15 Incredible Hikes in Albania (For All Levels)

The mountaineering in Albania is likely one of the important causes persons are drawn to this superb place. Over 70% of the nation is mountainous, which makes for some unbelievable mountaineering trails in Albania, together with some superb views.

Among the greatest hikes round Albania are in, or very near, among the important cities and cities in Albania too, so you will discover a implausible base to hike and simply additionally see among the greatest points of interest within the nation.

I lived in Albania for two months as a digital nomad, and the beautiful surroundings I noticed on the varied strolling trails in Albania blew me away. So listed here are my high 15 hikes round Albania.

15 Finest Hikes in Albania

I beloved mountaineering in Albania; it’s one in all my favourite issues to do there. There are such a lot of completely different hikes in Albania, and also you’ll be capable to discover a trek, hike, or pretty strolling path irrespective of the place you go. The views over gorges, valleys, and the water (lakes, rivers, and sea) are nothing wanting spectacular.

I did plenty of mountaineering in Albania, however I’ve narrowed it down to fifteen based mostly on the convenience of getting there, the surroundings and nature you see on the best way, and usually the general enjoyment.

1. Valbona to Theth (Hike the Accursed Mountains)

This one needs to be high of the listing. It’s probably the most well-known mountaineering path in Albania as a result of it crosses the Accursed Mountains, also referred to as the Albanian Alps. It’s the most effective locations to hike in Albania since you get to see the unbelievable fantastic thing about this spectacular mountain group.

Valbona and Theth are each nationwide parks in Albania, in order you’ll be able to think about, the surroundings and nature is unbelievable.

The hike itself is pretty difficult however provides the most effective mountaineering within the Albanian Alps. I’d fee it between average to exhausting as elements of the path are steep (in each instructions), however it’s well-marked. pair of mountaineering boots and poles are advisable for this hike.

This is likely one of the greatest Albanian day hikes and is made even higher by a few cafes to cease at for refreshments. I’d suggest stopping in at Cafe Simoni.

Path Particulars and Info

• Location: Close to Tropoje, Kukes
• Size: 30.1 km/18.6 miles
• Period: 13 hours
• Sort of Path: Out & Again
• Elevation Achieve: 2,213 m

2. Mount Gamtit

Mount Gamtit is dwelling to the most effective treks in Albania to keep away from crowds. It’s a reasonably difficult route near Kruje in Durrës, which is a implausible place to discover. It’s additionally round 1.5 hours from Tirana by automotive.

Attending to the height takes round 3 hours, and also you’ll be rewarded with a powerful view over Lake Bovilla. It’s positively well worth the hike up. The markings on the best way down are a bit few and bar between, and it leads right into a forest that’s barely tough to navigate.

It might be value getting a information or taking a mountaineering tour of Mount Gamtit and Lake Bovilla to guide you as much as the most effective views. This tour that begins from Tirana is implausible. In the summertime, you’ll be able to even swim within the water, which is exhilarating.

Path Particulars and Info

• Location: Kruje, Durres
• Size: 13.2 km / 8.2 miles
• Period: 5-6 hours
• Sort of Path: Loop
• Elevation Achieve: 958m

3. Maja Rosit

Mountain climbing within the Albanian Alps is a very particular expertise, and the Maja Rosit Hike by way of the Valbone Nationwide Park is not any exception.

It’s a preferred spot for chicken watchers because the park attracts plenty of completely different species. Maja Rosit can be an ideal place for a solitary and peaceable stroll because it doesn’t entice as many guests because the Theth to Valbone hike.

It’s a difficult stroll and fairly constant with regards to steepness, except the final kilometer which turns into fairly tough. The views of the Montenegrin mountains from the highest are completely beautiful. When you’ve bought sufficient vitality in your legs and air in your lungs, there’s an choice to go additional as much as Rosni Peak.

Convey plenty of water with you, however take consolation in understanding that there’s additionally a hut providing water and low the place you’ll be able to take a bit break.

