Albanian getaway: between culture, hiking and tradition

Trip Description

Accomodation

Stay program

• day 1

  Airport – Tirana, transfer: 30 min 20 km Accommodation: Tirana. 3* Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Once you arrive at Tirana airport, you will be greeted by one of our agents, then transferred to your hotel. Your adventure then begins in Tirana, the vibrant capital of Albania. Enjoy your afternoon exploring the city center: visit Skanderbeg Square, the soul of the city, surrounded by historic buildings. Don’t miss the Pyramid of Tirana and the lively streets that offer a unique blend of modern culture and communist heritage. You can also visit the various museums that Tirana offers, such as the House of Leaves, dedicated to the dark history of surveillance and repression under Enver Hoxha’s communist regime, or Bunk’Art 1 and 2, which will immerse you in Albania’s communist history and its obsession with bunkers. Feel free to take a break in one of the city’s green parks, such as the Grand Lake, or enjoy a panoramic view at Mount Dajti. In the evening, after enjoying dinner in a local restaurant where you will discover delicious Albanian cuisine, let yourself be tempted by the nightlife atmosphere of Blloku, Tirana’s trendy district. Suggested visits: - Bunk’Art 1 - Bunk’Art 2 - The new bazaar of Tirana (Pazari i Ri) - The checkpoint - The Blloku - Skanderbeg Square - The Orthodox church - The Catholic church - The House of Leaves - Tanners’ Bridge - The Pyramid - The artificial lake - Dajti Express Suggested restaurants: Restaurant Oda: https://www.google.com/maps/place/Oda+-+Traditional+Albanian+Restaurant/ Era restaurant: https://www.google.com/maps/place/Restaurant+Piceri+Era+%22Blloku%22/ Lulishte 1-maj: https://www.google.com/maps/place/Lulishte+1+Maji/

• day 2

  

  Tirana - Shkodra 1h40 100km Accommodation: Shkodra. 3* Hotel Meals included: Breakfast After breakfast, departure by local minibus to Shkodra, known as the "cradle of Albanian culture," one of the oldest cities and the largest city in northern Albania. On the way, admire the changing landscapes. This charming city is a true cultural and historical crossroads, nestled between the northern mountains and Lake Shkodra, the largest in the Balkans, shared between Albania and Montenegro. Let yourself be charmed by its lively city center, artistic atmosphere, colorful facades, and picturesque cafés. Dive into history by visiting Rozafa Castle, offering a breathtaking view of Lake Shkodra. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere by settling near the lake or in a waterfront café before spending the night on site. Suggested visits: - Rozafa Castle - The Lead Mosque - The Venetian mask workshop - Marubi Photography Museum - Saint Stephen Catholic Cathedral - Cathedral of the Nativity of Christ - Demokracia (Democracy) Square Suggested restaurants: Restaurant Tradita: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7WmgTKkyS72EKTREA Oborri Shkodra: https://maps.app.goo.gl/dqBLzh1uJe9EERM57

• day 3

  Shkodra – Theth: 2h, 76 km Theth - Grunas Waterfall - Theth Accommodation in Theth, guesthouse room. Meals included: morning, midday (picnic), evening Continue your adventure, heading to the Albanian Alps, towards Theth, a picturesque village located 75 km north of Shkodra, in the heart of the mountains. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation before preparing for a first immersion in the wild beauty of the region. Theth is a true preserved natural park, known for its breathtaking landscapes and authenticity. To start, set off on a hike to the Grunas Waterfall, one of the most beautiful in Albania. The trail follows the valley of the Theth river, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The waterfall, which plunges from over 25 meters high, drops into a canyon before joining the river. It is a moment of pure magic, in the heart of nature. Back in the village, take the opportunity to explore the center of Theth, visit the beautiful church, and discover the Tower of Vendetta, a strong symbol of the region's history. You will then spend the night in this new setting.

• day 4

  

  Theth National Park - The Blue Eye. Hike: 20 km Type: Out and back Duration: 7 h Elevation gain: 500 m + and 500 m – Accommodation in Theth, guesthouse. Meals included: morning, midday (picnic), evening After breakfast, head towards one of the hidden gems of the Albanian Alps: the Blue Eye of Theth. This hike is a true immersion in wild and unspoiled nature. The hike begins with a walk of about 2h30 through varied landscapes: dense forests, trails along the river, and breathtaking views of the mountains. On the way, a first stop is a must at Ndërlyse, where a natural pool carved by the flow of the Black River invites you to take a refreshing break. In summer, a small refreshment stand allows you to quench your thirst before continuing the ascent. The trail then becomes steeper as you enter the Kaprej valley, leading up to the Blue Eye. This natural basin owes its name to the unique color of its water, with a black center reminiscent of a pupil surrounded by intense blue-green reflections. The water is exceptionally pure... and also icy cold! After enjoying the calm and beauty of the place, return to Theth at the end of the day following the Shala valley. Evening and night in this authentic village, lulled by the tranquility of the mountains.

