Wandern

Europa Travel & Tours is an Albania tour-operating company, specialized in incoming tourism and travel services covering every part of Albania. We have maintained a steady presence in the tourism market since 1995, constantly improving the level of our services and always trying to introduce new products and different ideas. Apart Albania we are arranging also joined Balkan tours including Croatia, Montenegro, Macedonia, Greece and Kosova. Our main concern is to offer always a high level of journey for each and every guest that comes in Albania . Our experienced team will be there for you, to suggest, organize and operate up to the last detail, to make sure that you will have an unforgettable vacation.
Below, are some examples of our tours. Choose one of them or let us organize the tour for you according to your needs and preferences.

Hiking

Hiking + Culture in Albania (2)

Day 1: Arrival in Albania
Arrival in Tirana. Depending on the time of the arrival, transfer at the hotel in Tirana. In the afternoon a short presentation tour of Tirana. Dinner and overnight in Tirana.

Day 2: Tirana and the surroundings
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Dajti mountain (1612m) by cable car. Dajti is the mountain that overshadows Tirana and it is declared a national park. The trip by cable car takes 15 minutes to get to e certain height of the mountain. Arrival at the upper cable car station and start the hiking there. The group will hike around 500 m to the summit of the mountain. Lunch will be at the mountain. In the afternoon, turn back to Tirana for the sightseeing tour of the capital, starting from the Skanderbeg square. Visit in the National History Museum, E`them Bey Mosque, Clock Tower etc. Then continue to the main boulevard where are found the different ministries, Academy of Fine Arts, Main University etc. Dinner and overnight in Tirana.
Hiking hours to Dajti mountain : around 4 hours.

Day 3: Kruja hiking + culture
In the morning transfer to Kruja for the hike at “Sari Salltiku” mountain. Altitude :1176 m. This place has been considered a sacred mountain for decades by the Bekthashi believers in Albania. It is a very nice feeling to reach the top and visit the mystic cave found at the summit. Descend and lunch in the court yard of the castle. Afterwards visit of castle and Skanderbeg museum and Ethnographic museum. Dinner and overnight in Tirana.
Hiking hours : 4 – 5 hours
Tirana – Kruja : 50 km (45 – 60 min by bus)

Day 4: Durres & Vlora culture
In the morning transfer to the coastal town of Durres. There visit to the remaining of the Roman Amphitheatre, the biggest in the Balkan Peninsula. Afterwards visit to the Archeological museum with a nice collection of objects from antiquity which proves the antiquity of this town. After Durres transfer to Vlora. In Vlora, sightseeing of the town and possibility for a walk at Kanina castle in the afternoon located around 6 km from Vlora (380 m above sea level). After the short walk, dinner and overnight in Vlora.
Tirane – Durres : 40 km (45 min by bus)
Durres – Vlore : 147 km (20 h:30 min)
Hiking hours at Kanina castle : 1: 30 min

Day 5: The Albanian Riviera
After breakfast to the hotel, depart to Saranda traveling along the seashore. Stop in Llogara national park for some free time or some short hiking. Then continue to travel along one of the most picturesque areas in Albania called the “Albanian Riviera”. On the way on is to be visited the castle of Porto Palermo placed near Himara, also called as the castle of Ali Pashe Tepelena which was build by him in 1804. The walls of the castle are 1.6m thick. After visiting this castle, the road along the seashore passes many beautiful villages such as Qeparo, Borsh and Lukova. Arrive in Saranda and depart to Butrint. A scenic narrow leads you to the ancient city of Butrint. Visit to the Old Amphitheatre, the Temple of Aesculapius, the Baptistery with colorful mosaics and the ancient city walls. An old fortress housing a small museum watches over the entire site, which is one of the last unspoiled natural and ancient historical areas in Mediterranean. Dinner and overnight in Saranda.
Vlore – Sarande : 133 km (4 hours )
Hiking hours : optional (depends if the clients would like to walk at Llogara National Park and the conditions of the group members)

Day 6: Gjirokastra culture
After breakfast to the hotel transfer to Gjirokastra, which is a UNESCO world site. This town is called also “the stone town” because most of the houses in the old part are built with stone and the architecture of the houses is unique in Albania. Visit to the castle of the town and the Ethnographic museum (ex-house of ex-dictator of the Albanians Enver Hoxha). Afterwards travel from Gjirokastra to Berat. Dinner and overnight in Berat.
Saranda – Gjirokaster : 61 km ( 1 hour and 30 min)
Gjirokaster – Berat : 155 km (5 hours)

