The locals told me to that it would rain last night and it did. I think the rain started around 4am and then stopped around 630am. Just in time for me to decamp and get ready for my ride. Had a quick expensive coffee and I started my journey today at around 830 am. The uphill continued for some time before I was rewarded by a great downhill only to be slowed down by the bad condition of the road. After awhile it began to drizzle. I stopped for awhile to have a snack before continuing.
It was a day of excruciating climbs but spectacular views. Traffic was minimal , I think perhaps 1 vehicle per 45 minutes. The road conditions was bad most of the time till Leskovik. However the stunning view made up for it.
I stopped at Leskovik for coffee and rest before continuing to Carshove. It was generally downhill from here but not easy going as the roads are in bad condition. Took another coffee break at Carshove before moving on. As I reach the first peak of the climb I bumped into another cycle tourist from Germany going the other way. Her name was Katrina and she is heading for Greece. We chatted awhile and thereafter went our ways.
The distance to Permet was 28 KM but the first 15 Km involves lots of climbing and beautiful vistas. After that I descended along the river Viosa and continue downstream towards Permet. Downstream generally means downhill but on a few corners I had to negotiate a few hill climbs.
About 2 km from Permet I stopped by a coffee shop to have beer and I was eventually offered a shot of Raki which is like Grappa. After that I headed to Permet and managed to find a reasonable hotel for 7 Euros with breakfast. I prefer to stay at a hotel as all my battery backup is flat and I need a place for recharging.
Went for a quick tour of the town before heading back to the hotel to have a snack and a couple of cups of wine before showering. Looking forward for a great sleep tonight. Tomorrow I will probably have to wild camp as there are no big towns between Permet and Berat. Berat is around 95km away which I think is too far to ride in a day.
Lions Project : RM 137.90
Reflective Saddle 