Albania Cycling Tour: An 8-Day Adventure from Pogradec to Saranda

Welcome to Albania! Upon landing, you'll meet your experienced local guide who will accompany you on this unique bike adventure. A comfortable transfer will take you to the tranquil shores of the UNESCO World Heritage site, Lake Ohrid. This stunning lake is known for its clear waters and rich biodiversity, setting the stage for your Albania cycling tour. Your first night will be spent in the picturesque city of Pogradec, a hotspot for cyclists and a popular starting point for cycling holidays in Albania. Nestled by Lake Ohrid, Pogradec boasts an amalgamation of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Overnight stay: Tushemisht, Pogradec - A quaint village right by the lake, known for its traditional architecture and serene ambiance. Here, you'll rest and prepare for the upcoming journey on some of the best cycling routes in Albania.

Start your day by cycling along the serene shores of Lake Ohrid, weaving your way past the scenic city of Pogradec. As one of the top locations for bicycle touring in Albania, this region offers captivating views at every turn.
The road ahead will begin to gently ascend, climaxing in the most exhilarating climb of the day. In just 20 minutes, you'll transition from 700 meters to 900 meters, testing your cycling prowess and treating you to breath-taking views of the countryside.
Our route will take you along a scenic pathway, nestled between two small lakes and passing through traditional Albanian villages, offering a glimpse into local life. These charming rural areas are integral parts of the best cycling in Albania, connecting you to the country's rich heritage.
Midday, you'll stop near the vibrant city of Korça for a delicious local lunch. Post-lunch, enjoy a unique experience at a small apiary where you can taste different flavors of local honey – a sweet end to the day's ride!
Overnight stay: Korça - Also known as 'Little Paris', Korça is renowned for its beautiful boulevards and cultural offerings. After a rewarding day on your Albania cycling tour, it's the perfect place to rest and recharge for the next leg of your journey.
Distance: 45 km/5 hours

Kick off your morning cycling towards the stunning Gërmenj National Park, another highlight of our bike tours in Albania. Departing around 8:30 AM, you'll face a challenging climb through the Qarri Pass, ascending from 1000 to 1300 meters. This route offers not only an exciting challenge for cyclists but also stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Enjoy a short respite at a local coffee shop en route, where you'll have the chance to taste local tea herbs, a treat unique to this region of Southern Albania.
Continue your Albania cycling adventure towards the city of Erseka, where you'll enjoy a well-deserved lunch. The remainder of the journey offers a more relaxed ride, with one final exciting climb as you approach your destination: Sotira Farm.
Nestled within Gërmenj National Park, Sotira Farm is surrounded by majestic oak trees and hosts a quaint fish farm. It's the ideal place to relax, take in the surrounding beauty, or embark on leisurely strolls through the countryside after your rewarding day of cycling in Albania.
Overnight stay: Gërmenj National Park - immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the park, where you'll spend the night amidst the tranquility of Albania's countryside.
Distance: 72 km/6 hours

Day four of your Albania cycling tour promises a more leisurely ride, as the route descends towards the charming city of Përmet, often referred to as the 'City of Roses'. With its mostly downward trajectory, this leg of the journey provides a nice break and an opportunity to soak in the scenic vistas of Southern Albania's countryside.
Enjoy a picturesque picnic lunch before unwinding in the therapeutic hot springs of Bënja. Known for their health benefits, particularly for skin, stomach, and bone-related issues, these natural hot springs provide a tranquil respite in your cycling adventure.
After this revitalizing experience, you'll cycle back to Përmet, one of the best places to visit on Albania bike tours. Përmet is renowned for its abundant flowers, aromatic cuisine, and warm hospitality, giving you a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Overnight stay: Përmet - Rest up amidst the city's blooming beauty and prepare for the next day's cycling in Albania.
Distance: 62 km/6 hours

Embark on day five of your bike tour in Albania by cycling along the striking Kelcyra Gorge and the meandering Vjosa River. The first 30 km of the journey is teeming with natural beauty, offering picture-perfect views that encapsulate the enchantment of Albania's landscapes.
Pause for a short coffee break at Tepelena springs, recharging for the second half of your cycling adventure towards Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You'll arrive just in time for lunch, allowing you to savor the local cuisine in this historic city, often referred to as the 'City of Stone'.
Post-lunch, check into your hotel and freshen up before setting out on an afternoon stroll through Gjirokastra. Guided by your knowledgeable local guide, you'll explore the stone-clad streets and timeless charm that makes Gjirokastra a must-visit on any Albania cycling tour.
Overnight stay: Gjirokastra - Rest amidst the city's historic ambiance and get ready for another day of your Albania bike adventure.
Distance: 60 km/6 hours

Day six of your cycling tour in Albania takes you from the historical stone city of Gjirokastra to the Mediterranean coastal town of Saranda. You'll cycle along the main road connecting these two picturesque locations, enjoying the diverse landscapes of Southern Albania.
About an hour into your ride, you'll begin a gradual ascent, which eventually ramps up as you cycle through the Muzina Pass. With elevations ranging from 300 to 600 meters, this stretch promises an invigorating challenge and stunning vistas.
Following this, take a refreshing break at the Blue Eye Springs, renowned for its striking azure waters and unique ecosystem. It's an iconic landmark on any Albania bike tour.
Arrive in Saranda just in time for a local lunch, savoring the culinary delights of this coastal city. Post-lunch, you'll drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Butrinti Archaeological Park, where you can delve into the rich historical tapestry of Albania.
Overnight stay: Saranda - Unwind in this beautiful seaside city, the perfect spot to relax after a day of cycling in Albania.
Distance: 54 km/5 hours

Today you will trade your bicycle for a vehicle as we take a leisurely drive along the stunning Albanian Riviera, heading towards the vibrant city of Tirana. While this will be a lengthy journey, we'll make it enjoyable with several stops and visits to interesting sites along the way, further enriching your Albania cycling experience.
Expect to arrive in Tirana by late afternoon. Once in the capital city, you'll have the opportunity to absorb its lively atmosphere and modern charm. It's a different pace from your cycling adventure but equally rewarding, showcasing another side of Albania.
Overnight stay: Tirana - Immerse yourself in the lively nightlife and cosmopolitan atmosphere of Albania's capital city.

Savor your last day in Tirana, enjoying some free time to explore the city further, shop for souvenirs or simply relax and reflect on your unforgettable Albania cycling tour. Whether you're immersing yourself in the city's culture or savoring the local cuisine, make the most of your final moments in this vibrant capital city.
When the time comes, we'll arrange a smooth transfer to the airport, bringing your Albania bike adventure to a close. As you head home, you'll carry with you not only your luggage but also a trove of cherished memories from your incredible journey cycling through Albania.