavrovo

• Explore the diverse landscapes of Mavrovo National Park and cycle to the foot of the Bistra Mountains.
• Stay: Hotel Radika or similar.

Day 5: Transfer to Kosovo Border; Ride through Brezovica and Sharri National Park

• Transfer to Kosovo, cycling through Brezovica and into Sharri National Park.
• Stay: Hotel Pine or similar.

Day 6: Climb to Prevalle, Descend to Prizren

• A challenging climb and a rewarding descent into Prizren, Kosovo’s cultural capital.
• Stay: Hotel Theranda or similar.

Day 7: Free Day in Peje

• A chance to relax, explore Peje, or enjoy an optional activity like a local visit.
• Stay: Hotel in Peje.

Day 8: Transfer to Montenegro Border, Cycle to Berane

• Cross into Montenegro, cycling through Rozaje and Berane.
• Stay: Hotel Berane or similar.

Day 9: Cycle to Kolasin with Views of the Albanian Alps

• Pedal through stunning landscapes, ending in Kolasin, a winter resort town.
• Stay: Hotel Cile or similar.

Day 10: Short Transfer to Mojkovac; Cycle through Tara Canyon

• Ride through Tara Canyon, one of Europe’s deepest, before reaching Zabljak.
• Stay: Hotel Enigma or similar.

Day 11: Climb out of Zabljak, Descend to Rudinice

• Start with a climb through the Durmitor region, then descend to a quiet village stay.
• Stay: Etno Selo Izlazak (guesthouse).

Day 12: Cycle Towards Nikšić

• Easy ride to Montenegro’s second-largest city, Nikšić.
• Stay: Hotel Trim or similar.

Day 13: Short Transfer to Vilsu; Cycle to the Bay of Kotor

• Cycle through the stunning Bay of Kotor, visiting medieval towns and enjoying seafood on the waterfront.
• Stay: Hotel Marija 2 or similar.

Day 14: Transfer to Bar, Cycle Near Lake Shkodra, Finish in Shkodra

• End the trip by cycling near Lake Shkodra and crossing the border back into Albania. Enjoy a farewell dinner in Shkodra.
• Stay: Hotel Tradita or similar.

This trip offers a perfect balance of cultural exploration, cycling through both challenging terrain and coastal beauty, and discovering the diverse landscapes of the Balkans.