 |
|
19 May 2008
|
|
Gold Member
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Oxford, UK
Posts: 22
|
|
|
6 weeks in Eastern Europe
Hi,
have been using this site for what seems like years, and it helped guide me to my bike the wee strom so thanks to all who have helped on that.
So now comes the trip.  My gf and I are looking to do 6 weeks starting from the UK into Eastern Europe. I have always wanted to ride to Istanbul so looking for advice on the route we have picked out (too ambitious?/better ways of getting there), are there things we should check out on the way, places to stay, and tips and advice in general
Harwich to hook of holland overnight ferry, Hook of Holland to Kassel, Kassel to Prague, Prague - Bratislava, Bratislava - Budapest, Budapest - Sibiu, Sibiu - Bucharest (via transfalgarian road), Bucharest - Varna, Varna - Istanbul, Istanbul - Xanthi, Xanthi - Thessalonika, Thessalonika - Ohrid, Ohrid - Berat, Berat - Tirana, Tirana - Shkoder, Shkoder - Dubrovnik, Dubrovnik to Trieste via Zadar, Venice, Verona, Lugano, Vaduz, Strasbourg, Lille, UK
Each leg I reckon is a days riding, some an easy few hours, others a hard 6 or 7.
We will be riding two up on the wee strom. Advice and criticism would be greatly appreciated!
|
20 May 2008
|
 |
Gold Member
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: Sofia,Bulgaria
Posts: 117
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by Duncan Donutz
Hi,
have been using this site for what seems like years, and it helped guide me to my bike the wee strom so thanks to all who have helped on that.
So now comes the trip. My gf and I are looking to do 6 weeks starting from the UK into Eastern Europe. I have always wanted to ride to Istanbul so looking for advice on the route we have picked out (too ambitious?/better ways of getting there), are there things we should check out on the way, places to stay, and tips and advice in general
Harwich to hook of holland overnight ferry, Hook of Holland to Kassel, Kassel to Prague, Prague - Bratislava, Bratislava - Budapest, Budapest - Sibiu, Sibiu - Bucharest (via transfalgarian road), Bucharest - Varna, Varna - Istanbul, Istanbul - Xanthi, Xanthi - Thessalonika, Thessalonika - Ohrid, Ohrid - Berat, Berat - Tirana, Tirana - Shkoder, Shkoder - Dubrovnik, Dubrovnik to Trieste via Zadar, Venice, Verona, Lugano, Vaduz, Strasbourg, Lille, UK
Each leg I reckon is a days riding, some an easy few hours, others a hard 6 or 7.
We will be riding two up on the wee strom. Advice and criticism would be greatly appreciated! |
Hi Duncan,
On your way from Bucharest to Varna,first town you will hit is Rousse,better drive about 100 km south to visit Veliko Tarnovo(the capital of the second Bulgarian Kingdom,with very nice Castle dated 13th century in the old part of the town...not to be missed!).Further on direction Varna is the town of Shoumen(about 150 km after V.Tarnovo),here you will find The Madara Rider-Unesco Heritage(dated 13th century,only 20-25km away from Shoumen).Once you hitting Varna,try to visit Aladzha Monastery,this unique monument is hewed out in 40 m vertical rocks and founded 13th-14th century,only 15km by north of Varna.
If you have any quetions about Bulgaria....  ,anyway we can meet up for a  /coffee,my pleasure to ride along with a traveller....just post me PM or mail.
Cheers and enjoy,
Simon
|
20 May 2008
|
|
Moderated Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: bulgaria
Posts: 42
|
|
|
More about Bulgaria
Hello Duncan,
After you have been to Varna there are two border crossing points for Turkey, the nearest one is at Lesovo, and the further one is on the Sofia to Istanbul road at Kapitan Andrevo, near Svilengrad.
If you opt for this second route you will pass within half a mile of us at Biser, between Harmanli and Lyubimetz, where we have facilities for campers.
Varna to Istanbul in one day could be quite a long day, bearing in mind that it can sometimes take an hour or two to cross the border.
Have a good trip, and maybe we'll see you,
Regards,
Martin T. Jeffes
Sakar Hills Touring Park. ( Home)
|
20 May 2008
|
 |
Moderated Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: DogZone Country
Posts: 1,218
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by Duncan Donutz
Hi,
have been using this site for what seems like years, and it helped guide me to my bike the wee strom so thanks to all who have helped on that.
