Day 1. Tirana Airport - Pogradec
After landing in Albania, the group will meet the local guide and be transferred to the shores of ancient Lake Ohrid, where they will stay in the beautiful city of Pogradec Overnight: Tushemisht, Pogradec
Day 2. Pogradec – Korça
We e will start our day cycling along the shores of Lake Ohrid, passing the city of Pogradec on the way. Our road will start to gently climb, culminating in the most demanding climb of the day where in 20 minutes we will go from 700 meters to 900 meters. We will end up on a scenic road which will take us along two small lakes and through some traditional villages. Lunch will be near the city of Korca. After lunch we will visit a small apiary (bee farm) where we can taste different flavors of local honey.
Overnight: Korça
Day 3. Korça – Ferma Sotira
We start cycling toward Gërmenj National Park at around 8:30 in the morning. On the way we will be presented with a challenging climb from 1000 to 1300 meters through the Qarri pass. We will take a break at a local coffee shop to taste the local tea herbs. After this short break we resume cycling to the city of Erseka where we will have lunch. The rest of the journey will be fairly easy except for one last challenging climb as we approach our destination, Sotira farm. The farm itself is located inside Gërmenj National Park surrounded by large, picturesque oak trees and a small fish farm. The evening will be spent resting or taking walks through the breathtaking countryside.
Overnight: Gërmenj National Park
Day 4. Sotira Farm – Përmet
This day’s cycling will be fairly easy as it is mostly downwards towards the city of Përmet.We will have a picnic lunch before relaxing in the hot springs of Bënja. The hot springs are especially beneficial for those with skin, stomach or bone-related health issues.. After this wonderful experience we will cycle back to Përmet, an Albanian city known for its abundant flowers and delicious food.
Overnight: Përmet
Day 5. Përmet – Gjirokastra
The first 30 km of this journey will take us cycling along the Kelcyra Gorge and Vjosa River. After a short coffee break at Tepelena springs we will resume cycling all the way to Gjirokastra, making it there just in time for lunch.
After lunch we will check in at the hotel and take a guided, afternoon walk through Gjirokastra.
Overnight: Gjirokastra
Day 6. Gjirokastra – Saranda
We will cycle along the scenic main road that connects Gjirokastra to Saranda. After about 1 hour of cycling we begin a gentle climb, which becomes more challenging by the end as we cycle through Muzina pass. The elevation along this area varies from 300 to 600 m. Next we take a break at the Blue Eye Springs well known for its unique ecosystem. Lunch will be in Saranda. After lunch we will drive to the UNESCO Butrinti Archaeological Park.
Overnight: Saranda
Day 7. Saranda – Tirana
We will spend the day driving along the Riviera towards Tirana. It will be a lengthy drive, but we will break it up into several stops and visits. Expect to arrive in Tirana by late afternoon.
Overnight: Tirana
Day 8. Tirana – Airport
Enjoy free time in Tirana until we transfer to the airport, at which point our tour will end.