Path Particulars and Info

• Location: Valbone Valley National Park
• Size: 19.5 km / 12.1 miles
• Period: 9 – 10 hours
• Sort of Path: Out & Again
• Elevation Achieve: 1,709 m

4. Liqeni i Tiranes

This strolling path across the synthetic Lake in Tirana is a well-liked strolling path in Albania and will be paired with a stroll across the Grand Park of Tirana which is unquestionably value it in its personal proper.

This is likely one of the greatest straightforward hikes round Albania because it’s largely flat with glorious amenities. There’s consuming water and a rest room out there at the beginning, and you’ve got an enormous selection of cafes and refreshments within the park and across the lake edge.

It’s inside the metropolis heart, and when you’re visiting in the summertime it’s a beautiful factor to do within the afternoon or very first thing within the morning when the temperature is a bit cooler. You received’t want any particular tools, only a pair of snug trainers.

One in every of my favourite restaurants in Tirana is situated proper by the path, Mullixhiu, so deal with your self to some scrumptious meals post-walk.

Path Particulars and Info

• Location: Tirana
• Size: 5.6 km / 3.5 m
• Period: 1.5 hours
• Sort of Path: Loop
• Elevation Achieve: 82 m

5. The Blue Eye

The Blue Eye in Shkoder is likely one of the greatest waterfall hikes close to Albania. It’s not technically a waterfall, however fairly a spring, however it’s positively value a go to. This blue eye is completely different from the one simply exterior Gjirokaster within the South.

Shkoder is a implausible place for mountaineering in Albania, and the blue eye attracts many vacationers, so you’ll be able to anticipate it to be a bit busier than others. The path is closed between November and Could, however it’s the most effective summer season hikes in Albania.

The views are superb all the best way up, so that you received’t be wanting spectacular surroundings. There are additionally loads of eating places alongside the path, so you’ll be able to actually take it at your individual tempo and cease when you have to.

It’s a protracted hike, so convey snug footwear or boots, and don’t neglect your bathing go well with when you’re feeling like you might be courageous sufficient to dip within the freezing chilly water.

Path Particulars and Info

• Location: Shkoder
• Size: 10.6 km / 6.6 m
• Period: 5 hours
• Sort of Path: Level to Level
• Elevation Achieve: 399 m

6. Mount Gjallica

For a tranquil hike by way of previous villages and rustic Albanian landscapes, you should head to Mount Gjallica. You’ll stroll by way of villages and fields, in addition to mountainous terrain, so it’s a really various hike in Albania.

You’ll additionally cross a few creeks so waterproof footwear are advisable, (when you’re cautious, you’ll be able to in all probability cross with out getting your toes moist). One of the best time of yr to do that hike is between Could and November.

The path will be misplaced in a few locations, however when you have in mind the course that you have to be heading, and don’t veer off on a very completely different path, you’ll decide up the path very quickly.

It’s largely a gradual incline, with steeper climbs the nearer you get to the summit. The views over the mountains are spectacular when you attain the highest.

Path Particulars and Info

• Location: Kukes
• Size: 30.9 km / 19.2 miles
• Period: 14 hours
• Sort of Path: Out & Again
• Elevation Achieve: 2, 386m

7. Kryezi Waterfall Path

When you’re in Shkoder and wish to hike however the Blue Eye path is a bit lengthy for you, then this pretty straightforward hike to the Kryezi Waterfalls is the right different.

It’s a brief and straightforward hike that results in a swimming maintain in Kryezi Village. It’s greatest to go to between Could & September, however remember that elements of the path can flood if there’s been heavy rainfall. Waterproof footwear are a good suggestion when you’re visiting in Autumn, and keep in mind to take your bathing go well with!

This hike is a good choice for households because it’s a straightforward stroll and isn’t too lengthy or crowded both. It may be waked between Could and the top of September.

Path Particulars and Info

• Location: Fushte Arrez, Shkoder
• Size: 2.4 km / 1.5 miles
• Period: 45 minutes
• Sort of Path: Out & Again
• Elevation Achieve: 84 m

8. Grunas Canyon

The Theth Nationwide Park provides among the greatest trekking in Albania, and Grunas Canyon is one other of its gems.

