Dinaric Cycling Route in Albania

6 days / 5 nights

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Cycle the Albanian part of the famous Trans Dinarica Cycle Route and discover all from the country’s northwest, to Lake Shkodër, to the capital of Tirana.

Starting point

Tamarë

Finish point

Elbasan

Season

From April to October

Fitness level

3/5

Tour type

Road / Gravel / E-bike

Choose your style

Timotej Bonifer
Timotej
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  • Enjoy the tranquility of the Albanian Alps in Tamarë
  • Cycle part of the famous Trans Dinarica Cycle Route connecting 8 Balkan countries
  • Discover the shores of Lake Shkoder, the largest lake in the Balkans
  • Enjoy the scenic open road between the canyons and flatlands
  • Experience the vibrant energy of Tirana, Albania’s capital
  • Discover the impressive Elbasan Castle from the 15th century

What’s included in the price?

Self-guided

5 nights in 3-star hotels with breakfast
Digital guidebook with detailed itinerary and route instructions
GPS navigation with an easy-to-use app
Tour design and organization
Service and support during your tour
Luggage transfer

NOT INCLUDED

Tourist tax

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

E-bike
Extra days
Gravel bike
Regular bike
Road bike

The Trans Dinarica is a long-distance cycling trail that connects eight countries of the Western Balkans, designed for adventure cyclists seeking a mix of rugged mountains, scenic valleys, historic towns, and cultural landmarks, showcasing the natural beauty and rich heritage of the Dinaric region.

The Albanian section of the route offers a diverse journey, starting in the rugged mountains of Tamarë, where the dramatic landscapes of the Accursed Mountains reveal deep valleys, towering peaks, and traditional stone villages. 

As you head further south, the scenery opens into wide river plains, descending to Shkodër, home to Lake Shkodër, the largest lake in the Balkans. Overlooking the city, the impressive Rozafa Castle is perched on a hill at the confluence of three rivers, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and Lake Shkodër.

The Trans Dinarica Trail stretches even further south, through Laç and Elbasan, even passing Albania’s vibrant capital Tirana

The city offers lively streets to explore, with highlights such as Skanderbeg Square, the heart of the city, surrounded by historical buildings like the Et'hem Bey Mosque and the National History Museum with its iconic mosaic façade

Our carefully planned tour ensures a hassle-free experience, complete with a digital guidebook featuring recommendations and GPS tracks to keep you on course. 

All your accommodations are pre-booked, while we provide convenient luggage transfers. If you ever need assistance, our round-the-clock support team is just a phone call away.

This journey seamlessly blends Albania’s natural beauty, rich history, and cultural diversity, making it an unforgettable cycling adventure.

Map

Frequently Asked Questions

Albania is a safe destination for travelers. Whether you're traveling with children, a loved one, or on your own, including as a solo female traveler, you can explore without major safety concerns, much like in other secure countries. Health risks, crime, and terrorist threats are low, even in larger cities. Albanians are especially known for their exceptional hospitality, making visitors feel welcome and at home.

Albania’s official currency is the Albanian Lek (LEK). While many hotels, restaurants, and shops also accept euros (EUR), using the local currency is the most convenient option. Card payments are not widely accepted, especially in rural areas, so it is best to carry enough cash for your travels.

Stray dogs are common in Albania, especially in rural areas, and cyclists may encounter them along their routes. However, they are not dangerous and are accustomed to being around people. If you come across a dog on the road while cycling, simply slow down and make a gentle noise signal as it is usually enough for the dog to move aside. 

Google Maps is not always reliable in Albania’s countryside, as many rural areas are not well-mapped. However, there’s no need to worry as we provide you with a detailed GPS map, ensuring you can easily follow your trail and navigate with confidence.

Public transportation in Albania is limited, particularly when it comes to the railway network. However, we are here to assist you in finding the best travel options, including private transfers when needed, ensuring a smooth and convenient journey.

Self-guided cycling tours provide a personalized and flexible approach to cycling holidays. You can explore at your own pace and adapt your route or schedule as you see fit. Our team arranges all details, such as logistics, accommodations, detailed itineraries, GPS routes, and 24/7 support. Thus, you can enjoy a stress-free, immersive experience that offers independence, customization, and authentic encounters with local culture.

Our tours are rated on a difficulty scale from 1 to 5 to help you choose the right adventure:

1/5 – Short daily distances of approximately 30 km. Easy, flat terrain suitable for everyone, including those with no prior sports experience.

2/5 – Daily distances of up to 40 km. Some light uphill sections, up to 200 m, but not every day. Suitable for anyone in good health.

3/5 – Daily distances around 50 km. Daily altitude gains of up to 500 m. On days with less altitude, distances may be longer. Ideal for recreational cyclists in good physical condition.

4/5 – Daily distances of 60 km or more. Daily altitude gains of 400 m or more, with some stages reaching up to 1000 m. Designed for well-prepared amateur cyclists who are comfortable with uphill riding.

5/5 – Challenging stages with steep climbs and long distances. Suitable for experienced road cyclists seeking a demanding adventure along with breathtaking scenery.

We continuously strive to find the perfect fit for you. We work with multiple accommodation providers that meet our standards, but their availability can vary, especially during peak season. We can also tailor your holiday according to your preferences and budget, ensuring we find the most suitable solution for your taste.

Ratings & Reviews

Google Reviews

5.0 average rating

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Greg Martin

Verifed customer · 9 months ago

Great holiday. Really easy to follow routes, good choice of hotels and the en route places to eat and visit was really helpful. Super responsive to questions during my holiday. Would definitely use them again.

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Mitch Taylor's profile photo

Mitch Taylor

Verifed customer · 7 months ago

SHONA Goaman's profile photo

SHONA Goaman

Verifed customer · 8 months ago

Well organised, great route and lovely hotels.

Sp/f Martin Mørk's profile photo

Sp/f Martin Mørk

Verifed customer · 8 months ago

Karen Bergman's profile photo

Karen Bergman

Verifed customer · 10 months ago

I thoroughly enjoyed this trip! The guides were professional and provided excellent leadership. They clearly know this country and the best cycling routes. I would definitely do another trip with them.

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Amy Berger

Verifed customer · 2 years ago

Great trip! Klemen set up our trip perfectly. When we needed him he was there. The hotels were excellent. The biking a blast. We did a 5 day self guided tour. Do it!!

All available guidance options

Self-guided

Those who like good adventure and limitless flexibility should go on a self-guided cycling holiday. It offers complete freedom, multiple detour opportunities, and exploration at your own pace without having to adapt to a group.

HANDPICKED ADVENTURES

HANDPICKED ADVENTURES

Only the best adventures across the world, cherry-picked by our team with an in-depth knowledge of the regions.

SELF-GUIDED TRAVEL

SELF-GUIDED TRAVEL

Explore independently and with confidence while we keep everything running from behind the scenes.

VALUE YOUR TIME

VALUE YOUR TIME

With everything on your plate, let us handle the vacation planning, so your valuable time stays exactly where you need it.

TRUSTED BY MANY

TRUSTED BY MANY

We are a financially protected company operating since 2014, and with thousands of satisfied customers in the past, we still put you first.

from 650 € /person
Explore Albania’s undiscovered beauty by bike, from the rugged Dinaric Alps to the Adriatic and Ionian coastlines, and experience authentic Balkan hospitality.

Have qustions? Talk to us.

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