From Lake Ohrid to the Ionian Sea, discover the heart of Albania by bike.
A full-saddle journey through scenic valleys, UNESCO towns, and untouched coastlines, ideal for travelers who crave active days and authentic experiences.

Why You’ll Love This Trip

This cycling tour offers an unforgettable way to experience Albania from the saddle. Each day brings a fresh perspective: ride through quiet mountain villages, lush green valleys, scenic river gorges, and along the sparkling Ionian coast. You’ll discover the country’s remarkable diversity, from ancient UNESCO towns like Gjirokastër and Butrint to remote farming communities where time seems to stand still. The journey combines active adventure with cultural depth — staying in charming guesthouses, enjoying warm hospitality, and tasting traditional home-cooked Albanian meals made with fresh, local ingredients. With a professional guide by your side and a support vehicle always nearby, you’re free to ride at your own pace, take in the beauty around you, and enjoy every moment. Whether you’re climbing mountain passes or relaxing by the sea after a satisfying day on two wheels, this tour blends nature, history, and authentic connection into one truly energizing experience.

Cycling Information

• Cycling days: 7
• Total distance: 367 km (approx. 228 miles)
• Average daily distance: 60 km (37 miles)
• Terrain: 100% paved, undulating, some climbs
• Support vehicle: Yes, with limited seats
• Busy roads: Occasionally, to access quieter areas
• Grading: Moderate to challenging
• Activity Level: 5 (Challenging)

Daily Cycling Distances

Bike & Equipment Info

• Included bike: 24-gear Specialized CrossTrail hybrid
• Features: Front suspension, water bottle holder, correct frame size for your height
• Extras: You may bring your own pedals or saddle
• Provided: Spare parts & day-to-day maintenance
• Bring: Your own helmet (compulsory for insurance), gloves, cycle glasses, cycle shorts, and gel seat cover (optional)
• No pannier provided – bring a small rucksack to wear while riding

Trip Information:

Accommodation

• We’ve selected a mix of simple and comfortable guesthouses, cabins, and hotels to give you a taste of authentic Albanian hospitality.
• Some hotels do not have lifts or porters
• You may need to carry your own luggage upstairs
• On Day 3, we stay at Sotira Farm Guesthouse in Germenj-Shelegur National Park. Two-bedroom cabins share a bathroom, and meals are taken in the cozy farmhouse with a fireplace and organic food.
• Single rooms not available every night.

Packing & Luggage

• Main luggage allowance: 20 kg / 44 lbs
• Recommended: 1 suitcase/backpack + 1 small daypack
• You must be able to carry your luggage upstairs
• Pack light and practical!

Pack:

• Light layers + sun protection
• A warm jacket or fleece (cooler evenings)
• Raincoat (for surprise showers)
• Respectful attire for villages (e.g., long trousers)
• Stiff-soled shoes or cycling shoes (SPD shoes not recommended for walking segments)
• Swimwear, torch, insect repellent, and earplugs

Start & End

• Start location: Tirana
• End location: Vlore

Transfers:

• Tirana Airport (TIA) → Start hotel: ~3 hrs drive
• Group transfer available (included for some flights)
• Private taxi: €120
• Group departure transfer available if using selected flight (check t
  (Check with your sales representative for times)

Climate & Weather

• Summer: Hot and dry, up to 40°C in July
• Spring/Fall: Cooler, chance of rain
• Mountains: Always cooler; weather can change quickly
• Sunshine: 9–11 hours/day in summer
• Best months: Late Spring, early autumn

Money, Currency & Budget

• Local currency: Albanian Lek (ALL) – a closed currency
• Bring cash (Euros or USD) to exchange in Albania
• Euros accepted in many places, but Lek is preferred
• ATMs: Found in larger towns
• Cards: Not widely accepted, especially in rural areas

Tips (Optional but appreciated)

• Tour leader: €15–€20 per week
• Local crew & driver: ~€10–€20 total
• Tips may be organized into a group kitty

Passport, Visa & Insurance

• Passport: Must be valid for 6 months beyond return date
• Visa: Not required for citizens of UK, EU, US, Canada, Australia, NZ
• Insurance: Mandatory. Must cover:
• Medical expenses
• Emergency evacuation
• Activities like cycling
• Entire duration of the tour

Vaccinations & Health

• No mandatory vaccines.
• Recommended: Hepatitis A, B, tetanus, rabies, tick-borne encephalitis (if hiking in forests)
• Yellow fever certificate: Only if arriving from affected countries
• Carry sunscreen, insect repellent, and any personal medication
• Helmets must be worn for safety and insurance reasons

Food & Drink

• Included: All breakfasts, 2 dinners
• Expect local and fresh food:
• Grilled lamb/goat, trout, whitebait
• Homemade cheese, meze platters, fresh vegetables
• Olive oil, fresh bread, and homemade raki
• Most food is locally grown or raised, especially in rural areas.

Typical costs

• Lunch: ~£4 / 500 LEK
• Dinner: ~£10 / 1,200 LEK
• Beer: ~£1.50 / 180 LEK
• Water: ~£0.50 / 60 LEK

Tour Leadership & Safety

• You’ll be led by an expert local guide, fluent in English and Albanian
• They’ll keep the group safe and share local insights
• Your safety is a priority; travelers must be fit and able to participate in all activities
• If the leader believes a participant may compromise the safety or enjoyment of the group, they have the right to ask them to sit out an activity. No refunds will be issued in this case.

Good to Know

• Minimum age: 16+
• Cycling helmets are mandatory
• Travel insurance covering cycling and medical evacuation is required
• Not suitable for travelers with reduced mobility
• You must be able to swim to join optional water activities
• The tour is led by a local expert guide fluent in English and Albanian

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What’s Included:

• 
  Meals: 7 breakfasts, 3 delicious dinners featuring traditional Albanian cuisine.
• 
  Transport: Private minibus transfers throughout the tour. Luggage transport between locations (you cycle light!). Full vehicle support during cycling days — hop in anytime you need a break.
• 
  Accommodation: 7 nights in a mix of cozy cabins and comfortable hotels. Carefully selected local stays to reflect Albanian character and hospitality. Night 3 in a mountain cabin-style guesthouse surrounded by pristine nature.
• 
  Expert tour and local guide: A professional English-speaking local tour leader throughout. Experienced cycling guides to ensure safe, smooth, and scenic rides. Regional storytellers in key destinations (e.g., Berat & Gjirokastër). Tips and insights about local culture, nature, and history.

Additional Costs

While the tour includes comfortable accommodation, high-quality bikes, transportation, and guided experiences, please note that the following are Not Included:

• 
  Flight tickets to and from Albania.
• 
  Entrance fees for museums, castles, and other historical sites.
• 
  Personal expenses such as souvenirs, drinks, and additional meals.
• 
  Travel insurance – mandatory for all travelers and must include cycling and emergency medical coverage

• Bike helmet – you must bring your own for safety and insurance reasons
• E-bike upgrade – available upon request for an additional supplement (subject to availability)