- Immerse yourself in a previously isolated country
- Cycle from mountain plateaux to the Albanian Riviera
- Visit the Unesco World Heritage site of Butrint
- Fishing villages, national parks and thermal springs
Cycling in Albania
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8 Days
from
8 Days
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Incl. taxes
Excl. flights
Cycling
Discover the beauty of this previously isolated country by bike
Some say that visiting Albania is as close as you’ll get to travelling back in time. It wasn’t until the collapse of the People’s Socialist Republic of Albania in 1991 that the world got its first glimpse of the country within. Huge snow-capped mountains, inviting beaches, rural villages, a genuine subsistence culture and an exceptionally friendly welcome is what you will find here. We cycle through the very best of Europe’s beautiful unknown, beginning our tour on the Macedonia border, biking towards the ancient town of Gjirokastra passing soaring peaks and lush green valleys. From here, we begin our descent to the Albanian Riviera, passing Unesco-listed Butrint and Llogara National Park, before relaxing by the sea at our hotel in Vlorë.
Highlights
Key Information
- Five nights in hotels, two nights in guesthouses
- Six days cycling with full vehicle support
- Group normally 4 to 16, plus local cycling leader and driver. Minimum age: 16
- Trip can be combined with Cycle Macedonia & Northern Albania
-
E-bikes available for an additional cost
- Option to travel by train to your adventure
- Countries visited: Albania
What's Included
- All breakfasts and 2 dinners included
- All accommodation
- Transfer for group flights
- Local bike hire
What's Not Included
- Travel insurance
- Visas and vaccinations
- Single supplement
- E-bike hire
6 Days of Cycling
Pace:
Moderate to challenging: 13-16km/8-10miles an hour
Terrain:
100% tarmac, where some sections are in poor condition.
Day 2
72 km / 44.7 miles
Day 3
60 km / 37.3 miles
Day 4
46 km / 28.6 miles
Day 5
70 km / 43.5 miles
Day 6
54 km / 33.6 miles
Day 7
65 km / 40.4 miles
Cycling in Albania
Itinerary
Pogradec Vlore
Fly to Tirana; transfer to Pogradec
We start in Pogradec. Those on the group flight will be met at the airport and transferred to our hotel in Pogradec, situated on the shore of Lake Ohrid (approximately a three-hour drive).
Accommodation: Hotel Millenium or Similar
Start Pogradec
We start in Pogradec, at our hotel on the shore of Lake Ohrid. The afternoon is free to relax and enjoy this lakeside location.
Accommodation: Hotel Millenium (or similar)
Transfer to Korçë; steady climb through a landscape of barren rock interspersed with wildflowers; cycle towards Grammoz Mountain and over the Barmash Pass to Gërmenj
We begin with one of the most demanding days of the tour. After a quick transfer to Korçë, we begin cycling and leave behind the agricultural plateau, climbing steadily into the border mountains through a landscape of barren rock interspersed with wildflowers. Numerous cols and valleys lie ahead, climbing towards Grammoz Mountain and over the Barmash Pass (3,802ft/1,159m) to Gërmenj, lying in a tranquil valley. Here we relax at our accommodation, Farma Sotira, which is also a working trout farm. Meals here consist of organic produce reared or sourced from the farm itself. Once you’ve finished your hearty dinner, sit and relax by the open roaring fire in the dining area with a glass of homemade wine or a bottle of Korçë beer (the most popular in Albania).
Accommodation: Farma Sotira Hotel (or similar)
Cycle through high grassy plateaux surrounded by soaring peaks before descending to Carshove and on to Benje; ride to thermal springs for a swim
In the morning, there is a climb out from Germenj to a high grassy plateau close to the Greek border, surrounded by soaring peaks before reaching the source of the River Vjosa and descending through its spectacular gorge to Leskovik. We continue descending to Çarshove and then follow the corniche route high above the river to Benje situated on a ridge above the river. After lunch at the guesthouse, we take a short ride to the thermal springs to relax and soothe aching muscles. Both lunch and dinner will be served on the peaceful terrace.
