ALBANIA with Montenegro by motorcycles along the most beautiful routes of the Balkans

A transit day, with quite a few kilometers to drive on highways. Depart as early in the morning as possible from the hotel/resort of your choice in the area (where participants from farther places in Poland will be able to get there earlier and spend the night before the trip).

Day two of the transit drive, much of it on expressways, the final one on winding roads in mountainous terrain. We set off from our accommodation in Serbia possible early in the morning, to reach our destination in Montenegro before sunset. This place where we are lodging today will probably be Pljevlja, located in the border strip with Serbia, the Tara Gorge itself, or - located on the border of Durmitor National Park - Žabijak....

After two consecutive transit days, we will slow down a bit to rest and gain strength, although still on the move and active. The day's itinerary includes the Tara Canyon, which is the deepest canyon in Europe and one of the deepest in the world (right after the Grand Canyon in the US). In places its walls rise 1,300 meters above the river's surface. Its major part lies within the Durmitor National Park, while the rest is a scenic route starting from Durdevica Bridge to Mojkovac.

By noon the area around the Durdevica Bridge and an attraction for the brave - a tyrolean descent along the bridge. The famous bridge over the Tara River - the Durdevica Bridge - is one of the symbols of the canyon. It is 365 meters long, 170 meters high and rests on five spans (each spanning up to 116 meters). It was designed by Mijat Trojanovic, and construction, which lasted two years, began in 1938. At the time it was the highest bridge in Europe, and even today descending in a harness on a rope of this span and height gives a unique impression.

For those who are willing, we can organize an additional and optional 12 km pontoon rafting on the Tara River, which will provide mega positive emotions. 

At the Tara River we will spend at least a good part of the day surrendering to active relaxation. 

We set off unhurriedly after breakfast, along the P14 scenic route through Durmitor National Park. Picturesque.

Durmitor is a picturesque mountain range in Montenegro, has an indirect connection to the saga of Star Wars thanks to unique landscapes that could resemble planets from a distant galaxy. Although Durmitor was not a direct filming location for any of the movies, its rugged, rocky peaks, deep canyons and unusual rock formations are reminiscent of settings used in science fiction films.

It is interesting to note that Montenegro as a country was considered by filmmakers as a potential location for scenes from the universe of Star Wars. Many travel guides or fan reports draw comparisons of Durmitor to planets such as Ahch-To or Tatooine, even though scenes from those planets were shot in Ireland and Tunisia.

Durmitor and its surroundings attract film lovers and photographers who are looking for unique open-air locations reminiscent of the atmosphere of the Star Wars. Durmitor, along with the Tara Gorge, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In the early afternoon we'll take another extremely scenic R18 route from Savnik to Kolasin. Overnight planned near Kolašin, or Andrijevica

Only, or as much as 300 km to drive on extremely spectacular and charming roads. Starting in the morning, we reach the border in a part of Montenegro that is little visited by tourists, then Albania and the extremely scenic SH20 with a section called Rrapsh Serpentine and a glass observation deck, and the iconic SH21 with access to the village of THETH, located high in the mountains - once the most inaccessible mountain village in all of Albania. Today, the access to the village itself is covered with good asphalt, so even heavy touring motorcycles are able to drive the stretch, while just a few years ago the last 14km section of the road was exclusively for daredevils on enduro motorcycles. Before sunset, we should descend to Koman for the night (driving SH21 after dusk is very dangerous, as is the section of SH25 to Koman).

A little over 3 hours cruise north on the lake will provide many, unforgettable scenic experiences. The end of the cruise marks the beginning of the scenic route through the northern part of Albania and about 5 hours of travel on the wheels of our motorcycles. We have nearly 200 kilometers to drive to our accommodation, along very winding and extremely scenic roads.

We set off around hrs. 9:00 a.m. Choosing roads with picturesque landscapes leading to the center of Albania through the district and city of Elbasan to the ancient city of Berat.

