| 7 mins read
When we think of breathtaking landscapes and extraordinary hiking trails, the mind may automatically dart to the Swiss Alps or the Appalachian Trail in the US. But nestled in Southeast Europe lies a hidden gem, the natural splendour of Albania, waiting to be discovered. With its unspoiled nature, scenic coastlines, and rugged mountain ranges, Albania presents hikers with a range of captivating trails, each with unique charm and a story to tell.
Through this blog, tourHQ brings you the five most majestic trails in Albania, offering a rich blend of nature, history, and culture that will make every hiker's heart race.
Valbona to Theth (The Accursed Mountains)
The Valbona to Theth hike (covering around 14.3 kilometres), part of the Grand Peaks of the Balkans Trail, is perhaps the most famous in Albania. It's a challenging yet rewarding trek through the famous Accursed Mountains. Legend has it that the name "Accursed Mountains" was bestowed upon this range by ancient locals who believed the peaks were cursed and impassable! However, don't let this deter you! The entire route from Valbona to Theth is a sight of stunning views of the pristine Valbona Valley and the pure beauty of Theth, with its traditional houses, locals herding livestock, and tending to their farms, creating a beautiful set-up throughout the tour.
Pro-tip: It's advisable to embark on this hike during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is more favourable and the trails are easily accessible. For an authentic experience, consider spending a night in the traditional guesthouses of Theth. These cosy accommodations are run by local families who warmly welcome weary hikers with homemade meals and tales of their ancestral heritage.
Llogara National Park to Dhërmi
If your idea of a perfect hike involves sweeping coastal views, then the trail from Llogara National Park to the idyllic village of Dhërmi is a dream come true. This trail, around 12 kilometres long, takes you through dense pine forests, unfolding astonishing views of the Ionian Sea and the majestic Albanian Riviera. Along the trail, you may spot the region's rare wildlife, including golden eagles and the endangered Balkan Lynx, and as you descend into Dhërmi, you are greeted by the village's charming stone houses and the breathtaking panorama of the vast sea.
Pro-tip: One of the distinctive value points of this hike is the opportunity to combine the beauty of nature with a taste of local culture. After completing the trail, spend some time exploring the village of Dhërmi, home to seven orthodox churches dating back to the 14th century. Additionally, indulge in the delicious local cuisine, which includes fresh seafood and traditional Albanian dishes. You can try specialities like "tave kosi" (baked lamb with yoghurt) or "byrek" (savoury pastries filled with cheese or meat).
Shebenik-Jabllanice National Park
Imagine hiking through a route of seclusion and pristine wilderness, hiding a hidden treasure known as the "Shebenik Treasure." According to local folklore, during the Ottoman Empire, a wealthy merchant buried his fortune in the mountains of Shebenik-Jabllanice National Park to protect it from raiders. The treasure has remained elusive to this day, capturing the imagination of treasure hunters and adventure seekers.
The Shebenik-Jabllanice National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, boasts a range of trails leading through a diverse array of landscapes, from alpine lakes and rivers to wildflower meadows and dense beech forests. This popular 18-kilometre route takes you to the top of Mount Shebenik, the park's highest peak. As you ascend, you'll witness the rich biodiversity of the park, including brown bears, wolves, and chamois. Once at the summit, you're rewarded with panoramic views of Lake Ohrid, Lake Prespa, and even the distant mountains of North Macedonia.
Pro-tip: To increase your chances of spotting wildlife, plan your hikes during the early morning or late afternoon when animals are most active. The park is also extensively known for its hidden waterfalls. Along with a local guide, you can discover the best waterfall spots along the trail.
Gjipe Beach to Saint Theodor Monastery
Imagine a hike where you walk alongside a beautiful canyon, admire intricate sea caves, and explore an ancient monastery at the endpoint. Sounds tempting? Then, the 8-kilometre-long trail from Gjipe Beach to Saint Theodor Monastery trail is a must for you. According to the legend, the miraculous icon of Saint Theodor was hidden within the monastery's walls to protect it from invaders. Despite the monastery being pillaged and destroyed multiple times, the icon remained safe and intact. Today, it is believed to possess healing powers, attracting pilgrims from far and wide.
What makes the trail more interesting is the starting point of the hike, which is not easily accessible by road, adding to its secluded and untouched charm. To reach the beach, you have two options. You have to either hike from the village of Gjilekë or take a boat from Dhërmi or Jale Beach, adding an extra touch of adventure to your journey!
Pro-tip: Time your hike to coincide with a memorable sunset at Gjipe Beach. As the sun begins its descent, the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colours, casting a golden glow over the landscape. Needless to say, after completing the hike to Saint Theodor Monastery, don't rush back. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Gjipe Beach, a hidden gem boasting its crystal-clear waters. You can relax on the sandy shore or explore the intriguing sea caves nearby.
Apollonia Archaeological Park
This relatively short yet rich trail takes you through Albania's ancient history. It leads you around the ruins of the ancient city of Apollonia, which was a significant center of the Hellenistic period, founded in the 7th century BC. While it is not a traditional hike in terms of distance and altitude, the 3-kilometre trail has nowadays become another choice for hikers to delve into the depths of human history amidst a stunning natural backdrop.
Nestled amidst rolling hills, lush greenery, and tranquil beauty, the park provides a serene backdrop to the ancient ruins. You walk through different historical structures, including the city's fortress, the Odeon Theatre, the library, the Temple of Artemis, and the monumental façade of the Stoa of the Giants and Tritons.
Pro-tip: The best time to visit Apollonia Archaeological Park is during the spring or autumn seasons, when the mild temperatures allow for comfortable exploration of the ancient ruins without the heat of summer or the chill of winter. To make the most of your trip, consider hiring a knowledgeable local guide who can provide valuable insights into the history, significance, and architectural details of the ruins. They can help bring the ancient city to life with fascinating stories and explanations!
These five majestic trails demonstrate that Albania is a true paradise for hikers. Each trail unfolds like a chapter from a spellbinding storybook, revealing spectacular natural landscapes, rich wildlife, and captivating cultural and historical insights. Needless to say, hiking in a foreign land can pose its own challenges, starting from the very first step of deciding the season. However, with a local guide by your side, you can easily delve deeper and explore further. So get ready to embark on these mesmerising adventures and write your own story on your next vacation!