Accommodation: Guesthouse Coli (or similar)
Valley ride towards Kelcyra; after lunch at Tepele Waterfalls transfer to Gjirokastra for afternoon city tour
Today is one of the easiest days. We continue along the valley towards Kelcyra with its distant shark-tooth peaks, which guard a further gorge. We ride between these gorges until the two rivers meet. After lunch at the waterfalls of Tepelene, we drive (approximately 30 minutes) through the wide plain toward the town of Gjirokastra (City of 1,000 Steps). The well-preserved town is perched on the steep side of the Drino Valley, overlooking snow-capped mountains. In the afternoon, we take a cultural tour through the city and explore narrow cobbled alleys and 18th-century Ottoman houses. We also visit a 13th-century castle and learn about the fascinating history of this town, which has seen many rulers and has inspired poets, authors and artists.
Accommodation: Hotel Cajupi (or similar)
Transfer up the Muzina Pass, long descent to Sarandë via the coast and the Unesco site of Butrint
After breakfast, we load the bikes on to the support vehicle and transfer up to Muzina Pass (approximately 45 minutes), the gateway to southern Albania, for a spectacular downhill ride to Sarandë. On the Ionian Coast, Sarandë is sandwiched between the high mountains and the sea and is close to the ancient remains of Butrint, which we visit on the way. A Unesco World Heritage site, Butrint is very close to the Greek border and is one of the most important archeological sites in the country, with origins back to the ancient Greeks and Romans. We have lunch at the site and continue along the coast to Sarandë.
Accommodation: Hotel Nertili (or similar)
Spectacular coastal ride to the long beach of Himarë Bay
Climbing steeply out of Sarandë to a rocky plateau, we enjoy a spectacular coastal ride over cols into bays and around headlands. Always with the mountains to the right and sea to the left, we continue along before descending to Himarë, a small Communist-era fishing village with a small promenade filled with cafes, restaurants and ice cream stands. There is plenty of time for a swim in the Ionian Sea, and our hotel is a short walk to Potam Beach.
Accommodation: Hotel Prinos or Hotel Dhima (or similar)
Ride towards Vlorë; optional climb to the Llogara Pass; long descent through Llogara National Park finishing by the coast
Today’s route is as challenging as it is spectacular as we cycle the most demanding ride of the tour; it will show you how strong you have become. In the morning, there is a climb out of Himarë, which naturally is rewarded with an enjoyable downhill. We then have another climb before our coffee break. That’s followed by a nice downhill, but we must climb again before we regroup.
We then face a long, steady ascent to the Llogara pass. At 3,422ft (1,043m) above sea level, this climb is optional, so if you think it is too much then you can jump in the support vehicle. However, if you are looking for an extra challenge, this climb comes with a real sense of achievement, and the views are fantastic.
At the pass (which you will also see if you take the van), it is possible to see across to Italy on a clear day. We recommend taking a warmer layer for reaching the top of the pass. From here you enter Llogara National Park, home to black pine, Eurasian otter and golden eagles. The park is a scenic expanse of protected woodland that encompasses the forests on the northern side of the Llogora Pass. We begin to descend and have lunch in the national park. In the afternoon, we continue descending towards our hotel, which is by the sea just outside the city. Here we can relax and take a dip in the sea, the perfect reward for a hard day’s cycle.
Accommodation: Hotel Coral (or similar)
Drive to Tirana Airport; fly to London
End Vlorë. Those on the group flight will be transferred to Tirana airport (approximately 2hr 30min drive).
End Vlorë
This cycling tour of Albania comes to an end after breakfast. But if you’d like a muscle-soothing post-trip break, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay in our hotel by the sea in Vlorë.
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Essential Info
Is this trip for you?
This trip is classified Road and Activity Level 4 (Moderate/Challenging). For more on our trip gradings, visit our Activity Level Guidelines page.