Elbasan County, located in central Albania, is known for its rich history, diverse tourist attractions and unique culture. Distinguishing features of the region:

• Elbasan Fortress. One of the most famous landmarks is the Elbasan Fortress, which dates back to Roman times and was expanded by the Ottomans. The fortress surrounds the historic center of the city, where there are numerous historic buildings, including old Orthodox churches and mosques.
• Roman Thermae. Within the fortress you can see the remains of Roman thermae, which testify to the importance of Elbasan as a point on the ancient Via Egnatia route, connecting Dyrrachium (today's Durrës) with Byzantium (Constantinople).
• Via Egnatia Trail. Elbasan County lies along the route of the ancient Via Egnatia trade route, which played a key role in linking East and West. This route was used by both the Romans and Byzantines.
• Craft traditions. Elbasan is known for its traditional crafts, such as weaving and pottery. Local markets offer handmade products that are excellent examples of Albanian folklore.
• Culinary. The region is famous for its unique foods, including a special kind of cake bull and a traditional dish tave mow (roast lamb with yogurt). Elbasan is also known for its olive oil production and local wine.
• Picturesque nature. Elbasan District is characterized by beautiful landscapes, including mountains, valleys and rivers. A popular destination for excursions is the Shkumbin River Valley, which offers excellent conditions for hiking and relaxing in nature.
• Festivals and cultural events. Elbasan holds many festivals, including the traditional Dita e Verës (Spring Day), which attracts both locals and tourists. This holiday, celebrated on March 14, is one of the most important in Albania and symbolizes rebirth and hope.

Thanks to its strategic location, historical heritage and diverse attractions, the Elbasan district is an important point on Albania's tourist map.

We are in such beautiful surroundings that it is impossible to go on without spending some time here. One day of rest from motorcycle wanderings. A day to relax and take in the extraordinary atmosphere of this place.

The city of Berat, one of the oldest cities in Albania, is known as the "City of a Thousand Windows" (Qyteti and Një Mijë Dritareve), thanks to its distinctive architecture with whitewashed houses with large windows stretching up the hillside. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts tourists with its historical charm and rich cultural heritage. The main reasons why Berat is so special:

• Berat Fortress (Kalaja e Beratit). Berat Fortress, located on a hill, is one of the city's most important monuments. Although it dates back to the 4th century BC, it has been expanded many times by the Byzantines, Romans and Ottomans. Interestingly, people still live inside the fortress walls today, and the historic houses, churches and mosques create a unique atmosphere.
• Mangalem and Gorica districts. Mangalem, a former Muslim neighborhood, and Gorica, a traditional Christian neighborhood across the Osum River, are the most picturesque parts of the city. The distinctive buildings and narrow, cobblestone streets transport visitors back in time.
• Onufry Museum. Berat's fortress houses the Onufri Museum, dedicated to the famous Albanian icon painter of the 16th century. The collection includes his works and other valuable icons from the region. Onufri is known for his unique style and intense red color, known as "Onufri Red."
• Royal Mosque and Lead Mosque. Berat is an example of harmonious coexistence of different religions. The Royal Mosque (Xhamia Mbret) and the Lead Mosque (Xhamia e Plumbit) are important monuments of Ottoman architecture that impress both with their history and architectural details.
• Osum River Canyon. Near Berat is the spectacular Osum River canyon, which offers excellent conditions for canoeing and hiking. It is an ideal place for nature lovers and active recreation enthusiasts.
• Wine and regional cuisine. Berat is also known for its wine production, especially from indigenous varieties such as Pulse i Shesh and Bardhë. In the region you can taste traditional Albanian dishes, such as. bull, tave mow or fërgesë.
• Friendly atmosphere and hospitality. Berat is famous for its warm and friendly atmosphere. Residents are open-minded and eager to share their culture and history with visitors

We leave Berat customarily around 8:30 am, heading further south.

At a distance of about 100 km on the planned route is Gjirokastra - one of the two Albanian cities (next to Berat) whose old towns in their entirety are listed as UNESCO heritage sites. The hometown of Albania's communist leader Enver Hoxha. It's certainly an option for a stopover and the proverbial coffee, during which those willing will be able to climb the steep, narrow, picturesque and stone-lined streets to the top, where the most important attraction is the fortress. We're past Berat, so Gjirokastra will remain only an option on the program, assuming good weather, time on today's agenda and willing participants.