Day 7: Berat culture + hiking
In the morning transfer by minivan to the point where the hike will start. The clients will hike in this day at the so-called Shpiragu mountain. It is not e very difficult hike, but it takes around 5 – 6 hours to walk gradually. Lunch will be at the mountain. In the afternoon back to Berat UNESCO protected for visiting the castle, built up on a rocky hill 260m above the sea level. Churches here have survived within its powerful stony walls. With interest, is the church, which preserves wooden-engraved iconostasis, housing the “Onufri” museum. Visit to the other objects: Lead Mosque, Bachelor’s Mosque, Gorica Bridge and many dwelling houses of the 18th and 19th centuries. Dinner and overnight in Berat.
Hiking hours : 5 – 6 hours

Day 8: Leave Albania
Check out from the hotel and transfer at the airport.

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Hiking/ walking + culture tour (2)

Day 1: Arrival in Albania
Arrival at Rinas Airport. Transfer at the place where there will be the dinner and overnight 20 km away from Tirana. The place is very nice, where local life can be enjoyed. Optional possibility for folk show. Dinner and overnight in Tirana.

Day 2 : Tirana and its surroundings
In the morning trip to the “Pellumbasi” cave situated 2 km from the place the group has the overnight. This cave is also called “the black cave”. The view from the trail is very nice with the mountain side dropping to the canyon of Erzen river. The cave stands at an elevation of 350 m and is said to be one of the earliest prehistoric settlements of the area. The group enters the cave and observes the stalactites and stalagmites. Then walk to Pellumbas village and enjoy a nice refreshing bath.
In the afternoon travel to Tirana. Arrival and stars the sightseeing tour of Tirana, starting from the Skanderbeg square. Visit in the National History Museum, E`them Bey Mosque, Clock Tower etc. Then continue to the main boulevard where are found the different ministries, Academy of Fine Arts, Main University etc. Afterwards, travel to Kruja (only 32 km away from Tirana) for dinner and overnight.

Day 3: Kruja (Sari Salltik)
After breakfast stars the hike to Sari Salltik mountain. It is a very interesting place because of its mystic nature. This has been used as a pilgrimage place for many times and is still much visited by the people of the area and tourists. Altitude :1176 m (hiking time approx.4 hrs). After climbing starts the descend to Kruja. In Kruja visit to the castle that houses the Skanderbeg museum and the Ethnographic museum. Afterwards some free time at the bazaar. Dinner and overnight in the coastal city of Durres.

Day 4: Durres - Berat
In the morning sightseeing of Durres, that is one of Albania's oldest cities, the country's main seaport and the second largest industrial center, lies on a small peninsula on the coast of the Adriatic Sea at the north end of the Bay of Durrës. Visit the Amphitheatre, the biggest in the Balkan Peninsula (capacity 15.000 spectators) with a rare wall mosaic, which belongs to the 2nd century A.D and the Archeological Museum.
Then travel to Berat. Visit to the castle, built up on a rocky hill 260m above the sea level. Churches here have survived within its powerful stony walls. With interest, is the church, which preserves wooden-engraved iconostasis, housing the “Onufri” museum. Visit to the other objects: Bachelor’s Mosque, Gorica Bridge and some dwelling houses of the 18th and 19th centuries. Dinner and overnight in Berat.

Day 5: Hiking in Mount Tomorri
In the morning begins the hiking in Mount Tomorri. This mountain has been considered a sacred mountain since ancient times. Albanians believed it was home of the goddess, like Olympus in Greece. For the Bektashi believers it's still a sacred place and every August it's the destination of a massive pilgrimage. Pilgrimage at the holy place at Mount Tomorri. In the evening back in Berat for dinner and overnight.

Departure : 07:00
Arrival in Bogove village : 9 :00
Transfer by car at the tekke place : 10 : 30
Starting the hiking : 11 :00
Stop for packed lunch : 14 : 00
Begins the descending
Walking hours : 6 – 7 hours.

