Albania  Bike Tour Reviews (page 2)

  • UNESCO Sites of Albania
    (5/5) Mary O 3 months ago

    Great trip through Southern Albania

    · UNESCO Sites of Albania

    I thoroughly enjoyed the UNESCO Sites of Albania cycling tour. Our guide Andrea was awesome! He was very eager to share his knowledge of Albania, its culture and history. He was also very friendly, helpful and supportive of tour participants. The hotels and restaurants were all good, food was delicious. I particularly enjoyed the two nights that we spent at local guest houses up in the mountains: family run and very friendly, with amazing local fresh food. The bicycles they provided were in good condition. The sag van driver and mechanic Rimi was great. He promptly and skillfully addressed any mechanical issues with the bicycles and was very supportive of any riders who needed to ride some sections in the van.
    My only criticism of the tour is that communication prior to the trip was minimal. Also, though not my personal experience, some of the other participants had been given misleading information about the difficulty of the trip from TO's administrative staff prior to the trip.
    Overall, I would highly recommend this trip!

    Countries included in this tour?
    Albania
    •  (photo by Mary O)
    •  (photo by Mary O)
  • A thrilling descent from Mount Dajti
    (5/5) Jermey Hoffman April 21, 2024

    What a way to see Tirana!

    Tirana to Mount Dajti Downhill MTB Tour

    Thank you so much to Ermal for showing me around on two wheels - the views on this ride are spectacular, the riding is fast and flowy, and you never know what you’re going to see in the mountains! The whole day was easy thanks to Ermal and his team. Highly recommend this tour for people wanting a special way to see and experience Tirana.

  • Balkan Treasures
    (5/5) Joan Sawaya-Orgeldinger 10 months ago

    Great last minute trip

    · Balkan Treasures

    We booked a somewhat last minute trip and did the Balkan Treasure self-guided trip.
    It was our first time doing a self-guided bike trip and we didn’t know what to expect. Our dedicated tour operator was incredible, quick to reply and assist when we needed him. He also gave us great ride recommendations in addition to the scheduled routes.

    What was the date of your tour?
    October 2024
    How many tours have you completed?
    0
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    Somewhat easier
    Who is this tour suitable for?
    First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Croatia, Albania, Montenegro
    •  (photo by Joan Sawaya-Orgeldinger)
    •  (photo by Joan Sawaya-Orgeldinger)
    •  (photo by Joan Sawaya-Orgeldinger)
    •  (photo by Joan Sawaya-Orgeldinger)
    •  (photo by Joan Sawaya-Orgeldinger)
    • 4/5 Value
    • 3/5 Included meals
    • 3/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 4/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 5/5 Ease of navigation
    • 5/5 Tour documents
    • 5/5 Local tour company services
    • 5/5 Route selection
  • (5/5) Bridgit Evans October 27, 2023

    Well organised experience with amazing scenery

    · Balkan Treasures

    This was my first biking tour and I hope I am not spoilt now because this one was so fantastic. The hotels were quaint, the scenery breathtaking, and everything ran without a hitch. I loved the variety of mountains, ocean, lakes , forests and farms. My only comment is that it would be better to only spend one night in Skodar because of all the places we went, this was my least favorite. While the city is on a lake, there is a lot of litter which is not great. Two days in the national park would have been better. Other than that, I highly recommend this tour!

    What was the date of your tour?
    9 September 2023
    How many tours have you completed?
    My first bike tour
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    Somewhat easier
    Who is this tour suitable for?
    First-time bike tourists, Families with teens
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Croatia, Albania, Montenegro
    • View of Kotor (photo by Bridgit Evans)
    • 5/5 Value
    • 4/5 Included meals
    • 4/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 4/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 5/5 Ease of navigation
    • 4/5 Tour documents
    • 5/5 Local tour company services
    • 5/5 Route selection
  • (5/5) Paul Lant September 1, 2023

    Excellent Balkan cycling experience

    · Balkan Treasures

    We did a self-guided tour using e-bikes. The rides were quite different each day. The destinations are varied and interesting, and the hotels were all good (3*). The local operator managed the logistics very well. Note there are three car transfers during this trip. Each of them is about 1.5 hrs. Whilst this extends the days, it does mean you get to experience some very different parts of the region. You do genuinely experience many Balkan treasures. Our highlights included cycling around the Bay of Kotor, cycling down the amazing switchbacks into Kotor on the last day, cycling through the hills alongside Lake Skadar, staying in Stari Bar and the food at Hotel Tradita in Albania.

