Cycle the Balkans

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Description

Summary

Starts
Tirana
Duration
15 days
Languages
English
Minimum age
16 years

Description

Embark on a captivating multi-day tour through the heart of the Balkans, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes converge. From the vibrant streets of Tirana to the serene shores of Lake Ohrid, this journey offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. Cycle through picturesque towns, explore ancient monasteries, and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Albania, North Macedonia, Kosovo, and Montenegro. With each day offering new discoveries and stunning vistas, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, delightful meals, and the camaraderie of fellow adventurers as you traverse this enchanting region.

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Included

Transfer for group flights

Local bike hire

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All breakfasts and two dinners are included.

Food in the Balkans is quite varied thanks to the many influences on the country, particularly from the Mediterranean, combining Turkish, Greek and Italian tastes. Dairy products, especially milk and yoghurt, are present in almost every meal, usually locally sourced. Due to the fertile valleys, fresh mountain springs and Mediterranean climate, the Balkans still have a subsistence culture and show very little signs of changing. In the countryside, expect your food to have been reared/grown not too far from your plate.

Breakfasts are typically eggs, fresh bread, jam, honey and coffee or tea. For lunch and dinner, meat dishes are often goat or lamb with fish dishes such as trout and whitebait. Courses often come in mezze form with a variety of vegetables, salad, freshly baked bread, homemade cheeses, local wines and, of course, raki. Your guide will recommend the best restaurant options in the towns.

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Group normally four to 16, plus local cycling leader and driver.

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Throughout this tour, we stay in a variety of accommodation in both cities and rural areas. We use hotels of a three-star standard. For two nights, we stay in more remote areas where we stay in locally run guesthouses and experience a warm welcome. Rooms here tend to be more basic. They will be a mixture of double and triple rooms with shared bathrooms.

Single accommodation is available on request.

Please note, single rooms are not available in the guesthouses due to a limited number of rooms.

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We use private minibuses for the airport transfers and transfers to and from the activities.

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Destinations

Tetovo - town in North MacedoniaTetovo
Berane - region in MontenegroBerane
Mavrovo - city in North MacedoniaMavrovo
District of Prizren
Shkodër - town in AlbaniaShkoder
Bar - city in MontenegroBar
Old Royal Capital Cetinje - region in MontenegroOld Royal Capital Cetinje
Aerial view of Samuel's Fortress and Plaosnik at Ohrid in North Macedonia.Ohrid
Tirana County - region in AlbaniaTirana
Mojkovac - city in MontenegroMojkovac
Dobrota - city in MontenegroDobrota
Plužine - region in MontenegroPlužine
Nikšić - city in MontenegroNikšić
Žabljak - region in MontenegroŽabljak
Kotor -  in MontenegroKotor
Kolašin - region in MontenegroKolašin

Map

Attractions

Photo of aerial drone view at the monastery of Saint Naum on Macedonia.Monastery of Saint Naum
Church of Saint John the Theologian, Ohrid, Municipality of Ohrid, Southwestern Region, North MacedoniaChurch of Saint John the Theologian
Lovcen National Park, Old Royal Capital Cetinje, MontenegroLovcen National Park

Daily Itinerary

Day1

Day 1
Day 1: Welcome to Tirana

  • Tirana - Arrival day
  • More

Kick off your adventure in the vibrant capital of Albania, Tirana. As the sun sets, gather at our hotel to meet your tour leader and fellow travelers. Enjoy a warm welcome dinner and get a taste of the exciting journey ahead. For those eager to explore more, consider extending your stay in this cultural hub.

Day2

Day 2
Day 2: Scenic Shores of Lake Ohrid

  • Ohrid
  • More
  • Monastery of Saint Naum
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Begin your day with a transfer to the ancient Lake Ohrid. Cycle along its picturesque shores towards Pogradec, stopping for a delightful lunch in Tushemisht. Cross into North Macedonia to visit the clifftop Monastery of St Naum, a serene spot with stunning views.

Day3

Day 3
Day 3: Discovering Ohrid and Struga

  • Church of Saint John the Theologian
  • More

Embark on a scenic ride to the historic town of Ohrid. Explore its cobblestone streets and the iconic Church of St John at Kaneo. Continue cycling along the tranquil lake, passing through charming villages, and arrive in Struga to unwind by the riverbanks.