- Average daily distance: 37mi (60km)
- Number of cycling days: six
- Vehicle support (with limited seats)
Terrain and route: 100 percent paved, where some sections are in a poor condition with potholes and some unsurfaced areas. The terrain is undulating with some long, gradual climbs. The optional climb on Day 7 (3,422ft/1,043m) is the most challenging, although there is always the option of the support vehicle to get you up to the pass. We aim to use quiet roads where possible, although on one occasion we need to pass busy sections to reach quiet roads beyond.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Hotel Millennium, Rruga e Drilonit 1, Tushemisht 7304
Phone: +355 68 228 3911
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza (TIA)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately three hours’ drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
Make your own way
It’s possible to reach the start hotel by public transport, but the journey is complicated. We therefore recommend joining the group transfer where possible. If not, a cab from the airport to the start hotel costs €120 and should take three hours. If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to the airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Pogradec
Location end: Vlore
Passport
Remember to check the expiration date of your passport if travelling internationally. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the date of your scheduled return.
Hotels and guesthouses
On this door-to-door cycling adventure, we mostly stay in three- or four-star hotels and guesthouses. These are comfortable and well located for our adventure but, with tourism still developing in Albania, relatively simple. Below are a couple of hotels our guests typically enjoy.
Gërmenj: Farma Sotira (night 2)
In a tranquil valley within Germenj-Shelegur National Park and with fresh water running down from the mountains, Farma Sotira is a simple, tranquil place to stay. It is also a working farm, so dinner is mainly created from homegrown produce and prepared using traditional methods. We sleep in two-room wooden cabins (each room has twin beds). Each cabin has a communal bathroom.
Sarandë: Hotel Nertili (night 5)
The waters of the Ionian take centre stage at the beachfront Hotel Nertili, where all rooms have a balcony with sea views. There’s also a private beach area with sundecks and parasols, plus a bar and restaurant with a sea-view terrace.
Worth knowing
- Single accommodation is available on request. Please note, single rooms may not be available in the guesthouses in Germenj and Benje due to a limited number of rooms.
- The hotels we use in Himarë (Hotel Prinos or Hotel Dhima) and Guesthouse Coli are simpler than the other hotels used on this trip. While basic, all are ideally located for our adventures (the Himarë options are by the beach and Guesthouse Coli by thermal springs).
Trip Experts
Arjan Mucalla
Expert Leader: Albania
Alex Morris
Senior Polar Sales Consultant
Reviews
Add your own reviewWonderful
Thoroughly enjoyed this trip. Wonderful country, excellent staff and amazing downhills. The e-bikes were amazing – much more powerful than my own e-bike at home. Good food too and great choice of coffee stops, restaurants etc. The rest of the group were all lovely and I laughed A LOT.
Most Inspirational Moment
Probably the first day downhills - they made me sing. But also climbing up Llogara pass on the last day trying to use as little battery as possible.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Julian was wonderful. Great sense of humour and always did all he could to make us all happy. Good knowledge of Albanian culture, history, songs, language etc, which is something I enjoy.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Some insect bit me in my hotel room in Gjirokastra. So close your windows! If you want to buy gifts/souvenirs, Gjirokastra was probably the best and most convenient place to do some shopping. Try and learn a couple of greetings in Albanian for when you pass locals on the way. Making an effort goes a long way. You need to be cycling fit - even on an ebike, it helps.
Suggestions
Just do it. Now.
A WONDERFUL WEEK!
I was curious to find out about Albania. The Exodus circular itinerary gives an excellent overview of the south of the country. The tour reflects the variety of landscapes and experiences Albania has to offer.
The lake at Podgradec is a lovely starting point and excellent for swimming. There were a few dogs wandering around but they were friendly, one of them playfully stole a pink flip flop from the beach but gave it to me after I went after him!
The cycle rides were varied and interesting. I opted for an e-bike so that took the anxiety away climbing the hills and if I stopped for a photo then I could easily catch up with the group. I loved the decents, my e-bike had a small screen showing speed and battery information. On one occasion I reached 55k downhill!
