Albanian Riviera & Highlands

Day 1: Arrival in Tirana
Day 2: Tirana - Vlorë - Kuç, 39 mi. (62 km) | Elevation: +718m / -393m
Day 3: Kuç - Tepelenë, 35 mi. (56 km) | Elevation: +959m / -1175m
Day 4: Tepelenë - Gjirokastër, 19 mi. (36 km) | Elevation:+315m / -225m
Day 5: Gjirokastër - Blue Eye - Butrint - Saranda, 56 mi. (90 km) | Elevation: +745m / -1018m
Day 6: Saranda - Himara, 32 mi. (52 km) | Elevation: +1012m / -1010m
Day 7: Himara - Vlorë, 44 mi. (70 km) | Elevation: +1360m / -1360m
Day 8: Departure from Vlorë

Day 1: Arrival in Tirana
After checking into your hotel in Tirana, you will have time to tour Albania’s lively and colorful capital. Once a grey and quiet city during the communist era, Tirana has blossomed into a vibrant place full of character. Rainbow-painted buildings, wide open boulevards, and charming pedestrian streets give it a distinctive Mediterranean flair. Highlights include Skanderbeg Square, the Opera and Ballet Theater, and the National Historical Museum. Don’t miss the Pyramid of Tirana and the fascinating Bunk’Art2 Museum, which tells the story of Albania's communist past inside an actual nuclear bunker. In the evening, enjoy the city’s cafés and restaurants.

Sample accommodations: Hotel Oxford, Hotel Boka, Hotel Senator

Day 2: Tirana - Vlorë - Kuç, 39 mi. (62 km) | Elevation: +718m / -393m
After breakfast, you will transfer south to the coastal city of Vlorë, where your cycling adventure begins. From the shores of the Adriatic, the route quickly climbs inland through picturesque valleys and isolated villages. The rural landscape is home to olive groves, rivers, and rugged peaks. Quiet roads and authentic Albanian scenery will accompany you throughout the day. You’ll feel the peacefulness of the countryside as you make your way to the small mountain village of Kuç, where traditional stone homes and welcoming locals await.

Sample accommodation: Hotel Lumi Bardhë

Day 3: Kuç - Tepelenë, 35 mi. (56 km) | Elevation: +959m / -1175m
Today's ride leads you deeper into the heart of southern Albania. Leaving Kuç, you’ll pedal through a landscape of forests, farmlands, and scattered rural hamlets where time seems to stand still. The route includes a few moderate climbs and descents, with beautiful views unfolding as you approach the Vjosa River Valley. Before reaching Tepelenë, there’s an option to take a short 20-25 minute walk to Peshtura Waterfall, a peaceful spot tucked into the hillside and well worth the detour. Your day ends in Tepelenë, dramatically perched above the river. Known for its strategic past and the legacy of Ali Pasha, the town invites exploration, from its historic castle ruins to the warm welcome of its local cafés.

Sample accommodation: Lord Byron Hotel

Day 4: Tepelenë - Gjirokastër, 19 mi. (36 km) | Elevation: +315m / -225m
Though a shorter cycling day, today’s route is filled with history and scenery. Pedal along the Vjosa River Valley and enjoy views of the surrounding mountains as you make your way toward the UNESCO-listed city of Gjirokastër. Known as the “City of Stone,” Gjirokastër is Albania's most well-preserved Ottoman town. Explore its cobbled streets, traditional tower houses, and the impressive hilltop castle offering panoramic views of the Drino Valley. Wandering through its bazaar and hidden alleyways feels like stepping back in time.

Sample accommodation: Rose Garden Hotel

Day 5: Gjirokastër - Blue Eye - Butrint - Saranda, 56 mi. (90 km) | Elevation: +745m / -1018m
Today is packed with natural and cultural highlights. The ride starts with a gentle descent before reaching the enchanting Blue Eye Spring (Syri i Kaltër), a natural water phenomenon with vibrant turquoise waters bubbling from deep underground. Continuing south, you will visit the ancient ruins of Butrint, Albania's most important archaeological site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled between a lagoon and the Ionian Sea, Butrint reveals layers of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian history. The day ends along the coast in Saranda, Albania's southernmost seaside town, known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning sunset views.

Sample accommodation: Hotel Nertili, Hotel Portanova

Day 6: Saranda - Himara, 32 mi. (52 km) | Elevation: +1012m / -1010m
Today’s ride takes you along the scenic Ionian coastline. The route features rolling hills, small passes, and breathtaking sea views, with the mountains on your right and the sparkling blue sea on your left. Stop at Porto Palermo Castle, a fortress beautifully situated on a small peninsula jutting into the sea. The fortress offers a perfect photo opportunity with stunning views of the surrounding bays and hills. Continue cycling north until you reach the picturesque beach town of Himara, famous for its crystal-clear waters and laid-back Mediterranean vibe.

Sample accommodation: Rapos Hotel

Day 7: Himara - Vlorë, 44 mi. (70 km) | Elevation: +1360m / -1360m
One of the most spectacular rides of the tour awaits. You will climb steadily through the wild beauty of the Llogara National Park. The ascent to the Llogara Pass (1,043 m) is challenging but incredibly rewarding, with unforgettable views over the Ionian Sea and Albania's unspoiled coastline. The descent is equally impressive, winding down to the lively city of Vlorë. Vlorë marks the meeting point of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas and is famous for its beaches, history, and bustling promenade.

Sample accommodation: Regina Garden Hotel, Regina City Hotel, Hotel Partner

Day 8: Departure from Vlorë
After breakfast, your tour ends with a transfer to Tirana Airport. If you wish to extend your stay, Vlorë offers plenty of opportunities to relax, explore, or enjoy additional days along the Albanian Riviera.

This tour includes a curated mix of city, coastal, and mountain hotels, all locally owned or 4-star rated. Expect modern comforts, scenic views, and warm Albanian hospitality.

Bicycles

Standard touring bike

• Frame: Specialized A1 Premium Aluminum, Fitness Geometry, with rack and fender mounts
• Saddle: Specialized Canopy Sport, steel rails, 155mm width
• Brakes: Promax Solve hydraulic disc brakes, 160mm rotors (front and rear)
• Derailleurs: Shimano Tourney (front), Shimano Altus (rear) – 3x8-speed drivetrain
• Tires: Trigger Sport Reflect, 700x38mm, 60 TPI, wire bead

Electric Bike

• Frame: Aluminium frame with upright riding position
• Saddle: Selle Royal Essenza Plus
• Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes, 180 mm rotors (front and rear)
• Derailleur: Shimano Cues, 9-speed
• Tires: Schwalbe Marathon Almotion Performance, 55-622
• Battery: Bosch PowerTube Li-Ion, 625 Wh (16.7 Ah)
• Motor: Bosch Performance Line Smart System, 75 Nm torque