North Macedonia

945.00

We continue exploring the Balkans – this time we will travel around North Macedonia which, contrary to its name, is a hot and enjoyable country. We will cycle through valleys, mountains, and national parks, swim in the large lakes, and as usual, enjoy local cuisine. We’ll fly to Albania, North Macedonia’s neighboring country, on a direct flight, bring our own bicycles, stay in comfortable accommodations, and spend our days on beautiful roads. It will be a nearly 600-kilometer-long vacation.

As usual, we are a small group of up to 8 travelers, going to discover a country that many travelers may not have visited yet.

Category:
 

Description

Dates: August 17 – 25, 2025

Trip duration: 9 days (5 working days)

We continue to explore the Balkan countries – this time we will thoroughly explore one of them – North Macedonia, which changed its name only a few years ago; previously, we knew it as Macedonia. As usual, we will fly with a direct flight to Tirana, the capital of Albania, from where North Macedonia can be easily reached by transfer. We will take our bicycles along and set off on a cycling trip around the country, spending each night in a different place.

How difficult will it be?

The trip difficulty level is intended for leisure cyclists

During the seven active days of the trip, we will cycle approximately 580 km, covering 70–100 km each day. We will be riding on North Macedonia’s paved roads, which lead through valleys, over mountain passes, and along several large lakes. The trip includes several mountain passes that exceed 1000 m above sea level. Considering the planned distance, time, and terrain, the trip is doable for everyone who has cycled at least 100 km in a mountainous area and enjoyed it.

 

What to pack?

Everyone needs a really small bike bag (7 to 14 liters) or a small backpack where you can fit all your necessary items. Remember, we will be sleeping in hotels, we can do laundry, we will be traveling through places where people live, and there are often shops. Also, August in North Macedonia is warm (hot), so you probably won’t need a jacket, but do bring a swimsuit.

An informative article on how Velomens organizes cycling trips

In reality, there are so few things you actually need to bring.

 

Weather conditions

August in North Macedonia is a true summer, which means daytime temperatures above +30 degrees. However, it’s cooler higher up in the mountains, but rarely drops below +20 degrees. Yes, and in the large lakes, you can swim because the water is warmer than in the Ķīpsala swimming pool.

Roads?

In Macedonia, we will ride on smaller roads that are paved. Expect enjoyable views, curves, switchbacks, and mountain passes. All roads will be suitable for both road bikes and gravel bikes.

 

Trip itinerary

August 17

Riga Airport

22:30 meeting at Riga Airport

August 18

Riga – Tirana – Ohrid

00:15 – 01:55 AirBaltic flight to Tirana Airport. We stay overnight at a hotel near the airport.

After some rest, we assemble the bikes, leave the boxes, and take a transfer (2h) to North Macedonia.

A flat day to Lake Ohrid, where you’ll have the opportunity to swim; we’ll stay in apartments by the lake, near the Albanian border.

Around 90 km of cycling during the day.

August 19

Bitola

We ride over a mountain pass in Galičica National Park, where you can enjoy a fantastic view of both Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa.

A short 80 km but mountainous day.

Overnight stay in the city of Bitola.

August 20

Kičevo

We head into the interior of North Macedonia and the historic city of Kičevo. Fortresses, valleys, and enjoyable mountains.

100 km in a day and overnight in a Kičevo hotel.

August 21

Veles

This is the longest day of the trip, traveling by small roads through valleys and sometimes climbing higher, heading to the city of Veles.

120 km in a day, two climbs, and a downhill stretch in the second half of the day.

Overnight in the city of Veles.

August 22

Tetovo

The capital and canyon day, during which we’ll cover up to 100 km without major climbs.

Overnight in a Tetovo hotel.

August 23

Debar

A mountainous ride to the city of Debar. On the way, a dammed lake with a submerged church in Mavrovo National Park.

Around 100 km in a day and just over 1000 m of elevation gain.

Overnight in the city of Debar.

August 24

Tirana

An optional day, where you can either cycle 100 km to Tirana or use the transfer option.

We will still have plenty of time to explore the capital of Albania.

In the evening, we pack our bikes and rest at a hotel near Tirana Airport.

Around midnight, we head to Tirana Airport.

August 25

Tirana – Riga

02:35 – 06:15 direct AirBaltic flight Tirana – Riga.

Accommodations

Throughout the trip, we will stay in accommodations with all amenities. Mostly these will be apartments/hotels with a 3-star rating or equivalent. The accommodations were selected based on a Booking user rating above 7.5. We will be staying in apartments with 2–3 people per room.

Food

In some accommodations, it will be possible to have breakfast for an additional fee. During the day, we will visit shops and eateries along the way. In the evenings, we usually go for a hearty dinner.

Travel group

We will travel in a group of 8 cyclists. The tour will be led by Krišjānis Ratiniks, who has been to North Macedonia several times and has already covered part of the route.

Required items and gear:

  • Gravel/road bicycle;
  • Helmet, sunglasses;
  • Cycling-specific clothing;
  • Swimsuit;
  • Light casual clothing;
  • A small 7–14 liter bike bag.

Trip cost: 945 EUR

Included in the price:

  • Flight tickets for the direct Rīga – Tirana – Rīga route;
  • 25 kg bicycle transportation on the airplane;
  • 23 kg checked baggage;
  • All accommodations during the trip;
  • Transfer from the airport to the starting point and back;
  • Planned routes for each day;
  • Assistance and advice in case of technical problems;
  • Trip organization and leadership;
  • Great photos during the trip.

Not included in the price:

  • Meals;
  • Travel insurance.
Payment
Upon booking the trip – reservation of your spot. Full amount by 15.07.2025.
195 EUR Remaining amount (750 EUR)

Insurance

After booking the trip, I recommend immediately purchasing travel insurance (Swedbank or another reliable insurance company) to protect yourself against risks that may prevent you from participating in the trip and to insure against any mishaps that may occur during the trip.

If you have any questions, please contact me:

  • Velomens@gmail.com
  • +371 28-37-33-29
Tour operator database registration No. T-2023-36

Travel agreement