I thoroughly enjoyed all of the food. The freshly prepared locally sourced food was impressive. Usually, we had a variety of dishes, nearly always a tasty salad, bread, sometimes chips, delicious savoury spinach pastries, lovely cream cheese. The barbecued lamb was superb as was the freshly caught barbecued trout.
The organisation of the trip was outstanding and the fact that there were 16 of us in the group didn’t phase our leader and his assistant. Everything ran smoothly and efficiently.
The evening we stayed at the trout farm, Farma Sotira after an exceptional dinner (and a drink or 2) we enjoyed traditional Albanian dancing taught by Julian our guide and singing with the Albanians whilst a log burning fire flickered in the atmospheric dining room. It was a night to remember.
The decent the following day was spectacular!
The thermal springs near to our next hotel were pleasantly relaxing following the cycling.
Gjirokasttra was very interesting and surprisingly touristy. There’s a very good ice cream shop near to the hotel.
The guided tour of the UNESCO site at Butrint was very good. From there we cycled to the coast where there were opportunities to swim in the fabulous Ionian Sea.
From the coast we ascended via dramatic Llogara Pass to the National Park. That really was the icing on the cake and well worth the climb. Experiencing Mount Çika inspired Lord Byron to write a poem.
The next day we left Vlorë and travelled by bus to Tirana Airport. 2 group members and I had booked an additional 2 nights in Tirana so we got the bus from the airport back to the city, very good value for 400 LEK or 4 EURO. The bus also take cards. Cards are accepted widely in Tirana but not in oher places.
Prices are very reasonable in Albania. Albania is courting the EU and are hoping to join in 2 years. EURO notes are accepted everywhere and change given in LEK (the universal exchange rate by merchants was 100LEK = 1 EURO).
The week went fast! The holiday is quite intensive and relaxation time is limited. However every day was different and every day was a joy! You can always add on a few days at the end of the holiday if you want some down time.
Most Inspirational Moment
The decents were extraordinary! We were given the option of stopping for half an hour at a fast flowing stream Julian knew of. It wasn't in the itinerary. I'm so glad I did. It was amazing experience, having a dip to cool off. I also loved swimming in the lake and the sea.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Julian, our guide, was outstanding, as was his asistant Enes. Their communication and organisational skills were really excellent. I felt well cared for. They genuinely wanted us to enjoy ourselves and everything was done to make sure everyone was safe and happy.
Advice for Potential Travellers
If you see dogs wandering around don't be alarmed. The one's we saw were calm and friendly, merely seeking attention and affection from people.
Suggestions
I tried to learn a few Albanian phrases but I found the Albanian language very difficult. English is understood widely, however.
A challenging week
The trip notes did indicate that this would be a tough week (I would say more challenging than moderate) and it was true to form, even with an e-bike.. The first day was particularly hard and I would suggest splitting it up into two days to encourage a more positive start. A nice variety of scenery – farmland, forest, mountains and coast – and I enjoyed the accommodation and food, particularly in the rural areas. Would have like more of a sightseeing feel to it.
Most Inspirational Moment
Getting to the top of Llogarase on the final day - beautiful scenery and feeling of exhilaration.
Thoughts on Group Leader
The group leader was very engaged, enthusiastic and encouraging. At times could have communicated more or less appropriately. Also an incredible knowledge of music!
Advice for Potential Travellers
Get yourself really cycling fit and don't expect a leisurely sightseeing trip by bike (may depend on the group)
What no kettle !
Yes thats right it seems Albania hotels don’t have kettles/tea making facilities. But in reality you don’t miss it in what is a great tester of your cycling ability. Its tough but do-able for everyone. You will come home feeling less afraid to cycle those hills after a week in the Albanian mountains. Great food and plentyful with fresh salads,veg and fish. Excellent guides who went that extra mie for everyone.
Most Inspirational Moment
Being able to cycle for over 3 hours up spiralling mountains.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Above what you expect both Elris and the driver were excellent.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Yes if you want a cuppa ,bring your own small kettle and supplies.
Suggestions
Bring on the next one.
Beautiful Albania
This was our third cycling trip with Exodus & it didn’t disappoint. Albania is a stunning country but also very mountainous so a good level of cycling fitness is necessary although there is always the option of an e bike. The scenery is incredible & the local people really friendly- they would often wave & cheer us on as we panted up the hills! We were blessed with great weather although it was very hot in the full sun & it was really Important to stay hydrated. The food was excellent & as a vegetarian I ate really well. The baked cheese was a particular favourite & there was plenty of fish or meat for those who ate it. The accommodation was mixed & varied but on the whole was really good.
Most Inspirational Moment
Beautiful Gjirokastra was definitely a highlight & I wish we could have spent longer there. The most inspirational moment though for me was cycling up the pass on the last day. As more of a runner than a cyclist I was really pleased to have done it alongside my friends.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our leader Erlis & driver/mechanic Klodi were a great team & we were well supplied with support & water throughout the day. Erlis is a class act & has a real calm presence. His relationship with the families & staff in the hotels & restaurants was really heartwarming to see & we were always ushered straight to a prepared table where the food soon followed. His passion (& sometimes frustration) for his country was obvious & I found his talk on the subject absolutely fascinating. His grasp of the language is excellent & he could always answer any questions we had.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Definitely train before you go as from the first day it’s a tough one & even the so called easier days are full on. If you’re there in the heat like we were, make sure to take rehydration tablets for in your water. As someone who doesn’t eat chocolate (we had chocolate & a banana each day) I’d recommend taking extra snacks, particularly salt based ones such as nuts. If you’re able I’d definitely book an extra day or 2 at the end of the trip rather than heading straight home like we did. It’s a real whistle stop trip with very little down time.
Suggestions
Book this trip & see Albania now before it becomes busy & commercialised which it no doubt will. I’m so glad we’ve been & seen what a beautiful country it is.
Wonderful introduction to the beauty, culture and history of Albania
Wonderful way to explore Albania aboard a bike saddle will be for us less fit people pretty challenging cycling, but the rewards for one’s efforts were great incredible views, fantastic mountain scenery, beautiful coastline and rural landscape. Once again, having a local guide made a massive difference introducing us to a wonderful range of Excellent local food much of it, organic locally grown and us very tasty and nutritious. The history and culture of Albania is fascinating. Although it’s difficult to burp watch while cycling, it was wonderful to hear the gold orioles singing, and the bee aters calling above your head as you rode for a beautiful rural countryside
Most Inspirational Moment
Soaking up the stunning mountain landscape, especially at the end of a long, hard climb
Thoughts on Group Leader
Erlis Our local guide was simply outstanding in every way. He and his support driver mechanic Klodi made the trip for us. They are truly wonderful ambassadors for their country. Both of them keen and enthusiastic throughout the day and evening, ever ready to help and guide. Erlis’s organisational skills are 2nd to none, despite having a relatively large group and on occasions arriving at quite busy restaurants we never waited long for food and always received superb service. Superb presentation, superb food at a very reasonable price. He clearly has a very good relationship with all his contacts out there. Travelling alone it’s a real lottery to Find a nice place to eat or have a coffee and in some areas. These places were few and far between but he and the locals didn’t let us down. He made himself available, 24 hours a day and hand with everybody and every situation with total competence and superb people skills. His command of English was exceptional and one evening he gave us a talk on the history and culture of Albania up to today and explained how the Albanian people of moulded and why they are as they are today. Also why some of the younger generation are leaving for other countries. Even though the talk lasted over an hour it seemed far less.On occasions, I looked around and everybody was transfixed he was constantly gauging, the level of