The Most Incredible Hikes in Albania
Despite its small size, Albania offers many activities for its visitors. From mountains to the sea, from archaeological parks to UNESCO heritage towns, from contemporary art museums to incredible hikes: Albania has it all. The country is an exciting destination located on the Balkan trail and is one of the best places to enjoy outdoor activities. Read our list of the top five hikes to do in Albania.
1. Valbona and Theth
Hiking Trail, Park
The most famous, and perhaps most beautiful, hiking trail in Albania is the one from Valbona to Theth, through the Accursed Mountains. It is a not-to-be missed chance to admire one of the most spectacular landscapes of the Balkan Peninsula and to experience the beauty of the Albanian Alps. The hike, called Peaks of the Balkans, because it also crosses over into the neighboring countries of Kosovo and Montenegro, follows an old mule track, is almost 20 km long, and can be completed in one day because it takes a total of eight hours with several stops to enjoy the views and take pictures. Both Valbona and Theth have been declared national parks of Albania and are two of the most beautiful areas of the country.
Valbona Valley National Park, Albania
Grunas Canyon
Grunas Canyon is one of the most incredible natural places you’ll see in Albania. It can be found on the south side of the Thethi National Park and can be visited only with expert guides that will lead you to admire this gorgeous two-km-long and 60-meter-deep canyon. The path that leads to the canyon is simply gorgeous and offers incredible views over the Thethi River, which with its crystal clear water is the most beautiful river in the country. Luckily, the river has enough water for canoe sailing year-round, so if you are a fan of this kind of activity, don’t miss the chance to try it.
2. The Blue Eye of Theth
Theth is perhaps the most famous place in Albania to hike, and once here you’ll easily understand why: it is the most beautiful place in the Albanian Alps surrounded by gorgeous natural landscapes. Not all places are reachable by car, so it is a really good area to explore on foot. If you want to visit the gorgeous Blue Eye of Kaperre (Albania has two blue eyes, the other is near Saranda, in the south), you need to walk a lot: from Theth you need to pass through Grunas Canyon and Kaperre, then you’ll arrive at one of the most incredible places you’ll see in your life. The Blue Eye is a natural pool formed by the erosion of the cliff by the river that created several waterfalls and swimming holes.
3. Peshkopi
Near the Macedonian border lies Peshkopi, a town that doesn’t have so much to offer visitors. But for once, forget the historical and cultural sights, because from here you can reach the surroundings that are plentiful with hiking paths not yet discovered by tourists. To hike here, you need to be prepared, however, since you’ll walk for kilometers surrounded by nature without seeing a single human being. A plus here is the presence of natural hot springs, close to the town, perfect for relaxing after a long hike.
4. South Albania
Park
A hike in the south of Albania is one of the most gorgeous adventures to try in life. Why? It offers spectacular views over one of the most beautiful coasts of the Mediterranean Sea, lapped by turquoise waters, from one side, and surrounded by great mountain panoramas, on the other side. The hike includes Tomorr, Mount Çika, and the Ceraunian Mountains in the west, two mountains that are close to Llogara National Park, the most famous mountain pass in Albania.
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