    What was the date of your tour?
    August 2023
    How many tours have you completed?
    5
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    As expected
    Who is this tour suitable for?
    First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Croatia, Albania, Montenegro
    • 5/5 Value
    • 4/5 Included meals
    • 4/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 5/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 5/5 Ease of navigation
    • 5/5 Tour documents
    • 5/5 Local tour company services
    • 5/5 Route selection
  • (5/5) Steven Fern July 20, 2023

    Wonderful and adventurous trip

    · Balkan Treasures

    This was such an adventurous trip. Wonderful scenery and places. Great people in all the countries we visited.
    Only criticism was that one of booked hotels was way below standard and appeared out of business. The tour company quickly remedied the problem with a change to another hotel that was excellent

    What was the date of your tour?
    July 2023
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    Somewhat harder
    Who is this tour suitable for?
    First-time bike tourists
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Croatia, Albania, Montenegro
    • 5/5 Value
    • 5/5 Included meals
    • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 3/5 Hotels or boat
    • 4/5 Scenery
    • 4/5 Ease of navigation
    • 3/5 Tour documents
    • 5/5 Local tour company services
  • (5/5) susan25 October 28, 2019

    Way better than we even anticipated!!!!!

    · Balkan Treasures

    This tour is truly a collection of "gems"! Here's why we rated the tour a 5 star.
    1. the level of support from the tour guide was amazing! The tour includes being transported to several different locations so that all of your time is spent on truly beautiful rides. Our guide was very patient, informative and friendly!!
    2. We were on the extended version so we got to be in four countries in 8 days! we learned so much about the politics and history of the region.
    3. All of the accommodations were great but a couple were outstanding! Again we learned so much about the culture and cuisine of the different countries through these experiences.
    4. The routes deserve special mention. We were amazed to discover beautiful scenic rides day after day.
    5. The rides were quite easy, especially for seasoned riders. This did not bother us because the overall experience was so rich.
    6. We relied primarily on an app for directions. this was supported by written materials. we thought this was a great way to tour.
    7. Montenegro, Albania and Bosnia Herzegovina have yet to be discovered by most tourist. They are gorgeous, safe (for the most part) and inexpensive by the standards most Westerners are used to. This is a great time to see those incredible countries!
    We absolutely loved this trip. If you are considering, my advise is sign up! You will thank yourself!

    What was the date of your tour?
    October 6-14.
    How many tours have you completed?
    6
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    Somewhat easier
    Who is this tour suitable for?
    Solo travelers, Families with teens
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Croatia, Albania, Montenegro
    • 5/5 Value
    • 5/5 Included meals
    • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 5/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 5/5 Ease of navigation
    • 3/5 Tour documents
    • 5/5 Local tour company services
    • 5/5 Route selection
    • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
  • (5/5) Soloist October 7, 2019

    The most amazing cycle route

    · Balkan Treasures

    What an amazing experience. This was my first self guided solo tour on a bicycle and I admit I was very nervous before the trip that I would get lost! The guides Drazen and Zoran ensures that did not happen talking me through each day and providing maps and detailed instructions. The scenery is phenomenal and I was blessed with perfect weather
    Prior to the trip the office team were quick to respond to any questions I had , in particular Brittany was a real gem.
    The only thing I would say if I had to list a negative would be the hotels. When I reviewed them online they seemed great but the room I actually got was often the worst one in the building. The first night in Cavtat I do believe the bathroom had been a former closet judging by the door and size. Not that i spent much time in a hotel room so it wasn’t a major concern.
    I wiould definitely recommend this company and now I’ve gained confidence in touring solo I’ll most likely use them again.

    What was the date of your tour?
    Sept
    How many tours have you completed?
    3
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    Much easier
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Croatia, Albania, Montenegro
    • 5/5 Value
    • 5/5 Included meals
    • 3/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 2/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 5/5 Ease of navigation
    • 3/5 Tour documents
    • 5/5 Local tour company services
    • 5/5 Route selection
    • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
  • UNESCO Sites of Albania
    (5/5) Robert Guilmette 2 months ago

    I really enjoyed the UNESCO sites of Albania Tour.

    · UNESCO Sites of Albania

    The route was scenic. The food was delicious and plentiful. The accommodations were very nice comfortable. And the guides were great. I really enjoyed the trip! Awesome job bike tours!

    Rob

    What was the date of your tour?
    June 30th - July 9th
    How many tours have you completed?
    2
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    Somewhat harder
    Who is this tour suitable for?
    Solo travelers
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Albania
    • 5/5 Value
    • 5/5 Included meals
    • 4/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 5/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 5/5 Ease of navigation
    • 5/5 Tour documents
    • 5/5 Local tour company services
    • 5/5 Route selection
    • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
  • (5/5) James Black 2 months ago

    Bike Tour that Exceeded Expectations

    · UNESCO Sites of Albania

    The scenery, roads, countryside was stunning. Our guide, Julian, was friendly and knowledgeable and catered for our every need.

