Hiking Experience in Albania

offers breathtaking landscapes, diverse trails, and a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. From towering mountains to serene lakes, the country's terrain is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking in Albania is a fantastic adventure! The country's diverse landscapes offer something for every hiker, from towering mountains to stunning coastlines. Albania has something for every hiker, whether you're looking for challenging treks or leisurely walks. we are suggesting some of the most beautiful and most loved trails in Albania. From the Mountains to the Coast with a very unique local experience. from the Shepherds to the Ionian coasts. Albania may not be the first destination that comes to mind when considering breathtaking mountain hikes, but it truly deserves a place on every adventurer’s list. At Bookatrekking.com, we believe that Albania offers an unparalleled experience for outdoor enthusiasts. The diverse landscapes and untouched beauty provide a unique adventure for everyone.

Albanian Alps in North Albania

Northern Albania is home to the stunning foothills of the Dinaric Alps, where numerous trekking routes await to be explored. This region is renowned for its rugged terrain, crystal-clear rivers, and verdant valleys. One of the highlights is the Peaks of the Balkans Trail, an extraordinary trekking route that not only showcases Albania’s natural beauty but also crosses borders into Montenegro and Kosovo. This trail allows hikers to experience the diverse cultures, landscapes, and hospitality of three Balkan countries in one journey.

Theth - Valbona 

The trail offers breathtaking views of the  Shala and Kelmendi valleys, featuring the southernmost glacier in northern Albania. It connects the charming village of Theth, 15 km away,  with the scenic Valbona Valley, both known for their stunning landscapes and exceptional hiking experiences. This trail has become increasingly popular, attracting numerous tourists.In the small village of Valbona, situated in the Valbona Walley that same time is an National Park you'll find limited accommodations and no modern amenities, offering a genuine connection to nature. Nearby, The Valley boasts mountainous terrain, alpine landscapes, glacial springs, and rock formations,  It features dense forests of beech, pine, and oak, and is home to wildlife such as brown bears, grey wolves, lynxes, roe deer, chamoises, and wild goats, and 

Valbona -Çerrem

The hike begins in the picturesque Valbona Valley, known for its pristine nature and traditional stone houses. Surrounded by towering peaks and lush greenery, the trail takes you through beautiful alpine meadows and dense forests. The scenery is breathtaking, with rugged mountains and clear streams. Adventurous hikers can explore nearby peaks like Kollata e Madhe. The trail leads to the remote village of Cerrem and several times through the border between Albania and Montenegro offering a glimpse into traditional Albanian mountain life with its stone houses and welcoming locals. Part of the Peaks of the Balkans Trail and start point toward  Doberdol.  The village is closed during the harsh winter months but comes alive and fluorish in summer with shepherds and visitors

Çerrem - Doberdol

The hike begins in the remote village of Cerrem, known for its traditional stone houses and tranquil valley setting. The trail leads through beautiful alpine meadows and dense forests, offering a mix of open vistas and shaded paths. The fresh air and stunning scenery, with views of rugged peaks and clear streams, provide a peaceful hiking experience. The path leads to the highland village of Doberdol, renowned for its pastoral beauty and used by local shepherds in summer. You'll experience traditional Albanian mountain life, and an warm welcoming from locals The village of Cerrem was a summer pasture for shepherds, part of the Trail Peaks of the Balkans and a gateway toward Doberdol passing through the Gashi Valley a nature reserve and  beautiful natural attractions in Dobërdol like the glacial lakes and the Sulbica plateau

Valbona - Kuji Rrogamit - Valbona

The Valbona-Kuji i Rragamit-Valbona circuitous path offers the opportunity to explore the entire Rragam area, including the spot known as Kuji i Rragamit. This moderately difficult trail is ideal for observing the flora and fauna of the Valbona Valley and its beech forested massifs. Along the way, you'll cross several meadows, and from June to July, you'll encounter a variety of endemic plants. The path is easily accessible for all types of hikers.

Valbona - Rosi Peak- Valbona

 starts in Valbona Walley toward Rossi pass , whose summit separates Albania from Montenegro. the target is to reach the former border pyramid at the Pass. Once we reach the summit, we will be treated to a breathtaking view of the Accursed Mountains, the second highest mountain, Jezerca (2695 m), and the peak of Rossi (2522 m). on the way back and you can make a stop at the Ramas shepherd's hut, where we can enjoy a cup of coffee or refreshment while admiring the stunning landscape of Valbona Valley, which is situated approximately 800 meters over the Walley. of you want to hike further than after Rosi Pass you can follow the path toward Vuthaj or Plav in Montenegro

Vuthaj – Theth

The journey typically begins in Vusanje, a picturesque village in present-day Montenegro, and proceeds through the Ropojana Valley. The hike starts gently, surrounded by towering mountains and quaint homes. You'll traverse alpine meadows and dense forests, enjoying breathtaking views. The route passes through Peja Pass, a historic path at 1707 meters with spectacular scenery. For experienced hikers, there's an option to tackle the nearby Arapi Peak, known as the "Matterhorn of Albania." The hike concludes in Theth, a charming village with traditional stone houses and stunning natural surroundings.

