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The Agora => Kefalonia News => Announcements => Topic started by: Jolly Roger on Tuesday, 29 April, 2014 @ 21:46:38

Title: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Jolly Roger on Tuesday, 29 April, 2014 @ 21:46:38
(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_29_04_14_9_38_38.jpeg)

Now in my 70th year, I was looking for a challenge similar to my cycle tour of  the Peloponnisos 5 years ago. Next week I will attempt to cycle from Tirana in Albania back to Valeriano in Kefalonia, a distance of around 600 kms. Some sponsorship in support of the Kefalonia Animal Trust would give me some encouragement in this quest. For anyone wishing to contribute a small amount, can I suggest 1 euro for each 100 kms, but any amount would be welcome.
Pledge support here on GGi or make a donation to….
http://www.kefalonia-animal-trust.org/Article.aspx?articleId=120
and let me know how much, so that I can keep track of the total.

(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_29_04_14_9_44_57.gif)

Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Maik on Tuesday, 29 April, 2014 @ 22:26:09
OK, 1€ / 100 kms - as long as you pop some piccies on GGi  :wacko:
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: TonyD on Tuesday, 29 April, 2014 @ 23:07:04
...of blisters?
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Aristarches on Wednesday, 30 April, 2014 @ 06:30:09
Hi Roger,

Put me down for a euro per 100K.  I will let you have it in June assuming you haven't been kidnapped by the local brigands (or are they all in UK now?)
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: KefieRosie on Wednesday, 30 April, 2014 @ 13:59:41
Just donated £10 via PayPal. Good luck and hope all goes well
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Maarm on Wednesday, 30 April, 2014 @ 15:09:13
Donated £16 via paypal.

My lucky number. Hope it helps keep those legs moving on the hilly bits

 :hi:


p.s. you're nuts   ;)



Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: TonyKath on Wednesday, 30 April, 2014 @ 17:15:29
Terrific stuff Roger - take my holiday in Kef straw hat off to you!  :btu: :btu: :btu:

I'll see if I can get my PayPal a/c working and I'll PM you!

Hi Ari - nice to hear from you!  Before I saw your post I was thinking about bandits too!  Would make a great blog, Roger, but you might struggle to get an internet connection!

Tony
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Phil on Thursday, 01 May, 2014 @ 02:32:49
Best wishes for a successful & enjoyable trip Roger.
I know you like a challenge and I am full of admiration of you for attempting it.

I pledge €1/100 kms + a pint or two at the taverna of your choice when I am next in Kef.

God speed, and may the wind always be at your back and the sun shine warm upon your face ..............

Cheers
Phil
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Bell on Thursday, 01 May, 2014 @ 11:25:14
Hope you have a safe trip Roger. Put me down for 1 euro per 100 kms.
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Gill on Thursday, 01 May, 2014 @ 12:49:53
I  forwarded your message to friends and this is a reply I've received from an English friend, living and working in Tirina, when I suggested he got on his bike and returned with you.

Donation made.
 
Trip to Kef yes, but not by bike!  But we were thinking about it anyway. 
 Funny expat is invited to lunch / dinner in Tirana.  There are nice hotels (and nice hostels I am told). 
 Make him aware that riding a bike on the road here is not a tea party.  I saw some Dutch people the other day on the road and that reminded me I would NOT do this in Albania. 

Let me know if you're interested.
Good luck and a safe journey.
Gill
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Jolly Roger on Thursday, 01 May, 2014 @ 22:22:11
Thanks for all the best wishes, donations and comments. I know Albania has something of a reputation for being best avoided, but that is what makes it interesting. I think things have improved lately and they are making great efforts to open the country for tourism. I have had two bits of advice about cycling there, both from an Albanian. First, they are crazy drivers and cycling can be challenging, which backs up what Gill says. Second, there are many loose dogs which can be a nightmare for cyclists. Used to be like that in Greece, but they generally keep better control of them these days.
If I get back in one piece, I hope to be able to share some of the experiences with you all.     :pray:
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: BeeTee on Friday, 02 May, 2014 @ 10:04:02
Good luck Roger. Have donated 10 euros via PayPal.
Will you be shaving your legs to reduce wind resistance?
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Jolly Roger on Tuesday, 06 May, 2014 @ 19:23:17
Day 1: Crossed the Albanian border without any problem! We have driven about 400 kms to Gjirokastra. This is a beautiful town and is a UNESCO heritage site. Lovely traditional hotel. Apparently, the American Ambassador to Albania stayed in our room! I will try to add some pictures later, but resizing might be a problem. (Pictures just added, a view of Gjirokastra, the castle, the hotel and the traditionally furnished room).