Day 6: Apollonia - Vlora
After breakfast, travel to Apollonia, located 12km from Fier. It is one of the most well known archeological sites in the country. Visit the amphitheatre, and the courtyard of the Monastery where there is a Byzantine style church built in the 14th century. Here you can see some monuments like the Encircling Wall, the Monument of Agonotheteve, Odeon, Portic, the Mosaics House, Fontana, and the church of Saints Mary.
As we leave Apollonia, we travel to Vlora coastal city lying in the Southwestern part of the country. Vlora is one of the major cities of Albania, an important seaport and tourist site. Visit to the Historical Museum of Independence, the building where the independence of Albania proclaimed on November 28, 1912. A monument, which perpetuates this event, raises high at the Flag Square. Dinner and overnight in Llogara national park.

Day 7: Albanian Riviera - Butrint
After breakfast to the hotel, depart to Saranda traveling along the seashore. On the way on is to be visited the castle of Porto Palermo placed near Himara, also called as the castle of Ali Pashe Tepelena. The walls of the castle are 1.6m thick. After visiting this castle, the road along the seashore passes many beautiful villages such as Qeparo, which is a very large and sunny beach, Borsh village, which has a sandy sea, and the flora is the similar to that of Qeparo, Lukova a very wide beach too. Possibility for short walks in these villages. Arrival in Saranda and depart to Butrint.
A scenic narrow leads you to the ancient city of Butrint. Visit to the Old Amphitheatre, the Temple of Aesculapius, the Baptistery with colorful mosaics and the ancient city walls. An old fortress housing a small museum watches over the entire site, which is one of the last unspoiled natural and ancient historical areas in Mediterranean. Dinner and overnight in Butrint.

Day 8: Gjirokastra
After breakfast, we have the departure to Gjirokastra, which is a “Museum City”. On the way we can visit in the magical "Blue Eye" spring, which is a very natural beauty. Once our arrivals in Gjirokastra, the characteristic houses resembles the towers and are build one above the other. They have only one common element, the stone. All the homes have the form of medieval towers. Visit to the castle, which stands out above the city as a balcony, providing the possibility for visitors to enjoy the beautiful landscape. The castle houses the National Museum of Weapons, which preserves all the kinds of weapons used and produced by the Albanians from antiquity. Visit to Ethnographic museum and the Zekati house. Dinner and overnight in Gjirokaster.

Day 9: Hiking in Dhembeli Mountain
In the morning transfer by car to Zagoria(700-800 m above sea level). Start hiking in Dhembeli mountain. After a nice hiking we will arrive in the pass of Dhembeli (around 1500m). After the packed lunch we will start the descending in Permeti town. In the afternoon free time in Permet. Overnight in Permet.

7:00 Breakfast in the hotel
7:30 Transfer by car to Zagoria
9:00 Arrival and start hiking
12:00 Arrival to the saddle and lunch
12:30 Start descending
14:30 Arrival in Permet and free time
19:30 Dinner

Hiking in the mountain around 700 m. / down: 1100 m
Total hiking hours: 6 hours.

Day 10: Benja Canyons
In the morning the group will walk up to Leusa village, for visiting one of the most interesting churches in Albania with very well-preserved frescos. Then turn in Permet for travelling towards Benja . This is one of the most attractive areas of Albania. There the tourists will walk and have the possibility to see the landscape which is full of natural thermal baths. Possibility for bathing and walking through Benja canyons. Overnight in Permet.

Day 11: Korce - Voskopoja
After breakfast, transfer to Korca, the biggest in the southeastern part of Albania. Korca is the city of serenades and the most famous carnivals all over Albania. It is situated at the foot of Morava Mountain .Visit to the museum of Medieval Art (National Museum). It presents the material culture of Albanian people. Visit to the first Albanian school, opened in 1878. In the evening drive to Voskopoja for overnight.

Day 12: Voskopoja sightseeing
In the morning sightseeing of Voskopoja village; situated only of 13 km in the west of Korca is known since the 14th century by the name Moskopoli. Voskopoja was an important centre that remains to this day as an abundant storehouse of well-known centre of art, where some of the most talented Albanian painters practiced their profession. For the moment there are few churches, which can be visited. Walking all the day in Voskopoja and its surroundings. Dinner and overnight in Voskopoje.

Day 13: Ohrid (Macedonia)
After breakfast departure from Voskopja to Macedonia. Leisure day in Ohrid . Depart to the center from where will start the walking city tour: the harbor, the Cathedral Church of St. Sophia (11th C.) the churches St. Clement, St. John Kaneo and St. Panteleimon , Tsar Samoil fortress etc . Afterwards travel to St. Naum monastery, possibility of boat trip to the sources of Drin river. Late in the afternoon travel back to Albania. Dinner and overnight in Pogradec.

