Cycle The Balkans from Albania to Montenegro (Lake Ohrid, Durmitor Mountains to The Bay of Kotor) 15D14N, Fully Guided

Making your own way from the airport, your adventure begins at your hotel in Tirana, the ever-bustling capital city of Albania enclosed by huge mountains and hills overlooking the Adriatic Sea at a distance.

You’ll stay at Hotel Austria. Unwind in your en suite room or indulge in a refreshing drink from the bar. For those in pursue of adventure, just steps away from the hotel is the Main Square. Meander its quaint alleyways filled with an array of cafes, boutique stores and historic landmarks. Explore the Opera House National Theatre and Historical Museum that are nearby for a cultural and historical introduction to spectacular Albania.

Come evening, your guide will hold a welcome meeting to discuss the week ahead, give advice on the local area and answer any questions, before savouring a delightful welcome dinner together.

Level 4, Approx. 60 km (37 miles), 4-6 hours biking, Elevation gain: 150 m (492 ft), Elevation loss: 350 m (1148 ft)

We begin this morning with a transfer to Lake Ohrid's northern shore. On arrival, all bikes will be unloaded and adjusted for proper maintenance to ensure everyone bikes in comfort. As we head toward Pogradec, en route, we cycle along the picturesque shore of Lake Ohrid. Exploring onward, we pause to enjoy a hearty lunch served at a wide beachfront restaurant in Tushemisht, just 4 km east of Pogradec. Our afternoon cycling will be completed by a visit to the St. Naum Monastery and an enjoyable crossing into Macedonia.

Traversing across the scenic routes, we bike Galicica National Park to arrive at Ohrid Town. The iconic town harbours Lake Orchid, one of the world's oldest lakes. The Pliocene epoch saw geographical shifts that led to the formation of the quaint Lake Ohrid. The lake is one of the largest biological reserves in Europe and is home to distinctive flora and fauna. With 212 known endemic species and a surface area of 358 km², it is likely one of the most diverse lakes in the world.

Later, we head to our stylish accommodation for the night, Hotel Villa Royal View. A 4-star hotel located on the shores of Lake Ohrid. Settle in your elegant rooms with balconies exposing you to immaculate views of the lake. Afterwards, you can opt to go to the dazzling spa area that features a jacuzzi, a sauna and a steam bath. Treat yourself to a deserving spa session or a dip in the jacuzzi. Order a delicious meal from the Royal’s restaurant and delight in its flavours in the ambiance of the outdoor terrace.

Level 4, Approx. 67 km (42 miles), 4-6 hours biking, Elevation gain: 500 m (1640 ft), Elevation loss: 550 m (1804 ft)

After setting out from the grand Lake Orchid. Our next destination brings us to ascend a high plateau cradled among huge mountains. Following the narrow gorge, we travel beyond the hills to eventually reach the huge plain of individual farms in the infamous Debar region. On getting to Debar, our trip this evening comes to an end. We overnight at Debar to unwind and rejuvenate after today's challenging ride.

Our hotel for tonight is the charming Hotel Coral, a peaceful hotel situated in a quaint area at the entrance of Debar. Room decor perfectly reflects the serene atmosphere. Settle in and perhaps make your way to the fine restaurant with a terrace offering views towards Lake Debar.

Level 4, Approx. 61 km (38 miles), 4-6 hours biking, Elevation gain: 1000 m (3281 ft), Elevation loss: 300 m (984 ft)

After a hearty breakfast, we join an exciting trip to Lake Mavrovo. The Mavrovo National Park, which covers an area of roughly 780 square kilometres (300 square miles), has steep valleys, snow-capped hills, azure lakes, and dense woods that serve as a habitat for a variety of wildlife. In the afternoon, at the base of the Bistra mountains, we arrive at our accommodation after enjoying cycling through this unique National Park.

