8 days 7 nights
Daily Tour
10 people
English, Francais, German
Tour Highlights: Nature and Traditions Cycling Adventure
Arrival at Tirana's 'Mother Teresa' airport. Transfer and assistance to the 3* hotel. Dinner at a downtown restaurant.
Airport - TIRANA: 30 min
(Tirana - Qafe Thane, 1:30 min transfer) 40 km/ Elevation gain: 650 m + 900 - (accumulative)
We start the day with a 1h30 transfer to Qafe Thana from where we will begin our bike journey. You will ride at an altitude of 1000 m with a breathtaking view of the majestic Lake Ohrid. You can visit the Saint Naum Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its beautiful frescoes and stunning lake views. The monastery was founded by Saint Naum, and the central church was built in the 9th century. Today, in the monastery's courtyard, you can see magnificent white and blue peacocks, adding to the exceptionally peaceful atmosphere of the place. The white peacocks are also known as birds of heaven and are considered a symbol of Christianity.
Overnight in Tushemisht
After breakfast, we will continue our bike journey towards the city of Korca. Famous throughout the country for its historical ties to France and the French language, and even nicknamed "little Paris," Korçë hosted a French high school from 1917 to 1939 where the former dictator Enver Hoxha studied and then taught. You will discover a charming city with typical districts and beautiful flowered houses. You might even fall in love with the city while listening to its love serenades.
Overnight in Korca.
After breakfast, we will head towards the village of Rehova. The route passes near Gramozi Mountain, also the highest peak in southern Albania. Rehova is a village in southeastern Albania with a rich history and culture. All houses are built of stone and stand side by side. It is an attraction that passionately preserves the traces of Rehova's centuries-old tradition. This village is also known for its tradition of hospitality and rich traditional cuisine.
Overnight with locals.
Today, we will head for Farma Sotira. During this day, we will bike through the Germenj Natural Park, characterized by mountains and mainly pine forests. We will stop for lunch at Farma Sotira. In the afternoon, we will reach Leskovik. It’s one of the best bike routes, crossing forests, close to small lakes in the wild. Leskovik is well-known for wine and Raki production, and you will have the opportunity to visit a local farm that produces excellent wine from the indigenous mavrud grape variety.
Overnight in Leskovik
Today, we will head towards the small town of Permet. The landscape of this day is simply amazing. High mountains blend with river valleys creating a real postcard scene. The Vjosa River valley is one of the most wonderful in Albania. This river has been designated the "blue heart of Europe" due to the total absence of human pollution along its 274 kilometers. We will have the opportunity to stop at the Benja thermal waters and explore the incredible Langarica canyon. Then, we will continue our journey towards Permet.
Overnight in Permet.
Departure for Tirana. The Vjosa River will show us its beautiful assets today. We will head towards the ancient city of Apollonia. This archaeological site is one of the most important in Albania and the most important of all other Apollonias in the Mediterranean. Then we will head towards Tirana for our last visits. We will enjoy a last drink in the lively Bllok district.
Overnight in Tirana.
Transfer to 'Mother Teresa' airport. End of the trip.
The Nature and Traditions Cycling Tour is designed to accommodate a moderate level of physical fitness. Participants should be comfortable with daily bike rides ranging from 40 to 55 kilometers, with varying elevations. The tour includes electric-assist bikes to help manage the more challenging sections and ensure an enjoyable experience for all. However, it's recommended that participants have a basic level of cycling proficiency and stamina to fully enjoy the tour.
The tour package includes all breakfasts from day 2 to day 8 and a special dinner experience with locals in Rehova to immerse you in Albanian hospitality and cuisine. Other meals, such as lunches and dinners, are not included, giving you the flexibility to explore local culinary offerings at your own pace. This setup allows you to discover a variety of traditional and contemporary Albanian dishes throughout your journey.
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