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Cycle North Macedonia & Northern Albania

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 Trip Length
8 Days
 Trip Starts
Shkoder
 Trip Finishes
Pogradec
8 Day Cycle North Macedonia & Northern Albania Itinerary (Exodus)
Countries Explored: Albania, Macedonia
Trip Style
Cycling
Budget
Affordable
Max. Group Size
16
Pace
Moderate
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
MVO

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Exodus 8 Day Cycle North Macedonia & Northern Albania. The border lands of Northern Albania and Western North Macedonia are truly one of the last hidden gems of Europe. Sweeping gorges are carved by crystal blue waters that flow into tranquil lakes, whilst rocky peaks and plateaux rise high above the lush green landscape. Ancient villages, rarely visited by tourists nestle themselves into the valleys, some of which retain a way of life that has been unchanged for centuries. Our carefully chosen route heads through some of the best scenery these fascinating...read more countries have to offer, complimented with some really exciting cycling that equally challenges and rewards.

Itinerary

Start Shkoder in Northern Albania. Those on the group flight will be met at the airport and transferred to Shkoder, one of the oldest and most historic cities in Albania, as well as an important cultural and economic center (approx. 1. 5hrs drive). Please note that due to the remoteness of this tour, Shkoder is a good opportunity to make any last minute purchases, such as bike equipment or items you may have forgotten to bring with you. Hotel Tradita or Similar.

After an early transfer to Komani we take a ferry to Fierze across the beautiful Komani Lake (which takes about 3 hours). The ferry ride allows you to take in the spectacular scenery, winding its way between high cliffs and towering peaks. From here we get on our bikes and the climbing begins as we ascend from the lake up to a high plateau.

Following the line of an ancient trade route, along which the Romans built one of their great arterial roads, the Via Publica, we cycle up through spectacular gorges, forests and lakes towards Dardhe. Cycle approx. 40km, ascent 1175m, descent 500m. Guesthouse Alpin or Similar (B/L/D).

Today we will cycle one of the most spectacular roads in Albania with high mountain peaks on your left and Fierza Lake, 800m down on your right. We continue along Fierza Lake until we reach the dam, which is part of a huge hydro-electric system constructed in the 1970's. Cycle approx. 81km, ascent 1500m, descent 1950m. Hotel Gjallica or Similar (B/L/D).

Today we cycle along the Black Drin Valley from Kukes to Peshkopi, following the river. The Black Drin River originates at Lake Ohrid and meets with the White Drin River at Kukes. This is the toughest day of the trip and includes a 12km climb. Cycle approx. 73km, ascent 2000m, descent 1700m. Stay: Comfortable Hotel (B/L).

After riding past farms and villages our route passes over into North Macedonia. We then continue through the North Macedonian countryside until we reach the beautiful UNESCO town of Ohrid. After checking in to the hotel we will head out on a city tour through the town famed for its 365 churches, one for each day of the year.

Ohrid itself is situated on the shores of Lake Ohrid, with winding cobbled streets and traditional North Macedonian architecture that you will find in the old town. There is the option to take a city tour with a local guide for approximately €3 per person (price dependent on the size of the group). Cycle approx. 93km, ascent 900m, descent 900m. Villa Royal View Hotel or Similar (B/L).

In the morning we start cycling along the lake before another 12km climb to a rocky plateau with wonderful views of Lake Ohrid. We then have a long descent to the shores of Lake Prespa, where there's time for a swim. Cycle approx. 52km, ascent 1350m, descent 1200m. Stay: Standard Hotel (B/L).

Our route today follows the shores of the larger Prespa Lake and also the smaller Prespa Lake that borders three countries (Albania, North Macedonia and Greece). Once past these lakes on the southern side we reach Lake Ohrid and eventually Pogradec in Albania. There is then a chance for a relaxing afternoon at the bay in front of the hotel. Cycle approx. 75km, ascent 900m, descent 1050m. Hotel Millenium or Similar (B/L).

End Pogradec. Those on the group flight will be transferred to Tirana Airport (approx. 3hrs drive) (B).

Trip Inclusions

  • Cycle along the Black Drin Valley
  • Enjoy spectacular scenery at Komani Lake
  • Visit the UNESCO town of Ohrid

  • 5 nights hotels, 2 nights guesthouses
  • 6 days cycling with full vehicle support
  • E-bike hire available on request
  • All breakfasts, 6 lunches and 2 dinners included
  • Local bike hire

  • Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
About Exodus Travels
About Exodus Travels

From gentle rides through the French countryside to challenging expeditions across Asia & more. Read more

Exodus Trip Leaders
Exodus Trip Leaders

Exodus chooses their Leaders carefully. Professional, dedicated and are passionate about sharing their home countries. Read more

Accommodation with Personality
Accommodation with Personality

Wherever possible, Exodus chooses properties that are locally owned and that reflect the area you are visiting. Read more

Prices & Dates

There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and will no longer continue. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view the general release dates for all destinations.

Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Exodus. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Exodus. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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