Albania North to South
Ride Albania’s mountains, lakes and Riviera on a 14-day adventure from Tirana to the Ionian Sea, blending epic scenery, culture and quiet roads.
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Key Places
- Essential Info
- Accommodation
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E-bike Option
9 Day Tour
From: £1495
Albania Cycling Holiday
Albania is one of Europe’s most exciting emerging cycling destinations, offering quiet roads, dramatic landscapes and a Mediterranean climate with outstanding sunshine. Rich history, warm hospitality and excellent cuisine add depth to every ride. The Redspokes 9-day Classic Albania holiday begins in Tirana, cycling from Lake Ohrid through Korçë and the Gramoz Mountains, before reaching Gjirokastër and the Ionian coast. The tour ends in Orikum, with a transfer back to Tirana.
Gjirokaster
Historic Gjirokaster the ‘City of Stone’, is a well preserved Ottoman town and one of Albania’s three UNESCO World Heritage sites. Built by farmers of a large estate, it is located between the Gjerë Mountains, perched on the steep side of the Drino valley, overlooking a landscape framed by snow-capped mountains. With steep cobbled streets, the city comprises hundreds of Ottoman-style tower houses with distinctive stone roofs, wooden balconies and whitewashed stone walls. Gjirokastër is the birthplace of former Albanian communist leader Enver Hoxha and renowned writer Ismail Kadare.
Towering over the town is Gjirokastër Fortress a vast castle, the second largest in the Balkans. Within the castle is an armaments museum of mostly post-war era weapons, photographs. There are numerous other chambers, some in ruins, open to exploration. Underneath the castle is the recently discovered underground bunker built in the Cold War. There is Artisan centre located nearby where you can buy many souvenirs and traditional crafts
Also in the city are the Seven Fountains, the Mechite Mosque Remains, and the Hamams public bath, with a distinctive cone shaped roof. The Meçite Hamam is one of 10 ancient public baths preserved in Albania. The fountains and the exterior of the Hamams have been recently restored.
Sarandë
Sarande, Saranda or Sarandë in southern Albania is one of the key tourist destinations on the Albanian Riviera. It is situated on the Ionian Sea in the central Mediterranean about 14 km from Corfu. Overlooking Sarande is 16th C Lekursi Castle. There are excellent views of Corfu and the islands of Ksamil from the castle which was built because the vantage point was ideal for protecting the city from invaders who might have approached by sea.
Nearby are the remains of the ancient city of UNESCO World Heritage city Butrint. Butrint is one of several places in Albania which was closed to the general public during the Communist Era. The city was promoted as a tourist destination for foreigners to visit, but Albanian citizens were not allowed there due to fears that they would try to escape by swimming the short distance to Greece. Within Butrint are remains from most major empires of the area, including Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman ruins. It includes a Greek amphitheatre (later remodelled by the Romans), a baptistery, a cathedral, the lion’s gate, and a museum.
Tirana
Tirana was founded in the 17th C by a feudal lord, the city’s beginnings were modest: a mosque, a bakery and a hamam (Turkish bath). Tirana became the permanent capital of Albania in 1925.
Albania was for 50 years an isolated nation under communist rule. The city’s elegant boulevards are rich with Ottoman, Italian and communist influences – from architecture to street art.
Today a third of Albanians live in the capital and the average age is 30 years. English and Italian are common second languages. Tirana is a vibrant mix of enterprise, history, bustle and progress; the small city centre is easy to navigate. For nightlife and eating out head to “The Block” (Blloku); in the past this was the area where communist leaders lived under strict protection. Sites of interest include Skanderbeg Square’s 1789 Et’hem Bey Mosque, the 1830 Sahat-Kulla (Clock Tower), the Puppet Theatre, once home to King Zog’s puppet parliament and the Peace Bell made from old cartridge shells, remembering Tirana’s tempestuous history.
You can take a cable car to Mount Dajti for panoramic views of the city.