Day 14: Flight back
Check out from the hotel and transfer at the airport.

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10 Days in Albania (2)

This tour will offer you some of the best of the Albanian natural landscapes as well as provide a good overview of the cultural and historical heritage of the programmed destinations. Starting from Tirana, the colorful capital full of life. Here is the heartbeat of Albania. We are going to look at its past and see the history and culture of this city. There is a lot to be learned and to be seen in this place. After, our journey continues to the awe-inspiring Albanian Alps or how it is differently called The Highlands. Some amazing places to be hiked and conquered. Having to rest in this place is going to be an one in lifetime experience. Then we will head to the south but firstly a quick stop at Shkodra and Kruja, to get to know a very important part of our history. Then we travel to the antique city of Durres to see the amazing Roman amphitheatre and go to Berat. Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Albania and Berat is one of them and the only one in this program to be visited.

Our journey continues to the South Riviera. There is this entire coastal road to be enjoyed, it offers during the entire journey a magnificent view, so relaxing and exciting at the same time.

Day 1: Tirana – Petrela
Tirana, the capital and the centre of cultural and social life of Albania. We will start our tour at the downtown Skanderbeg square and have an introductive walk along the pedestrian street and the main boulevard. In the afternoon we drive 15 km south of Tirana to Petrela, a medieval castle that overlooks a beautiful panorama towards Tirana. Here we’ll have dinner and then continue to the hotel.
Overnight in Tirana

08:00 - Breakfast
09:00 - Start tour with Skanderbeg square
12:00 - Lunch
14:00 - Free time, Shopping
17:00 - Departure to Petrela
19:00 - Dinner

Day 2: Koman – Valbona
We travel north towards Koman lake. After 2h 45’ drive we arrive at the ferry terminal. The ferry-boat travel lasts 2 hours and a half in the midst of a spectacular mountain scenery with lush vegetation and then we reach Fierza and continue by van to the town of Bajram Curri. Next to the town lies the Valley of Valbona, a National Park, where we’ll see the canyon of Shoshani and have a short hike towards a natural pond called “Xhema lake”, few km from Valbona village. After the accomodation and the lunch in Valbona, free time to enjoy the landscape.
Overnight in Valbona

05:00 - Breakfast
06:00 - Departure to Koman ferry terminal
09:00 - Ferry embarkation
12:00 - Fierza ferry terminal arrival
13:00 - Lunch in Bajram Curri
14:00 - Departure to Valbona
15:30 - Accommodation in Valbona
16:00 - Hike towards Xhema lake
19:00 - Dinner

To Xhema lake
Uphill: 30 m
Downhill: 30 m
Approximate hiking time: 10 minutes (uphill only)

Day 3: Valbona
After breakfast we hike towards the village of Kukaj (1200 m). Then continue along a good path that leads to a shepherds’ hut wehere we will have the break and enjoy the pastoral landscape. At 1660 m altitude we reach the shepherds’ hut (Stani i Ramës), have a cup of tea and the packet lunch. We descend along the same trail.

08:00 - Breakfast
09:00 - Start hiking
12:00 - Arrival at Stani it Rames 1660m
12:15 - Lunch
13:00 - Descent
15:00 - Arrival to Valbona
19:00 - Dinner

Uphill: 760 m
Downhill: 760 m
Approximate hiking time: 2.5 hours (uphill only)

Day 4: Valbona – Theth
Today we hike along one of the most preserved ancient mule trails in the Albanian Alps. Two hours after we start hiking we reach the Spring of Valbona (1500 m altitude). We have a short break and continue to the Pass of Valbona along a well-marked curvy trail. Next we start descending towards Theth and the trail is mostly surrounded by dense beech forest. After we reach the village, accommodation is provided in the gesthouse.
Overnight in Theth

07:00 - Breakfast
07:30 - Start Hiking
10:00 - Arrival at Valbona’s Spring
10:30 - Start Hiking to Theth
12:30 - Lunch
13:30 - Continue Hiking
16:30 - Arrival to Guesthouse
19:00 - Dinner