• day 5

  Theth – Valbone: Hiking: 14 km Duration: 7 h Elevation gain: 1100 m + and 850 m – Accommodation in Valbone. Guesthouse. Meals included: morning, noon (picnic), evening Today, a magnificent adventure awaits you: the crossing of the Valbona pass, one of the most iconic hiking trails in Albania. After a good breakfast, you entrust your luggage to the mules that will carry them to your destination and begin your walk in the Theth valley. After about three hours of walking, the ascent becomes more intense up to the Valbona pass, perched at over 1,800 meters altitude. The effort is quickly rewarded by a spectacular panorama: snow-capped peaks and deep valleys make up a breathtaking landscape. You take the time to enjoy your picnic prepared by your hosts while admiring this postcard-worthy view. Then, the descent begins towards the Valbona valley, nestled in the heart of the Albanian Alps National Park. Upon arrival, you settle into your new guesthouse, where a friendly atmosphere and a delicious meal await you, perfect for concluding this beautiful day of exploration.

• day 6

  Valbone- Rama Sheepfold Hike: 15 km Duration: 5 h Elevation gain: 693 m + and 721 m - Accommodation in Valbone. Guesthouse Meals included: morning, noon (picnic), evening This second day in the Valbona valley is dedicated to discovering the natural wonders of the region. You set off for a hike to the Rama sheepfold, perched at 1,800 meters altitude. This 5-hour route immerses you in a wild and preserved landscape, with trails winding between dense forests and imposing peaks. Upon arrival at the sheepfold, a well-deserved break awaits you with homemade raki or coffee, in an idyllic mountain setting. If you're feeling adventurous, you can extend your walk to the summit of Rosi, offering a breathtaking view of the region. After this beautiful adventure in the heart of nature, return to your guesthouse for a moment of relaxation, accompanied by a traditional meal, perfect to end this day.

• day 7

  Valbona – Fierza 1h15 30 km Crossing Lake Koman by ferry 2h30 Koman – Kruja 4h15 170 km Accommodation: Kruja. 3* Hotel Included meals: Breakfast For this new day, you leave by local minibus from the Valbona valley and head towards Fierza. You then board a boat for a pleasant cruise on Lake Koman, a unique experience in the heart of wild and impressive landscapes. This lake, surrounded by steep mountains, offers you breathtaking views, a total immersion in Albanian nature. After this picturesque crossing, you continue your journey by private transfer towards Kruja. Upon arrival, you dive into the history of Albania with a visit to the old town and the medieval castle, an emblematic place where the epic of Skanderbeg, the national hero, is told. You stroll through the cobbled streets, enjoy the authentic atmosphere, and explore the bazaar to bring back some souvenirs. At the end of the day, you settle into your new accommodation, savoring a delicious local dinner to conclude this beautiful day full of discoveries. Suggested visits: - National Skanderbeg Museum - Kruja Castle - Ethnographic Museum - The bazaar - The Dollma Tekke Suggested restaurants: Restaurant KROI: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9pSgUmwzN6TJwfT99 Bar Restaurant Horizont: https://maps.app.goo.gl/j62XAiiKcqNSMoau6

• day 8

  

  Kruja – Tirana: 1h15 40km Accommodation: Tirana. 3* Hotel Meals included: Breakfast After a wonderful discovery of Kruja, it is time to get back on the road and transfer towards Tirana. Upon your arrival in Tirana, you have the opportunity to relax and enjoy your last day in the Albanian capital. Why not discover what you didn't have time to visit on your first day? This day is ideal for taking the time to enjoy one last stroll through Tirana before concluding this unforgettable trip. You settle in for the night, reflecting on all the wonderful discoveries and adventures of the past few days. Suggested visits: - The new bazaar of Tirana (Pazari i Ri) - The check-point - The Orthodox church - The Catholic church - Tanners' Bridge Suggested restaurants: Oda Restaurant: https://www.google.com/maps/place/Oda+-+Traditional+Albanian+Restaurant/ Era Restaurant: https://www.google.com/maps/place/Restaurant+Piceri+Era+%22Blloku%22/ Lulishte 1-maj: https://www.google.com/maps/place/Lulishte+1+Maji/

• day 9

  Tirana – Airport, transfer: 30 min 20 km This is the last day of your adventure in Albania. Depending on the time of your flight or transport, you will have a little time for a final walk in Tirana, maybe to buy some souvenirs or enjoy one last coffee in one of the many local cafés. Then, transfer to the airport or bus station for your departure. It is time for us to say "Mirupafshim" and wish you a safe journey home!