This stage swaps the seafront for Albania’s wide western plain. Beyond Durrës, the route heads south via Golem and Kavajë, following flat roads, fields and small settlements between the Adriatic coast and the inland hills. Near Rrogozhinë, it crosses the Shkumbin, then the Myzeqe plain takes over: canals, farmland and long straight sections. Lushnjë and Fier mark the main towns, with Apollonia close to the route near Fier. Approaching Vlorë, lagoons, salt flats and the bay appear on the horizon.