Itinerary
Day 1: Tirana
redspokes Albania classic cycling tour begins in Tirana. You will be met on arrival and transferred to your joining hotel. Tirana’s small centre is easy to navigate. There are free walking tours that you can join if you’d like to be guided around. Sites of interest include Skanderbeg Square’s 1789 Et’hem Bey Mosque, the 1830 Sahat-Kulla (Clock Tower), the Puppet Theatre, once home to King Zog’s puppet parliament and the Peace Bell made from old cartridge shells, remembering Tirana’s tempestuous history. There are many restaurants and bars in “The Block” (Bloku) the area where communist leaders once lived under strict protection. This evening we will have a group meeting and tour briefing.
Accommodation: Hotel (D)
Day 2: Tirana – Pogradec – Korçë
This morning we will transfer by vehicle to Pogradec. In 1980, the town was declared a UNESCO world heritage site. Located on the shores of Lake Ohrid, in the past the town has compared less favourably to its Macedonian neighbours on the far side of the water. Lately Pogradec has been enjoying a renaissance. The surrounding area is rich in historic culture and unique flora and fauna.
We set out on the bikes cycling northward along the shores of Lake Ohrid. The first 10km are relatively flat, followed by 15km cycling uphill as we head away from the water up to the mountain plateau. Heavily wooded and populated by many species this is a beautiful area and we’ll enjoy stunning views. We head downhill through a gorge for the next 15km towards Lake Prespa. From here we follow wide open road cutting a path through farmland and small holdings south west to Korcë. The route gently undulates for 20km before a final flat stretch. Korçë has Illyrian and Ottoman historical roots, close to the border with Greece this is Albania’s cultural capital, with a traditional bazaar and a museum of medieval art.
Cycling Distance: 90km (56 miles)
Total Climb: 1,575m (5,167ft)
Total Descent: 1,398m (4,586ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)
Day 3: Korçë to Farma Sotira
Heading into the mountains the landscape changes from an agricultural collage of fields into rocky mountainside scattered with forget me nots and other wildflowers and the odd shepherd’s hut here and there. We climb the Gramoz Mountains, with a view of snow-capped peaks in the distance, cycling over the Bramash pass. We then ride down into the valley beyond to reach the remote and beautiful Farma Sotira. Located on the edge of Tomorre mountain national park, our stop for the night is an organic farm hotel where we will sample the produce at dinner this evening.
Cycling Distance: 72.5km (48 miles)
Total Climb: 1,273m (4,176ft)
Total Descent: 1,147m (3,763ft)
Accommodation: Cabins (B,L,D)
Day 4: Farma Sotira to Përmet
The day begins with an uphill cycle away from Farma Sotira as our cycle tour continues through dramatic mountain scenery onto the verdant plateau. We then descend on a steep ravine road to the River Vjosa; the pathway, which was originally created by waterfalls, bends and curves extravagantly down into wide open valley where animals graze. The Vjosa is one of Europe’s last existing wild rivers. Along its entire course, it is free flowing and in some areas the riverbed expands over more than 2 km. Sadly, it is under threat from hydropower development although protest groups are campaigning for the area to be given national park status.
We continue cycling uphill on a tiny road cut into the mountainside up to Përmet, a town perched on the cliff high above the river. Përmet is famed for its cuisine, especially sweets, ‘gliko’ (preserves) and its wine and strong raki. Named the “city of roses” it is said to be the greenest and the cleanest town in Albania. Përmet is also famous for folk music. We cycle on a little further to nearby Benje where there are popular thermal springs – a perfect antidote for tired cyclists’ legs.
Cycling Distance: 59km (37 miles)
Total Climb: 675m (2,215ft)
Total Descent: 1,425 (4,675ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)
Day 5: Përmet to Gjirokaster
Today we continue along Kelcyra valley through scenery of peaks and gorges, cutting westward through a gap in the mountains. We reach a wide plain; high above us sits the majestic Gjirokaster (known as the Stone City because of the many roofs covered with flat stones). Built by wealthy landowners, Gjirokaster is a beautifully preserved Ottoman town with steep cobbled streets. The town has UNESCO world heritage status. Gjirokaster Castle, at the heart of the town, dates all the way back to the 4th century. The fortress overlooks the plateau, and route along the river valley with an imposing presence. The town is the birthplace of Albania’s former communist leader: Enver Hoxha.