You’ll stay at the mountain resort, Hotel Radika in Western Macedonia, in Mavrovo National Park, surrounded by a pristine forest overlooking the Mavrovo Lake. Settle in your ensuite room before soothing your muscles at the spa complete with a sauna, hot tubs and a steam bath; a perfect end to your day

Level 4, Approx. 72 km (45 miles), 4-6 hours biking, Elevation gain: 1300 m (4265 ft), Elevation loss: 1050 m (3445 ft)

Cycling the plain routes, we head towards the Kosovo border crossing after leaving Mavrovo National Park. We bike graciously through Brezovica, a peaceful region that is an ideal winter ski destination popular among skiers. The Sharri National Park established in 2013 is next on our itinerary. The park has vast tracts of untamed ecosystems that are home to several endangered species in Europe. It's a crucial natural area that needs to be protected since it is still mostly unexplored.

You’ll stay at a charming and soulful mountain retreat at Hotel Pine, located in the heart of Brezovica. Unwind in your cosy ensuite room, relax by the outdoor terrace setting for an ideal fusion of peace and serenity boasting mountain views.

Level 4, Approx. 40 km (25 miles), 4-6 hours biking, Elevation gain: 650 m (2133 ft), Elevation loss: 1100 m (3609 ft)

After an exciting experience at the ski resort of Brezovica, we bike through the Kodra e Diellit forest to Prevalle before making a long descent to Prizren, the ancient city that serves as the cultural centre of Kosovo. This second-largest city in Kosovo is steeped in history and tradition. It also serves as a sanctuary to numerous stunning natural beauties. Prizren has always had a significant impact on the area. In this part of the Balkans, the city is well-known for its delectable cuisine and wines, customary handicrafts, and stunning aggregate of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture. This afternoon, engage on and adventure into the city to explore the old town.

Tonight, we’ll be staying at a stylish hotel situated in the centre of Prizen next to Lumbardhi river promenade filled with bars and cafés. Unwind at the picturesque terrace or make use of the central location and venture into town boasting an array of local restaurants for dinner.

Today, create your own adventures with a full day to uncover Peje’s wonders at your leisure. Take the opportunity to visit this beautiful city in Kosovo before heading to Montenegro tomorrow.

Exploring Peje, you alternate between mountains of great nature with attractive landscapes, rich biodiversity, flora and fauna, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, etc. Depending on your preferences, meander the Main Square – an antique area with beautiful, lively, and clean pedestrian streets lined with souvenir and jewellery shops. You can enjoy traditional Tavas at Kulla e Zenel Beut and also move further to visit the Old Bazaar, the Patriarchate of Peja, and other notable cultural monuments that dot the interesting city.

After your day of exploration, make your way to our hotel for the night, a beautiful hotel poised in dazzling Peje. An excellent destination you can unwind and kick your feet up after the long hours of moving around.

Level 4, Approx. 56 km (35 miles), 4-6 hours biking, Elevation gain: 900 m (2953 ft), Elevation loss: 1500 m (4921 ft)

On our two wheels, we transfer to the Kosovo-Montenegro border this morning after a satisfying breakfast. From the border, we continue cycling until the route opens to the vast Montenegro. We bike in style down to Rozaje, an astounding city surrounded by magnificent mountains, here we take pleasure in grand Hajla and Turjak mountain views. Large trees and a profusion of flowers are seen throughout the region. We call it a day at Berane, a beautiful area situated along the Lim River where we overnight.

You’ll stay here in beautiful Berane, 41 km from Plav Lake at Hotel Berane. Bask in the serenity on the spacious terrace overlooking River Lim and surrounding mountains with astonishing outdoors sitting area making eating local specialties in their restaurant a treasured delight.

Level 4, Approx. 61 km (38 miles), 4-6 hours biking, Elevation gain: 1000 m (3281 ft), Elevation loss: 750 m (2461 ft)

Our ride this morning is down a level route to the small village of Andrijevica after leaving Berane behind. From here, we travel up to Kolasin on a lovely, winding road through picturesque countryside. On a clear day, the mountain of Jezerca, Albania's second-highest peak will be our panoramic host, as well as the stunning vistas of the Albanian Alps right on our left. Kolasin, a ski resort in the winter, is where we spend the night this evening.

You’ll stay at a family-run hotel centrally situated at 960 m above sea level, 8.5 km from the Kolašin Ski Resort. Unwind in your cosy ensuite rooms that are warm, homely and comfortable.

