Introducing the historic Albanian city of Gjirokastër. Photo by ShkelzenRexha Gjirokastër (alternatively known as Gjirokastra) is one of the highlights of the Great Balkan Ride. Located in Southern Albania, Gjirokastër offers a rich past, picturesque stone architecture, and fantastic views. Not only is the city a UNESCO world heritage site, but it was also the birthplace […]
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Sarajevo to Yerevan: The Perfect Summer Adventure
The Great Balkan Ride and the Caucasian Challenge are designed to be combined. We can’t wait for the inaugural Great Balkan Ride: we’ll discover Sarajevo, explore Albania, then have fun in Greek sun. But if that’s not enough, the 10th edition of the Caucasian Challenge, is taking place right afterwards. Departing from Istanbul, participants will […]
Continue ReadingMeteora: Monasteries in the Sky
One of the most spectacular sights in Europe, Meteora must be seen to be believed. The Great Balkan Ride passes many magnificent sights, from historic Sarajevo to the mountains of Montenegro, the surprising beauty of Kosovo to the stunning Albanian Coast. However, for an amazing combination of unusual nature and human ingenuity, it’s hard to […]
Continue ReadingThe Languages of the Balkans
Who speaks what, where? Introducing the languages of the Balkans. During the Great Balkan Ride we’ll cross many borders, and that means entering different cultures, with separate traditions, and (usually) a new language. Things are never simple in the Balkans, though, so let us explain exactly what the languages of the Balkans are, and how […]
Continue ReadingPrizren: Why We Love Kosovo’s Second City
Prizren, Kosovo’s second city, might be our favourite small city in the Balkans. Photo by Tobias Klenze Prizren is a truly remarkable place, far from anyone’s preconceptions about Kosovo. It is a picturesque gem, packed with history and culture. At times it seems like a miniature Sarajevo, complete with gorgeous old town and tragic history. […]
Continue ReadingWhat to Eat and Drink in Bosnia
We tell you what to eat and drink in Bosnia. The Great Balkan Ride sets off from Sarajevo, before heading through some of Europe’s most underrated scenery. The Bosnian capital is famous for its turbulent past and picturesque historical sights, but it is also home to a rich cafe culture, and a delicious culinary […]
Continue ReadingTheth: Albania’s Mountain Paradise
Theth is an isolated village in mountainous Northern Albania. Photo by ViolaCiv Albania is filled with glorious scenery, isolated communities, and ancient traditions, and nowhere is more picturesque than the Northern mountains, close to the borders with Montenegro and Kosovo. Hidden there is the tiny village of Theth, perhaps Albania’s most gorgeous location. This isolated village, set […]
Continue ReadingWhy You Should Visit Kosovo
There are so many reasons to visit Kosovo. Photo by Snownjeri All of the Balkans are steeped in history, but nowhere moreso than Kosovo. In Europe’s newest country, the past isn’t over. Less than two decades have passed since the conflict with Serbia. Independence was only declared in 2008, and the state isn’t yet fully […]
Continue ReadingSearching for Undiscovered Montenegro
We rank the highlights of Montenegro, from tourists hotspots to undiscovered gems. Photo by amira_a Montenegro is small, but it has a growing reputation. The country became independent in 2003, and in recent years an increasing number of visitors have been wowed by its heady combination of Mediterranean and Balkan. However, there is lots of Montenegro left to discover. […]
Continue ReadingWhat Makes Thessaloniki Special?
Thessaloniki is the final city visited by the Great Balkan Ride, The cultural capital of Greece, Thessaloniki, is the final city visited by the Great Balkan Ride. The minimal assistance rally will depart from Sarajevo, traversing Montenegro, Kosovo and Albania, before reaching Greece. Teams can celebrate the end of the adventure in the beach paradise of Nea […]
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