Ionian Ascents

Albania, North Macedonia and Greece meet in a region once known as Epyrus, where the lakes are among Europe’s deepest, the mountains soar above the rushing rivers, and the Ionian Sea gleams like an opal in the golden sun. Challenging and exhilarating roads wind seamlessly through these diverse landscapes, bringing us to the essence of the land and its people. Civilizations from prehistory and onward to the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans and Ottomans have thrived here. These layered influences come through in the traditional food, wine, arts, and architecture of Kastoria, Përmet, Gjirokastër, Sarandë and other destinations that will greet us amid the remarkable . rides. This is a sublime road cycling adventure where every day brings us to inspiring new heights!

Meet your guide in Tirana, the scenic and lively capital of Albania, for a welcome dinner in the city centre. The next morning, cycle into North Macedonia on a ridgetop frontier road to Peshkopi. We reach the shores of Lake Ohrid, whose depths hold hundreds of unique species. After staying the night beside this natural wonder, we ride across Galičica Mountain to Lake Prespa and then on to Kastoria, Greece, for a magical evening in this city perched on a promontory above Lake Orestiada. Switch to riverside riding with a steady climb before a push to the summit of Nea Kotili at +1450 m above sea level. A fantastic descent brings us into Konitsa, a historic town that is a microcosm of the region's diverse influences and warm hospitality. Crossing once more into Albania, we will reach the thermal waters of Benje and later Përmet, the perfect place to browse artisanal products and try local wine and raki. Gjirokastër’s Ottoman architecture next provides a counterpoint to the pristine beauty of the Syri i Kaltër natural park, and we spend a night in the vibrant port of Sarandë. The final ride takes us high above the stunning bays and cliffsides of the Ionian Coast, culminating in the Llogara Pass with views over the sea 1000 m below. We will celebrate with a final dinner in the ancient city of Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a fitting culmination to this extraordinary cycling journey!

Join us on this 9-day road cycling tour and unlock timeless, enchanting beauty in one of Europe's best-kept secrets!