interest from the people around him, and accurately detected. They were all fascinated by his presentation of his country’s history.He Deliver this presentation, which included many small details in an incredibly eloquent way, applying chronology of events throughout. I don’t believe he has had any training as a teacher, but I wish my history teachers had been as good as him. He came across as someone who genuinely loved his country. and wanted others like us to be aware of its history warts and all so they could understand his culture. It’s sad that so many people in the UK make generalisations about the Albania And the flood of your legal immigrants. Throughout our time in Albania, we were greeted with friendliness and given wonderful full hospitality. The Albanians, we had contact with warm hard-working people.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Erlis Our local guide was simply outstanding in every way. He and his support driver mechanic Klodi made the trip for us. They are truly wonderful ambassadors for their country. Both of them keen and enthusiastic throughout the day and evening, ever ready to help and guide. Erlis’s organisational skills are 2nd to none, despite having a relatively large group and on occasions arriving at quite busy restaurants we never waited long for food and always received superb service. Superb presentation, superb food at a very reasonable price. He clearly has a very good relationship with all his contacts out there. Travelling alone it’s a real lottery to Find a nice place to eat or have a coffee and in some areas. These places were few and far between but he and the locals didn’t let us down. He made himself available, 24 hours a day and hand with everybody and every situation with total competence and superb people skills. His command of English was exceptional and one evening he gave us a talk on the history and culture of Albania up to today and explained how the Albanian people of moulded and why they are as they are today. Also why some of the younger generation are leaving for other countries. Even though the talk lasted over an hour it seemed far less.On occasions, I looked around and everybody was transfixed he was constantly gauging, the level of interest from the people around him, and accurately detected. They were all fascinated by his presentation of his country’s history.He Deliver this presentation, which included many small details in an incredibly eloquent way, applying chronology of events throughout. I don’t believe he has had any training as a teacher, but I wish my history teachers had been as good as him. He came across as someone who genuinely loved his country. and wanted others like us to be aware of its history warts and all so they could understand his culture. It’s sad that so many people in the UK make generalisations about the Albania And the flood of your legal immigrants. Throughout our time in Albania, we were greeted with friendliness and given wonderful full hospitality. The Albanians, we had contact with warm hard-working people.
Suggestions
Exodus information about this trip was disappointing. It’s not checked properly and there were errors which showed a lack of care and due diligence. In fact one of the excursions was priced at £75 when it was only £7.50 and this was not the only error in the calculations conversions so as far as I’m concerned, very poor attention to detail, and on the basis of this, my initial thought was. we would not do excursions as to expensive in the and we did move, and they were very reasonably priced, and it would’ve been a shame not to enjoy them or not budgeted for them It was only when I contacted Exodus that you realised it had not been checked properly. Also the photograph that is the introduction to your documentation for Albania to put it. Bluntly is dreadful. We saw so much beautiful landscape and culture and between us shared many photographs of this stunning country so I found it very disappointing to see such a bland poorly selected photograph on the documentation designed to attract people to visiting this country which so desperately needs tourists. It is only because I have done previous trips with you that I had sufficient faith and overlooked this, but to be honest if this was my first trip with you that I was considering, the lack of detail and checking, would’ve been a warning sign to me, and I definitely would not have signed up and paid hard earned money to join a trip. We were also disappointed that there was not more detailed information about where we checked in for our group. BA flights. Everybody went to several wrong BA desks or stood in the wrong queue before they found the right group departure desk having spoken to one of the staff. Apparently this is ALWAYS the case THEY HAVE SOECIFIC DESK FOR SUCH FLIGHTS and won’t deal with you at other desks for group bookings, a minor thing, but airports are stressful time is limited and it would’ve been nice to been given more information on.that.
