North Macedonia & Greece - Ohrid to Kastraki
North Macedonia, Greece Bike Tours
Cycle through North Macedonia & Greece in one epic bike tour!
- Tour Type
- Skill Level
- Length13 days
- Prices from€1675 Rates
Overview
This stunning bike tour leads through North Macedonia and northern Greece, combining two incredible destinations in one itinerary.
This region remains unspoiled; the perfect destination for travelers wanting to get off the beaten path and enjoy nature, culture, and history.
The route is challenging but rewarding, offering stunning views at every turn. By day, cycle in two national parks, along pristine lakes, by mighty rivers, and through quaint villages. By night, enjoy the many opportunities to savor the local cuisine.
Highlights
- UNESCO listed historic town of Ohrid and Lake Ohrid
- Galicica National Park and Pelister National Park
- Cycling across borders in North Macedonia and Northern Greece
- Exquisite wine region of Agios Panteleimon
- Meteora monasteries on top of granite pinnacles
Want to spice it up? Check out our other tours in North Macedonia and Greece!
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Ohrid, North Macedonia
Day 2: Ohrid, exploring by bike, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 3: Ohrid - Sveti Naum, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 4: Sveti Naum - Otesevo, 23 mi. (38 km)
Day 5: Otesevo - Bitola, 31 mi. (50 km)
Day 6: Bitola - Florina, 27 mi. or 40 mi. (45 km or 65 km)
Day 7: Florina - Agios Panteleimon, 40 mi. (65 km)
Day 8: Agios Panteleimon - Kastoria, 49 mi. (80 km)
Day 9: Rest day in Kastoria or short bike ride, 21 mi. (35 km)
Day 10: Kastoria - Grevena, 53 mi. (85 km)
Day 11: Grevena - Kastraki, 39 mi. (64 km)
Day 12: Rest day or Meteora - Pinios valley tour, 36 mi. (58 km)
Day 13: End of trip. Travel to Thessaloniki or Athens Airport or onward travelDay 1: Arrival at Ohrid
Ohrid is your base for the next 2 days. Upon arrival at the first hotel, the rest of the day is free to explore this lovely UNESCO city.Sample accommodation: Hotel Bacchus
Day 2: Ohrid, exploring by bike, 25 mi. (40 km)
Included in your tour price is a tour information meeting. Depending on your arrival time, this can take place on the evening of Day 1 or the morning of Day 2. Our local representative will deliver your rental bike and tour information material and answer any questions. Be sure to take your rental bike for a test ride!The remainder of the day is at your leisure and many options exist. You can explore the Old Bazaar, within walking distance of your hotel, stretching along a street that goes back to the 9th century. Many ancient churches and monasteries, such as the magnificent Sveti Jovan Kaneo, were built on a cliff overhanging the lake.
Sample accommodation: Hotel Bacchus
Day 3: Ohrid – Sveti Naum, 28 mi. (45 km) | Elevation: +360m, -350m
You will begin cycling north through the valley, known for its fertile soil and many orchards, cherries, apricots, grapes, apples, and plums. The plums are mainly used to produce the national alcoholic drink, Rakia. Narrow roads, countryside, and sleepy farming villages characterize this area. You will cycle along an old volcano and continue along the east banks of Ohrid Lake to the Bay of Bones, a reconstruction of an ancient village on the lake, dated 6000 years ago.Sample accommodation: Sveti Naum Monastery
Day 4: Sveti Naum – Otesevo, 23 mi. (38 km) | Elevation: +890m, -740m
Today you will cycle from Lake Ohrid to Lake Prespa through the Galicica National Park. You start with a long (14 km) gradual climb to an altitude of 1550 meters with stunning views. After a long descent, you will finish at Prespa Lake, a well-known area for birding. Your historic accommodation for this evening was built in the 1950s by political prisoners of the old socialistic system.Sample accommodation: Hotel and Resort Lakeview
Day 5: Otesevo – Bitola, 31 mi. (50 km), | Elevation: +480m, -710m
If you are an early riser, you may spot pelicans at the lake before heading off on your bike. You pedal along the lake and through orchards and small villages and begin a gradual climb on a partly cobblestone road until the pass at 1200 meters. After the descent, you peddle through the rural landscape scattered with ancient and forgotten villages. Your trip today ends in Bitola, a vibrant historical city, previously known as the trading center of the Balkans. The Ottoman domination of the past is still visible in the architecture, the cobblestone streets, and the Bazar of Bitola. Bitola is also situated at the foothills of the Pelister National Park, which is characterized by overwhelming flora and fauna.Sample accommodation: Hotel Millenium
Day 6: Bitola – Florina, 27 mi. or 40 mi. (45 km or 65 km) | Elevation: +100m or 760m, -120m or 780m
Your route leads into Greece today. Florina is situated at an altitude of 700 meters along the Sakoulevas River, surrounded by forests and mountains. You have a choice between two routes. The first 35km are the same for both routes and you cycle on the lower slopes of the mountains of Pelister National Park. The easier option continues in a southern direction; after 8 km, you reach Florina. The long route makes a 30 km loop through unspoiled nature with a steep climb. You will reach the summit at an altitude of 1300 meters with a descent of 600 meters over 10 km. After a beautiful descent through the valley, you reach Florina.