South Mediterranean Albania

In Southern Albania, adventurers will find equally captivating destinations. Mt Çika stands as one of the region's crown jewels, offering challenging ascents and panoramic views of the Ionian Sea. Nearby, Grama Bay presents a stunning coastal retreat where you can unwind on the pristine beaches or camp under the stars. The Zagoria Valley with her hidden beauty and the fashion of the mediterrain Mountains  Southern Albania provides a plethora of options for both seasoned hikers and casual explorers.

Zagoria Walley

Hiking in the Zagoria Valley is a wonderful experience, offering a blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural encounters. Known for its untouched landscapes, the Zagoria Valley features lush forests, rolling hills, and clear streams. The hiking trails follow the old Caravan Route along Cajupi Mountain, the Lunxheria Mountain Range, and up to Dhembeli Pass, offering breathtaking views and a chance to immerse yourself in a variety of plant and animal species, including some endemic to the region. Traditional villages like Limar, Hoshtevë, Sheper, and Doshnicë, with their traditional stone houses where you will overnight, offer the opportunity to enjoy traditional Albanian hospitality. Along the way, you may come across shepherds tending to their flocks on the highland pastures. The hike concludes by passing Dhembeli Mountain and arriving in Përmet, a small city along the Vjosa River

Llogara -Qorre Peak-Llogara

Hiking Maja e Qorres, also known as Qorra Peak, in southern Albania is a fantastic adventure, Situated in Llogara National Park, this hike offers stunning vistas of the Albanian Riviera, the Ionian Sea, and the Ceraunian Mountains. The trail starts with a kilometer through dense forest, then follows the ridge to another forest. the ascend on the right to reach Qorre Pass at around 1850 meters, is a magical view of Çika peak and the Ionian Sea await. The final stretch is a 200-meter climb in a 500-meter hike to the peak. The summit rewards you with breathtaking views of wild mountains and beautiful shorelines.

Llogara _ Qafa Thelle-Thanasi Peak

This trail is nestled within the Llogara National Park and begins along the road, leading into a dense pine forest. It's a relatively easy hike, suitable for hikers with little experience. After the initial ascent, the vegetation begins to thin out, and upon reaching the Qafa e Thelle Pass, you'll be greeted by the stunning blue expanse of the Ionian Sea, with a spectacular view stretching all the way to the island of Corfu in Greece. The hike continues to the Thanasi Pass, and the descent is a gentle loop that brings you to the many traditional bars lining the roadside. Llogara National Park's terrain includes large alpine meadows, vertical rock faces, precipices, and dense forests. It is also an important Bird and Plant Area.

Old ( Upper) Qeparo

Nestled in the hills behind the coast, between the popular Porto Palermo and Borsh Beaches, lies Upper Qeparo, a hidden gem on the Albanian Riviera.Accessible via a steep road that winds through the Upper Qeparo is distinct from Lower Qeparo, a newer town situated on the beachfront. Despite being partially abandoned, Upper Qeparo remains an excellent example of a traditional Albanian village. the hike get through the olive plantations on the hill always with the ionian sea on our side.at the arrival offers visitors the chance to admire traditional architecture and experience a slower pace of life in a less-touristy part of Albania. It also boasts majestic sea views and intriguing castle ruins.

Gjipe Canyon

The journey to the idyllic Gjipe Bay begins as soon as you leave the national road. The hiking path meanders through lush shrubs and Mediterranean vegetation, following the namesake canyon. The 3.5 km walk occasionally requires careful navigation during the descent. Your effort is rewarded as the trail leads directly to the pristine beach of Gjipeja, accessible only on foot. Upon arrival, you can bask in the azure waters or let your curiosity guide you further into the canyon you traversed.

Voskopoja and Shipska

Begin your adventure in the ancient village of Voskopoja, nestled at an elevation of 1,200 meters above sea level, just west of Korça. This picturesque spot is an ideal setting for both hiking and leisurely strolls. Steeped in history, Voskopoja was once a bustling hub in the 1700s, home to over 30,000 inhabitants. It was renowned as a center for trade, culture, education, and religion. Once adorned with more than twenty Orthodox churches, Voskopoja now proudly maintains seven, each showcasing breathtaking 18th-century frescoes inside and out. These historic sites are certainly worth exploring. The stunning landscapes of Voskopoja and its environs offer a serene escape. This gentle hike to the nearby village of Shipska promises an intriguing journey and a perfect retreat from the daily hustle and bustle of Korça.

For inquiries about these destinations and more or if you would like to customize your own tailored tour, please contact us via phone, email, or fill out the form or reach out to us at: hello@wanderlust-albania.com or contact us at +355 69 209 0909.