Balkan gravel bike

Balkan bike trip

Balkan gravel bike

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2025 - This part 2 Transdinarca off-road ride follows the ancient San Egnatia GR that connects the Adriatic Sea with the Black Sea. Our traverse starts simultaneously with the prologue of the Italian Giro in Tirana. Near Elbasan, we experience the hospitality of local fishermen when we spend the night in a basic hut beside a retention reservoir, set within a scenic mountain panorama. Carrying our bikes on our shoulders near Pishkas Veri, we cross steep mountain trails washed away by heavy landslides. Most young people have fled this mountainous region, seeking easier income around Lake Ohrid, where tourists enjoy the beauty of the lake.

Upon entering Greece, one immediately notices the modern road infrastructure funded by the EU, as well as the vast, elongated fruit-tree plantations of apples, pears, and plums. Near Kozjak, we rinse our bodies using a “public” irrigation hose before entering the historic harbor of Thessaloniki.

HIGHLIGHTS ALONG THE TRIP

Tirana - Elbasan - Lake Ohrid - Edessa - Thessaloniki

BEST TIME

In this southern part of the Balkan, temperatures tempt to rise quicker. So early May or end of September seem a good moment to travers this area. Enjoy sunshine with 25°C. The mountrack rides require adapted clothing as where the Greek plains aks for sun screen protector 50+ . We only had 1 rainfall night.

CAMPING

We especially look for outdoor camping opportunities. We spottedwe abandoned houses and wooden hut to sleep in along the route. As you cycle through forrest and mountains regions, you will not meet that many people to bother your when setting up your bivvy. Along the way and in villages you can find public waterpoints.

SUPPLIES

You have to climb into the mountains to avoid the villages and settlements. So there's no need to stuff your bags with foor for more than 1 day. Cash is still king although supermarkets in cities do accept payments with phone or card.