Fall Leaves Ride: A Colorful Adventure in Albania


11 Day Tour Fall Leaves Ride: A Colorful Adventure in Albania

Fall Leaves Ride

TExperience the breathtaking beauty of Albania's autumn landscape on our 11-day Fall Leaves Ride. This unforgettable journey will take you on a cycling adventure around Lake Shkoder, followed by a climb to the picturesque Tamara.

Discover a world of vibrant colors: As you pedal through the Albanian countryside, be captivated by the stunning fall foliage. Witness the transformation of the landscape as trees don their fiery hues of red, orange, and yellow. Explore scenic mountain trails, traverse crystal-clear rivers, and marvel at cascading waterfalls.

Customize your adventure: This tour offers flexibility to suit your preferences. The total mileage will range between 400 and 500 miles, depending on the desired pace and additional activities. We will stay in comfortable 3- to 4-star hotels, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

Enjoy hassle-free travel: Our follow-supported tour includes a driver, ensuring your luggage is always conveniently transported. This allows you to focus on the cycling and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Albania.

Explore optional highlights: For those seeking even more adventure, we offer the opportunity to visit Lake Koman. This stunning glacial lake is renowned for its dramatic scenery and offers a unique experience for nature enthusiasts.

Join us on this unforgettable adventure and create lasting memories as you explore the vibrant fall colors of Albania.

Accommodation

After a long day in the saddle cycling you want a decent sleep. This is why we have hand picked the hotels you will stay at and they are all at least 3 star so that you will have a nice sleep to wake up refreshed and ready to take on the next day’s challenges.

We have the option for single rooms and double rooms. A few rooms will have a balcony.

Hotels

Day 1 Shkoder Hotel Tradita

Day 2, Virpazar: Hotel Dhmira

Day 3 Tamare: TBA

Day 4. Razem: TBA

Day 5 Puke: TBA

Day 6 Kukesi TBA

Day 7 Peshkopi: TBA

Day 8 Ohrid: Hotel Villa Arte

Day 9 Korca: Hotel Ebel

Day 10 Permet: Hotel Villa Permet

Day 11 Gjirokastor TBA

Day 12 Transfer back to Tirana International Airport

Day 1: Shkoder to Virpazar, Montenegro

Route Highlights:

  • Lake Shkoder National Park: Explore the diverse flora and fauna of this scenic lake.

  • Rozafa Castle: Visit this historic fortress overlooking the city of Shkoder.

  • Panoramic Views: Enjoy stunning views of Lake Shkoder and the surrounding mountains.

Route Description:

Day 1 will take you from Shkoder to Virpazar, Montenegro, along the scenic shores of Lake Shkoder. The route offers breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, as well as opportunities to explore the diverse flora and fauna of Lake Shkoder National Park. You will also have the chance to visit the historic Rozafa Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city and the lake.

Additional Information:

  • Distance: Approximately 45 miles

  • Travel Time: Approximately 4 hours

  • Elevation Gain: Over 4,000 feet

  • Recommended Gear: Road bike, cycling clothing, helmet, sunglasses, water bottles, and snacks.

Points of Interest:

  • Lake Shkoder National Park

  • Rozafa Castle

  • Virpazar

Day 2: Virpazar to Tamare Albania

Route Highlights:

  • Pavlova Strana: Explore this historic neighborhood and visit the Ethnographic Museum.

  • Montenegro's Capital: Visit the charming capital city of Podgorica.

  • Scenic Drive: Enjoy a scenic drive through the Albanian countryside.

Route Description:

Day 2 will start with a leisurely bike ride from Virpazar to Pavlova Strana, a historic neighborhood known for its traditional houses and cobblestone streets. Visit the Ethnographic Museum to learn more about the region's culture and history.

From Pavlova Strana, you will board the support vehicle and drive to Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro. Take some time to explore the city's main attractions, such as the Millenium Bridge, the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ, and the National Museum of Montenegro.

After visiting Podgorica, you will continue your journey by road through the scenic Albanian countryside. The drive will take you through charming villages and past rolling hills. Your final destination for the day will be Tamare, a picturesque town located in the heart of Albania.