Positioned within the south of the park, Grunas Canyon is a surprising 60-meter-deep canyon that stretches for over 2 kilometers in size. It may well solely be visited with a information, so you’ll be able to make certain that you’re exploring a novel a part of this superb nation.

The path to the Canyon is beautiful, and also you’ll be handled to unbelievable views over the Theth River. The path isn’t too tough, with a information, and is one I positively suggest when you’re heading to Theth Nationwide Park.

Path Particulars and Info

9. Mount Korab

Mount Korab is a part of the Radika Mountains on the border with North Macedonia. Its peak is at 2,700 meters, providing unbelievable views and surroundings, and is likely one of the greatest mountaineering trails close to Albania.

The 8-kilometer point-to-point route provides two completely different choices by way of meadow terrain. There’s a shorter, steeper route that takes you to the height or an extended, extra gradual route to decide on between. On the fork, take the right-hand choice for the steeper route.

Whichever route you determine on, you’ll cross by two lakes close to the start of the path earlier than tackling some rocky sections and an in any other case open, grassy terrain that’s accessible to anybody with an inexpensive diploma of health.

Path Particulars and Info

• Location: Dibër, Albania
• Size: 8 kilometers / 5 miles
• Period: 4 hours
• Sort of Path: Out & Again
• Elevation Achieve: 80 meters

10. Dajti Mountains

The Dajti Mountains body the capital metropolis of Tirana and provide some nice mountaineering choices simply exterior the capital. It’s one in all my favorite things to do in Tirana.

Head up the Dajti Mountains on the Dajti Expres; the cable automotive that gives some superb views over Tirana and the countryside past. From the highest of the cable automotive, head to the beginning of the 5-kilometer path up Maja e Tujanit.

The path is essentially woodland, and though interspersed with open areas, provides some shade from the excessive temperatures in the summertime.

On the summit, you’ll have unbelievable views over the Dajti mountain vary. The path is well-marked by painted white rocks with purple marks and, as mountain trails go, isn’t too difficult (as long as the solar isn’t too sizzling). Take loads of water and good strolling footwear or trainers.

Path Particulars and Info

• Location: Behind the Abandoned Hotel, marked with white rocks and purple marks.
• Size: 5.3 kilometers / 3.3 miles
• Period: 2.5 hours
• Sort of Path: Out & Again
• Elevation Achieve: 425 meters

11. Blue Eye, Sarande

The ‘different’ Blue Eye in Albania, situated close to the Albanian Riviera, is a surprising, natural wonder in Albania. It’s situated within the coronary heart of the Blue Eye Nationwide Park, which is dwelling to some nice Albania treks.

The principle path by way of the Nationwide Park to the Blue Eye is a simple and well-defined route open to all ages and talents. It’s been newly renovated and is paved for many of the manner.

The out and again path is among the most family-friendly mountaineering in Albania. The path crosses a small river earlier than reaching the unbelievable Blue Eye, the place you’ll be able to courageous the freezing waters to chill off. There are a number of stalls and a restaurant on the path to profit from this journey.

It’s additionally the most effective winter hikes in Albania, as lots of the higher-altitude hikes are inundated with snow. The situation and decrease altitude make it a great winter choice for eager hikers.

Path Particulars and Info

12. Maja Thanasit

This average 7-kilometer path to the summit of Maja Thanasit is likely one of the most tranquil locations to hike in Albania.

The route begins close to Vlore, on the west coast of Albania, and reaches the summit of this lovely mountain. You’ll get unbelievable views throughout the encompassing panorama and over the ocean past.

The path itself is comparatively uncovered on a rocky path, so the solar will be sizzling within the peak of summer season. Be certain to take loads of water and sunscreen. You’ll encounter loads of wildlife in each natural world kinds alongside this peaceable and delightful Albania mountaineering path.

Path Particulars and Info

• Location: Llogara National Park
• Size: 7.4 kilometers / 4.6 miles
• Period: 2.5 hours
• Sort of Path: Out & Again
• Elevation Achieve: 350 meters

13. Lake Prespa Loop

This lovely looped path is likely one of the greatest summer season hikes in Albania, particularly when you’re staying within the east of the nation.