(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_06_05_14_9_26_35.jpeg)

(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_06_05_14_9_33_30.jpeg)

(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_07_05_14_4_33_49.jpeg)

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Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Ian_E on Tuesday, 06 May, 2014 @ 22:26:51
Good Luck Roger.

Just donated £10 via paypal

Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Bluenose on Tuesday, 06 May, 2014 @ 22:31:06
Great pics Roger. Being a total technophobe I'll pass the required Drachama to Mike when I arrive in June.Keep on peddlin skipper!
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Jolly Roger on Wednesday, 07 May, 2014 @ 17:28:35
Day 2: We drove to Tirana and couldn't find a sign at the edge of the city, I settled for this busy roundabout. Not wishing to do battle with the mad drivers of Tirana, I cycled to Durres from here along a busy main road. A horrible ride of 40 kms. Also pictures of the Venetian Tower and Amphitheater in Durres.

(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_07_05_14_5_22_22.jpeg)

(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_07_05_14_5_22_50.jpeg)

(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_07_05_14_5_23_47.jpeg)

Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Maik on Wednesday, 07 May, 2014 @ 23:14:34
Great pics, Rog. Have a good ride  :btu:
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: TonyKath on Thursday, 08 May, 2014 @ 02:08:08
Sorry Roger - Like an idiot I missed the bit in your first post that you were heading off this week!!!  So will have to get that cash sorted.  :oops:

Triffic pics and it looks fantastic.  Somehow I thought Albania would be a total dump with no redeeming features!  That based on reports after the collapse of the communist government.

Go Roger Go!! :btu:

Tony
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: jed.w on Thursday, 08 May, 2014 @ 12:43:16
Donation made via Paypal.

Good luck for the rest of the journey Roger.

Jed
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Misty on Thursday, 08 May, 2014 @ 16:04:22
Donation just made . Well done & Good Luck for the rest of the trip
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Jolly Roger on Thursday, 08 May, 2014 @ 18:34:57
Day 3: A 73km sprint from Durres to Fier at an average of 30.4 kms/hr on a fast flat road. Then a slower road to Vlore. In total 113 kms today at 27 kms/hr. Thankfully I had taken a high visibility vest which was needed on the National Road. Nice hotel on the seafront.
A few words about prices. Beer is 150 leke (1 euro). Coffee is 50 leke (30 cents). A decent meal with wine is about 7.50 euros. Unleaded is 1.20 euros/litre.
The rule at roundabouts is, whoever gets there first has priority!

(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_08_05_14_6_26_45.jpeg)

(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_08_05_14_6_29_04.jpeg)

(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_08_05_14_6_29_37.jpeg)




Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Phil on Thursday, 08 May, 2014 @ 18:46:53
Well done Roger.

That looks a great view from the hotel.
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: TonyKath on Thursday, 08 May, 2014 @ 19:06:04
A few words about prices. Beer is 150 leke (1 euro). Coffee is 50 leke (30 cents). A decent meal with wine is about 7.50 euros. Unleaded is 1.20 euros/litre.

Bloody 'ell.  Looks like a place to visit and the hotel seems nice.   :btu:

Thanks for more fantastic pics.

Tony
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Maik on Friday, 09 May, 2014 @ 06:37:20
Triffic pics and it looks fantastic.  Somehow I thought Albania would be a total dump with no redeeming features!  That based on reports after the collapse of the communist government.

Thanks for all the pics, Rog. Bit of an eye-opener.

Best wishes!
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Jolly Roger on Friday, 09 May, 2014 @ 08:43:27
Quote
Thanks for all the pics, Rog. Bit of an eye-opener.

Everyone seemed shocked that I wanted to go to Albania, but all the people I have met have been friendly and helpful. I asked a taxi driver where the hotel in Vlore was and he pointed the way. Later we saw him in the street and he greeted us like old friends! Always when I have stopped and asked the way, people have been anxious to help.

It is a country of contrasts. There are very poor people in the countryside trying to work the fields with only hand implements. There are poor people in the cities regularly going round the bins to collect anything that might be useful.
Then there are the new middle class driving the latest Mercedes and BMWs. In fact Mercedes seems to be the most common make of car.

Another thing I have noticed is, there is no rubbish along the roads like there is in Greece! They have more respect for their country.
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: TonyKath on Friday, 09 May, 2014 @ 20:23:03
Another thing I have noticed is, there is no rubbish along the roads like there is in Greece! They have more respect for their country.