Interesting Facts:

  • Pavlova Strana is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Montenegro, dating back to the 15th century.

  • The Millenium Bridge in Podgorica is the longest cable-stayed bridge in the Balkans.

  • The National Museum of Montenegro houses a collection of artifacts dating back to the Stone Age.

  • Tamare is known for its traditional Albanian architecture and its delicious local cuisine.

Additional Information:

  • Recommended Gear: Road bike, cycling clothing, helmet, sunglasses, water bottles, and snacks.

Points of Interest:

  • Pavlova Strana

  • Ethnographic Museum

  • Podgorica

  • Millenium Bridge

  • Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ

  • National Museum of Montenegro

  • Tamare

Day 3: Tamare to Razem

Route Highlights:

  • Leqet e Hotit: Conquer the challenging Leqet e Hotit switchbacks.

  • Razem Ski Resort: Explore the historic Razem ski resort and enjoy its stunning views.

  • Mountain Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Albanian Alps.

Route Description:

Day 3 will take you on a challenging climb up Leqet e Hotit, a series of switchbacks outside of the town of Hot. This climb is a popular challenge for cyclists and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Once you reach the top of Leqet e Hotit, you will descend to the Razem ski resort. Razem is a historic ski resort that was once a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The resort is now closed, but it still offers beautiful scenery and opportunities for hiking and mountain biking.

Interesting Facts:

  • Leqet e Hotit is one of the most challenging climbs in Albania.

  • Razem ski resort was founded in 1962.

  • The highest peak in the Razem area is Maja e Jezercës, which is 2,694 meters (8,839 feet) tall.

  • Razem is home to a variety of wildlife, including wolves, bears, and wild boar.

Additional Information:

  • Distance: Approximately 41 miles

  • Travel Time: Approximately 3 hours

  • Elevation Gain: Approximately 5,500 feet

  • Recommended Gear: Road bike, cycling clothing, helmet, sunglasses, water bottles, and snacks.

Points of Interest:

  • Leqet e Hotit

  • Razem ski resort

  • Maja e Jezercës

  • Blue Eye Spring

Day 4: Razem to Pukë

Route Highlights:

  • Long-Distance Ride: Enjoy a challenging 59-mile ride through the Albanian countryside.

  • Zigzag Hairpin Road: Conquer the challenging zigzag hairpin road leading to Pukë.

  • Local Beer: Sample delicious homemade beer in the charming town of Pukë.

Route Description:

Day 4 will involve a long-distance ride from Razem to Pukë, covering approximately 59 miles. The route will take you through scenic countryside, offering breathtaking views of the Albanian Alps.

As you approach Pukë, you will encounter a challenging zigzag hairpin road. This climb is a popular challenge for cyclists and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

Once you reach Pukë, you can reward yourself with a well-deserved rest and enjoy the town's friendly atmosphere. Be sure to sample some of the delicious homemade beer that Pukë is famous for.

Additional Information:

  • Distance: Approximately 59 miles (95 kilometers)

  • Travel Time: Approximately 4-5 hours

  • Elevation Gain: Significant

  • Recommended Gear: Road bike, cycling clothing, helmet, sunglasses, water bottles, and snacks.

Points of Interest:

  • Pukë

  • Zigzag Hairpin Road

  • Albanian Alps

Day 5: Pukë to Kukës

Route Highlights:

  • Scenic Drive: Enjoy a scenic drive through the Albanian countryside.

  • Kukes Fortress: Visit the historic Kukes Fortress and learn about the region's history.

  • Natural Beauty: Admire the stunning natural beauty of the Albanian Alps.

Route Description:

Day 5 will involve a scenic drive from Pukë to Kukës. The route will take you through picturesque villages and past rolling hills. You will also have the opportunity to admire the stunning natural beauty of the Albanian Alps.

Once you reach Kukës, be sure to visit the historic Kukes Fortress. The fortress offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside. You can also learn about the region's history by visiting the Kukës Museum.

Interesting Facts:

  • The road between Pukë and Kukës is known for its winding curves and stunning scenery.