So now comes the trip. My gf and I are looking to do 6 weeks starting from the UK into Eastern Europe. I have always wanted to ride to Istanbul so looking for advice on the route we have picked out (too ambitious?/better ways of getting there), are there things we should check out on the way, places to stay, and tips and advice in general
Harwich to hook of holland overnight ferry, Hook of Holland to Kassel, Kassel to Prague, Prague - Bratislava, Bratislava - Budapest, Budapest - Sibiu, Sibiu - Bucharest (via transfalgarian road), Bucharest - Varna, Varna - Istanbul, Istanbul - Xanthi, Xanthi - Thessalonika, Thessalonika - Ohrid, Ohrid - Berat, Berat - Tirana, Tirana - Shkoder, Shkoder - Dubrovnik, Dubrovnik to Trieste via Zadar, Venice, Verona, Lugano, Vaduz, Strasbourg, Lille, UK
Each leg I reckon is a days riding, some an easy few hours, others a hard 6 or 7.
We will be riding two up on the wee strom. Advice and criticism would be greatly appreciated! |
Hi Duncan
I wouldnt dream of telling you details of what to see and do, but I had a great trip to Istanbul recently, via Belgium, Germany, Czech Rep, Poland, Slovakia, Rumania, Bulgaria. back via Greece, Italy and France. Watch out for loopy drivers cutting in close in Italy on autostradas. Be careful of Istanbul rush hour traffic - its got to be seen to be believed.
In Istanbul if youre economising, stay at Sinbads Ho(s)tel, Sultanamet. I camped most other nights.
Good roads
|
20 May 2008
|
 |
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Nov 2004
Location: Mainly Slovenia
Posts: 371
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by Caminando
In Istanbul if youre economising, stay at Sinbads Ho(s)tel, Sultanamet. I camped
|
Sorry for the momentary hijack....was there bike parking at the Sinbad hostel?
Thanks 
Giacomo
|
20 May 2008
|
|
Gold Member
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Oxford, UK
Posts: 22
|
|
Thanks everyone so far...
Mony 63 cheers for the tips, it all sounds good, will add them to our things to check out along the way, and yeah meeting up for a ride would be cool. 
Martinjeffes, yeah did wonder if Varna to Istanbul could be done in a day, it always looks easier on a map. Reckon we will play it by ear, depending on whether we are on schedule or not. I guess we could contact you en route and book a place?
Caminando, you sure you dont have any suggestions for things to do/not do!? Sounds like you did a pretty similar route to what we are planning. How long did you take to do that trip?
Thanks again
|
21 May 2008
|
|
Moderated Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: bulgaria
Posts: 42
|
|
|
Eastern Europe
Hi Duncan,
you don't need to book in advance, just turn up if you're in the area. We're sign-posted from the town of Harmanli.
All the best,
Martin T. Jeffes
Sakar Hills Touring Park
|
22 May 2008
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: Beauly,Scotland
Posts: 31
|
|
Hi Duncan
I spent just under 6 months travelling around Eastern Europe last year. I never went down as far as Istanbul and truth betold regret it. I went from the UK across Germany to the Czech Republic, Southern Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Macedonia, Albania, Montengro, Croatia, Slovenia, across Northern Italy down to the South of France then back home.
Used a mixture of Camp sites and Pensions. At quite alot of the campsites they have small Chalets for little more than the price of pitching the tent. One of them not far from Rila Monastary in Bulgaria even had satellite TV, what a luxury.
If you have problems getting covered by your insurance company for some countries you can buy it at the border in Macedonia, Albania and Montenegro. You also pay a visitor and road tax at the Albanian border costing 10 Euro each (2007 price). Keep your receipts as they were checked on the way out.
If you do require any info do not hesitate in contacting me kstanway18@hotmail.co.uk otherwise have a great time.
regards
Kev
|
23 May 2008
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Jul 2006
Location: Bühl, Germany
Posts: 88
|
|
|
Hi Duncan,
I've also been in that part of the world a few times. If you need any specific info, please fell free to send me a PM. [/SALES PITCH MODE ON] If you want a taster of what to expect, can can always buy my book on Motorcycling in Eastern Europe. To be launched tomorrow at the Horizons Unlimited German Meeting, with full availability hopefully next week! [/SALES PITCH MODE OFF]
Cheers!
Dave
|
23 May 2008
|
|
Moderated Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: DogZone Country
Posts: 1,218
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by Giacomo
Sorry for the momentary hijack....was there bike parking at the Sinbad hostel?
Thanks
Giacomo |
It's no hijack!
There is bike parking there - it's on the pavement directly at the reception window and you chain your bike to the window bars.
