Walking in Albania

8 Days Starting in Tirana and ending in Berat

Visiting: Albania

Tour operator:

Exodus Adventure Travels

Tour code:

TVZ

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

4 - 16

Physical rating:

Moderate

Age range:

16-99

Special diets catered:

Please inform Exodus of specific dietary requirements

Tour operated in:

English
From: $2400

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

This fascinating, lesser-known Mediterranean country has a pristine, rugged and wild landscape. Our trek is focussed in the Albanian Alps in the north, where the past is marked by blood feuds and folklore. We explore the pristine wilderness of the remote regions of Theth and Valbonë on foot, where agricultural life has remained unchanged for centuries, offering an authentic and less crowded experience. We then have time to discover the historic towns of Berat (a World Heritage Site) and Krujë and delve into the captivating history of this hospitable country.

Highlights

  • Explore the picturesque regions of Theth and Valbone

  • Discover the lock-in tower of Theth

  • Visit Unesco World Heritage sites

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Start Tirana

The tour starts at our centrally located hotel in Tirana, the trendy capital of Albania. Settle into the hotel and relax, we rise early tomorrow.



Accommodation: Sky 2 Hotel (or similar)

Day 2 : Drive Via Shkodër And Rozafa Castle To Theth; Short Walk Around The Village

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We have an early start this morning and drive to Shkodër (approximately three hours), where we visit the Rozafa Castle and the city centre of one of the oldest places in Albania. Our journey continues into the breath-taking Albanian Alps and Theth National Park (approximately three hours), an area admired for its flora and fauna. After checking into our quaint guesthouse in Theth, we set off on a gentle walk through the valley nestled between wonderful peaks, gaining an insight into agricultural life as we pass local people going about their day. We continue to the Roman Catholic Church of Theth, built in 1892, which was used as a health centre during the Communist regime. The highlight, however, is a visit to the shutting tower (or lock-in tower) of Theth, known locally as Kulla. These historic stone lock-in towers protected families involved in blood feuds and this is one of the few that remain.



Accommodation: Shpella Guesthouse (or similar)

Day 3 : Walk To Theth Waterfall, Nderlyse And The Blue Eye Of Kapre

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Theth Valley is predominantly an agricultural region, where age-old farming practices and horse-drawn carts are still used today. We observe rural life as we begin walking to Theth Waterfall. From here, we continue to Nderlyse, where we find a string of natural pools and a feature known as the Blue Eye of Kapre. There is an opportunity to swim here, so don't forget your swimming costume and towel.



Accommodation: Shpella Guesthouse (or similar)

Day 4 : Trek Over Valbonë Pass To Rragam Village; Transfer To Valbonë, Home Of Albanian Folk Culture

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We walk through some of the wildest scenery around into the Tropojë District, known as the home of Albanian folk culture. First, we ascend through forests and alpine pastures to reach the Valbonë Pass (5,905ft/1,800m), where we take a few moments to enjoy spectacular views down Valbonë and Theth valleys. This is the highest point of the trek and a major highlight. It is also a popular spot for taking photos and soaking in the magnificent scenery. We then follow a trail that brings us alongside the Valbonë River, known for its crystal-clear, blue-green waters. We finish at the quaint village of Rragam, where the minibus is waiting to transport us to our hotel. Expect some rocky mountainous terrain today, particularly as we descend.



Accommodation: Hotel Breezy/Hotel Margjeka (or similar)

Day 5 : Follow A Route Below Rosi Peak, Passing Through Forest To The White Circle

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Our route takes us through beech and pine forests down Rosi Peak and leads us onto the White Circle, where we enjoy panoramic views of the peaks and valleys of the Albanian Alps. We may walk the full length of the White Circle and then back down the valley but note that how far the group walks up into the valley is dependent upon weather conditions, timings, and the condition of the group – the decision is taken by the local guide who walks with us in the national park. For those who wish to opt out of the White Circle walk, you can instead walk independently in the area. Please note, the total ascent/descent is 3,280ft (1,000m) if doing the full length.



Accommodation: Hotel Breezy/Hotel Margjeka (or similar)

Day 6 : We Take A Boat On Koman Lake; Continue To Kruje

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, we drive to Fierza (approximately 1hr 30min). We then take a boat across the beautiful Koman Lake (which takes approximately two hours). The boat journey allows us to take in the spectacular scenery as we wind between high cliffs and towering peaks. Three hydroelectric power plants have been built here at the lake, which produce approximately 70 percent of Albania's electricity. We then drive for another 2hr 30min to Kruje, the centre of Skanderbeg's resistance to the Ottoman invasion in the 15th century. On arrival we will visit Kruja Castle which is a symbol of Albanian defiance and pride, offering an immersive historical experience. It also offers offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Aftewards we will edn the day by visiting the old bazaar of Kruja. The bazaar has many shops selling an array of traditional Albanian handicrafts, including handwoven textiles, intricate wood carvings, and unique souvenirs like qeleshe (traditional felt hats).