Level 4, Approx. 53 km (33 miles), 4-6 hours biking, Elevation gain: 1100 m (3609 ft), Elevation loss: 500 m (1640 ft)

After a brief journey to Mojkovac completed with breathtaking vistas along the way, we begin riding through one of Europe's deepest river valleys, the Tara Canyon. Before arriving in Zabljak, where we will spend the rest of the day, we will also have the opportunity to see the renowned Tara bridge. The Zabljak town where we overnight is situated at an elevation of 1,456 metres above sea level in the middle of the Durmitor mountain range, making it the highest Balkan settlement.

You’ll stay at Hotel Enigma, situated in the heart of the Durmitor National Park. Settle in your quaint ensuite room boasting mountain views before a refreshing drink by the bar.

Level 4, Approx. 57 km (35 miles), 4-6 hours biking, Elevation gain: 1000 m (3280 ft), Elevation loss: 1500 m (4921 ft)

A challenging ascent out of Zabljak kicks off our day. We climb out of Zabljak in the morning through the Durmitor region, then descend to Pluzine/Rudinice. As we travel upward into the Durmitor region, we glimpse the majestic mountain ranges with their strikingly tall peaks. The steep descent to Rudinice hamlet, where we spend the evening at a chic, peaceful farmstead, brings us to the end of today's invigorating adventure.

You’ll stay at a charming local run guesthouse, Etno Selo Izlazak. A haven of peace and quiet and an amazing place away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is traditional but also has elements of the modern age. Here, you can enjoy quality food along with nature at the beautiful restaurant.

Level 4, Approx. 48 km (30 miles), 4-6 hours biking, Elevation gain: 450 m (1476 ft), Elevation loss: 850 m (2789 ft)

After a hearty breakfast, we have a shorter ride today as we head for Nikšić, Montenegro's second-largest city, which is located at the base of Trebjesa Hill. After the capital Podgorica, it is the municipality with the greatest area and second-highest population.

We take the advantage of the leisure pace cycle today, to fully explore the historic city and get to enjoy total relaxation at our resort before we traverse to our next destination.

You’ll stay at Hotel Trim, located in Nikšić right next to the Trebjesa Park. Unwind at the sauna, hot tub or indulge in a relaxing massage at the beautiful spa.

Level 4, Approx. 50 km (31 miles), 4-6 hours biking, Elevation gain: 250 m (820 ft), Elevation loss: 1000 m (3281 ft)

This morning, a quick transit to Vilsu enriches us with mesmeric scenery offered en route as we ride in style onward to the lovely Bay of Kotor. Around the lake are ancient towns shielded by imposing mountains that date back to antiquity. Come afternoon, we take a tour to wallow in the magnificence of the ancient city walls. In the evening, use the opportunity to merry in an al fresco dinner on the waterfront sampling the fresh seafood and traditional dishes on offer.

You’ll stay at Hotel Marija 2 located within the walls of the charming Old Town Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Relax in ensuite rooms or laze by the terrace featuring panoramic views of Mount Lovćen and the bay.

Level 4, Approx. 40 km (25 miles), 4-6 hours biking, Elevation gain: 150 m (492 ft), Elevation loss: 350 m (1148 ft)

After a hearty breakfast, we take a short transfer to Bar. From there, we cycle near Lake Shkodra to marvel at the natural wonder housed in the lively city of Shkodra. Afterward, we cross the border back to the amazon Albania. As we come close to the end of our enthralling adventure this evening, we take the opportunity to enjoy a well-deserved farewell dinner in Shkodra!

You’ll stay at a traditionally decorated boutique hotel situated in Shkodër, one of the oldest and most historic places in Albania. Retreat in your quaint ensuite rooms or relax by the terrace or bar. Come evening, gather together for a farewell dinner in Shkodër to celebrate beautiful memories of your enthralling adventure.

Savour a relaxing breakfast, a perfect time to reflect on your incredible journey before you bid farewell and make your own arrangements for your onward travel. Alternatively, airport transfers can be arranged at an additional cost, please contact us.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.