Sample accommodation: Hotel LingosDay 7: Florina – Agios Panteleimon, 40 mi. (65) | +450m, -565m
This morning, a cluster of lakes will be your backdrop, the largest being Vegoritas Lake. It is a haven for rare birds, and thus, it is a protected area. The first 25 km are almost flat through a wide valley with farmland and small villages. After that, the road gradually ascends to an altitude of 950 meters. During the last part of this ride, you will cycle along the lake to the final destination Agios Panteleimon. You can make an optional visit to the winery Alpha Estates, one of the best wineries in Greece.Sample accommodation: Ateron Suites Hotel & Spa
Day 8: Agios Panteleimon – Kastoria, 49 mi. (80 km) | +820m, -735m
The route to Kastoria is one of the longest rides of this bike tour. You cycle along vineyards to the pretty village of Amindeo where you may have a break for a refreshing iced coffee before continuing along Chimaditida Lake, known to be a sanctuary for many birds species. An elevation gain of 500 meters over 10 km is challenging, but once reaching the top you will be rewarded with stunning views over the valley with Lake Kastoria on the horizon. After a long and smooth descent, you will reach the ancient town of Kastoria. Your hotel for the next 2 days is situated near the lake.Sample accommodation: Hotel Kastoria
Day 9: Rest day Kastoria or short bike ride, 21 mi. (35 km)
Kastoria is a lovely old town with much to see. It lies partly on a peninsula surrounded by a large lake. During the bike trip across the peninsula, you will pass the caves of the "dragon" (tou Spileo Drakou). This 300 meters deep cave with several lakes is an absolute highlight. Remnants of bears that lived here 10,000 years ago were found in the cave. Many beautiful mansions and Byzantine monuments characterize Kastoria. You can see the massive wealth this city enjoyed long ago. On the promenade along the water, you will find lovely terraces and restaurants.Sample accommodation: Hotel Kastoria
Day 10: Kastoria – Grevena, 53 mi. (85 km) | Elevation: +750m, -850m
You cycle south today, and after about 20 km, you will arrive at the ancient town of Argos Orestiko with its narrow streets, squares, and neoclassical buildings. This area was once known for its prosperous trade in furs and carpets. The special composition of the soil here is ideal for cultivating vegetables, such as lentils and beans. 25 km further the landscape becomes hillier and the route continues through one of Greece's most important natural habitats. In the higher mountains, wolves and brown bears have been observed. The route continues through an undulating landscape along streams, villages, and several short climbs before reaching the provincial town of Grevena. Grevena is located on the banks of the river Doxaniti Greveniti. This lively city with numerous bistros and restaurants played a strategic role during the ancient Byzantine period and was also known as the trade center in the region.Sample accommodation: Hotel Metropolis
Day 11: Grevena – Kastraki, 39 mi. (64 km) | Elevation: +635m, -880m
After leaving Grevena, you are immediately riding through a vast natural landscape. The views are stunning with circling birds of prey in the distance. The toughest section of the day is right at the start, after 10 km the road gradually ascends for the next 15 km. You then enjoy a long descent into the wide valley of the river Pinios. Once this ‘plain of Thessaly’ was an inland sea. Now you see huge rock formations shaped by wind and water erosion, millions of years ago. On top of these huge granite pillars, monks built impressive monasteries, Megalo Meteoron being the most famous. Your overnight location for the next two days is next to the rock formations and waking up to this view is a feast for the eyes!Sample accommodation: Hotel Kastraki
Day 12: Rest day or Meteora – Pinios valley tour, 36 mi. (58 km) | Elevation: +475m, -475m
Enjoy your last bike ride with a beautiful tour through these gigantic limestone rock formations with impressive monasteries built on top. Monks began building these monasteries in the 11th century, using ropes and ladders to lift the building materials. Today, six monasteries are all on display and are true works of art. The second part of this ride goes through the wide river valley with beautiful views of Meteora.If you prefer to stay off your bike today, you may choose one of the great walks in this area on old cobbled footpaths that once were the only way to reach the monasteries.
