Nestled in the rugged terrain of the Balkans, northern Albania offers adventurous souls a trekking experience unlike any other. This region, renowned for its pristine landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, beckons hikers to discover its hidden gems and untouched beauty.

Beyond the natural wonders, northern Albania is steeped in history and culture. Villages dotting the landscape provide glimpses into a traditional way of life, where hospitality is as abundant as the breathtaking views. Local cuisine, featuring hearty mountain fare, promises to replenish energy reserves after a day on the trail.

A hiking trip through northern Albania promises not only a physical challenge but also a spiritual rejuvenation. Whether you seek solitude in nature’s embrace or wish to immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, this journey will leave an indelible mark on your soul. Come prepared to explore, discover, and be transformed by the untamed beauty of this Balkan gem. 

We will meet in the morning outside the Tirana international airport where we will be introduced to the guides and fellow travelers. From here, we will take a private shuttle to the town of Kruja. Walking down the streets of the old Bazar, we will head to the Castle of Kruja where we will spend the afternoon site-seeing and understanding the long history of Albania. After a lunch with a panoramic view

we will head to Shkodër where we will settle in to our accommodations and head to one of the oldest castles in Albania and have our first dinner together over a customary Albanian dinner.

.

An early start will take us on a private shuttle to Komani Lake. From here, we will start our journey to the Albanian Alps with a two hour ferry cruising through towering limestones cliffs and idyllic blue waters. From the town of Fierze, we will take a van to to entrance of the Albanian Alps, stopping to hike along the Valbone River before entering the Valbone Valley and the town of Valbona where we will spend two evenings. We willl stay in classic Albanian Bujtina’s (guesthouses), enjoy local cuisne, and interact with the local community.

We will start our day right from our front door and head into the Albanian alps where we will enjoy great views of the valley and surrounding mountains. We will end our day with group dinner at our Bujtina and enjoy a classic dinner and Albanian drinks. 

Today we will take a shuttle to the start of the classic Valbone to Theth hike. Horse porters will transfer our gear to the town of Theth. This hike will give way to sweeping views of the Albanian Alps as we make our way towards Theth National Park where we will spend the following two evenings. We will embark on a light evening hike to waterfalls before having dinner out in town. 

We will begin our hike from our accommodations after a homemade breakfast. We will hike along the Theth River towards the town of Nydërlysaj. From here we will venture towards the Blue Eye- a must see waterfall in all of Albania. We will enjoy dinner in the town of Nydërlysaj before our journey back to Theth. 

We will take a scenic drive to Shkoder where we will transfer shuttles and head to the sea-  where a beach side lunch overlooking the Adriatic Sea will be had. After spending the afternoon swimming and taking in the sea, we will head to our final accommodations. We will be nestled just ten minutes from Tirana International Airport, and in a quaint farmhouse property with livestock and beautiful gardens. We will enjoy our last group dinner together over a seven course menu followed with wine and libations.

Folks are free to depart anytime in the morning, with rides being offered to both the hotel or Downtown Tirana. A wonderful fresh garden breakfast is provided for folks wanting a slow morning.