Cycling Distance: 71.2km (38miles)
Total Climb: 409m (1,341ft)
Total Descent: 454m (1,489ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)
Day 6: Gjirokaster to Sarande
We head west today up over a 700m pass in the mountains followed by a twisting descent down onto the coastal plain. We pass villages, farms and roadside fruit vendors. There are more concrete bunkers dotted in the hillsides. Sarande is described as the gateway to southern Albania, nestled between the mountains and the Ionian coast. The city is close to the ancient remains of Butrint, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Butrint is one of the county’s most important archaeological sites, tracing its origins back to the Greeks and the Romans.
We can relax this evening and enjoy panoramic Mediterranean views in this lovely coastal resort
Cycling Distance: 96.5km (60miles)
Total Climb: 1,035m (3,396ft)
Total Descent: 1,315m (4,314ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L)
Day 7: Sarande to Himarë
Our tour continues with a coastal cycling route northward towards the resort of Himarë. The day begins with a steep climb we continue cycling a series of climbs and descents with views of mountains and stunning sea views. Himarë is a popular beach side town stretching along white sanded shore line. Terraced hills where olives and citrus trees grow reach down to the sea.
Cycling Distance: 52km (32 miles)
Total Climb: 1,075m (3,527ft)
Total Descent: 1,080m (3,543ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)
Day 8: Himarë to Orikum to Tirana
Our final day’s cycling takes further north to Orikum. We climb up to the famous Llogara Pass (Qafa e Llogarasë), a spectacular winding road, rising up to 1,043m with spectacular views of the Albanian Riviera and pine forested hillsides. This is the highest point on the main coastal road between Vlore and Sarande. Down over the pass we cycle one hairpin bend after another in the Dukatit valley. Towards the end of today’s ride we re-join coastal road with views of gravel beaches and lovely clear blue seas. Late this afternoon we will transfer to Tirana and this evening we will celebrate the end of our Albanian cycling tour with a farewell meal.
Cycling Distance: 55.4km (34 miles)
Total Climb: 1,603m (5,259ft)
Total Descent: 1,574m (5,164ft)
Accommodation: Hotel (B,L,D)
Day 9
The tour ends this morning. We will arrange a transfer to Tirana Airport for your journey home.
Essential Info
Tour Status & Booking Conditions
- Each tour requires a minimum number of participants to run
- Tour status updates automatically as bookings are received
- Do not book flights until the tour status is marked Guaranteed
Tour Status Definitions
- Guaranteed – Tour is confirmed and open for booking
- Guaranteed – Limited – Confirmed, with limited spaces remaining
- Available – 2 More to Guarantee – Needs two more bookings to confirm
- Available – Open for booking but not yet confirmed
- Contact – Please get in touch to discuss availability
- Fully Booked – No places remaining
Booking & Payments
- A £350 deposit confirms your place on the tour
- Deposits are refundable until the tour becomes Guaranteed
- Final balance is due 56 days before the tour start date
- By booking, you agree to our booking conditions (please read in full)
Small Group Note
For groups of fewer than four participants, the guide may lead from the support vehicle rather than cycling with the group, ensuring full logistical and guiding support.
What’s included
Fully supported cycling holiday
- Support vehicle for luggage transport and rider assistance
- Accommodation throughout the tour (twin share unless stated)
- Most meals (see itinerary using the BLD key below)
- Snacks and mineral water on cycling days
- Airport transfers on the first and last day of the tour
- English-speaking local guide(s)
- Mechanical assistance for minor bike repairs
Meal Key (used in the itinerary)
- B = Breakfast
- L = Lunch
- D = Dinner
- Example: B, L means breakfast and lunch are included that day.
- Special dietary requirements can usually be catered for with advance notice. Please advise us at the time of booking.
