Proudly wearing new Cycle Albania riding tops, we head off.

A climb out from Sotira Farm to a high pine forest plateau, surrounded by soaring peaks, is challenging but worth the effort.

We reach the river and then descend to Carshove, which is both a pleasure and a thrill to cycle one of the most scenic rides of the tour.

We follow the route high above the river to Permet where our guest house is waiting for us in the adjacent village of Benje. We offloaded our cycling gear and head for the thermal pools which are close by, next to the 16th century Ottoman Bridge. We feel adventurous and enjoy a swim in the not so warm but refreshingly cool pools.

Putting the old bunkers to good use.