Cycle The Balkans

Welcome to Dubrovnik, one of Dalmatia's most famous and culturally significant cities. You can take a relaxing day off and stroll along the Old Town, a UNESCO Site renowned for its well-preserved medieval city walls. You can visit landmarks like Rector’s Palace and Sponza Palace and relax by the crystal-clear waters at Banje Beach of the Adriatic Sea.

Your first day will start with an ascent over the border to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Leaving Dubrovnik, you will get a nice panoramic view of its hinterland with the Adriatic Sea. The short stage will end in Trebinje, nestled along the banks of the Trebišnjica River, known for its impressive Arslanagić Bridge. Another highlight is the Hercegovacka Gračanica Monastery, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Herzegovinian hills.

Today’s journey will take you along the Konvale Valley, passing its charming villages. The route will become even more scenic when approaching the coast. Upon entering Montenegro, the stage will end in Herceg Novi, where the final stretch will take you along an old railway track that once linked the town with Dubrovnik and Trebinje.

You will start the journey by keeping along the old railway, leading you past the stunning highlights of the Bay of Kotor. You will pass through Risan and Perast, known as the "pearls of the bay." You can explore the picturesque town of Perast and visit its beautiful church islands by shuttle boat. Before wrapping up for the day, you will continue along the shoreline to the charming Kotor. 

Today's cycling journey is a short but scenic one. You will depart from Kotor, passing through picturesque villages on your way to Budva, a vibrant coastal town famed for its beautiful beaches and lively nightlife. You can discover the charm of the Old Town, with its narrow stone streets and medieval walls, and unwind at the stunning Mogren Beach. You will have plenty of time to explore and relax. 

Ancient olive groves will accompany you today. The route will lead you along a scenic side road above the Adriatic to Bar, known as the olive oil capital of Montenegro. The town’s ancient fortress will offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and sea. Another standout is the Olive Tree of Mirovica, believed to be over 2000 years old, making it one of the oldest olive trees in the world.

You will ride to Albania today. Along the way, you can consider stopping at Lake Šas, often called the "small Shkodër Lake" for its rich wildlife and picturesque scenery. Your journey’s highlight, however, is the magnificent Lake Shkodër itself, the largest lake in the Balkans, and the vibrant town of Shkodër, nestled along its Albanian shore.

Crossing borders is truly a daily task on this tour. After cycling along the eastern shores of Lake Shkodër, you will leave Albania and re-enter the hilly terrain of Montenegro, reaching its capital of Podgorica. Its stunning Millennium Bridge is an iconic modern landmark spanning the Morača River, offering scenic views of the city’s blend of contemporary architecture and natural beauty.

You will conclude your adventure in Podgorica, where you can immerse yourself in the city’s cultural charm by exploring the historic Old Town and its iconic Clock Tower. For a refreshing touch of nature, you can head to the serene Gorica Hill Park, offering scenic trails and sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape.