Europe's southeastern region allows you to encounter nature's charms in diverse ways beyond your imagination. Traverse on two wheels, witnessing richly varied areas, incredible landscapes, striking mountain ranges, and idyllic coastlines. Experience vibrant cultures, picturesque villages, fascinating historical sites, and inviting locals as you explore some of the best places in the Balkans by bike.
Capital City of Tirana, Albania
The largest city in Albania, Tirana, houses about 1,000,000 inhabitants and is the heart of the country's political, economic, and cultural life. Our unique 15-day “Cycle the Balkans” adventure kicks off in the vibrant capital of Tirana. This city is a beauty to behold, characterised by mountains, hills, and unique mixed and multi-hued architecture. It constantly evolves, providing a satisfying mix of fun cafe culture, historical sites, and museums.
Tirana is a bicycle-adapted city, bejewelled with bicycle lanes and paths in every area. Embark on scenic rides that help you capture the city's allure and culture. Cycle along the Lana River, explore popular attractions such as the National Historical Museum and the Palace of Culture, and witness the people go about their daily lives as you pedal along lively streets.
This lovely city is close to the Mediterranean and is influenced by its seasonal climate. It is one of the wettest and sunniest cities in Europe. Still, it is best explored during spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) because of the comfortable weather, making your biking adventure more enjoyable.
Istria, Croatia
Istria is a heart-shaped peninsula situated mainly in Croatia, with bits in Italy and Slovenia. It is characterised by mediaeval fortified towns and architectural gems that whisper of its past, lush valleys adorned with vineyards, a gorgeous coastline, stunning islands, and magnificent wines and dishes. This lovely town is a testament to a historically influenced mix of civilizations and ethnicities, birthing a culturally and ethnically rich region.
Istria is a cyclist's paradise with more than 500 km of bike trails and scenic views. Follow rolling paths along the stunning turquoise Adriatic coastline before delving into lush terrains featuring tiny historic towns and villages. Traverse mountainous regions, well-defined bike paths, countryside roads, and cobblestone streets as you feel the warm breeze on your skin. Make stops to soak in spectacular views, converse with locals, and taste amazing dishes and decadent Istrian wines.
Istria's charms are quite seductive, and biking can be done all year round, but the spring and fall seasons are the best times to ride.
photo credit: Andy Arbeit
Durmitor National Park, Montenegro
The Durmitor National Park, occupying northwestern Montenegro within the Dinaric Alps, is the largest protected area, covering 79,000 acres (32,100 ha) in Montenegro and comprises glaciers, rivers, and underground streams. Founded in 1952 and selected as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1980, this area offers unique chances to explore nature in a way you haven't before. This park is famed for its unrivalled landscape allure, spectacular geology, and magnificent biological diversity.
The Durmitor National Park is decorated with an impressive path range that caters to different cyclists' needs. These paths include well-preserved trails along tranquil lakes, lush forests, and jagged mountain paths that reward you with views of glacial valleys and the breathtaking Tara Canyon (one of Europe's deepest gorges) as you ascend to higher altitudes. Catch sight of gorgeous, unique wildlife such as the European Wild Cat and Golden Eagle. During your exciting adventure, you can take a break to visit lovely traditional villages and get a taste of Montenegrin culture and cuisine.
Crete Island, Greece
Crete, home to over 600,000 people, is the largest Greek island and the fifth largest in the Mediterranean Sea. About half of the island's total area is made up of mountains, as they are typically above 500 m of altitude. It is decorated with remnants of brilliant civilizations, deep-seated canyons, gorgeous mountainscapes, fertile valleys, and ancient villages that come together to offer a terrific biking experience.
Explore stunning beaches, untamed natural allure, ancient treasures, picturesque villages, lively cities, and the region's rich gastronomic culture. Cycle along diverse terrains, including flat coastal paths and daunting mountain routes, catching views of spectacular landscapes and navigating ancient villages and historic sites.
Crete is known to have one of the healthiest climates in Europe, with mild and tolerable weather even in the winter and summer seasons.
Berat, Albania
Berat is one of the most gorgeous towns in Albania and the Balkan Peninsula. Making the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2008, this town looks like one big museum with its well-kept Ottoman architecture that cascades down either side of its tranquil river valley and majestic hilltop castle. It is a fortified city adorned with churches and mosques magnificently painted with murals and frescoes and is enclosed in mountains and hills.
Cycling is one of the best ways to explore this breathtaking city, as you can make your way through cobblestone streets, narrow alleys, and secluded courtyards, taking in the unique architecture. Traverse the famed Mangalem and Gorica quarters, beholding the gorgeous designs of their well-preserved buildings. Visit and explore the iconic Berat castle, and perhaps experience the Osum River canyon's rugged allure.
Have the best time witnessing the beauty of southeastern Europe and savouring exciting adventures on two wheels as you tour some of the best places in the Balkans.
