Cycling the UNESCO Sites in Albania (Guided)
Cycling the UNESCO Sites in Albania (Guided)
10 Days Starting in Tirana, Albania and ending in Radhimë
Visiting: Tirana, Pogradec, Korçë, Sotire, Bënjë, Gjirokaster, Sarandë, Himarë, Radhimë
Tour operator:
Tour code:
877
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 12
Age range:
18-80
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
A ten day Balkan adventure, cycling the UNESCO sites in Albania (guided), starting in Tirana, and finishing in Radhimë, on the Ionian Sea. Cycle through an array of magnificent Albanian landscapes, with views to the snowy peaks of the Gramos Mountains one day, and the magnificent Nemërcka Mountains the next. World Heritage Sites along the way include the remote town of Gjirokastër, with its Ottoman stone architecture, fortress and superb views, and the impressive Greek and Roman ruins in Butrint National Park. All within a beach pebble’s throw of Corfu. Traditional and e-bikes are available for rental on this tour.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival Tirana
Location: Tirana
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Sky 2 Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Dinner
Depending on arrival time, spend some time exploring the city centre, with its two distinct architectural styles dictated by the political regimes that governed the country from the Second World War until the 1990s. After checking in at the hotel, meet your guide in the hotel lobby for a welcome meeting followed by a meal in a traditional Albanian restaurant.
Day 2 : Tirana - Pogradec | 40Km
Location: Tirana, Pogradec
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Millennium or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The morning begins with a transfer to the bottom of Qafë Thanë Pass (2h), close to the northern shore of Lake Ohrid. The route begins by following a trail along the shores of Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes (286m). From here, the route heads into Podradec, located on the western shore of the lake, to stop for lunch in one of the lakeside hotels. This afternoon’s route crosses the border into Macedonia to visit the monastery of Saint Naum before heading back to Podradec for a quick dip in the lake before dinner.
Cycling for the day: 40km,↑174m
Day 3 : Pogradec - Korçë | 51Km
Location: Pogradec, Korçë
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: BOCCA Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Leaving the lake behind, today’s route begins with an ascent, offering views over the lake and its surrounding villages. Cycle along quiet roads through agricultural and viticultural landscapes dotted with rural villages. The day comes to a close in the 13th-century town of Korçë, surrounded by mountains. Spend the rest of the afternoon visiting the many sights of the city including one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the country and the town bazaar. Dinner tonight is at a family restaurant that offers the chance to sample rakia, a cinnamon-flavoured digestif and one of the town’s specialties.
Cycling for the day: 51km, ↑412m
Day 4 : Korçë - Sotirë | 72Km
Location: Korçë, Sotire
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Farma Sotira or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today begins with a transfer to Korçë to begin a route through a remote rural area dotted with small villages. Cycle through varied scenery, from agricultural areas to trails with views of the snow-capped peaks of the Gramos Mountains, on the border between Albania and Greece. Pause for lunch in Ersekë, before continuing towards Barmash Pass (1,160m) for a welcome descent to a trout farm and this evening’s accommodation. Tonight’s dinner includes the farm’s fresh fish, served alongside other delicious products produced on the farm, with an opportunity to sample local wines.
Cycling for the day: 72km, ↑1,170m
Day 5 : Sotire - Bënjë | 66Km
Location: Sotire, Bënjë
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hani i Colit or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Leaving Sotirë, cycle across forested plains surrounded by mountain peaks, to reach Leskovik. From here, the route descends toward the Greek border before following a path along the Vjosa River. From the guesthouse, there is an optional circular route to the famous Llixhat e Bënjës, natural thermal springs located underneath the 17th-century Kadiut Bridge. There are two main pools at the base of the bridge with four smaller pools further up Lengarica Canyon.
Cycling for the day: 66km, ↑661m
Day 6 : Bënjë - Gjirokastër | 70Km
Location: Bënjë, Gjirokaster
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Cajupi or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
As the route leaves Bënjë, the peaks of the Nemërçka Mountains begin to come into view. Continue along the Vjosa River toward Këlcyrë Gorge. At the confluence of the River sVjosa and Drino, the route changes direction to head through Drino Valley, passing Mount Lunxhëri to reach Gjirokastër. The historic centre of Gjirokastër is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, due to its series of two-story houses which were developed in the 17th century. The town also has a bazaar, an 18th-century mosque and two churches of the same period.
Cycling for the day: 70km, ↑427m
Day 7 : Gjirokastër - Sarandë | 70Km
Location: Gjirokaster, Sarandë
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Nertili or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Begin the day with a 30mins transfer to the top of the Muzina Pass (550m), before setting off on a downhill section towards the outskirts of Sarandë, the first coastal city of the tour. On the way, there is an optional circular detour to Butrint National Park, at the southernmost tip of the country, before hopping on a wooden ferry to cross the Vivari Channel which connects the Ionian Sea with Lake Butrint. The final stretch heads north along the coast toward Sarandë, offering views across to Corfu, only a couple of kilometres away at its closest point.