An interesting highlight of the day is the archaeological pearl of the Balkans and the southernmost place on our route - Butrint National Park with its contents, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In the vicinity of Butrint, there is a truly European-level resort that is Saranda. It is in this area that we will stay for tonight.

A day of freedom and disorganization. The area around Sarande, Ksamil is an ideal place for beach relaxation and rest. We need to recharge our batteries a bit and take advantage of the midday sun. There is something for everyone.

We take off at 8:30 a.m. The destination for the day is Kruja, one of the most famous tourist destinations in central Albania. The town's amazing history and extraordinary charm have made it colloquially known as the "Albanian Krakow".

Kruja (alb. Krujë) is a historic town in Albania, located on the slopes of the picturesque Krujë Mountain. It is best known as a symbol of Albanian resistance against the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century and as the home of Albania's legendary national hero, Skanderbeg (Gjergj Kastrioti). Kruja has great historical and cultural significance, and its main attractions attract many tourists. Among them:

• Kruja Fortress. Towering over the city, it was a key defensive point during Skanderbeg's battles against the Ottomans. It was here that Skanderbeg commanded his army and successfully repelled the attacks of the powerful Ottoman Empire for more than 25 years. Today the fortress houses important monuments and museums.
• Skanderbeg Museum. Within the fortress is the Skanderbeg Museum, which is one of the most important in Albania. The exhibition depicts the life and achievements of the national hero, as well as his role in defending Christian Europe against Ottoman expansion.
• Ethnographic Museum. Another attraction is the Ethnographic Museum, which showcases traditional Albanian lifestyles, crafts and customs. It is located in a historic house, which further emphasizes the authenticity of the exhibition.
• Old Bazaar. Kruja is famous for one of the oldest bazaars in Albania, which has retained its historical character. The bazaar offers traditional handicrafts such as hand-woven carpets, embroidery, jewelry and souvenirs related to Skanderbeg's history.
• Mount Krujë. The mountains surrounding the city offer great opportunities for hiking and enjoying breathtaking views. Particularly popular is the trail leading to the summit, from where one can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and surrounding areas.
• Religious significance. Kruja is also home to important sites related to Albania's religious history. The city was one of the centers of Bektashism, a mystical faction of Islam. It is worth visiting the local teqe (temples of the Bektashites) and learning about their philosophy.
• A symbol of national identity. Kruja is considered the cradle of Albanian national identity. The city's history, linked to the struggle for freedom and independence, is an important part of Albanian national pride.

On the way to Kruja, drive on the SH8 road through the Llogara National Park located in the Çika mountains, Wlora district with a stop at a viewpoint with an amazing view of the mountains and the sea.

Although a little more than 350 kilometers in the plan, crossing the border, driving through Lovcen hill with viewpoints on the Bay of Kotor will not allow to fit in less than 10 hours. Therefore, we set off as early as possible....

After crossing the border, the direction is Lovcen National Park, the ascent to the summit and, for those willing, a visit to the Mausoleum of Peter II Petrović-Niegoš - the tomb of the penultimate ruler of Montenegro, located on the Jezerski peak in the Lovcen mountain range. Weather permitting - on the way there will be several stops for amazing photo and video shots. Boka Kotorska, known as the pearl of Montenegro, is perhaps the most beautiful bay in Europe, creating a landscape reminiscent of the fjords of Norway in a southern climate. The view from the top is amazing.

Not the end of the beauty of this day we will arrive in the vicinity of Niksic, or Savnik for an overnight stay from the Yugoslav era....

We begin the transit journey into the country possibly by highways, mostly highways, although much of today's route through Montenegro and Serbia is on national and local roads. The projected daily distances are long and do not include any longer stops along the way.

We are continuing the transit trip to the country on highways, mainly on highways, so the scheduled daily distances are long and do not include extended stops en route.