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9-Day Cycling Tour of Albania

Customisable Itinerary
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Trip Overview

Embark on a 9-day cycling journey through Albania's stunning landscapes. Begin in Pogradec by Lake Ohrid, where you'll meet your guide and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Cycle along Lake Ohrid's shores, ascend Plloca pass for breathtaking views, and explore the Korca plateau's charming villages. Arrive in Korca, known as 'little Paris' for its beauty and culture.

Experience Benja thermal baths, UNESCO-listed Butrint ruins, and Ionian Sea beaches. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and the flexibility to tailor your adventure.

Pack your cycling gear and immerse yourself in Albania's natural beauty and rich culture on this unforgettable journey.

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Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome dinner by the Ohrid Lake

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Welcome dinner by the Ohrid Lake

Upon arrival at Tirana Airport, meet our representative and drive to the southeastern town of Pogradec. Accommodate at a hotel by the scenic Ohrid Lake. Meet your guide and escort driver to discuss the itinerary and fit your bicycles. Enjoy dinner and overnight stay in Pogradec, with the serene lake as your backdrop.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Millennium4 star

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Private Driver from Tirana International Airport to Pogradec

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Pogradec District

Day 2

Pogradec to Korce

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Pogradec to Korce

Leave the hotel and cycle along the beautiful Ohrid Lake before climbing up the Plloca Pass. Depart from the national road and continue cycling through the picturesque Korca plateau, enjoying the stunning landscape views of the surrounding mountains. Arrive in Korca town by the afternoon, known as 'Little Paris' for its charming cobblestone streets, promenade, and beautiful villas with rose gardens. Enjoy the welcoming locals, delightful restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere.

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    Accommodation

    Seven7 Hotel

  • activities icon
    Activities

    Ohrid Lake

    Llogara Pass

    Korca

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Pogradec District

    Municipality of Ohrid

    Vlorë County

    Korçë County

    Korçë

Day 3

Korce to Germenj village

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 Korce to Germenj village

There are some ups and downs and a moderate riding level today. The route ends at the village of Germenj in the Kolonja area, passing past the isolated town of Erseka. During the cycle, there are breathtaking views of the tallest mountain in the south, Gramozi Mountain. The road is an old one that has been partially restored recently and has less traffic.

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    Accommodation

    Farma Sotira

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Bicycle from Korçë to Gërmenj

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    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Korçë

    Leskovik

Day 4

Germenj to Permet

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 Germenj to Permet

Begin cycling along a small, somewhat empty road. Due to its untamed beauty, breathtaking mountain vistas, isolated communities, tall mountains, and river valleys, this region of the nation has seen an increase in tourists recently. Complete the cycle with a well-earned break in Benja Thermal Water Natural Baths, followed by a traditional lunch at a neighboring restaurant. Spend the night in Gjirokaster after the transfer. Due to its strategic location at the intersection of important trade routes, Gjirokaster's prominence grew throughout the Ottoman era. The city was founded in the 12th century as a fortification of a local feudal family.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Kalemi 2 Hotel3 star

  • activities icon
    Activities

    Benja Thermal Baths

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Bicycle from Gërmenj to Përmet

    Minivan from Përmet to Gjirokaster

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    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Leskovik

    Gjirokastër County

    Gjirokaster

Day 5

Gjirokaster to Sarande

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Gjirokaster to Sarande

The itinerary begins with a transfer to Muzina Pass, where we cycle to Kasmil beach and Butrint Archaeological site. Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was once a Roman colony and bishopric center. The dense forest preserves the ruins until 1928, when Italian archaeologist Ugolini began excavations. The site contains many legends, particularly those of the lost city of Troy.

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    Accommodation

    Hotel Brilant4 star

  • activities icon
    Activities

    Butrint Archaeological Park

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Private Driver from Kalemi 2 Hotel to Qafa e Muzines

    Bicycle from Qafa e Muzines to Plazhi Ksamilit

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Gjirokaster

    Vlorë County

    Sarandë

Day 6

Sarande to Himara

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Sarande to Himara

Today's path is one of the most beautiful in Albania. The cycling route will pass through the lovely settlements of the Albanian Riviera. The riding level is moderate, with some uphill and downhill sections. The Ionian Sea on the left and a high mountain on the right provide constant scenery. The tour concludes at Himara. Himara is a tiny coastal village on the Albanian Riviera. The town's horizon features views of the Ceraunian Mountains and the Ionian Sea.

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    Accommodation

    Sea View Hotel4 star

  • activities icon
    Activities

    Albanian Riviera

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Sarandë

    Himarë

Day 7

Himara to Dhemi

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 Himara to Dhemi

Today is the final cycle of the journey. The route begins with a challenging 1.8km ascent to Visha Pass, with a sharp 20% grade. The journey concludes in another picturesque Riviera hamlet. Dhermi is a lovely town on the Ceraunian mountainside. Dhermi and Drimadhe beaches in the settlement are notable for their clean water and rugged terrain.

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    Accommodation

    Hotel Sofo Dhermi3 star

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Bicycle from Himarë to Dhërmi

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    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Sarandë

    Dhërmi

Day 8

Dhermi to Tirana

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Dhermi to Tirana

An enjoyable and well-earned day spent at the beach prior to traveling to Tirana. Lunch on seafood by the beach is available in Dhermi. In Tirana for the night.

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    Accommodation

    Oxford Hotel

  • activities icon
    Activities

    Free time in Dhermi

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Private Driver from Dhërmi to Tirana

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    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Dhërmi

    Tirana

Day 9

Farewell and Departure!

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Farewell and Departure!

Transfer to Tirana Airport for your transfer back home.

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Private Driver from Oxford Hotel to Tirana International Airport

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Tirana

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What’s included?

  • 8 nights accommodation
  • 7 activities
  • 8 breakfasts
  • Airport transfer
  • Entrance fees
  • Ground transportation
  • Licensed English speaking guides

What’s not included?

  • Alcohol beverages
  • Domestic flights
  • Entry visas / airport departure tax
  • Gratuities
  • International flights
  • Laundry
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Trekking permits