Uphill: 790 m
Downhill: 1050 m
Approximate hiking time: 7 hours

Day 5: Theth
Today we will visit the natural and historical landmarks of Theth. Firstly we start with a visit in the village’s catholic church, with its distinctive architecture. Then continue towards the “Lock-in Tower”, where we’ll hear about the centuries old tradition of reconciliation inside the tower. 40 minutes hike from the tower is the Grunas waterfall and its canyon, both Nature Monuments. From here we aer driven to Nderlyse and then hike for an hour to a beautiful natural pool, “The Blue Eye of Kapre”. Return to Theth the same way.
Overnight in Theth

07:00 - Breakfast
08:00 - Departure to Ethnographic museum
08:15 - Arrival to the Museum
09:35 - Arrival to the church
10:15 - Departure to the Waterfall
11:00 - Arrival to the Waterfall
11:30 - Lunch near the waterfall
12:00 - Departure to Ndelysa
14:00 - Arrival to Nderlysa wells
15:00 - Departure to the “Blue eye”
17:30 - Departure to Theth.
19:30 - Dinner

From the guesthouse to the waterfall: 3 hours
From Nderlyse to “Blue Eye of Kapre”: 2 hours

Day 6: Shkodra – Kruja
After breakfast, we’ll be driven to Shkodra, the oldest and most important town of north Albania. We’ll enjoy a short walk along the historic centre and afterwards visit the 2400-year old Rozafa castle. Next, transfer to a traditional slow-food restaurant for lunch, to enjoy eating natural in the Albanian way. In the afternoon, visit to Kruja, the capital of the Albanian National Hero Skanderbeg fighting against the Ottomans in the XV century. Visit the museum, old bazaar and then transfer to Durres in the evening.
Overnight in Durres

06:00 - Breakfast
07:00 - Departure to Shkodra
09:30 - Arrival in Shkodra
10:00 - Sightseeing in Shkodra
12:00 - Lunch
13:00 - Departure to Kruja
14:30 - Arrival in Kruja
15:00 - Sightseeing in Kruja
17:00 - Departure to Durres
18:00 - Arrival to Durres
18:30 - Accommodation at the hotel
20:00 - Dinner

Day 7: Durres – Berat
Durres is the most important seaport in Albania. We’ll visit the 20-century old Roman amphitheatre, the largest in the Balkans, and then the Roman forum and baths in the downtown. Leaving Durres, we drive to Berat, Unesco protected town. Berat is a remarkable Ottoman town, rich in beautiful buildings with great architectural and historical interest. The pine forests above the city, on the slopes of the towering Tomori Mountain, provide a backdrop of appropriate grandeur. There will be visited Berati Castle with its fortified walls and “Onufri museum” housed insider an old church. Visit the rest of the town with Mangalem and Gorica neighborhoods, the medieval center and the Ethnographic museum.
Overnight in Berat

08:00 - Breakfast
09:00 - Sightseeing Durres
10:30 - Departure to Berat
13:00 - Arrival to Berat
13:30 - Accommodation in Berat
14:00 - Lunch
15:00 - Visit Berati Castle
16:30 - Visit the rest of the town
19:30 - Dinner

Uphill: 80 m
Downhill: 80 m
Approximate hiking time: 20 minutes

Day 8: Berat – Shpiragu
Mali i Shiragut - previously known as "Enver Hoxha Mountain" is the little brother of well known Tomorri. Shpiragut is seen prominently when approaching Berat, though the gaze of the visiting tourist is usually attracted to the much more dramatic Tomorri.
But as so often, the best views are not to be had from the highest mountains, but from those from which the highest mountains can be seen at close range and in their full glory. We dare say that the best views of Tomorri can be had from Shpiragut (or the road leading to Mali i Shpiragut)
Overnight in Berat

08:00 - Breakfast
09:00 - Departure to Shpiragu
09:30 - Arrival in Shpiragu
10:00 - Start hiking
12:30 - Reach mountain peak
13:00 - Lunch
14:00 - Start descending
16:00 - Arrival in Berat
17:00 - Free time and shopping
19:30 - Dinner

Uphill: 740 m
Downhill: 740 m
Approximate hiking time: 4 hours

Day 9: Vlore – Dhermi
Today we travel100 km south to Vlora, where Albania’s independence was proclaimed 112 years ago. Visit the main historic landmarks, a coffee and a walk along the palms surrounding main boulevard. After lunch by the sea in Radhime, we continue to Dhermi, where accommodation will be provided in hotel. In the afternoon we visit the St. Mary’s church on the highest hill of the village.
Overnight in Dhermi

