Some journeys are more than just a ride—they’re a test of endurance, a celebration of discovery, and a chance to reconnect with old friends. This September, we embarked on a month-long cycling adventure with a group of returning guests from Australia and New Zealand. These passionate cyclists, who’ve joined us on tours before, chose to tackle one of our most ambitious routes yet: a 1,700+ km journey from Tirana, Albania, to Ljubljana, Slovenia.
For 29 days, we rode through the Balkans’ wild and untamed beauty, conquering over 27,000 meters of elevation gain. This was not just a cycling trip—it was a deep dive into the region’s landscapes, history, and local flavors. Together, we navigated rugged mountains, hugged the dazzling Adriatic coastline, and explored the hidden gems of Montenegro, Bosnia, Croatia, and Slovenia.
This extraordinary journey started in Albania’s vibrant capital, Tirana, and wound through the heart of the Balkans before ending in the elegant streets of Ljubljana. Along the way, the group encountered a tapestry of stunning landscapes:
Beyond the physical challenges, this tour was a feast for the senses. In each country, the group experienced local culture through its cuisine—indulging in hearty Albanian stews, sipping Montenegro’s fiery rakija, savoring Croatian pršut, and enjoying Slovenia’s artisanal cheeses and wines. Each meal was a celebration of the region’s rich traditions.
This 29-day, 28-night adventure was supported by the HC Bike Tours team and included:
With over 27,000 meters of elevation gain, this was not a ride for the faint-hearted. The long climbs through Montenegro’s mountains and the rugged terrain of Bosnia tested endurance, while the winding roads along Croatia’s coastline provided moments of reprieve and beauty. Despite the physical demands, the camaraderie of the group and the allure of each day’s destination kept spirits high.
As the tour ended in Ljubljana, the group reflected on the unforgettable month of cycling. Their excitement didn’t stop there—talks of another adventure in 2025 were already underway. Their trust in HC Bike Tours to deliver seamless, inspiring experiences fuels our passion for creating these one-of-a-kind journeys.
This Balkan adventure was a true testament to the magic of cycling: the joy of discovering new landscapes, the satisfaction of overcoming challenges, and the connections formed along the way. Until the next ride, happy cycling!
When your on tour with HC Bike Tours it is not just a bike trip – it’s an exploration of the heart of cycling, a journey through some of the most iconic landscapes Europe has to offer.
Let us help you plan and experience your next custom and private European cycling adventure whether it’s the magic of the French Pyrenees or any other cycling destination in Europe – with HC Bike Tours everything is possible!
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Introducing Eszter Kiss | Tour Coordinator | HC TEAM
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