Accommodation: Hotel Panorama (or similar)

Day 7 : Visit The Ethnographic Museum And The King Mosque In Berat

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning we travel to Berat. On arrival, we enjoy a guided tour around the old district, where pretty white buildings are perched on the hill amid pine forests. Our tour includes a visit to the Ethnographic Museum (an 18th-century Ottoman house) and the King Mosque. We walk through the narrow, cobbled streets to reach Berat Castle, where we are rewarded with breath-taking views of Mount Tomorr. Within the castle walls are dwelling houses and the Onufri Museum (Museum of Iconography). There is free time to enjoy the other sites of Berat or to perhaps absorb the relaxed cafe culture on the promenade. Our hotel is in Mangalem, the historic quarter of Berat, where the castle peers down upon the area from its hilltop.



Accommodation: Hotel Mangalemi/Hotel Belgrad Mangalem (or similar)

Day 8 : End Berat

Meals Included: Breakfast

The tour ends today. Speak to your sales representative if you’d like to extend your stay in this fascinating city or to join the group transfer to Tirana Airport (approximately two hours).

What's Included

  • All breakfasts, four lunches and four dinners included

  • All accommodation

What's Not Included

  • Travel insurance

  • Visas and vaccinations

  • Single supplement

Food

All breakfasts, four lunches and four dinners included.



Three of these lunches are packed lunches. In the itinerary, we state which meals are included on each day.



Under the leadership of Enver Hoxha (the communist leader of Albania from 1944 to 1985), Albania became a self-sustaining country due to its isolation to the world. With fertile valleys, fresh mountain springs and Mediterranean climate, Albania still has a subsistence culture and shows very little signs of changing. In the countryside, expect your food to have been grown not too far from your plate.



Food in Albania is quite varied thanks to the many influences on the country, particularly Mediterranean, which combines Turkish and European tastes. Dairy products, especially milk and yoghurt are present in almost every meal, usually locally sourced. Meals are reasonably priced at around 550-750 leks (€5-€7) per dish for traditional dishes such as baked rice, casseroles, stuffed aubergine and jani meat (beef or lamb sautéed with onions, garlic and spices). Fresh fish is also plentiful, from the sea or lakes, and is an important ingredient in many dishes. Dishes that must be sampled are Tirana stew, Elbasan yoghurt and baked phyllo pie. For dessert, there are the classic cookies and puddings but most importantly the baklava is very popular. Drinks are reasonably priced with a bottle of local beer costing around 250 leks (€2.40) yet traditional drinks need to be tried as well, raki and Skenderbeu cognac for example (noted for its unique flavour and aroma).



Your leader will recommend restaurants for each evening. Vegetarians are well-catered for in Albania as long as the hotels are advised in advance – please inform us before departure of any special dietary requests. If you follow a vegan diet, the variety of food may be limited on this trip. This diet is relatively uncommon in this region and we cannot guarantee the hotels and restaurants will provide meals that have the necessary variety.

Accommodation

On this walking adventure in Albania, we spend two nights in a mountain guesthouse, two nights in alpine hotels and two nights in three-star hotels (locally rated).  



Tirana: Sky 2 Hotel (night 1) 







The adventure begins at the 43-room Sky 2, a well-located spot in the heart of Tirana, just a 10-minute walk from the main plaza, Skanderbeg Square. There are restaurants, bars and shops nearby, while the hotel itself serves coffee, orange juice from the Albanian coast, and cold drinks. 



Theth: Shpella Guesthouse (nights 2-3) 







Enjoy a warm welcome at Shpella, a quaint guesthouse in the Albanian Alps. It’s ideally located to explore Theth National Park, with walks starting from the front door. Rooms have a mountain lodge feel, while the food is traditional local fare with ingredients plucked from the garden. Our groups often eat outside, allowing you to dine with views over soaring mountain peaks.  



Valbonë: Hotel Breezy/Hotel Margjeka (nights 4-5) 







In mountainous Valbonë, we stay at either Hotel Breezy or Hotel Margjeka (above), depending on availability. Breezy has 11 modern rooms with mountain views, plus a restaurant, bar and garden. The more traditionally styled Margjeka also has mountain-view rooms, plus a restaurant serving Albanian cuisine made from locally grown produce.  



Kruje: Hotel Panorama (night 6) 







Enjoy views over red rooftops to Krujë Castle and the bazaar with our stay at Hotel Panorama. The rooms, which are traditionally styled, also have vistas over the castle and old town. There’s also a casual restaurant, serving local and international cuisine, with mountain and sea views from the balcony.  



Berat: Hotel Mangalemi/Hotel Belgrad Mangalem 







In Mangalem, the historic quarter of Berat, our hotel is either Mangalemi (above) or Belgrad Mangalem, depending on availability. The former was the first hotel to open in Berat after the fall of communism in Albania and is built on the ruins of a mansion. It now offers traditional rooms, a stone courtyard and a restaurant-bar. The latter occupies two historic buildings, with traditional rooms and bar. 



Worth knowing 



It is possible to book additional accommodation in Tirana before and after the tour. For anyone looking to extend their stay, additional nights can also be arranged in Berat. Contact your sales representative if you wish to extend your trip. 