What’s not included
- International flights
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Visa fees (if applicable)
- Alcoholic drinks
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Tips for guides and support staff
- Bike hire
- Single room supplements
Getting there and away
Tour Start
- Start location: Tirana
- Airport transfers included on the tour start date, regardless of arrival time
- Early arrivals may need to wait for hotel check-in (subject to availability)
Tour End
- End location: Tirana
- Airport transfers included if departing on the final tour day
- Extra nights and transfers can be arranged at additional cost
Flights
- International flights are not included
- We are happy to advise on suitable arrival and departure airports
Accommodation
We choose accommodation based on comfort rather than luxury. Our prices are based on sharing a twin room. Should you wish to have a room to yourself there is a single supplement option on most of our tours.
Most of the accommodation for this trip is in hotels although there is one night spent in a cabin on an organic farm where we will sample the produce at dinner that evening. Due to the layout of the cabins some of these have shared bathroom facilities. Hotels will have en-suite facilities and air conditioning.
Eating & Drinking (Special diets)
Meals on Tour
Most meals are included in your tour price, except on rest days and a few other occasions.
Please check the itinerary for all meals provided.
Dietary Requirements
If you have any special dietary needs, please let us know at the time of booking.
We can cater for most diets, but advance notice is essential to ensure the best experience.
Taste of Albania
Albanian cuisine offers a delicious mix of Mediterranean flavours using fresh, local ingredients.
Expect hearty, traditional meals, often featuring lamb or goat.
Local Specialities:
- Byrek – Flaky pastry filled with minced meat, vegetables, eggs & cheese
- Tavë Kosi – Baked mutton with yogurt and eggs
- Tavë Korani – Lake Ohrid trout with nuts, onions & sauce
- Pasha Qofte – Soup with meatballs, rice & eggs
- Skënderbeg Cognac – Albania’s famous local brandy
- Raki – A traditional fruit brandy made from grapes, plums, mulberries or walnuts
Cycling Support
Support Vehicle
- A support vehicle accompanies the group throughout the tour
- Transports main luggage between overnight stops
- Available for rest breaks or if you need a lift
- Typically stops every 20 km / 12 miles
On-Ride Support
- Guides carry tools for minor repairs
- You only need a small daypack while riding
Helmet Policy
- Helmets are mandatory while cycling
- Helmet hire cannot be guaranteed locally
- You must bring your own helmet
Bike Hire
For this tour we have Hybrid Giant Roam standard and e-bikes in a range of sizes.
What’s Included with Bike Hire
- Standard flat pedals
- Basic spares and mechanical support
Customising Your Bike
- You may bring your own pedals (SPD / clip-in)
- You may bring your own saddle if preferred
- Our guide will help fit pedals and saddles on arrival
Can I Bring My Own Bike?
The Albania tour is suitable for most types of bikes – road, hybrid, gravel, or mountain – as long as they are robust and well-maintained.
Carbon wheels are not recommended due to rough terrain and the remoteness of the route in case of repair needed.
Pre-trip bike servicing
We strongly recommend having your bike fully serviced before travelling. Please make sure:
- All bearings are properly greased
- Wheel spokes are correctly tensioned
- Gear and brake cables are functioning well
- All nuts and bolts are tightened securely
- Chain, tyres and quick-release clamps are checked
- New inner tubes are installed
- Wheel rims are not excessively worn
- If you are unsure, ask your local bike shop to carry out a pre-tour inspection.
What to bring
We recommend packing the following essential items:
- Multi-tool
- Tyre levers
- Pump
- Spare inner tubes
- Spare spokes
- Chain links or quick links
- Spare brake pads (ensure compatibility with disc or rim brakes)
- Any specialist tools, fluids or parts specific to your bike, such as a bleed kit.
Travelling with your bike
Your bike will need to be packed within your luggage allowance. A bike packed in a cardboard box typically weighs between 15–20 kg, and some airlines may charge excess baggage fees.
If you would prefer not to travel with your own bike, bike hire is available — simply request this when booking.