07:00 - Breakfast
08:00 - Departure to Vlora
10:00 - Arrival in Vlora
10:30 - Sightseeing Vlora
13:30 - Lunch in Radhime
14:30 - Departure to Dhermi
16:00 - Arrival in Dhermi
16:30 - Accommodation in Dhermi
17:00 - Visit to St. Mary’s church
19:30 - Dinner

Day 10: Dhermi
From Dhermi we drive to the ruins of St. Theodore’s monastery. Then we hike down to the canyon and beach of Gjipe. Here we can have a swim in the crystal clear waters of the sea, rock climb, or walk inside and enjoy the depth of the canyon. In the afternoon we hike back to the intersection with the main road and drive to Porto Palermo, to visit the 19th century castle of Ali Pasha. Afterwards drive north and have a coffee by the sunset in Llogara and drive to Tirana.
Overnight in Tirana

08:00 - Breakfast
09:00 - Drive to St. Theodore’s Monastery
09:30 - Arrival at St. Theodore’s Monastery
10:00 - Start hiking through canyon and beach Gjipe
13:00 - Lunch
14:00 - Drive to Porto Palermo
15:00 - Arrival to Porto Palermo
15:30 - Visit Ali Pasha Castle
16:30 - Drive to Llogara
17:30 - Arrival in Llogara
19:30 - Dinner
20:30 - Drive to Tirana

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13-day guided tour in Albania (2)

This trip’s goal is to have a general idea of what Albania has to offer, whether is it nature, history or culture. The exploration starts with the Capital City and the mountain near it called Dajti Mountain, located in central Albania.
Than our journey continues towards North Albania. We are going to visit some historical cities like Kruja and Shkodra, and there is going to be some hike in the nature as well. But the real hike is about to come. After a very interesting trip with a ferry through Drini Canyon, we reach the Albanian Alps in the Valley of Valbona.
We are now in The Highlands. Valbona and Theth are a miracle of nature. After visiting guest houses and hiking through this magnificent woods and rocks, we will be ready for another thrilling visit to South Albania.
Durres is our first stop, located near Tirana, Durres is the most ancient city in Albania dating from 627 BC. Trip continues to Berat, a city of great history and Unesco protected.
The trip continues down south to Vlora and Llogara. With an amazing view in Llogara you are going to witness the amazing combination of mountain and sea. Through the beautiful coastal road we arrive to Saranda and the amazing Butrinti, a well known place for its historical and cultural interest.
Gjirokastra is going to be the place which is going to close this interesting tour. This city is part of the World Heritage List, so it is a must see.

Day 1: Arrival
Arrival in Tirana airport. Meet with the local guide and transfer to the hotel for dinner and overnight.

Day 2: Dajti Mountain – Tirana
After breakfast in the hotel depart towards Dajti mountain, the closest mountain to Tirana with an altitude of 1614 m. Transportation to the point where the hike will start will be done by car. Arrival at Gurorja (location) and start of the hike. Arrival at the mountain peak and if it is a clear day, you can see as far as Sazani island located in Vlora.
After the hike, return to Tirana for a guided tour of the city. Visit Skanderbeg square with Ethem Bey mosque and the Clock tower. Then proceed to the main boulevard where are located some more historical buildings.
Dinner and overnight in Tirana

07:00 - Breakfast
08:00 - Departure
08:30 - Arrival to Gurorja
08:45 - Hike in Dajti mountain
11:30 - Reaching top of the mountain
11:45 - Descent to Dajti Park
12:30 - Lunch
13:30 - Descent to Gurorja
14:30 - Arrival to Gurorja
15:30 - Arrival to Tirana
16:00 - Tirana sightseeing

Uphill: 800 m
Downhill: 800 m
Approximate hiking time: 5 hours

Day 3: Kruja - Shkodra
After breakfast in the hotel travel from Tirana towards Kruja where the group will hike in the mountain of Kruja to visit the Holy Land of Bektashi. The hike will take around 4 hours and apart enjoying the nice nature, the group will explore and discover more of the religious situation in Albania where in the mountain top they will visit the Bektashi tekke and get more info of Sari Salltik, considered a saint from the locals. Afterwards, start the descent. Arrival back in Kruja where we will have a tasty lunch in one of the restaurants of the Skanderbeg Castle. Afterwards visit the Ethnographic Museum. Free time in the traditional bazaar.
In the afternoon departure to Shkodra which is situated near the lake sharing the same name. It is an ancient city with a rich history. Visit the Rozafa Castle built on a rocky hill and get acquainted with its sad legend.
Dinner and overnight in Shkodra.

