Wɔatintim: 15.09.2018
In Berat, we spent a day exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed neighborhoods and the fortress. Since there are few 'drivable' roads, we mostly have to drive on the highway to Durres by the sea and then go straight back into the mountains to Kruje.
Kruje is one of the most important places for the Albanians. We endure the many meters of altitude and stay wonderfully in a guesthouse within the fortress. The view is fantastic, we see the sea of lights from Tirana in the evening. Here too, we stay for a day to visit the impressive national museum for the Albanian national hero Skanderbeg and the city.
From there, we can finally cycle on quiet side roads towards Montenegro. Just before the border, we camp as the only ones on a campsite. On the premises, three men are picking and processing grapes. When we ask what it will be used for, we are given plenty of Raki filled from a wooden barrel into our water bottle. We are also provided with grapes for the next few days. Payment is strictly refused!
We have a nice farewell from Albania with nice children during lunch break.
At the border crossing to Montenegro, we once again cycle past the long line of cars. Although Montenegro is not part of the EU, the currency used here is the Euro.
We ride along narrow roads to the coast to Bar and then on to Tivat. The heavy traffic and being overtaken at close quarters don't really make us enjoy it. Unfortunately, large-scale hotel and apartment complexes are also being built all along this beautiful coast.
Current mileage: 5673