Albania holidays

In rural northern Albania, snow shoeing is used by farmers to get around their land in winter. But wait until the snow melts for your travels, and you'll cover more ground. The Albanian Alps feature some of Europe’s least-visited landscapes and there is only one way to discover them: on foot. In Theth National Park you can follow a valley between dramatic mountain peaks, and discover a stone “lock-in tower” which was once used to protect those involved in generations-long intra-family disputes. There are natural wonders here too, including waterfalls and the “Blue Eye of Kapre”, a stunning turquoise pool with its own waterfall – perfect for a dip. Along the way, you’ll meet friendly villagers, horses and carts, and your luggage can be transported by horse. You’ll learn about life in this isolated region, once characterised by feuds and fortresses – but now a peaceful winter wonderland of beech and pine forests and incredible rural hospitality.

Cycling holidays in Albania take you from remote mountain ranges, past beautiful Ottoman towns, through picturesque villages and down to the Albanian Riviera, where you can sooth your pedal-weary calves with a dip in the Ionian Sea.

Guided, small group cycling holidays cover adventurous routes – high mountain passes, meadow-covered plateaus and isolated hamlets that see few tourists. Cycling along lush valleys and past idyllic waterfalls takes you away from big roads and big crowds – into places where traditional dress is still worn, guesthouse owners welcome you like long-lost friends and food is grown just a few metres from where it is served. Daily distances average 45-70km, so you can cover some serious ground, though e-bike hire is sometimes offered too, and there is a support vehicle to transport luggage. You can always hop in if the going gets tough.

Cycling is most enjoyable in April-June or in September, either side of the searing summer months, and away from the coastal crowds of July and August.