Day4

Day 4
Day 4: Journey to Peshkopi

  • District of Prizren
  • More
  • Resort Mavrovo
  • Mavrovo Lake
  • More

Leave the serene shores of Lake Ohrid behind as you ascend to a high plateau surrounded by mountains. Cycle through the picturesque Debar region, stopping for a hearty lunch amidst a patchwork of farms. Conclude your day in the welcoming town of Peshkopi.

Day5

Day 5
Day 5: Ascend to Kukës

  • Tetovo
  • More
  • Arabati Baba Teḱe
  • More

Gear up for an exhilarating ride to Kukës, traversing the majestic Mount Korab. Experience the thrill of cycling through traditional Albanian villages and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes. Arrive in Kukës, nestled at the confluence of two rivers, and explore its charming atmosphere.

Day6

Day 6
Day 6: From Kukës to Gjakova

  • Mavrovo
  • More

Start your day with a smooth descent from Kukës, soaking in views of the Fierza Reservoir. Cycle along the turquoise waters, capturing stunning photos along the way. Arrive in Gjakova, where you can explore its historic bazaar and enjoy the town's unique charm.

Day7

Day 7
Day 7: Crossing into Montenegro

  • Berane
  • More

Transfer to the Kosovo-Montenegro border and begin your cycling journey through the mountainous landscapes of Montenegro. Ride down to Rožaje, surrounded by peaks, and continue to Berane, where you'll rest for the night.

Day8

Day 8
Day 8: Scenic Ride to Kolasin

  • Kolašin
  • Berane
  • More

Cycle from Berane to the quaint town of Andrijevica, then take a narrow road offering spectacular views of the Albanian Alps. Arrive in Kolasin, where you'll enjoy a short, easy ride to your hotel, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery.

Day9

Day 9
Day 9: Into the Heart of Durmitor

  • Mojkovac
  • Kolašin
  • Žabljak
  • More

Leave Kolasin behind and ascend into the rugged beauty of the Durmitor mountains. Cycle through a landscape of barren rock and wildflowers, reaching the town of Žabljak, the highest town in the Balkans, for an overnight stay.

Day10

Day 10
Day 10: Descent to Rudinice

  • Plužine
  • Žabljak
  • More
  • Tara Canyon
  • More

Begin your day with a challenging climb out of Žabljak, rewarded by a long descent to the peaceful village of Rudinice. Spend the evening at a cozy farmstay, surrounded by the tranquility of nature.

Day11

Day 11
Day 11: Journey to Cetinje

  • Kotor
  • Old Royal Capital Cetinje
  • More

Ride along the main road above the Komamica River, heading south toward Vir. After lunch, transfer to Cetinje, the former royal capital of Montenegro, and explore its rich history and cultural landmarks.

Day12

Day 12
Day 12: From Highlands to the Adriatic Coast

  • Nikšić
  • Old Royal Capital Cetinje
  • Kotor
  • Dobrota
  • More
  • Lovcen National Park
  • More

Ascend to Lovćen National Park, home to the mausoleum of Petar II Petrovic Njegos. Enjoy a scenic descent through hairpin bends with views of Kotor Bay. Cycle along the shoreline to reach Dobrota, a charming town on the outskirts of Kotor.

Day13

Day 13
Day 13: Explore Medieval Kotor

  • Mavrovo
  • Kotor
  • More

Enjoy a free day to wander through the medieval city of Kotor. Discover its historic squares, cathedral, and narrow streets, all encircled by ancient walls. Take in the stunning views of Mount Lovćen and immerse yourself in the city's rich history.

Day14

Day 14
Day 14: Return to Albania

  • Kotor
  • Bar
  • Shkoder
  • More

Drive to the coastal town of Bar, then cycle close to Lake Shkodra and cross the border back into Albania. Celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner in Shkodra, reflecting on the incredible experiences shared.

Day15

Day 15
Day 15: Departure Day

  • Shkoder - Departure day
  • More

Conclude your unforgettable adventure. Begin your journey home or consider extending your stay to explore more of this captivating region.

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From ancient cities to alpine peaks, we’re here for you 24/7 with local expertise and support, wherever your travels take you.
Secure your spot
Book instantly and lock in your place on one of Europe’s top-rated tours. Enjoy the best price and secure checkout so you can focus on the fun.
Get instant confirmation
Receive your e-ticket and booking summary immediately after checkout, with all meeting points and schedules included.
Easily make changes
Plans changed? No problem. Our team is just seconds away—ready to help with any adjustments quickly and smoothly.
Explore with confidence
From ancient cities to alpine peaks, we’re here for you 24/7 with local expertise and support, wherever your travels take you.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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