This place is good for sitting on the I/Net cafe roof looking out over the Bosphoros to Asia. Enjoy.
|
23 May 2008
|
|
Moderated Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: DogZone Country
Posts: 1,218
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by Duncan Donutz
Thanks everyone so far...
Mony 63 cheers for the tips, it all sounds good, will add them to our things to check out along the way, and yeah meeting up for a ride would be cool.
Martinjeffes, yeah did wonder if Varna to Istanbul could be done in a day, it always looks easier on a map. Reckon we will play it by ear, depending on whether we are on schedule or not. I guess we could contact you en route and book a place?
Caminando, you sure you dont have any suggestions for things to do/not do!? Sounds like you did a pretty similar route to what we are planning. How long did you take to do that trip?
Thanks again |
You can do Varna to Istanbul in a day - you will pass via a hilly, wooded route which takes you to the border. Make sure your insurance document really is GREEN - I had some moments with this (mine wasnt) because the border guards are pretty rigid and unaware of recent changes in the EU. this was a couple of years ago, so it might be improved. Things to do and see? - really, a Rough Guide would allow you to select stuff which you like (citry/country/sights/people. Photocopy your local library copy for the pages you need. But in Istanbul dont miss the Blue Mosque (Sultanamet) and Ayia Sophia nearby.
My trip was far too quick. It was about 3 weeks from the UK out and back. I regret not staying longer in obscure villages and relaxing a bit. But then again, I met two ace bikers in Romania (HUBBers) on their way to Iran, so that was good. They are Estonian, and I enjoyed a trip up there last year to see Europe up to the Russian border and say hello to them.
You'll enjoy this trip - and if you ride over one of the Bosphoros bridges you are in Asia!!
|
26 May 2008
|
|
Gold Member
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Oxford, UK
Posts: 22
|
|
|
Caminando, if you did it in 3 weeks, then 6 has to be ample, so thats useful to know. Was concerned we would be hot footing it too much as want to chill out in a few places en route.
Thanks to everyone, all good advice, taken on board. Now just need to take care of the last bits of organisation...
|
26 May 2008
|
|
Moderated Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jan 2006
Location: DogZone Country
Posts: 1,218
|
|
Quote:
Originally Posted by Duncan Donutz
Caminando, if you did it in 3 weeks, then 6 has to be ample, so thats useful to know. Was concerned we would be hot footing it too much as want to chill out in a few places en route.
Thanks to everyone, all good advice, taken on board. Now just need to take care of the last bits of organisation...
|
Hi dunc
Yes my trip,was far too quick. I was pressed by the need to spend my remaining 3 weeks hol. in France. I want my cake and eat it too. I never succeed. Your 6 weeks will be fantastic. Relax; enjoy. One last tip. If you are in a famous University town like Budapest, then use the university accommodation for a cheap stay in that city. Ask at the Tourist Office.
|
27 May 2008
|
 |
Registered Users
Veteran HUBBer
|
|
Join Date: Jun 2005
Location: Colchester, UK
Posts: 149
|
|
|
I did a similar route a few years ago, although I didn't do Turkey - details on my Travellers Stories - Kevin Payne.
It wasn't exactly the same route but parts were and there are some photos of Transfagarasan, etc. One thought though - I hit Budapest just as they were having their annual music festival - I suggest you book ahead the night before, so at least you know where you are going. I think thats every August - dates will be on the web. My usual 'ride to the middle, then circle out looking for a cheap hotel...' was a miserable failure there as hotels don't seem to be where you might expect and most were full. No problem anywhere else.
__________________
Honda CBR 1100 XX, Yamaha XTZ 660, Harris Special
|
31 May 2008
|
|
Registered Users
HUBB regular
|
|
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: Birmingham
Posts: 31
|
|
|
Doing similar route
Hi Duncan
Im doing something very similar around the same time. leaving uk on 14th of July 08 and getting back around 9 of August 08.
I was origianlly riding with a mate however he couldnt get the time off work so its going to be solo.
anyway here is my map
regards
Google Maps
|
|
Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
|
|
|
Posting Rules
|
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts
HTML code is Off
|
|
|
|
Check the RAW segments; Grant, your HU host is on every month!
Episodes below to listen to while you, err, pretend to do something or other...
2020 Edition of Chris Scott's Adventure Motorcycling Handbook.
"Ultimate global guide for red-blooded bikers planning overseas exploration. Covers choice & preparation of best bike, shipping overseas, baggage design, riding techniques, travel health, visas, documentation, safety and useful addresses." Recommended. (Grant)
Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ combines into a single integrated program the best evacuation and rescue with the premier travel insurance coverages designed for adventurers.