Fantastic trip to Albania
My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our cycling holiday in Albania with Exodus travel. Booking the trip was easy and communicating with Exodus very straight forward. We booked 4 months in advance in order to guarantee our places and to book flights when they were cheaper. We were met on arrival by Erlis our guide and the transfer to our first hotel and start of the trip was seamless. The trip itself was very well planned and executed. We didn’t have to make many decisions and great accommodation and restaurants, coffee stops were all arranged for us in advance. Accommodation ranged in quality but on the whole was really good. The food was excellent always and plenty of it. We cycled in September so it was mostly very hot and we needed to rehydrate often. There were 2 days of really tough cycling, 1st and last but there were plenty of stops and options to go on the bus. I hired an electric bike which was a godsend on the difficult days especially due to the heat. It was an incredible trip; Albania is a fascinating country with a diverse history and beautiful landscape. We feel privileged to have travelled there at this time.
Most Inspirational Moment
Reaching the summit on the last day; 5 switchbacks in 30 degree heat. The view was worth it ! Great company and brilliant tour leader.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Erlis was amazing. Really welcoming and very well organised as well as being informative and helpful. He is a great tour leader with a lovely sense of humour. You would be lucky to get him.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Take plenty of suncream, seriously consider an electric bike, don't take too many snacks as they are provided, take earplugs as the Albanian dog howling committee comes out in force at night.
Suggestions
Thank you for a great trip !
Stunning views, lovely group and difficult climbs
Absolutely loved this trip. I am more of a runner so I found the mountain climbs quite hard at times, but once at the top, I had the most fun cycling down towards the ocean. Had no idea that Albania was this beautiful!!
Most Inspirational Moment
The entire group making it to the top of the most difficult climb on the last day of cycling, then celebrating with an incredible group lunch at the mountain restaurant.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Very passionate about Albania and it's history. Very proud of his country and very good at his job. The group was quite mixed, which he managed well.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Make sure you have a good fitness/experience level with mountain climbs. Otherwise, you may just decide to use an E-bike.
Suggestions
You can use both the local currency as well as Euros to pay for food and drinks in cafe's and restaurants. You will receive the local currency in change.
The best holiday…
The best holiday, in the best country with the best group and the best guide. Arjan and Bato are the best team. So much kindness, patience and generosity. The cycling was quite challenging at times but the support was excellent. Albania is a beautiful country and cycling through the countryside and along the coast is a great way to see it at its best. Arjan is very knowledgeable and shared with us his passion for his country. The food was often delicious, with fabulous salads and fish but at its best when Arjan ordered sharing plates for the group. I would return in a heartbeat to enjoy the generous hospitality of warm and friendly Albanians.
Pack light!
my first cycling holiday and i loved it. so simple – get up, eat breakfast, hand over your room key and suitcase, cycle until you get handed a coffee and then lunch, then cycle until you are handed a room key and your luggage. eat dinner, drink wine, sleep and repeat. albania has some stunning scenery and the route was a good mix of challenging and easier.
Most Inspirational Moment
the climb on the last day - the sections before the main climb are brutal, but once you are at the top it is all worth it. proper type 2 fun.
Advice for Potential Travellers
pack light as you will have to repack every morning, so the less you have the easier it is. Plus, you won't have to lift a heavy suitcase to the van!
Start
Finish
Availability
Adult Price From
Optional Single Supplement
Friday Friday
26 Apr 2024 26 Apr 2024
Friday Friday
03 May 2024 03 May 2024
Availability Sold Out
Adult Price From CAD 2,565
Optional Single Supplement
+CAD 342
Available upon Request
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
10 May 2024 10 May 2024
Friday Friday
17 May 2024 17 May 2024
Availability Sold Out
Adult Price From CAD 2,945
Optional Single Supplement
+CAD 342
Available upon Request
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
24 May 2024 24 May 2024
Friday Friday
31 May 2024 31 May 2024
Availability Guaranteed (Limited) Only 2 spaces left!
Adult Price From CAD 2,945
Optional Single Supplement Single Rooms sold out
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead but there are only 2 spaces left. Do not delay your booking!