  • The Kukes Fortress was built in the 14th century.

  • The Kukës Museum houses a collection of artifacts dating back to the Bronze Age.

  • Kukës is the northernmost city in Albania.

Additional Information:

  • Distance: Approximately 30 miles (48 kilometers)

  • Travel Time: Approximately 1-2 hours

  • Recommended Gear: Comfortable clothing and shoes for walking.

Points of Interest:

  • Kukes Fortress

  • Kukës Museum

  • Albanian Alps

Day 6: Kukës to Peshkopi

Route Highlights:

  • Challenging Climb: Conquer the 6,100-foot elevation gain over 44 miles.

  • Mountain Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Albanian Alps.

  • Historic Town: Explore the charming town of Peshkopi.

Route Description:

Day 6 will involve a challenging climb from Kukës to Peshkopi. The route will take you through the Albanian Alps, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Be prepared for a physically demanding ride as you ascend to an elevation of over 6,100 feet.

Once you reach Peshkopi, you can relax and explore the charming town. Peshkopi is known for its traditional architecture and its delicious local cuisine.

Additional Information:

  • Distance: Approximately 44 miles (71 kilometers)

  • Travel Time: Approximately 3-4 hours

  • Elevation Gain: Approximately 6,100 feet

  • Recommended Gear: Road bike, cycling clothing, helmet, sunglasses, water bottles, and snacks.

Points of Interest:

  • Peshkopi

  • Albanian Alps

Day 7: Peshkopi to Ohrid, Macedonia

Route Highlights:

  • Cross-Border Ride: Cycle from Albania to Macedonia.

  • Lake Ohrid: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Lake Ohrid.

  • Historic Town: Discover the charming town of Ohrid with its ancient churches and monasteries.

Route Description:

Day 7 will take you on a cross-border ride from Peshkopi, Albania, to Ohrid, Macedonia. The route is approximately 57 miles with 3,100 feet of climbing. You will pass through scenic countryside and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Once you reach Ohrid, you can explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Lake Ohrid. The lake is known for its crystal-clear waters and its diverse ecosystem. Be sure to visit some of the ancient churches and monasteries located around the lake, such as St. Naum Monastery and St. Panteleimon Church.

Attractions in Ohrid:

  • Lake Ohrid: Enjoy swimming, boating, or fishing in this beautiful lake.

  • Ohrid Fortress: Visit the historic Ohrid Fortress and learn about the region's history.

  • St. Naum Monastery: Explore this 10th-century monastery located on the shores of Lake Ohrid.

  • St. Panteleimon Church: Admire the stunning frescoes inside this 13th-century church.

  • Samuil's Fortress: Visit the ruins of this ancient fortress overlooking the city of Ohrid.

Additional Information:

  • Distance: Approximately 57 miles (92 kilometers)

  • Travel Time: Approximately 3-4 hours

  • Elevation Gain: Approximately 3,100 feet

  • Recommended Gear: Road bike, cycling clothing, helmet, sunglasses, water bottles, and snacks.

Points of Interest:

  • Lake Ohrid

  • Ohrid Fortress

  • St. Naum Monastery

  • St. Panteleimon Church

  • Samuil's Fortress

Entrance Fees:

The entrance fees for some of the attractions in Ohrid are included in the tour price. However, you may need to pay additional fees for activities such as boat tours or guided visits.

Day 8: Ohrid to Korçë

Route Highlights:

  • Lake Ohrid Shoreline: Enjoy scenic views of Lake Ohrid as you cycle along its shores.

  • Cross-Border Ride: Return to Albania from Macedonia.

  • Historic City: Explore the charming city of Korçë with its cultural attractions.

Route Description:

Day 8 will take you on a leisurely ride along the shores of Lake Ohrid before crossing back into Albania. The route is approximately 45 miles with 2,600 feet of climbing, providing a good opportunity to recover from the previous days' rides.

Once you reach Korçë, you can explore the city's cultural attractions. Korçë is known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture, as well as its vibrant arts scene. Be sure to visit the National Museum of Korçë and the Onufri Museum, which houses a collection of religious paintings.