    What was the date of your tour?
    June 2025
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    As expected
    Who is this tour suitable for?
    First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Albania
    • 5/5 Value
    • 5/5 Included meals
    • 4/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 5/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 5/5 Ease of navigation
    • 5/5 Tour documents
    • 5/5 Local tour company services
    • 5/5 Route selection
    • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
  • (5/5) Paul Banken July 17, 2024

    Awesome trip

    · UNESCO Sites of Albania

    I rarely post reviews but wanted to share my experience with a recent cycling tour; the 10 day UNESCO tour of Albania. The tour was led by Armand and Mario. It was a fantastic experience. The tour was well organized, really well run, fun, the country beautiful, the local people friendly, the food incredible and quite varied. Our group of 19 were from many countries but really bonded well. The last days ride was unnerving for some due to strong winds and large vehicles; but the sag van was usually close behind if someone wanted to take a break. Not everything went perfectly, but Armand’s upbeat, energetic, and positive attitude in quickly handling the issues made things go quite smoothly. All in all; one of the very best, most enjoyable tours I have taken out of the 20+ to date.

    Countries included in this tour?
    Albania
  • (5/5) Belinda 4 months ago

    A wonderful trip

    · UNESCO Sites of Albania

    We had a wonderful trip our guide Roxan was fantastic, very attentive and helpful. The route was very good, with not too much traffic. Our hotels were generally good and the food was excellent. We had a great trip.

    What was the date of your tour?
    April 2025
    How many tours have you completed?
    One
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    As expected
    Who is this tour suitable for?
    Solo travelers, Families with teens
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Albania
    • 5/5 Value
    • 5/5 Included meals
    • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 3/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 5/5 Ease of navigation
    • 3/5 Tour documents
    • 5/5 Local tour company services
    • 5/5 Route selection
    • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
  • (5/5) Deborah Davis 4 months ago

    Perfectly curated

    · UNESCO Sites of Albania

    We were self guided and had changed the itinerary by adding a few rest days along the way. As we were not part of a group we were initially worried that me might get forgotten (and bags not forwarded etc) but every detail was taken care of and the support was completely reliable and comprehensive. This allowed us to just enjoy the trip. Albania was an absolute delight in every way; scenery, people, culture and the route was perfectly curated to show the best of all of this.

    What was the date of your tour?
    May 2025
    How many tours have you completed?
    2
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    As expected
    Who is this tour suitable for?
    First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Albania
    • On route to Gjirokaster (photo by Deborah Davis)
    • Dinner with a view; Gjirokaster (photo by Deborah Davis)
    • On route to Gjirokaster (photo by Deborah Davis)
    • Room with a view Permet (photo by Deborah Davis)
    • Gjirokaster bazar (photo by Deborah Davis)
    • Aqueduct, Gjirokaster (photo by Deborah Davis)
    • BikeTours.com staff reply from jan May 20, 2025

      Thanks for the lovely review and fantastic photos. My mother took this trip late last year and spoke of it much the same. Thank you for traveling with us!
      Cheers,
      Jan

    • 4/5 Value
    • 4/5 Included meals
    • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 4/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 5/5 Ease of navigation
    • 5/5 Tour documents
    • 5/5 Local tour company services
    • 5/5 Route selection
    • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
  • (5/5) JBR 4 months ago

    Wonderful trip. Great sampling of Albanian mountains, farms and coast.

    · UNESCO Sites of Albania

    Wonderful to start in Tirana, then see the rural part of Albania and finish on the coast. I enjoyed the stays at the organic farm and the guest house especially.
    The local historical tours done at some of our stays were good for hitting the highlights of their significance. They were neither too long or too short.
    The guides were fantastic. They did a nice job of allowing everyone to go at a pace that was comfortable for them. They were very patient about answering questions about Albania's history, current challenges and daily life.
    The accommodations were always clean and comfortable. Some were very nice, others more humble but were always clean and functional.
    The food was plentiful! They really focused on trying to serve traditional Albanian dishes particular to that region. Two nights we were free to eat at local restaurants so those who wanted to get a pizza or non-Albanian food could do so then.
    I feel the level of difficulty was accurately described. Unless you are an experienced cyclist you would not want to do this without an e-bike. There were several people who did not ride much and did just fine on e-bikes. For those on regular bikes (non e-bikes) it was a manageable ride. There was always a break in the morning for coffee, then again for lunch and then finishing the ride. This really helped make the rides manageable.
    I consider myself a moderate rider typically doing 50 miles per week with about 3000-4000 elevation gain total. So this tour was a moderate challenge but very doable.
    My wife and I had previously done only DIY trips and this was our first supported, guided experience. It was nice to not worry about navigation, where to stay or where to eat. All in all, it was a wonderful trip that I would recommend highly.