07:00 - Breakfast
08:00 - Departure
10:00 - Hike in Kruja mountain/ Teqja
10:00 - Departure from Teqja
11:00 - Descent from the mountain
12:30 - Lunch
13:30 - Visit Ethnographic museum
14:30 - Free time for shopping
15:00 - Departure to Shkodra
16:30 - Arrival in Shkodra and visit Rozafa castle
18:00 - Check in the hotel

Uphill: 600 m
Downhill: 600 m
Approximate hiking time: 4 hours

Day 4: Koman – Fierze - Drini Canyon - Valbona
In the morning departure to Koman lake when we will embark into the ferry that passes through the spectacular canyon of Drin river. The lake has been shaped after the build of Koman Hydro central in 1981.
After the ferry trip the transfer continues through the valley of Valbona river, along quite untouched nature. Accommodation in local guesthouses.
06:00 - Departure
09:00 - Ferry embarkation
12:00 - Arrival to Fierza
13:30 - Lunch in Bajram Curri
14:30 - Departure to Valbona
15:30 - Arrival to Valbona
19:30 - Dinner

Day 5: Valbona
Valbona is actually the name of the river which flows through the valley of Valbona, and the name of this village located in Tropoja district North Albania. In this village, the group will have the possibility to enjoy a perfect blending of the beautiful virgin nature and local life. Valbona together with Theth form the so called “The Highlands of Albania”. One of the most interesting parts of Valbona is the Zhapor trail which the group will discover this day. It is a mule trail, 1600 m high, which is not difficult to be climbed.
Dinner and overnight in Valbona.

07:00 - Breakfast
08:00 - Start hiking through Zhapor trail
12:00 - Arrival time at Zhapor trail
12:15 - Packed lunch
12:45 - Descent to Valbona valley
15:30 - Arrival at Valbona valley
16:00 - Accommodation and resting
19:00 - Dinner

Uphill: 800 m
Downhill: 800 m
Approximate hiking time: 6hours

Day 6: Valbona - Theth
After breakfast, travel by car for 10 km until Rragam village where the hiking will start. The trail, where the highest peak is Valbona Path (about 1900m over the sea level), is the classical trail of Albanian Alps that for centuries has served as a link between two of the most famous valleys of Bjeshket e Namuna , that of Valbona and Theth. There will be horses and mules to carry our baggage up to the next house. The villagers use this trail from the late summer to the first winter snow. Also there are some fresh fountains along the trail, making our travel nicer and cool admiring the fantastic sights that emerge from the heights of this trail. Than from the path we will descend to Theth village. Theth is the most historical alpine village in Albania. It has traditional stone houses covered with wood tiles built on natural balconies.
Dinner and accommodation in local guest houses.

06:00 - Breakfast
06: 30 - Departure
07:00 - Start Hiking
08.30 - Stop to the first fountain
11.00 - Valbona path (a short stopover)
11.30 - Start descending to Theth
12.30 - Stop to the second fountain
16.00 - Arrival to the guesthouse
19:00 - Dinner

Uphill: 800 m
Downhill: 800 m
Approximate hiking time: 8 hours with breaks included

Day 7: Theth
On this day we will have a nice walking through the surroundings of Theth. During the first part of the day we are going to visit the church of Thethi, The tower (Kulla), The 3oo years old house of Borshi family that was the Ethnographic museum of Dukagjini. Then we will see Grumas waterfall which is the highest in Albania (30 m), Nderlysa’s wells and the “blue eye” of Kapre. Return to Theth will be by van.
Dinner and overnight in Theth.

07:00 - Breakfast
08:00 - Departure to Ethnographic museum
08:15 - Arrival to the Museum
09:35 - Arrival to the church
10:15 - Departure to the Waterfall
11:00 - Arrival to the Waterfall
11:30 - Lunch near the waterfall
12:00 - Departure to Ndelysa
14:00 - Arrival to Nderlysa wells
15:00 - Departure to the “Blue eye”
17:30 - Departure to Theth.
19:30 - Dinner

Day 8: Durres - Kepi i Rodonit
After breakfast start travelling to Durres. Durres is the second most important city in Albania and the one with the biggest seaport. Before reaching Durres, stop to hike to Cape of Rodon, which is the biggest cape in Albania. Arrival and visit Rodoni Castle, build by Skanderbeg during 1451 – 1452 and St. Antony church. Afterwards, travel to Durres where it is possible to visit the Roman amphitheatre from the 2nd century.
Dinner and overnight in Durres.

