Southern Albania

Arrival in Tirana, with the rest of the day and evening free to explore the city.

The day begins with a pick-up at 08:00 and a three-hour transfer to Grabovica in the Korça region. Once the bikes are adjusted to your fit, you start your scenic ride through a beautiful agricultural landscape. Horse-drawn carts are a common sight here, and friendly locals wave as you cycle past. The route offers a mix of easy terrain and picturesque countryside views, leading you to Korça – a city rich in culture and history, beautifully set at the foot of the Morava Mountains.

Upon arrival in Korça, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before checking in at your hotel in the charming old bazaar. The afternoon is free to visit the renowned Museum of Medieval Art, stroll along the lively boulevards, or simply soak in the city’s unique atmosphere. End the day with a traditional dinner accompanied by Korça’s famous live serenades – an unforgettable taste of local culture.

73 km, +525 m / -600 m

Leave the Korça Plateau behind and embark on one of the trip’s most challenging yet rewarding stages. The day begins with a steady climb to the Bramash Pass (1,159 m), followed by one of Albania’s most spectacular roads. You’ll cycle through the Kolonja Highlands, pass near the Greek border by the impressive Gramos Mountains (2,523 m), and admire the wildflowers in Germenj-Shelegur Park.

After passing the peaceful town of Erseka, the road becomes more challenging but quieter, with fewer cars, shaded forests, and refreshing mountain springs. A final climb of just under 200 meters leads you to Sotira Farm, a tranquil oasis surrounded by mountains.

76 km, +1,270 m / -1,145 m

After a hearty breakfast at the farm, the journey continues toward Leskovik, where you’ll enjoy a scenic descent bringing you closer to the Vjosa River – Europe’s last wild river. As you cycle through the valley, a dramatic landscape unfolds, framed by towering mountains and lush greenery along the route.

Upon arrival in the village of Bënjë, you can relax in the healing thermal springs, renowned for their soothing waters and tranquil setting – the perfect spot to unwind after the day’s ride.

Later, a comfortable transfer takes you to the UNESCO-listed town of Gjirokastër, where you’ll check in at a charming hotel in the heart of the old town. Gjirokastër offers a rich cultural experience with its unique blend of Ottoman and Albanian heritage – a perfect ending to a memorable day.

64 km, +650 m / -1,300 m

After breakfast, the bicycles are loaded onto the support vehicle, and you take a short transfer to the Muzina Pass. From there, an exciting downhill ride awaits toward the Ionian coast. Along the way, you stop at the “Blue Eye,” a fascinating karst spring surrounded by lush, jungle-like nature. After about 8 kilometers of winding downhill cycling, the road levels out, and you follow the Bistrica River for 15 kilometers.

The journey continues along quiet country roads with views of the lake and citrus groves, reaching Butrint. Here, you take a rustic ferry across the narrow channel to visit the UNESCO-listed ancient city. Explore its fascinating ruins from Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman times.

Afterwards, enjoy a delicious fish and seafood lunch in Ksamil, where there is also an opportunity to take a swim and visit the nearby islands. The day’s stage concludes with 17 kilometers of cycling to your hotel by the sea in Saranda—a perfect place to relax after an eventful day.

67 km +375 m -925 m

Start the day by leaving the coast and tackling a challenging climb up to the villages of Nivica and Shen Vasil – the most demanding part of today’s stage. Once you reach the top, you are rewarded with a ride offering magnificent views of the Ionian Sea, often visible to your left.

The journey along the Albanian Riviera takes you through dramatic landscapes with sparkling beaches on one side and rugged coastal mountains on the other. The road winds through charming villages, olive groves, and citrus plantations before reaching Porto Palermo, known for its submarine pens and the historic Ali Pasha Castle. Here you stop for lunch and can take a short walk to the castle to enjoy the spectacular coastal views.

In the afternoon, you arrive in Himare, where there is an opportunity to relax on the stone beach opposite the hotel.

52 km +1065 m -1065 m

After breakfast, prepare for one of the most impressive climbs along Albania’s coast. The road winds up the mighty slopes of the Llogara Pass, offering breathtaking views along the way. Just before reaching the pass’s highest point, you can stop at a viewpoint to admire the stunning panorama of the Ionian coast.

After the challenging climb, a thrilling descent awaits down to the valley, where you reach the coastal village of Radhime. From here, a transfer takes you onward to your accommodation in Tirana.

Alternatively, if you prefer a more relaxed day, you can choose to skip the cycling and spend the day on the beach in Himare. A transfer then departs at 3:00 PM.

In the evening, enjoy a well-deserved dinner and a glass of wine in Tirana’s vibrant city center, reflecting on your amazing journey through southern Albania.

62 km +1550 m -1550 m

At EverTrek, we hope you’ve had a fantastic journey!

See you again.