    What was the date of your tour?
    May 2025
    How many tours have you completed?
    6 including DIY
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    As expected
    Who is this tour suitable for?
    First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Albania
    • 5/5 Value
    • 5/5 Included meals
    • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 4/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 5/5 Ease of navigation
    • 4/5 Tour documents
    • 5/5 Local tour company services
    • 5/5 Route selection
    • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
  • (5/5) Monica 4 months ago

    Beautiful trip

    · UNESCO Sites of Albania

    This tour showed off some amazing countryside, scenic vistas and quiet roads in Albania that many visitors would not otherwise see. Our driver Roxhens was really enthusiastic, supportive and went to great lengths to help us out even when it wasn’t part of his job (on an unguided tour).

    What was the date of your tour?
    April 2025
    How many tours have you completed?
    10
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    Somewhat harder
    Who is this tour suitable for?
    First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Albania
    • 5/5 Value
    • 4/5 Included meals
    • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 4/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 5/5 Ease of navigation
    • 3/5 Tour documents
    • 5/5 Local tour company services
    • 5/5 Route selection
    • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
  • (5/5) James S 4 months ago

    Great trip

    · UNESCO Sites of Albania

    Great trip. Scenery is amazing. From high mountains to the sea! Most roads were low traffic (except in towns). The last day had a bit more traffic on the climb but wasn’t too bad. (When the tunnel opens there will be less automobile traffic)There is definitely a lot of climbing (some steep - 10%). So consider an e-bike unless you’re an avid cyclist. Food was good. No problems as a vegetarian. Hotels were good. No problems (a couple were really luxurious).

    What was the date of your tour?
    April 2025
    How many tours have you completed?
    4
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    Somewhat harder
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Albania
    • 5/5 Value
    • 4/5 Included meals
    • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 4/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 5/5 Ease of navigation
    • 5/5 Tour documents
    • 5/5 Local tour company services
    • 5/5 Route selection
  • (5/5) Faith M 4 months ago

    Albania is gorgeous!

    · UNESCO Sites of Albania

    What a surprise to see the natural beauty of Albania by bicycle. We rode below snow capped peaks; through farmland; and along the Adriatic Coast. All of it was stunning. The riding was challenging and interesting without being too demanding. The bikes were very comfortable .Our guide was wonderful. He kept our bikes in tip top condition and kept his eye out for each one of us while riding. He shared his knowledge of Albania with us, and daily he recommended the best coffee and lunch stops. (We had an unguided trip). There was a variety of hotel styles and amenities, from basic to luxury.

    What was the date of your tour?
    April 2025
    How many tours have you completed?
    Two
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    As expected
    Who is this tour suitable for?
    First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Albania
    • 5/5 Value
    • 5/5 Included meals
    • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 4/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 5/5 Ease of navigation
    • 5/5 Tour documents
    • 5/5 Local tour company services
    • 5/5 Route selection
    • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
  • (5/5) Raystrach 8 months ago

    Superb Bike Touring

    · UNESCO Sites of Albania

    This bike tour was a great introduction to Albania and it highlighted the rugged beauty of the country and the warmth and friendliness of the people. The tour had a great balance of challenging terrain and beautiful rolling countryside. If you are not so keen on the challenge, e-bikes are available, so there is no excuse not to take this tour.

    Some people questioned why we would go to Albania, fearing we might not be safe, but that was never an issue during the entire tour. We never felt anything but warmth and hospitality from the locals who would often wave and offer support as they drove by in their cars. That was a first.

    We selected the guided tour(we normally go self guided) as it included all meals and we are glad we did. The food was great almost without exception and our guide Arjan ensured we got plenty of variety over the duration of the tour. He also managed the group brilliantly, allowing a little freedom in the individual pace of different sub groups, so that everyone could go at their own pace depending on how they felt on the day. We were lucky to have him.

    The quality of the accommodation was a little uneven, but that was to be expected when a tour like this takes you to all parts of the country, from major towns to relatively remote provincial areas. All accommodation providers were doing their very best to give us an authentic Albanian experience. We got a good sense of the real Albania.

    If you take the decision to take this tour, you will not regret it. It was up there with the best tours we ever done.

    What was the date of your tour?
    October 2023
    How many tours have you completed?
    12
    Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
    As expected
    Who is this tour suitable for?
    First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers, Families with teens
    Do you recommend this tour?
    Yes
    Countries included in this tour?
    Albania
    • 5/5 Value
    • 5/5 Included meals
    • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
    • 4/5 Hotels or boat
    • 5/5 Scenery
    • 5/5 Ease of navigation
    • 4/5 Tour documents
    • 5/5 Local tour company services
    • 5/5 Route selection
    • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
  • (5/5) Lori Doering 10 months ago

    Incredible experience!

    · UNESCO Sites of Albania

    Loved exploring Albania on bike! Our guide, Matao, was amazing! He went above and beyond day after day. The Albanian countryside, cities, people and food far exceeded any and all expe.

    Countries included in this tour?
    Albania