Albanian Alps Hiking Adventure, 3 days
“5 stars – Albania was such a glorious surprise. The mountains were stunning, the weather was crazy, the people friendly and the food local and fresh. We did a few activities guided by Arben, who shared his knowledge, stories over our 3 days. There is so much more to see, and we’ll definitely be back to explore some more of the region!”
Jenny Moore, July 2023
2023/24 departure dates: any Sunday June-October (min. 2 persons)
Discover Albania and the epic beauty of the Albanian Alps! More accessible than ever thanks to budget airlines now flying into Podgorica (less than 4 hours from Theth where this tour begins), this staggeringly pretty and still little-known destination is the perfect addition to our week multi-activity holiday at Lake Skadar. In fact, that’s why we created it!
Our 3-day package takes you on an adventure into the heart of one of Europe’s most remote destinations, combining an incredible day hike with a stunning ferry ride. The tour begins at the alpine village of Theth, our steep road there providing almost as much adventure as the next day’s hike! The following morning we leave early for the justly famous Theth to Valbona hike, a 16km epic walk passing through pastures and forest and along a steep mountain pass peaking at 1,759m. The panoramic views will leave you as breathless as the journey! Our final day includes an unforgettable ferry ride on the beautiful Lake Koman as we travel to Shkoder by Lake Skadar. This former capital of the ancient kingdom of Zeta is just 1.5 hours from Podgorica.
Join us to witness one of Europe’s last peasant cultures, learn about the blood feuds, the sworn virgins of the mountains, life under Enver Hoxha, one of the most crazed of all European dictators, and much, much more besides!
NB. A reasonable level of fitness is required – the hike takes 6-8 hours and is moderate level. We recommend this tour for age 12+ (although we can make exceptions for exceptional kids!)
Your Tour Leader:
Arben‘s enthusiasm for his country and all outdoor pursuits is infectious! As one of Albania’s most renowned licenced guides, he has stupendous historical knowledge and seems to have visited every corner of Albania! He lives in Tirana and speaks superb English.
Want to see more? Watch our video!
Day 1 – into Albania!
Transfer to the border at Hani i Hotit, 45 minutes from Podgorica airport, and then a further journey with your guide up to the staggering beauty of Theth National Park. In the afternoon we will explore the attractions of Theth on foot: the church, the blood feud tower, a beautiful waterfall, followed by dinner and overnight stay at a traditional guesthouse.
Day 2 – Hiking the Theth to Valbona pass, 1,820m
After an early breakfast, alpine style, we set off for Valbona. Our trail offers some of the wildest, most untouched views in the Balkans, taking 7-8 hours to walk in total. We walk first through ancient forest before arriving at the plateau offering magnificent views of the Valbona Valley below. From here it’s a steep downward decent to our traditional guesthouse in beautiful Valbona. Horses are available to carry bags and, if needed, children with tired feet! At the end of the hike, there is time to relax and watch the sun go down over the mountains, before enjoying a great local dinner of delicious locally-made products.
Day 3 – Koman Lake boat trip/Rozafa Castle, Shkodra
The boat ride on Lake Koman is considered one of the best boat trips in the world! This man-made lake is framed on all sides by sheer limestone cliffs and the contrast with the sapphire waters is remarkable. There will be stops along the way at some isolated villages for turkish coffee and raki as the journey also forms part of a “water-bus” route for remote mountain communities. Afterwards we continue to the town of Shkoder on the shores of Lake Skadar for another lovely meal, a guided tour around the famous Rozafa Castle and our final night.
Day 4 – transfer back to Montenegro/Podgorica airport
Prices are in £ Sterling per person and include all transport, all activities, all accommodation, breakfast, dinners and all guiding (lunches not included).
3 night trips run Sunday-Wednesday or Thursday-Sunday.
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HOLIDAY
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APRIL/OCTOBER
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JUNE/SEPTEMBER
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JULY/AUGUST
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| Albanian Alps Adventure 3 nights |
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£550pp
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£550pp
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