It's all very fascinating Roger and certainly an eye-opener.  Perhaps Hoxha used to have the litter louts shot or if they were lucky sent to a re-education camp for 30 years.   :blink:

Tony
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Jolly Roger on Friday, 09 May, 2014 @ 20:54:43
Day 4: A very very hard ride today! Lots of climbs and a mountain pass over 1000 metres. A total of 126 kms from Vlore to Sarande and an average of only 17.6 kms/hr. About 7 hours in the saddle and I can feel it! I remember seeing the delta from the Venice ferry, but never thought I would cycle past it. Once again a very well appointed hotel in Sarande with a sea view and an outside lift!

(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_09_05_14_8_44_39.jpeg)
Looking back from the climb toward Vlore.

(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_09_05_14_8_45_21.jpeg)
A deserted beach from the top of the pass at 2030 metres.

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The crazy road down the other side.

(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_12_05_14_7_29_00.jpeg)
A view of the desertrd delta.

(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_09_05_14_8_47_13.jpeg)
A very well appointed hotel once again.




Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: TonyKath on Saturday, 10 May, 2014 @ 00:05:22
Amazing photos again and an amazing journey.  :btu:

Is Mrs. Roger travelling by car???!  (Assuming that is indeed she  ;) )

Just sent you a PM.

Tony

PS Dunno how you managed to post this after your ride today - presumably standing  :lol: .  And make sure your brakes are OK if you get another descent like that!!  :(
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Phil on Saturday, 10 May, 2014 @ 02:01:37
The scenery looks stunning.
Thanks for posting a daily report Roger I find them fascinating to read and the photos are amazing.

I hope you are not feeling too sore. Are you using Assos cream or bananas?

Best wishes for the rest of the trip.

Phil
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Maik on Saturday, 10 May, 2014 @ 06:26:57
Are you using Assos cream or bananas?

 :blink:  :unsure:
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Phil on Saturday, 10 May, 2014 @ 13:44:00
Are you using Assos cream or bananas?

 :blink:  :unsure:

Ha ha, I know it could be misinterpreted, but a lot of cyclists do use lubricants under the lycra ..........
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Jolly Roger on Sunday, 11 May, 2014 @ 16:27:39
Day 5: An easier day today than yesterday. 114 kms to add to the total and an average today of 22.3 kms/hr. Problems with internet and battery!
Now I have a chance to say a few more words. This is a chain driven ferry at the Butrint National Park. We waited for it and then realised that you had to shout for it. The horse picture was nearby. The dam is a hydro electric dam just inside the Greek border. Tonight was spent in Parga

(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_11_05_14_4_17_37.jpeg)

(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_11_05_14_4_18_18.jpeg)

(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_11_05_14_4_20_28.jpeg)

(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_11_05_14_4_21_22.jpeg)

(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_11_05_14_4_22_02.jpeg)



Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Bluenose on Sunday, 11 May, 2014 @ 17:12:09
Wot a great adventure so far Roger, am well impressed ! Keep up the good work.
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Phil on Sunday, 11 May, 2014 @ 19:49:11
Thanks for the latest report Roger. Great to see a KEB reg car in Albania too!
It looks like the weather has been kind to you. I hope you enjoy the rest of the trip and the weather/ferries etc are in your favour.

Cheers
Phil


 
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Jolly Roger on Sunday, 11 May, 2014 @ 20:03:40
Day 6: Day after day of distances more than 100 kms is taking its' toll! Still, on the home stretch now. Today from Parga to Vasiliki, a distance of 118 kms at an average of 22.3 kms/hr. The picture shows Sheila waiting to go through the tunnel at Preveza. I got to Vasiliki in time to get on the ferry to Kef, so we decided to stay with friends of a friend at Vasilikades. The picture below shows their lounge! So tomorrow I have a quick dash for home. I hope no one will mind if I start from Vasilikades and not Fiskardo?


(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_11_05_14_7_59_18.jpeg)

(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_11_05_14_7_59_53.jpeg)
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Maik on Sunday, 11 May, 2014 @ 23:51:14

Wot a great adventure so far Roger, am well impressed ! Keep up the good work.

Yep, same from me, too.
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Jolly Roger on Monday, 12 May, 2014 @ 16:52:44
Day 7: Vasilikades to Valeriano. Today a journey home of just 75 kms, but it wasn't easy with a headwind to contend with. With the road closed near Myrtos, I had to go the longer way round. The whole journey had gone to plan without any mishaps thankfully. Except 2 kms from home and a bee got trapped under my crash hat and stung me! Another picture of the guest house at Vasilikades and a timed picture of me in a state of collapse. I hope to write a blog of my journey and impressions of Albania soon. Total distance was 586 kms.

