For cycling enthusiasts who crave adventure beyond Europe’s popular routes, Albania, Romania, and Montenegro offer unique landscapes, historic sites, and rugged terrain for memorable rides. These offbeat cycling destinations provide an authentic European cycling experience that combines natural beauty with cultural immersion. Here’s why each is a gem worth exploring, along with the best spots to cycle and the ideal times to visit.
1. Albania: A Blend of Mountains and Mediterranean Coast
Albania is quickly becoming a hotspot for adventure travellers. An Albania bike tour offers a mix of Mediterranean beaches, soaring mountains, and ancient towns. The country’s varied landscapes make it a hidden paradise for cyclists looking for scenic rides and uncharted trails.
Best Offbeat Cycling Destinations in Albania:
- The Albanian Riviera: Starting from the coastal town of Vlorë and heading south to Saranda, this route takes you along Albania’s stunning Adriatic coast. Cyclists will encounter sandy beaches, steep coastal cliffs, and charming villages like Himarë. The ride includes climbs through the Llogara Pass, offering panoramic views of the Ionian Sea.
The Albanian Riviera - Theth Valley and the Albanian Alps: For those seeking a mountain adventure, the Theth Valley in the Albanian Alps is a must. The trails are challenging, with rocky paths and steep climbs, but the landscapes are breathtaking. The remote village of Theth, nestled in a lush valley, is an ideal base for exploring the region’s rugged beauty.
- Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa: Located near the border with North Macedonia, this area offers scenic cycling routes around two stunning lakes. The region is dotted with ancient monasteries and quaint villages, providing plenty of cultural sights along the way.
Best Time to Visit Albania:
- April to June and September to October are the best months for cycling in Albania. The weather is mild and sunny, ideal for coastal and mountain routes, while the summer months (July and August) can be quite hot, particularly along the Riviera.
2. Romania: History and Scenic Routes in the Heart of Eastern Europe
Romania’s diverse landscapes, from the Carpathian Mountains to the Danube Delta, make it a fantastic destination for cyclists. The country is rich in history, folklore, and natural beauty, with routes that allow riders to explore everything from medieval castles to serene countryside. Therefore, a Romania bike tour is heaven for cycling lovers.
Best Places to Cycle in Romania:
- Transfăgărășan Highway: Dubbed one of the most scenic roads in the world, the Transfăgărășan Highway is a must for cyclists. This challenging route weaves through the Făgăraș Mountains, reaching heights of over 2,000 meters. Cyclists will encounter sharp turns, tunnels, and breathtaking views of glacial lakes and rugged peaks.
Transfăgărășan Highway - Maramureș Region: Known for its well-preserved traditional villages and wooden churches, Maramureș offers an immersive cultural experience. The cycling routes here are a mix of flat and hilly terrain, passing through lush meadows, forested hills, and historic sites. Riders can also explore the Merry Cemetery in Săpânța, known for its colorful tombstones.
- Danube Delta: For a different kind of cycling adventure, the Danube Delta provides unique trails through one of Europe’s most biodiverse regions. Cyclists can explore wetlands, spot diverse wildlife, and cycle through picturesque fishing villages. This route is ideal for nature lovers and those looking for flat, relaxed paths.
Best Time to Visit Romania:
- May to October is the ideal time to cycle in Romania. The late spring and early autumn months offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, perfect for exploring the Carpathians and the Transfăgărășan. July and August are warmer but still enjoyable, particularly in the Maramureș and Danube Delta regions.
3. Montenegro: Coastal Trails and Mountain Paths
Montenegro’s dramatic landscapes are packed into a small area, making it an ideal cycling destination. From its scenic Adriatic coastline to rugged mountain terrain, Montenegro offers an unforgettable cycling experience with a mix of natural beauty, historic towns, and secluded trails.
Best Places to Cycle in Montenegro:
- Bay of Kotor: One of Montenegro’s most iconic cycling routes is around the Bay of Kotor. The coastal road loops around this fjord-like bay, offering riders stunning views of the water and surrounding mountains. The medieval towns of Kotor and Perast are perfect stops to explore historic architecture and relax by the sea.
Bay of Kotor - Durmitor National Park: Known for its rugged mountains, glacial lakes, and deep canyons, Durmitor National Park is a fantastic destination for mountain biking. The trails here vary in difficulty, from scenic loops around Black Lake to challenging climbs with rewarding vistas of the Tara River Canyon.
- Lovćen National Park: For panoramic views of Montenegro’s coastline and mountains, the route up to Mount Lovćen is unmatched. Cyclists will face a steep climb but will be rewarded with sweeping views from the peak, including sights of Kotor Bay and the Adriatic Sea.
Best Time to Visit Montenegro:
- The best time for cycling in Montenegro is April to June and September to October. The weather is pleasant and less crowded during these months, making it ideal for both coastal and mountain routes. Summer (July and August) can be very hot along the coast, while higher altitudes remain comfortable.
Conclusion
For cyclists looking to escape the crowds and explore Europe’s lesser-known regions, Albania, Romania, and Montenegro offer incredible routes through breathtaking landscapes. Whether it’s Albania’s pristine coast, Romania’s historic mountain roads, or Montenegro’s dramatic fjords and peaks, these destinations are perfect for those seeking adventure and discovery. With the right timing, these cycling journeys promise not only challenging rides but also a glimpse into the unique cultures and natural beauty of Eastern Europe.
Editor’s Choice:
Another gorgeous location for cycling is The Chilterns. Check out The 5 Most Instagrammable Places In The Chilterns by the super photographer, Graham Custance.
