The Complete Llogara Pass Cycling Guide: Albania's Marquee Climb

If you ride a bike in Albania, you ride Llogara. It's the pass that connects the coastal city of Vlora to the Albanian Riviera — a ribbon of switchbacks climbing through pine forest to a 1,043-meter summit, with the Ionian Sea glittering below. Here's everything you need to know before you ride it.

## The climb by the numbers

- Summit: ~1,043 m (3,422 ft)

- From the north (Vlora side): roughly 13–14 km of climbing at 6–7% average, with ramps touching 10%+

- From the south (Dhërmi side): a longer, steadier ascent

- Road surface: good asphalt throughout, and these days most car traffic takes the tunnel — the old pass road is quieter than ever

## Which direction should you ride it?

North to south. Climb from the Vlora side in the morning, crest the summit, then descend toward the Riviera with the sea opening up in front of you. It's one of the great descents in European cycling — long, flowing switchbacks with sightlines all the way down.

## Gearing

Don't be a hero. A compact chainset (50/34) with an 11-32 cassette is the sensible minimum; if you're carrying luggage or riding in summer heat, lower is better. The steepest ramps come when you're already tired.

## Fuel and water

Carry two full bottles from Vlora — there isn't much between the city and the top. You'll find cafés and restaurants near the summit (the perfect excuse for a mountain lunch with a sea view), plus small shops in the villages on either side.

## The descent

Take it seriously. The switchbacks are well-surfaced but tight, and you can pick up serious speed. Keep your hands covering the brakes, watch for the occasional gravel wash after rain, and pull over for photos — you'll want to.

## When to ride it

April to June and September to October are prime: mild temperatures, quiet roads. In July and August start at sunrise to beat the heat. Winter can bring ice near the summit.

## Ride it with us

Want to ride Llogara with local support? Vlora Cycling Camp runs guided and self-guided road cycling tours across southern Albania — every one of them crosses this pass. Browse our tours or book a 1-day custom ride and we'll take you up it.