07:00 - Breakfast
08:00 - Travel by car to Kepi Rodonit
13:00 - Arrival at Kepi Rodonit and lunch
14:00 - Hike in Kepi Rodonit
15:30 - Departure Durres
16:00 - Arrival Durres and sightseeing
17:30 - Accommodation in the hotel
19:00 - Dinner

Day 9: Durres - Berat
After breakfast travel towards Berat, Unesco protected town. Berat is a remarkable Ottoman town, rich in beautiful buildings with great architectural and historical interest. The pine forests above the city, on the slopes of the towering Tomori Mountain, provide a backdrop of appropriate grandeur. There will be visited Berati Castle with its fortified walls and “Onufri museum” housed insider an old church. After lunch visit the rest of the town with Mangalem and Gorica neighborhoods, the medieval center and the Ethnographic museum.
Dinner and accommodation in Berat.

07:00 - Breakfast
08:00 - Departure to Berat
10:00 - Arrival in Berat. Visit the castle and Onufri museum
12:30 - Lunch
14:00 - Visit the rest of the city
16:00 - Free time in Berat
19:00 - Dinner

Day 10: Vlore - Llogara
Early in the morning travel from Berat towards Llogara. Llogara is the place where the mountain joins the sea. The mountain goes sharp into the sea, so it forms a steep terrain. Start the hike to Qorre mountain (2018 m) using a shepherd trail. The trail passes across the pass of Caesar. Picnic lunch at the peak. Descent back to Llogara pass.
Dinner and overnight in Vlora/ or Llogara national park.

06:00 - Breakfast
07:00 - Departure to Llogara Path
09:30 - Arrival to Llogara Path
10:00 - Start hike to Qorra Peak
13:00 - Arrival to Qorra Peak
13:15 - Lunch and free time
14:00 - Start descending
16:30 - Arrival to Llogara Path
17:30 - Arrival to Vlora
19:30 - Dinner

Uphill: 1000 m
Downhill: 1000 m
Approximate hiking time: 5 hours

Day 11: Ali Pashe Tepelena Castle – Butrint - Sarande
After breakfast, depart to Saranda traveling along the seashore. On the way on is to be visited the castle of Porto Palermo placed near Himara, also called as the castle of Ali Pashe Tepelena. The walls of the castle are 1.6m thick. After visiting this castle, the road along the seashore passes many beautiful villages such as Qeparo, Borsh, Lukove etc. Lunch in Saranda and depart to Butrint. A scenic narrow leads you to the ancient city of Butrint. Visit to the Old Amphitheatre, the Temple of Aesculapius, the Baptistery with colorful mosaics and the ancient city walls. An old fortress housing a small museum watches over the entire site, which is one of the last unspoiled natural and ancient historical areas in Mediterranean.
Back to the city of Saranda for dinner and overnight.

07:00 - Breakfast
08:00 - Departure to Saranda
12:30 - Arrival in Saranda and lunch
14:30 - Visit Butrint
17:00 - Back in Saranda. Accommodation in the hotel.

Day 12: Saranda - Gjirokaster
After breakfast, we have the departure to Gjirokastra, which is a “Museum City”. On the way possibility for visiting the magical Blue Eye. When we go to Gjirokastra, the characteristic houses resemble the towers and are build one above the other. They have only one common element, the stone. All the homes have the form of medieval towers. Visit to the castle, which stands out above the city as a balcony, providing the possibility for visitors to enjoy the beautiful landscape. The castle houses the National Museum of Weapons, which preserves all the kinds of weapons used and produced by the Albanians from antiquity. In the afternoon, time for short hikes in the nearby villages like Kardhiq and Golem.
Dinner and overnight in Gjirokastra

7:00 Breakfast
8:00 Departure to Gjirokastra
9:00 visit Blye Eye
10:00 Arrival to Gjirokastra
12:30 Lunch
14:00 Hiking in Kardhiq and Golem
17:30 Back in Gjirokastra
20:30 Dinner

Day 13: back to Tirana
Transfer from Gjirokastra to Tirana (either in the city or in the airport depending on the flight time).

07:00 - Breakfast
08:00 - Departure to Tirana
12:00 - Arrival in Tirana

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