Travelogues
Cycling through the Balkans and former Yugoslavia
Bulgaria 🚲️ Macedonia 🚲️ Kosovo 🚲️ Serbia 🚲️ Bosnia-Herzegovina 🚲️ Croatia 🚲️ Slovenia
Cycling 2,200 kilometers over 27 days through the rugged Balkan region was a journey I will never forget. The mountainous terrain demanded every ounce of my strength and focus, with over 10,000 meters of climbing testing both my endurance and determination. Despite the challenges, the experience was nothing short of exhilarating.
This was not a meticulously planned adventure at all! I set out with little more than a vague sense of direction, unsure of what lay ahead. By this point, I had already biked about 8,000 kilometers in the preceding months, so my legs were strong, and my spirit was willing. But beyond some hazy recollections of Balkan history lessons and snippets from news articles, I knew next to nothing about the region. Questions swirled in my mind: What would the culture be like? Would the infrastructure support a cycling tour? What would the food be like? And, most importantly, how would I be received by the people?
The answers to these questions unfolded in the most delightful way imaginable. To say I was blown away by the hospitality of the Balkans would be an understatement. Everywhere I went, strangers welcomed me with warmth and curiosity. They offered food when I was hungry, shelter when I needed rest, and company when I craved connection. Their kindness turned what could have been a solitary adventure into a journey of shared humanity.
And yet, my pace felt rushed. The beauty of the Balkans, its rich history, and its vibrant culture beckoned me to linger, to explore more deeply. Each interaction, every village I passed, and every vista I climbed left me yearning for more time. But the clock was ticking, and I had miles to cover.
As I pedaled onward, one thought stayed with me: I have unfinished business here. The Balkans deserve more than a fleeting visit. I must return, perhaps multiple times, to truly immerse myself in this remarkable region. This journey was just the beginning of what I hope will be a lifelong connection to the Balkans.
If you're curious about the details of my adventure, check out my detailed travelogue. 🚲️ 🙂
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