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
07 Jun 2024 07 Jun 2024
Friday Friday
14 Jun 2024 14 Jun 2024
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Adult Price From Usually CAD 2,658Now CAD 2,530Saving CAD 128 Usually CAD 3,513Now Saving CAD 128
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 342
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
14 Jun 2024 14 Jun 2024
Friday Friday
21 Jun 2024 21 Jun 2024
Availability Sold Out
Adult Price From CAD 2,660
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 342
Guaranteed flights from London available for this departure
Guaranteed flights from London available for this departure
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
30 Aug 2024 30 Aug 2024
Friday Friday
06 Sep 2024 06 Sep 2024
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Adult Price From Usually CAD 2,658Now CAD 2,530Saving CAD 128 Usually CAD 3,418Now Saving CAD 128 Book with CAD 632 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 342
Guaranteed flights from London available for this departure
Guaranteed flights from London available for this departure
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
06 Sep 2024 06 Sep 2024
Friday Friday
13 Sep 2024 13 Sep 2024
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Adult Price From Usually CAD 2,555Now CAD 2,425Saving CAD 130 Usually CAD 3,315Now Saving CAD 130 Book with CAD 606 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 342
Guaranteed flights from London available for this departure
Guaranteed flights from London available for this departure
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
13 Sep 2024 13 Sep 2024
Friday Friday
20 Sep 2024 20 Sep 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From CAD 2,465 Book with CAD 616 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 342
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
20 Sep 2024 20 Sep 2024
Friday Friday
27 Sep 2024 27 Sep 2024
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Adult Price From CAD 2,655 Book with CAD 663 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 342
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
04 Oct 2024 04 Oct 2024
Friday Friday
11 Oct 2024 11 Oct 2024
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Adult Price From CAD 2,560 Book with CAD 640 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 342
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
18 Oct 2024 18 Oct 2024
Friday Friday
25 Oct 2024 25 Oct 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From CAD 2,465 Book with CAD 616 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 342
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
18 Apr 2025 18 Apr 2025
Friday Friday
25 Apr 2025 25 Apr 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Adult Price From CAD 2,660 Book with CAD 665 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 361
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
25 Apr 2025 25 Apr 2025
Friday Friday
02 May 2025 02 May 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Adult Price From CAD 2,850 Book with CAD 712 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 361
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
16 May 2025 16 May 2025
Friday Friday
23 May 2025 23 May 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Adult Price From CAD 2,850 Book with CAD 712 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 361
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
23 May 2025 23 May 2025
Friday Friday
30 May 2025 30 May 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From CAD 2,850 Book with CAD 712 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 361
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
06 Jun 2025 06 Jun 2025
Friday Friday
13 Jun 2025 13 Jun 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From CAD 2,850 Book with CAD 712 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 361
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
13 Jun 2025 13 Jun 2025
Friday Friday
20 Jun 2025 20 Jun 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Adult Price From CAD 2,850 Book with CAD 712 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 361
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
29 Aug 2025 29 Aug 2025
Friday Friday
05 Sep 2025 05 Sep 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Adult Price From CAD 2,850 Book with CAD 712 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 361
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
05 Sep 2025 05 Sep 2025
Friday Friday
12 Sep 2025 12 Sep 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From CAD 2,850 Book with CAD 712 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 361
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
12 Sep 2025 12 Sep 2025
Friday Friday
19 Sep 2025 19 Sep 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From CAD 2,850 Book with CAD 712 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 361
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
19 Sep 2025 19 Sep 2025
Friday Friday
26 Sep 2025 26 Sep 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From CAD 2,850 Book with CAD 712 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 361
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
10 Oct 2025 10 Oct 2025
Friday Friday
17 Oct 2025 17 Oct 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From CAD 2,755 Book with CAD 688 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 361
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesFriday Friday
17 Oct 2025 17 Oct 2025
Friday Friday
24 Oct 2025 24 Oct 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From CAD 2,755 Book with CAD 688 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 361
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesWould you like to include flights with your booking?
- ATOL protected
- Competitive flight prices
- Full refunds in the event of FCDO cancellations or major disruption at your UK departure airport
- Specialist support to rearrange flights and transfers
- Regional flights available from many UK airports
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