Are you exploring southern Albania with us? This mountain farmhouse in Përmet on the Vjosa river is sure to whet your appetite.
Built more than 120 years ago, Kristaq and Florida Kalllufe’s family home is truly unique. Now listed as a National Monument of Culture, you’ll have the chance to stop there the night before white water rafting on the Vjosa on our South Albania holiday, allowing you to gaze down on the very river you’ll be riding during dinner.
The drive to the house is a crescendo to the views you’ll enjoy once there; made possible only by a 4×4 vehicle, you’ll drive between lush pastures past farmers rounding up their flocks of sheep and up a narrow dirt track where Kristaq, his wife and son will greet you.
The house was unoccupied during the communist regime and fell into disrepair until Kristaq and Florida fulfilled his late mother’s dream eight years ago to restore it and convert it into a guest house. Each bedroom is filled with family heirlooms, such as Kristaq’s grandmother’s peja (a chest of things a woman takes to her marital home), and warmed by traditional log fires —although they’re not needed in summer. Family photos adorn the stone walls, along with newspaper clippings of the house and ‘Thank-you’ cards from past guests. “When people stay, they become members of the house,” says Kristaq.
Outside, cow bells jingle—the only sound for miles. Surrounding the patio are yet more artefacts, such as old farming tools, typewriters, telephones, and sewing machines. There are bean bags and a swing seat for you to sink into and enjoy the views—or opt for a walk to watch the sunset over the mountains. The dinner table overlooks the Vjosa valley.
The next morning, a hearty farmhouse breakfast awaits—eggs, meat, bread, donuts, mountain tea, Turkish coffee and fresh fruit—fuel for an adventure is what we always say.
Kristaq’s village is a shadow of its former self with many having moved abroad or to the cities for work after communism. But Kristaq’s vision is for as many people as possible to visit and get to know the real Albania. “I’ve been invited to travel the world, but I want people to come here and see my country,” he says.
Are you ready for a truly authentic stay in Albania? View our South Albania holiday now and get in touch with any questions.
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