Money, Currency and Tipping
Currency
The local currency in Albania is the Albanian Lek (ALL). It is a closed currency and only available when you arrive in the country. You will need Lek for all purchases—foreign currencies are not accepted.
ATMs are widely available but may charge withdrawal fees
We recommend bringing:
- Around £200 / $270 in your local currency for exchange
- A Visa or Mastercard debit/credit card for ATM withdrawals and backup
- USD, Euros, or GBP – these are easiest to exchange in Albania
Where to Exchange
- ATMs and currency exchange desks are available at Tirana Airport
- Exchange a small amount on arrival for taxis or snacks (airport rates are less competitive)
- Better rates are usually found in city exchange offices or local ATMs
- Your redspokes guide will help you find the best exchange options and cash machines during the tour
Spending Money
- How much you spend depends on personal preferences, but £200 / $270 is usually more than enough for meals, drinks, and extras on this tour.
- Albania is very affordable, especially outside of the capital and coastal tourist areas.
Tipping
- Tipping is customary and appreciated for good service
- Suggested guideline: £60-£80/ $80-100 range per customer
- Tips are pooled and distributed by your guide at the end of the tour
Extra Costs & Optional Upgrades
- Bike hire or e-bike hire
- Single room supplement
- Extra nights before or after the tour
- Additional airport transfers
- Optional excursions or rest-day activities
Solo Travellers
- Solo travellers are very welcome
- Prices are based on twin-share accommodation
- We will pair solo travellers with someone of the same gender where possible
- Single rooms are usually available for an additional charge
Passport, Visa and Entry Requirements
- A valid passport is required
- Passport must usually be valid for at least 6 months after return
- Visa requirements vary by nationality and can change
- You are responsible for checking current entry requirements
- Government travel advice websites are the most reliable source
Health, Insurance and Vaccinations
Travel Insurance
Mandatory for all participants and must cover:
- Medical expenses and emergency evacuation
- Cycling and adventure activities
- Loss or damage to luggage and hired equipment
- Trip cancellation or curtailment
- Insurance should be taken out at the time of booking
Health & Vaccinations
- Consult your GP or travel clinic at least 8 weeks before departure
- Follow advice from official travel health authorities
Climate and hydration
Albania has a perfect Mediterranean climate with long hot summers and mild wet winters. Temperatures do vary between the coastal lowlands and the highlands but are predominately pleasant all year round.
Staying Hydrated on Hot Rides – 6 Tips for Cyclists
As a cycling company, we know how important proper hydration is—especially when you’re out riding in hot conditions. Below are some general hydration tips that riders find helpful for staying fuelled and feeling strong on the bike.
Please note: We are not medical professionals and this information should not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Each cyclist is different, so if you have specific health concerns or conditions, it is always best to consult your doctor and adhere to their advice.
1. Prioritize Gut Health
- Why it matters: A healthy gut boosts absorption of water and nutrients.
- How to do it: Feed your microbiome with probiotics (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut) and prebiotics (garlic, onions, bananas) to keep digestion and hydration strong.
2. Time Your Hydration
- Why it matters: When you drink can matter as much as how much.
- How to do it: Start the day with a big glass of water—add lemon or a pinch of sea salt for an extra boost.
3. Hydrate Beyond Water
- Why it matters: Water isn’t the only way to stay hydrated.
- How to do it: Include coconut water, bone broth, or other nutrient-rich drinks to hydrate and replace electrolytes—especially during long rides or after heavy sweating.
4. Don’t Forget the Minerals
- Why it matters: Minerals like sodium, calcium, and magnesium help retain water.
- How to do it: Eat mineral-rich foods such as salted nuts, seeds, and dairy—or take a quality mineral supplement if needed.
5. Absorb Water Better
- Why it matters: Drinking water too fast can flush out nutrients and reduce absorption.
- How to do it: Sip steadily throughout the day. Add a pinch of sea salt to your bottle and eat water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and pineapple.