Cycling for the day: 70km, ↑525m
Day 8 : Saranda - Himarë | 52Km
Location: Sarandë, Himarë
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Prinos or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today’s cycle follows a route along the Albanian coast, taking you past beaches and traditional waterfront villages. With the mountains to one side and the Ionian Sea to the other, offering vistas across the water to Corfu, this section is one of the favourites days for many people. Stop for lunch at one of the coastal restaurants overlooking the Venetian Castle before continuing north towards the former fishing village of Himarë, now a beach resort and your place to stay overnight.
Cycling for the day: 52km, ↑1064m
Day 9 : Himarë - Radhimë | 64Km
Location: Himarë, Radhimë
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Coral or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The day begins with a steep climb towards Himarë Castle, a medieval fortress containing relics over 3,500 years old. From here, descend towards Llogara Pass, taking in the panoramic views of Livadh Beach far below. After a quick coffee break, begin the steep ascent along Llogara Pass which, although long, offers great views of the surrounding area. Once at the top, revel in the knowledge that the remainder of the route is either downhill or flat. The first part of the descent heads through Llogara National Park, pausing for lunch at a family-run restaurant, before entering the coastal village of Radhimë, overlooking the Karaburun Peninsula.
Cycling for the day: 64km, ↑1590m
Day 10 : Departure
Location: Radhimë, Tirana International Airport
Meals Included: Breakfast
Departure after breakfast and transfer to Tirana airport.
What's Included
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Accommodation
9 nights accommodation
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Meals
Full board including breakfast, lunch and dinner
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Hybrid bike rental with panniers
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Support vehicle with driver/guide
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Multilingual cycling guide
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Transfer to Tirana International Airport
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24/7 phone assistance by our local office/representative
What's Not Included
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Drinks and Snacks
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Travel insurance
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Entrance to attractions
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Additional transfers
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Entry fees and tourist tax (payable locally)
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Any other services not listed as included
Check out our Q&As
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Is there a supplement for solo travellers?
If you’re travelling in a group, a supplement applies to group members who would like to have a room of their own This holiday is available for solo travellers; a supplement will be charged as accommodation and luggage transfer costs are not shared (we never mix and match – solo travellers will be accommodated in single rooms)
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
All guides are English Speaking
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Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?
Yes we can, please contact us for details
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Are flights included in this tour?
No, international flights are not included
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Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?
This will be provided on all documentation
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Difficulty and terrain
This tour is rated moderate, with an average of 70km of cycling per day. Most routes follow quiet side roads.
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When to go
This trip is available from the beginning of April until the end of October on select departure dates.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Natural Adventure was founded by people who love hiking and cycling in wild and wonderful places. Places that we want to keep that way. Responsible tourism has, therefore, been at the heart of what we do since the get go.
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Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
In April 2020 as a response to the COVID-19 crisis, we launched the Support Local Communities Initiative. We have enabled an option when booking a tour for customers to make a donation to support our local partners. 100% of the donations go directly to our local suppliers.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Whether you’re travelling on your own, as a couple, a group of friends, or a family, our self-guided holidays allow you the freedom to choose your own holiday companions.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Our self guided walking and cycling holidays typically include: Accommodation, Breakfasts, Luggage transfers, Detailed holiday information pack including GPS-checked and regularly updated route descriptions, road notes and maps, 24/7 phone assistance by our local representative and/or our central office
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
We are part of the 'Safe Travels' initiative.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Yes, as long as you can reach the next location.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Accommodations in double or twin rooms (solo travellers are usually accommodated in single rooms at an extra cost; we never mix and match)
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
If possible, and entirely at the discretion of the Tour Operator, a change of the dates may be possible without charging an amendment fee, provided that it is requested at least 30 days before the departure date. In some cases, we will still have to pass to you any non-refundable charges imposed by our suppliers. In all other cases, change of dates will normally be treated as a cancellation.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
All places have been carefully checked by us and their quality is regularly monitored. We have selected accommodations that offer friendly service, clean and comfortable rooms and local flavour.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
The Natural Adventure was founded in the UK in 2009, by Peter Duncan, former UK Chief Scout and BBC Blue Peter presenter, and Alex Pazderski, an avid hiker and acclaimed expedition kayaker. Both natural adventurers and keen explorers of wild places and trails, remote communities and responsible tourism partners, Peter and Alex founded our company inspired by the responsible travel values t
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1 Dates & Availability
Monday - Wednesday
Jul 01, 2024 - Jul 10, 2024Thursday - Saturday
Aug 22, 2024 - Aug 31, 2024Friday - Sunday
Sep 27, 2024 - Oct 06, 2024Sunday - Tuesday
Sep 29, 2024 - Oct 08, 2024Sunday - Tuesday
Oct 06, 2024 - Oct 15, 2024Tuesday - Thursday
Oct 08, 2024 - Oct 17, 2024Tuesday - Thursday
Oct 15, 2024 - Oct 24, 2024Thursday - Saturday
Oct 17, 2024 - Oct 26, 2024Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
The Natural Adventure requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 42 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of the natural adventure charges.
Up to 42 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.