Led by special operations veterans, Stanford Medicine affiliated physicians, paramedics and other travel experts, Ripcord is perfect for adventure seekers, climbers, skiers, sports enthusiasts, hunters, international travelers, humanitarian efforts, expeditions and more.
Ripcord travel protection is now available for ALL nationalities, and travel is covered on motorcycles of all sizes!
What others say about HU...
"This site is the BIBLE for international bike travelers." Greg, Australia
"Thank you! The web site, The travels, The insight, The inspiration, Everything, just thanks." Colin, UK
"My friend and I are planning a trip from Singapore to England... We found (the HU) site invaluable as an aid to planning and have based a lot of our purchases (bikes, riding gear, etc.) on what we have learned from this site." Phil, Australia
"I for one always had an adventurous spirit, but you and Susan lit the fire for my trip and I'll be forever grateful for what you two do to inspire others to just do it." Brent, USA
"Your website is a mecca of valuable information and the (video) series is informative, entertaining, and inspiring!" Jennifer, Canada
"Your worldwide organisation and events are the Go To places to for all serious touring and aspiring touring bikers." Trevor, South Africa
"This is the answer to all my questions." Haydn, Australia
"Keep going the excellent work you are doing for Horizons Unlimited - I love it!" Thomas, Germany
Lots more comments here!
Diaries of a compulsive traveller
by Graham Field
Book, eBook, Audiobook
"A compelling, honest, inspiring and entertaining writing style with a built-in feel-good factor" Get them NOW from the authors' website and Amazon.com, Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk.
Back Road Map Books and Backroad GPS Maps for all of Canada - a must have!
New to Horizons Unlimited?
New to motorcycle travelling? New to the HU site? Confused? Too many options? It's really very simple - just 4 easy steps!
Horizons Unlimited was founded in 1997 by Grant and Susan Johnson following their journey around the world on a BMW R80G/S.
Read more about Grant & Susan's story
Membership - help keep us going!
Horizons Unlimited is not a big multi-national company, just two people who love motorcycle travel and have grown what started as a hobby in 1997 into a full time job (usually 8-10 hours per day and 7 days a week) and a labour of love. To keep it going and a roof over our heads, we run events all over the world with the help of volunteers; we sell inspirational and informative DVDs; we have a few selected advertisers; and we make a small amount from memberships.
You don't have to be a Member to come to an HU meeting, access the website, or ask questions on the HUBB. What you get for your membership contribution is our sincere gratitude, good karma and knowing that you're helping to keep the motorcycle travel dream alive. Contributing Members and Gold Members do get additional features on the HUBB. Here's a list of all the Member benefits on the HUBB.
|
|
|
helps answer the question - Why Go? Inspirational stories by veteran travellers Greg Frazier (5 times RTW), Peter and Kay Forwood (193 countries), Tiffany Coates (Mongolia Mayhem) and Rene Cormier (University of Gravel Roads).
Get Ready! covers planning, paperwork, medical and many other topics! "Inspirational and Awesome!" See the trailer here!
What stuff do I need - riding gear, clothing, camping gear, first aid kit, tires, maps and GPS? What don't I need? How do I pack it all in? Lots of opinions from over 150 travellers!
break down language barriers, overcome culture shock, ship the bike and deal with breakdowns and emergencies."Just makes me want to pack up and go!" See the trailer here!
Grant demystifies the black art of Tire Changing and Repair to help you STAY on the road! "Very informative and practical." See the trailer here!
Ladies on the Loose! For the first time ever, a motorcycle travel DVD made for women, by women! These intrepid women share their tips to help you plan your own motorcycle adventure. They also answer the women-only questions, and entertain you with amazing tales from the road! Presented by Lois Pryce, veteran solo traveller through South America and Africa and author of 'Lois on the Loose', and 'Red Tape and White Knuckles.'
Cotton or synth sweat-wicking t-shirts with the cool Horizons Unlimited graphic on the front and a snappy slogan (changing every year) on the back.
Show your route on your panniers. Great conversation starter when you meet people on the road!
Motorcycle and travel books to inspire and inform you!
The definitive guide to planning your motorcycle adventure! This insanely ambitious 2-year project has produced an informative and entertaining 5-part, 18 hour video series. "The ultimate round the world rider's how-to!" MCN UK.
Linear Mode