6. Keep Your Electrolytes in Check
- Why it matters: Electrolytes regulate fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions.
- How to do it: Eat potassium- and magnesium-rich foods like bananas, avocados, and leafy greens. Add electrolyte tablets or sea salt to your water after intense sweat sessions.
Equipment & Packing List
Your packing list may vary depending on personal preference and seasonal weather. This guide is a general outline to help you prepare—please tailor it to your needs. A reminder that June, July and August can be very warm in Albania.
Essential Cycling Gear
- Cycling Helmet – Mandatory and to be worn at all times when cycling
- Sunglasses – For sun and wind protection
- Water bottles or CamelBak – Stay well-hydrated
- Fingerless Cycling Gloves – Comfort and grip
- Waterproof Jacket – Lightweight and breathable
- Padded Cycling Shorts – For long-distance comfort
- Cycling Shoes or Trekking Footwear
Clothing
- Trekking Shorts – Lightweight and breathable
- T-shirts and Long-Sleeved Shirts
- Long Trousers – For cooler evenings or sun protection
- Swimwear – For beach or pool days
- Fleece or Light Pullover – Evenings can be cool
- Sun Hat or Cap – Protection from the sun
- Buff or Scarf – Versatile and protective
- Lightweight Hiking Shoes or Trainers
Accessories
- Torch or Headlamp – With spare batteries
- Sunscreen & Lip Balm – High SPF recommended
- Insect Repellent – Essential for evenings
- Camera – To capture the journey
- Energy Bars / Gels – Quick fuel for the ride
- Recovery Drinks – Optional but useful for active days
Personal First Aid Kit
(Our guides carry a group kit, but we recommend bringing your preferences)
- Paracetamol / Ibuprofen (or whatever you prefer)
- Anti-diarrhoeal (eg. Imodium)
- Rehydration Salts (eg. Dioralyte)
- Antiseptic Cream / Wipes
- Throat Lozenges
- Plasters (Band-Aids)
- Nasal Spray & Eye Drops
- Earplugs
- Hand Sanitiser / Anti-bacterial Gel
Electricity Supply – Plug and socket types
Electricity in Albania runs at 230 volts with a frequency of 50hz. Plug and socket types C (two round pins) and F (two round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Country Profile
The Republic of Albania – Capital: Tirana
- Population 3.2 million
- Major language Albanian
- Major religions Islam, Christianity
- Life expectancy 74 years (men), 80 years (women)
- Currency: Lek
Cycle Tops & T-shirts
Our professional redspokes cycle tops are designed for both comfort and performance:
- Made with COOLMAX® fabric for moisture-wicking and all-day comfort
- Feature three rear elasticated pockets for your ride essentials
- Fitted with a silicone bottom hem to keep the jersey in place while riding
- Available in a range of sizes – please refer to our size chart for guidance
Perfect for your tour and beyond, these tops combine function with the redspokes style.
Accommodation
The Albania Classic tour offers a consistently comfortable standard of accommodation, combining modern city hotels, rural guesthouses and a memorable night in wooden cabins at Farma Sotira. Rooms are private and en-suite throughout, with reliable facilities and warm Albanian hospitality.
We begin and end in Tirana at the centrally located Sky 2 Hotel, before moving through a mix of clean, friendly provincial hotels in Korçë, Përmet, Gjirokaster, Sarandë and Himarë. The standout rural highlight is the peaceful cabin stay at Farma Sotira, set among forests and mountain pastures. Hotels along the route have been chosen for comfort, character and convenient access to each day’s ride, from lakeside Pogradec to the Ionian coast.
Across 8 nights, the tour includes:
- 7 nights in comfortable mid-range hotels (private rooms, en-suite)
- 1 night in rustic wooden cabins at an organic mountain farm
Expect:
- A comfortable and varied mix of city hotels, rural lodges and coastal stays
- One atmospheric farm-cabin night that adds charm without compromising comfort
Videos
Here are a selection of videos for our ‘Albania Classic’ Cycling holiday.
Dates & Prices
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