Cycling Albania from the Mountains to the Ionian Sea

Day 1: Arrival in Tirana

Your journey begins in Albania's vibrant and fast-changing capital, Tirana. Once dominated by the grey blocks of its communist past, the city now surprises visitors with bursts of color, street art, and a creative spirit. Depending on your arrival time, you might stroll through its leafy parks, visit local markets, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere from a café terrace. For those interested in history, the city offers plenty to do, from the iconic Skanderbeg Square to museums and bunkers that tell the story of Albania’s complex past.

Overnight in Tirana.

Day 2: Tirana – Vlorë – Kuç
39 miles/62 km; elevation gain: +718 m / -393 m

This morning begins with a scenic transfer south to Vlorë, where the Adriatic Sea meets the foothills of the Ceraunian Mountains. From here, the bikes come out and the adventure begins. The route climbs steadily inland, leaving behind the bustle of the coast and entering quieter valleys dotted with olive groves and small villages. The landscapes shift quickly from coastal to rugged, with distant mountain views and winding roads leading you deeper into southern Albania. The day's ride finishes in the mountain village of Kuç, a place where daily life still moves to the slow rhythms of traditional rural Albania.

Overnight in Kuç.

Day 3: Kuç – Tepelenë
35 miles/56 km; elevation gain: +959 m / -1,175 m

Today offers some of the most untouched scenery of the tour. The route winds through hidden valleys, where quiet roads are flanked by forests and open meadows. You may spot shepherds moving flocks across the hills, adding to the timeless feel of the landscape. After a few climbs, sweeping views open up over the Vjosa River Valley, one of Europe’s last wild rivers. Along the way, there’s an option to take a short 20–25 minute walk to Peshtura Waterfall, a serene spot tucked just off the route. The day ends with a descent into Tepelenë, a town steeped in history and once home to the powerful Ottoman ruler Ali Pasha. The ruins of his hilltop castle still overlook the valley, offering a dramatic close to the ride.

Overnight in Tepelenë.

Day 4: Tepelenë – Gjirokastër
19 miles/36 km; elevation gain: +315 m / -225 m

Though shorter, today’s route is no less impressive. You’ll follow the Vjosa River as it carves through a dramatic valley before the landscape opens to reveal the Drino Plain and the historic city of Gjirokastër perched high on its slopes. Known as the “City of Stone,” Gjirokastër is a UNESCO-listed treasure famous for its Ottoman-era houses with stone-shingled roofs and narrow, cobbled alleys. The afternoon is free to explore. Visit the imposing hilltop castle, wander through the lively bazaar, or simply enjoy the quiet charm of this well-preserved city.

Overnight in Gjirokastër.

Day 5: Gjirokastër – Blue Eye – Butrint – Saranda
56 miles/90 km; elevation gain: +745 m / -1,018 m

Leaving Gjirokastër behind, the route descends along the Drino Valley before turning west toward the Ionian Sea. Before reaching the coast, you’ll pause at one of Albania’s natural wonders, the Blue Eye Spring, where crystal-clear water bubbles up from deep underground, creating a mesmerizing turquoise pool. From here, the ride continues through rolling countryside to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Butrint. This ancient city tells stories of Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Venetians through its amphitheater, temples, and city walls, all surrounded by lush Mediterranean forest and lagoons. From Butrint, a final gentle stretch takes you to the laid-back coastal town of Saranda, perfectly positioned on the Ionian coast.

Overnight in Saranda.

Day 6: Saranda – Himara
32 miles/52 km; elevation gain: +1,012 m / -1,010 m

This is classic Ionian cycling, a day of rugged cliffs, mountain passes, and stunning coastal views. Leaving Saranda, you’ll climb steadily to a high plateau where the mountains rise sharply on one side and the sparkling sea stretches endlessly on the other. The route twists and turns through remote villages and past hidden bays before reaching Porto Palermo Castle, set on a small peninsula. From here, the ride continues along quiet roads to Himara, a charming beach town with Greek-influenced architecture, sleepy coves, and some of Albania's best swimming spots.

Overnight in Himara.

Day 7: Himara – Vlorë
44 miles/70 km; elevation gain: +1,360 m / -1,360 m

Today’s ride is both the most challenging and most unforgettable. The route climbs steadily from the coast into the heart of the Llogara National Park. Hairpin bends wind through dense forests of black pine and fir, and as you ascend, the sea views become ever more spectacular. After cresting the Llogara Pass, you’ll enjoy a thrilling descent back toward the coast and the historic city of Vlorë. Here, where the Adriatic meets the Ionian, you’ll find a lively waterfront and a fitting place to celebrate the final full day of your journey.

Overnight in Vlorë.

Day 8: Departure from Vlorë

After breakfast, transfer to Tirana Airport for your onward journey. If time allows, you may wish to explore Vlorë’s coastline or its historic center before departing.