Category: Homestays

To say that the Theth valley in the Albanian Alps is stunningly beautiful is an understatement, so there’s no wondering why it’s becoming increasingly popular with hikers. The Accursed Mountains, as they’re also known, could easily be mistaken for the Peruvian Andes. On the Valbona pass, karst limestone topography carpeted by beech forests stretch as far as the eyes can see. This breathtaking trail is bookended by the farming villages of Theth and Valbona. The first records of Theth date back to the Venetian period in the early 14th century, when just a handful of houses were stumbled upon. Theth is around a two-hour drive from the lakeside city of Shkodër. Its church, also built in the 14th century, has become the picture postcard of the village. If you’re joining us in north Albania, you will have the chance to soak up these bucolic surroundings from the Valbona pass or during a mini hike to the Blue Eye natural pool. Whichever option you take, more of those views and a fresh, home grown dinner await you at our traditional homestay in Theth. Related: 7 things you can only see, eat or do in Albania Meet Aldo, our Albania adventure guide Why the Balkans are perfect for a holiday in September During the 1990’s, following the collapse of communism in Albania, many left the villages to find work. Over the past two decades, tourism has helped to breathe life back into the valley and families have returned to open their homes to hikers exploring the region. Marash, wife Albina (pictured below) and their three teenagers: Kristijan, Fred and Martina, are one such family who turned their home into a guesthouse in 2018. The kids divide their time between Theth and the city of Shkodër, helping their parents host hikers in their