Day 13 - Across the Albanian Alps to Podgorica
- manicmondeo
- Jun 10
- 2 min read
We’d seen the Albanian mountains from Kukës, but we were immediately immersed in them after breakfast at our hotel, the owner of which was a proper character.
Europe’s southernmost glaciers were in view as the towering peaks surrounded the route. With Craig at the wheel, we twisted and turned up and down the hills. The roads were interesting, with large ruts appearing regularly. However, the views were astounding.
At the top of one peak, we came across what could only be described as a Bond baddie’s lair. It turned out it was probably a water processing plant as lorries supplying fresh bottled water started providing excess traffic.
After a few stops to change the driver and take in the views, we saw Puke. It’s the name of a town. The lake of Puke was pretty. It’s a lake in the town.
The hairpins were stunning and the views kept coming for so very long and with few vehicles. This wasn’t even a famous route or near tourist destinations. It was so easy to see why Albania is becoming so popular. It also made us grateful that Rosemary had been fixed. The potential for busting a tyre on those roads wasn’t something to be contemplated.
We eventually made it to Shkoder, almost a day late. And it was crazy hot, which probably can’t explain why locals were cycling the wrong way round the roundabouts. A refreshing drink was needed and procured.
Shortly after, we were back on track, time wise, as Lake Shkoder - the largest in southern Europe - came into view. To be honest, it looked like the sea, with towering mountains either side, including the Accursed Mountains to our right.
Our penultimate Balkan border was typically easy and we were in Montenegro.
Podgorica seemed a lot quieter than other recent ones, and a walk revealed a more western-looking style. It still had unthreatening groups of people wandering round, enjoying a balmy evening.
We also discovered Jim still had his door card from last night’s hotel. Beccy, it’s your present.
Songs of the day
Jase: Lump by POTUSA
Craig: Mucky Weekend by Dub Pistols
Jim: Brothers and Sisters by Har Mar Superstar
Ian: Jet by Wings
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