What is an epic ride? It’s an unforgettable ride that will remain with you forever and influence every subsequent adventure. You will always use it as a benchmark to compare all other experiences.

As we journeyed through Albania’s beautiful landscapes, it was inspiring to witness a country evolving and embracing its future. The countryside is dotted with intriguing remnants of over 170,000 bunkers constructed by Enver Hoxha, a leader whose influence spanned from 1944 to 1985.

At first, these bunkers appeared unusual, but over time, they became captivating markers. I found myself eagerly spotting them along our route. Instead of symbolizing a threat, they now serve as significant relics of the past. Many have been transformed into artistic expressions that harmoniously blend with nature, showcasing how resilience can turn challenges into beauty.

Llogara Pass is a high mountain pass in the Ceraunian Mountains along the Albanian Riviera. We rode for 15 miles up a very steep mountain pass, which was more taxing than crossing the Alps in Austria via Brenner Pass. Once we reached the top, the reward was 12 miles of steep downhill switchback thrill, a heart-pounding experience that left me breathless. I was terrified as we shared the descent with cars, camper vans, trucks, and motorcycles. We had made it so far without incident, and the downhill speeds obtained while holding the brakes were exhilarating but VERY scary.

We had reached the top and found ourselves looking down from 3,422 feet above sea level. What an accomplishment! I was super proud of this feat—exhausted but still able to feel the pride in what we had managed to do. I remembered how cars struggled to get to the top. I could hear their gears working as they ascended and descended through the pass. And yet, we had reached the top on fully loaded touring bikes.

The descent was a lesson in letting go and letting God. There was only one way down, and I had faith I’d make it—but rode those brakes all the way down while praying to God to keep me safe.

The challenges of a self-supported bike trip in Albania were no different than those of a self-supported bike trip in France or Germany. The Balkans proved to be a delight. But it was the Llogara Pass that truly stood out, offering an EPIC ride on a gorgeous day – a memory that I will cherish for the rest of my life.

Albania was beautiful and raw to me, and a country I hope to find myself riding in again one day.