Information about Korçë:

  • National Museum of Korçë: Learn about the history and culture of Korçë and the surrounding region.

  • Onufri Museum: Admire a collection of religious paintings by the famous Albanian artist Onufri.

  • Korçë Bazaar: Explore the lively bazaar and shop for local crafts and souvenirs.

  • Saint George Cathedral: Visit this beautiful 19th-century cathedral.

  • Lake Prespa: Take a day trip to Lake Prespa, a national park known for its diverse wildlife.

Additional Information:

  • Distance: Approximately 45 miles (72 kilometers)

  • Travel Time: Approximately 2-3 hours

  • Elevation Gain: Approximately 2,600 feet

  • Recommended Gear: Road bike, cycling clothing, helmet, sunglasses, water bottles, and snacks.

Day 9: Korçë to Permet

Route Highlights:

  • Long-Distance Ride: Cover 76 miles with 6,100 feet of climbing.

  • Hot Springs: Relax and rejuvenate at the hot springs near Permet.

  • Scenic Views: Enjoy stunning views of the Albanian mountains.

Route Description:

Day 9 will be a challenging but rewarding ride from Korçë to Permet. The route covers 76 miles with a significant elevation gain of 6,100 feet. You will encounter a variety of terrain, including rolling hills, mountains, and valleys.

Along the way, you will have the opportunity to stop at the hot springs near Permet. These thermal springs are known for their healing properties and offer a relaxing break from the cycling.

Additional Information:

  • Distance: 76 miles (122 kilometers)

  • Travel Time: Approximately 6-7 hours

  • Elevation Gain: 6,100 feet (1,860 meters)

  • Recommended Gear: Road bike, cycling clothing, helmet, sunglasses, water bottles, and snacks.

Points of Interest:

  • Hot springs near Permet

Day 10: Permet to Gjirokastër

Route Highlights:

  • Scenic Valley: Cycle through the picturesque valley between Tepelena and Këlcyrë.

  • Relatively Flat Ride: Enjoy a less challenging day with only 1,400 feet of climbing.

  • UNESCO World Heritage City: Explore the historic town of Gjirokastër.

  • Gjirokastër Castle: Visit the iconic Gjirokastër Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • National Ethnographic Museum: Discover the rich cultural heritage of Albania at the museum.

  • Traditional Cuisine: Savor the delicious qifteli, a traditional Albanian dish.

Route Description:

On your final day of cycling, you'll embark on a relatively flat ride through the scenic valley between Tepelena and Këlcyrë. This peaceful ride offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Your journey will culminate in Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage city renowned for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture. Explore the city's charming streets, admire its traditional stone houses, and immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere.

Must-See Attractions in Gjirokastër:

  • Gjirokastër Castle: Perched atop a hill, this imposing castle offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding valley. It's a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

  • National Ethnographic Museum: Housed in a beautifully restored Ottoman mansion, this museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of Albania through its extensive collection of artifacts.

  • Skenduli House: Step back in time and explore this 19th-century Ottoman mansion, which offers a glimpse into the lives of Albania's elite families.

  • Old Bazaar: Wander through the bustling Old Bazaar and discover a variety of local products, including handicrafts, souvenirs, and delicious street food.

  • Onufri Museum: Admire a collection of religious paintings by the renowned Albanian artist Onufri.

Traditional Albanian Cuisine:

Don't miss the opportunity to try qifteli, a traditional Albanian dish made with minced meat, onions, and spices. It's often served with bread and yogurt.

Additional Information:

  • Distance: Approximately 38 miles (61 kilometers)

  • Travel Time: Approximately 3-4 hours

  • Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,400 feet (427 meters)

  • Recommended Gear: Road bike, cycling clothing, helmet, sunglasses, water bottles, and snacks.

Points of Interest:

  • Gjirokastër Castle

  • National Ethnographic Museum

  • Skenduli House

  • Old Bazaar

  • Onufri Museum

Day 11


We bid you Farewell:

  • We drive you to Tirana Airport: until next time hopefully you come back soon!

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