Sample accommodation: Hotel Kastraki
Day 13: End of trip. Travel to Thessaloniki or Athens Airport or onward travel
Your bike tour in North Macedonia and Greece ends after breakfast. You will leave your bike at the hotel in Kastraki.You can view all of our cycling tours in Europe or look at our featured bike trips, specials, and news.
Map
Hotels & Bikes
This bike tour in North Macedonia and Greece uses accommodations ranging from 2 to 4 star hotels. These hotels are nicely located and breakfast is included. Sample accommodations can be found in the day-to-day itinerary, keeping in mind all hotels are based on availability.
Bicycles
Standard Bike (included)
Brand: Ghost
Standard trekking bike with 24-speeds, aluminum frame, 28" wheels, and hydraulic disk brakes
Brakes: Shimano Altus
Suspension: Front Suspension
Frame sizes: (Ladies): S, M, L, (Gents): S, M, L, XL
Included: lock, pump, puncture repair kit including spare inner tube, rear luggage rack with paniers, bottle holder (with bottle)
Not included: Odometer, helmetElectric bike
Brand: Ghost
E-bike with 24-speeds, aluminum frame, 28" wheels, and hydraulic disk brakes
Brakes: Shimano Altus
Suspension: Front suspension
Frame sizes: (Ladies): S, M, L (Gents): S, M, L, XL
Included: lock, pump, puncture repair kit including spare inner tube, rear luggage rack with paniers, bottle holder (with bottle)
Not included: Odometer, helmetInclusions
What’s Included
- Accommodation for 12 nights in 2 & 4 star hotels with breakfast
- 1 dinner at Lakeview Hotel (day 4)
- Welcome meeting
- Standard bike rental with repair set, mini pump, bicycle lock, inner tube, bottle holder with bottle (600ml), & saddlebags
- Digital information pack (access to trip notes in ActiveNav App & GPS tracks)
- Luggage transfer
What’s Not Included
- Airport transfers
- Lunch, dinners (except dinner on day 4), & beverages
- Entrance fees & visits to monasteries & monuments
- Helmet
- Tourism tax payable on the spot (€ 1.50 for 1 & 2 star hotels, € 3 for 3-star hotels, € 7 for 4-star hotels, and € 10 for 5-star hotels)
- Bike Protection
- Travel Insurance
Dates & Pricing
Dates
Season 1: May 1 to June 5 | August 27 to October 18, 2024
Season 2: June 6 to August 26, 2024
The best months to travel are May, June, September, & October.
Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
Pricing
2024
Season 1 Season 2 Twin/double $ 2754 £ 1436 $ 2,553 € 1675 Ft 685878 kr 255116 ₪ 7172 ¥ 276451 Mex$ 36578 NZ$ 3032 kr 20013 zł 7362 S$ 2445 kr 19425 CHF 1607 $ 1,885 $ 2819 £ 1471 $ 2,614 € 1715 Ft 702257 kr 261209 ₪ 7343 ¥ 283053 Mex$ 37451 NZ$ 3104 kr 20491 zł 7538 S$ 2503 kr 19889 CHF 1645 $ 1,930 Single room $ 3592 £ 1874 $ 3,331 € 2185 Ft 894712 kr 332794 ₪ 9356 ¥ 360624 Mex$ 47715 NZ$ 3955 kr 26106 zł 9603 S$ 3189 kr 25339 CHF 2096 $ 2,459 $ 3682 £ 1921 $ 3,415 € 2240 Ft 917233 kr 341171 ₪ 9591 ¥ 369702 Mex$ 48916 NZ$ 4054 kr 26764 zł 9845 S$ 3269 kr 25977 CHF 2149 $ 2,521 Solo traveler on request on request Extra Options
Bike rental options
Electric bike $ 107 £ 56 $ 99 € 65 Ft 26616 kr 9900 ₪ 278 ¥ 10728 Mex$ 1419 NZ$ 118 kr 777 zł 286 S$ 95 kr 754 CHF 62 $ 73 Helmet rental $ 41 £ 21 $ 38 € 25 Ft 10237 kr 3808 ₪ 107 ¥ 4126 Mex$ 546 NZ$ 45 kr 299 zł 110 S$ 36 kr 290 CHF 24 $ 28 Extra day standard bike rental $ 35 £ 18 $ 32 € 21 Ft 8599 kr 3198 ₪ 90 ¥ 3466 Mex$ 459 NZ$ 38 kr 251 zł 92 S$ 31 kr 244 CHF 20 $ 24 Extra day electric bike rental $ 46 £ 24 $ 43 € 28 Ft 11465 kr 4265 ₪ 120 ¥ 4621 Mex$ 611 NZ$ 51 kr 335 zł 123 S$ 41 kr 325 CHF 27 $ 32 Transfers
Taxi transfer Kastraki to Meteora-Thessaloniki Airport/center (max 4 people) $ 534 £ 279 $ 495 € 325 Ft 133081 kr 49500 ₪ 1392 ¥ 53640 Mex$ 7097 NZ$ 588 kr 3883 zł 1428 S$ 474 kr 3769 CHF 312 $ 366 Extra nights
Extra nights possible on request. Extra Info
Skill Level — Moderate–Difficult
This is a demanding self-guided bike tour in North Macedonia and Greece. There are areas where you cannot avoid steep and extended climbs of up to 750m. Training and experience on a bike are required. The daily distances range from 40 to 80 km. Further information on the elevation can be found in the day-to-day itinerary. Most of the tour takes place on tarmac, but you will also cycle short distances on cobbled roads. In and around larger towns, you will have short sections on high-traffic roads. Electric bicycles are available!
Airport Info
Fly into Ohrid Airport North Macedonia (OHD)and out of Thessaloniki or Athens Airport
Local Travel
Arrival: There are direct flights to Ohrid from selected European countries. For example, Wizz Air UK currently operates direct flights from Vienna, Dortmund, Milan, London Luton, and others. You can book an optional transfer from the airport to the first hotel in Ohrid, or you can take a taxi on the spot which is much cheaper than a pre-booked taxi.
Departure: From Kastraki, you can travel by train to Thessaloniki (stop-over in Paleofarsalos) or to Athens (direct or with stop-over). There are limited connections to Thessaloniki and Athens and we recommend booking a hotel and book an outbound flight for the next day.
From Kastraki to Thessaloniki center or Thessaloniki airport, we offer the possibility of a private taxi transfer as well. There are many outbound flights from Thessaloniki or Athens to cities in Europe and to other western countries.Climate
The weather in the summer months is hot, travelers should either go in the springtime (when nature is at its best) or late summer into fall.
Recommended
Please consider making plane reservations for the day after your tour ends, to ensure you have time to travel from Kastraki to your selected airport.
Important to know
Travel Documents
It is each traveler's responsibility to ensure that you are in compliance with the country or countries you plan to visit. This includes and is not limited to passport validity, visa requirements and acquisition, blank passport pages required for your destination (s), etc.
US citizens: A good website to research the requirements of the Schengen Agreement and entry into other countries is travel.state.gov.
Non-EU and EU residents: Please research the requirements of your country of residence for international travel and your destination country or countries.
*Important note: Please check on the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) status as once implemented, this will be required to visit any of the 26 Schengen-member countries for tourism, business, medical, or transit. This is an additional check on security rather than a visa.Tour Operator
This tour is run by S-Cape Travel.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
Photos
Reviews
Vanessa S.
4 weeks agoVerified Reviewer
Tripsite Customer Reviews
Vanessa S.
4 weeks ago
Verified Reviewer