Single rooms are only available in Tirana, Valbonë, Kruje and Berat due to a limited number of rooms. Single rooms are not available during the two nights in Theth. Our two nights in the guesthouse at Theth are in double, triple and quadruple rooms, with shared bathrooms (rooms are not mixed sex). 

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Check out our Q&As

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes

  • Who is Exodus Travels?

    At Exodus Travels, we've been exploring the world for nearly 50 years. From Walking and Trekking, Cultural and Cycling, Responsible Wildlife, to Polar and our new Premium Adventures, we are proud to offer award-winning small group and self-guided tours to 100+ countries worldwide.

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    16+ age peoples can go on tis tour.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights are not included with this tour.

  • Can you assist with pre or post tour accommodation?

    We are happy to assist with pre and post tour accommodation. Please enquire for detailed information.

  • Are vaccinations required for this tour?

    There are no specific health risks.

  • Is there a supplement for solo travellers?

    If you would like to be paired with a tour member of the same gender, there is no additional charge. A single supplement can be requested if you would like your own room.

  • Are airport transfers included in this tour?

    Transfer for group flights

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If you wish to make any changes to your booking, particularly if you need to alter any flights booked through us, please let us know as soon as possible. There is a booking or flight amendment fee of £40 per change and flight amendments often incur extra airline costs depending on the changes to be made and if the ticket has been issued or not.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Exodus has been trading since 1974

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Your final joining instructions and flight details, if booked with us, will then be sent out 2 to 3 weeks before departure. If you would like a hard copy posted, or if you require these any earlier, please contact the customer operations team. We advise that if you are booking connecting travel before receiving these, please ensure you leave plenty of time.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Travellers are welcome to opt to share a room with a tour member of the same gender for no additional charge. If you'd like your own room, we can request a single supplement so that you will have your own room throughout.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    You are welcome to meet the group after the tour has departed however there is no reduction in rate for joining a tour after the departure date.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

WALKING IN ALBANIA

The holiday is a mixture of walking and cultural sightseeing rather than a purely walking holiday. Albania is a wonderful country, with incredible mountains and superb History. Its tourist industry is only just beginning, meaning that some features (e.g. hotels) were less well developed than in other countries, but there was nothing which caused problems compared with the huge advantage of having people who were proud of their country and who were so keen to make tourists feel welcome.

Walking in Albania..................

Such a beautiful, currently unspoiled, country full of diversity and dramatic scenery

Good mixture of walking and culture

This is a holiday for those who want a mixture of some quite tough walks in rather remote places and also wish to explore the culture of this little known (to most British people) European country.

Walking in Albania

An excellent mixture of walking and sightseeing in a country I knew very little about. Theth / Valbona have spectacular Alpine scenery, very green in June but with snow still on the peaks. The people were really friendly, the food was superb (salads, grilled vegetables, aubergines, lamb, and one of the best steaks I've ever had - in Kosovo - the Pinot noir there was a bargain too), prices cheap....go before more people discover it !

Best trip ever!

The trip was fantastic! We had an excellent leader and a very lovely group. Everything went so well. It's a great combination of trekking and leisure within a week for people who want to experience the magnificent mountain scenery as well as the cultural heritage of Albania. I had a great time in Albania!

Great trip

We were a group of seven people on this trip. Our tour leader's name was Bledin (probably the wrong spelling). He was an excellent leader, very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. For some of the time we were really just sightseeing, but when we were trekking it was quite hard work. This trip is classified as moderate, but I do feel that it should be classified as moderate/ challenging, as when we were trekking in the alps, we were on shale, which is rather challenging, especially as I'd never walked on that surface before. However, with Bledin's help I was able to successfully negotiate the three days of trekking. Our forth walk was on rocky steps which I am more familiar with. The Albanian people are very friendly, and helpful. The wife of one of the hoteliers even leant me a pair of boots, when mine fell apart! All in all, a very enjoyable trip.

Walking in Albania

This like many of the exodus trips did not disappoint. What a welcome from our local rep Dorien , despite the heat of the day he was smiling all the time. the trip starts quietly in Tirana then moves into the mountains, fough roads even river beds we got through to the wonderful area around Theth, magnificent in a rugged way. Then the walks start, if you are not fit these next three days will find you out, up hill and more, but the scenery and view is worth it. The trip brings you to Berat with it`s wonderful cafe culture with long boulevards. This largely undiscovered country and its people are so welcoming and friendly that it was a sad day when this holiday came to an end.

walking in albania

very good trip showing the best of albania

Combination of Hiking and Culture

I have followed Albania's history from WWII forward and being able to experiencing in person was most satisfying. The hiking portion was the challenge I was looking for. The culture portion not so much so.

Discovering a beautiful country

Overall an enjoyable holiday with a mix of scenery/walking/culture. The hotels were generally very good -better than I expected-except the last one Teater Kame. It had a nice swimming pool but the chalets had a rather run down feel. The shower head in my room was broken -more water went over the shower room ceiling than over me- although at least the water was hot. Also the hand rail outside my chalet was broken -with nails and screws exposed. The food was generally good although 5 people (luckily I was not one of them) suffered food poisoning at one hotel.

Read all 34 reviews

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