(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_12_05_14_4_50_15.jpeg)

(http://goinggreek.info/gallery/11_12_05_14_4_50_49.jpeg)


Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: jed.w on Monday, 12 May, 2014 @ 18:21:30
Well Done Roger, a supreme effort!  :yahoo:
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: BeeTee on Monday, 12 May, 2014 @ 19:11:56
Hang on, I thought you were going to do the return trip as well....only kidding. Well done Roger. 
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Bluenose on Monday, 12 May, 2014 @ 20:22:09
Ha ha ! Well done that man. Good stuff, looking forward to the blog. A few cold one's and a lie down in a cool dark room old bean. Again well done skip.
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: TonyKath on Monday, 12 May, 2014 @ 20:28:23
Tremendous achievement Roger!   :btu: :btu: :btu:

Tony
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Phil on Tuesday, 13 May, 2014 @ 00:43:57
Well done Roger. I look forward to reading your blog in due course. I'm sure it will be fascinated reading and well done Sheila too for providing all the support operations and logistics.

That bee sting could have been very nasty. I'm glad you survived. My eldest son got stung whilst on the bike leg of a big triathlon event a couple of years ago. The sudden loss of concentration caused him to go head first through the back window of a car which was parked up attending to another injured rider..........

I hope I can get out to Kef soon to buy you that beer!
A donation has just gone to KAT's

Cheers
Phil
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Mediterranean Man on Tuesday, 13 May, 2014 @ 10:41:19
What a fantastic achievement Roger. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading your daily accounts and admiring the wonderful photos.   Well done.
I have made a donation to KATS via pay-pal.
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Maarm on Tuesday, 13 May, 2014 @ 12:01:11
Congratubloominlations Roger.  I recommend you now get a large cushion and sit on it for a couple of weeks.

Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Colleywobble on Tuesday, 13 May, 2014 @ 18:14:48
Well done Roger what an achievement! Can I now put you down for the two stages of the Tour de France in Yorkshire ?Look forward to reading your Blog and showing my son as he is a dead keen rider. The photos were bloomin wonderful. Opened my eyes as I had always thought Albania was a bit of a dump, Quite impressed !!Sorry I am not in PayPal but will donate when next out.
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Jolly Roger on Thursday, 22 May, 2014 @ 17:40:58
For anyone considering a cycle ride through Albania, or for anyone that is just interested, here is a link to my blog.
Albania to Kefalonia by bicycle (http://www.peloponnesecycle.blogspot.gr/search?updated-min=2014-01-01T00:00:00-08:00&updated-max=2015-01-01T00:00:00-08:00&max-results=1)

The amount raised for the Kefalonia Animal Trust charity is in excess of 500 euros. Thank you to everyone that has supported me and I hope you enjoy reading about the trip.
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Bluenose on Thursday, 22 May, 2014 @ 19:10:16
Great blog and some brill pics. Enjoyed it very much. Wot's next ? Answers on a postcard please !!!
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: TonyKath on Thursday, 22 May, 2014 @ 19:56:20
Tremendous blog Roger with some fascinating stories.  How on earth did you find such nice places to stay???!  The roof terrace at the hotel in Saranda was to die for.  And a really great amount raised for KATS. 

 :yiamas:

Tony
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: Jolly Roger on Saturday, 05 July, 2014 @ 23:14:18
Quote
And a really great amount raised for KATS.

 :yiamas:

Tony

I just realized that I had updated the amount raised for the KAT charity on Facebook, but neglected to do it here! The total referred to by Tony was 500 euros, but this now stands at more than 1000 euros! Absolutely incredible amount and many thanks to all who have contributed.
Title: Re: Tirana to Kefalonia
Post by: TonyKath on Wednesday, 16 July, 2014 @ 19:11:48
Quote
And a really great amount raised for KATS.

 :yiamas:

Tony

I just realized that I had updated the amount raised for the KAT charity on Facebook, but neglected to do it here! The total referred to by Tony was 500 euros, but this now stands at more than 1000 euros! Absolutely incredible amount and many thanks to all who have contributed.

Only seeing this now.

Strewth, M8 !!!  :btu: :btu: :btu:

(Perhaps they'll gently suggest Thessaloniki next year - maybe you could try for Kilkis, not so far away!!)

Tony