You’ll set off close to the beautiful metropolis of Korce and be handled to a mix of lakeside views and woodland and forest terrain. The trial is a 10-kilometer loop which is reasonably straightforward and flat. It’s appropriate for anybody with some expertise of mountaineering and usually good health.

The path is likely one of the lesser-known day hikes round Albania, and so that you’ll discover that it’s not as well-marked as others on this listing. It’s subsequently good for those who love adventures and testing their navigation expertise. It’s a whole lot of enjoyable and provides some lovely views of this quiet and peaceable a part of Albania.

Path Particulars and Info

• Location: Pustec, Korce
• Size: 10.6 kilometers / 6.6 miles
• Period: 3.5 hours
• Sort of Path: Circle
• Elevation Achieve: 414 meters

14. Freskia Marshez Loop

This is likely one of the extra standard Albania trails close to Shkodër and is an fulfilling 7.5-kilometer looped path.

It’s a difficult hike, with the paths much less well-marked than others in Albania. It’s one other one to check your orienteering expertise however the route is manageable for normal hikers.

For these prepared to just accept the problem, the views and the panorama are effectively well worth the effort. It provides lovely views of the close by Fushë Arrëz village, in addition to loads of attention-grabbing natural world alongside the route.

Path Particulars and Info

15. Hardedaj – Nenreth – Theth

This 5-kilometer point-to-point path close to Shkodër provides among the most difficult mountaineering in Albania.

Whereas it’s brief in distance, the path itself is difficult and winds by way of mountains and forests. You’re unlikely to come across many others on this hike, and also you’ll be handled to some lovely countryside and views of the encompassing mountain ranges.

That is definitely one of many Albania trails to be tried solely by skilled hikers, however the dedication is unquestionably value it.

Path Particulars and Info

• Location: Near Shkodër
• Size: 5.3 kilometers / 3.3 miles
• Period: 2.5 hours
• Sort of Path: Out & Again
• Elevation Achieve: 321 meters

Issues To Know About Mountain climbing in Albania

Right here are some things to consider earlier than you go mountaineering in Albania.

Be Conscious of Animals

Lots of the trails run by way of fields and villages. The locals are very welcoming and pleasant, however you might meet guard or sheepdogs. Most are unlikely to strategy you, however hold your distance and don’t provoke them.

Examine The Climate Earlier than Heading Out

The weather in Albania will be unpredictable and stormy. Hold your eye on the climate the day earlier than you intend to go mountaineering in Albania, in addition to the day of. If there’s been a heavy rainfall the day earlier than, the trials might change into flooded, relying on the time of yr.

The Trails Can Be Slippery

Be sure you put on appropriate footwear. When you’re mountaineering in Albania in Could or June, and are at a excessive elevation there should be snow, so have in mind how this will likely have an effect on the terrain. Equally, in Autumn there might have been extra rain, so that is additionally one thing to remember.

Sattelite Cellphone is Really useful

A satellite tv for pc cellphone is unquestionably advisable, or obtain the map to your cellphone earlier than you permit. Among the trails disappear and it could possibly change into unclear which course it’s best to go. Have your cellphone there to make use of as a backup.

Examine the Opening Dates of the Trails

For security causes and due to climate situations, many of the mountaineering trails in Albania are closed throughout the winter months (October – April) attributable to heavy snowfall and ice. So, earlier than you head out, test when the paths are open, and I counsel towards winter mountaineering in Albania except you’re conversant in and have expertise with the terrain.

Mountain climbing in Albania: FAQs

Listed here are some solutions to generally requested questions on mountaineering round Albania.

In Closing

You definitely received’t be disillusioned with the mountaineering in Albania. There’s a lot magnificence to see on this nation; the mountain ranges and delightful landscapes, the encompassing nature, and animals – you’re positive to have an unbelievable time and see some superb sights.

The cities can change into extremely popular in the summertime, so going for a hike in Albania’s countryside is the right strategy to escape the warmth.

I hope this information helps you intend your subsequent hike in Albania!