A Custom Ride Through the Balkans: How Four Friends Took the Scenic Route—Their Way

When four riders from India approached me with a clear idea: “We love the look of your guided Balkan tour, but can we do it shorter—and earlier in the season?”—I knew exactly what to do. The result? A compact, budget-conscious version of my “Spirit of the Balkans” tour tailored to their schedule, skill level, and riding style. What followed was 11 days and 2,650 km of unforgettable roads, unique local stops, and the kind of freedom only a self-guided motorcycle tour can deliver.

Why a Custom Tour?

The group wanted to hit the iconic highlights—like Dubrovnik’s coastal views, the towering peaks of the Austrian Alps, and the jaw-dropping backroads of Bosnia—but in a format that gave them more autonomy and flexibility. A guided tour wasn’t necessary for them. They just needed the route, the bikes, and the structure to make it all happen smoothly.

I shortened the itinerary from 13 to 11 days, rearranged a few routes to optimize their riding days, and added an extra night in Dubrovnik to soak up the atmosphere. The final route kept the magic—Großglockner, Jadranska Magistrala, Vršič Pass, Mostar, and the infamous Cold War Zeljava Air Base. The result? A leaner, tighter Balkan adventure that still packed a punch.

Highlights of Their Ride

🛣️ Epic Riding RoadsFrom Austria’s Grossglockner High Alpine Road to Slovenia’s switchback-packed Vršič Pass and Croatia’s cliff-hugging Adriatic Highway, the group got their fill of world-class roads.

🏰 Culture on Their Terms

They explored UNESCO gems like Dubrovnik and Mostar, skipped the tourist crowds by riding in mid-May, and added their own stops along the way thanks to the GPX-loaded navigation system.

📍 Off-the-Beaten Path Stops

We made sure the tour book included gems like the Centina River Spring (known as the “Eye of the Earth”) and the abandoned Zeljava Air Base—two uniquely Balkan photo stops that most riders miss.

🏍️ Top-Tier Rental Bikes

The group rode in comfort and style with 3x BMW R1250 GS and 1x Honda NX 500—all with full insurance, GPS, and luggage. The bikes were ready and waiting in Munich when they arrived.

💶 Budget-Friendly Vibes

By using triple/quad room setups and opting for accommodations a short ride from premium city centers, we kept the cost low without sacrificing comfort. With meals and parking flexible, the group could spend (or save) however they wanted.

The Feedback? “We’d Do It Again—Just Like This”

This wasn’t just a shorter Balkan tour. It was their tour. Designed around the kind of riding days they enjoy, with full independence but all the tools they needed to ride like locals. Springtime brought mild temps, lush scenery, and light traffic—exactly the kind of experience they were hoping for.

If you're reading this and thinking, “That’s exactly the kind of trip I want,” we can help you plan it. Whether you want a solo adventure, a private group ride, or a full guided tour—MotoVibes Travel has a format that fits your style.

📩 Interested in a custom tour for you or your group? Reach out via our contact page or check our website for current tour templates and start planning your own version of the perfect ride.