The mountaineering in Albania is among the principal causes individuals are drawn to this superb place. Over 70% of the nation is mountainous, which makes for some unimaginable mountaineering trails in Albania, together with some superb views.
A number of the finest hikes round Albania are in, or very near, a few of the principal cities and cities in Albania too, so you could find a implausible base to hike and simply additionally see a few of the finest sights within the nation.
I lived in Albania for two months as a digital nomad, and the beautiful surroundings I noticed on the assorted strolling trails in Albania blew me away. So listed here are my prime 15 hikes round Albania.
15 Greatest Hikes in Albania
I liked mountaineering in Albania; it’s one among 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 beautiful 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 a lot of mountaineering in Albania, however I’ve narrowed it down to fifteen primarily based on the benefit of getting there, the surroundings and nature you see on the best way, and customarily the general enjoyment.
1. Valbona to Theth (Hike the Accursed Mountains)
This one must be prime of the record. It’s probably the most well-known mountaineering path in Albania as a result of it crosses the Accursed Mountains, also called the Albanian Alps. It’s probably the greatest locations to hike in Albania since you get to see the unimaginable great thing about this spectacular mountain group.
Valbona and Theth are each nationwide parks in Albania, in order you possibly can think about, the surroundings and nature is unimaginable.
The hike itself is pretty difficult however gives the most effective mountaineering within the Albanian Alps. I’d fee it between reasonable to onerous as elements of the path are steep (in each instructions), but it surely’s well-marked. A superb pair of mountaineering boots and poles are really useful for this hike.
This is among the finest Albanian day hikes and is made even higher by a few cafes to cease at for refreshments. I’d advocate stopping in at Cafe Simoni.
Path Particulars and Info
- Location: Near Tropoje, Kukes
- Size: 30.1 km/18.6 miles
- Period: 13 hours
- Sort of Path: Out & Again
- Elevation Acquire: 2,213 m
2. Mount Gamtit
Mount Gamtit is dwelling to probably the greatest 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 price 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 possibly can 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 Acquire: 958m
3. Maja Rosit
Mountain climbing within the Albanian Alps is a really particular expertise, and the Maja Rosit Hike via the Valbone Nationwide Park is not any exception.
It’s a preferred spot for hen watchers because the park attracts a lot of completely different species. Maja Rosit can also be an awesome 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 in terms of steepness, except the final kilometer which turns into fairly tough. The views of the Montenegrin mountains from the highest are completely beautiful. In the event you’ve acquired sufficient vitality in your legs and air in your lungs, there’s an choice to go additional as much as Rosni Peak.
Deliver a lot of water with you, however take consolation in understanding that there’s additionally a hut providing water and occasional the place you possibly can take a bit break.
Path Particulars and Info
- Location: Valbone Valley Nationwide Park
- Size: 19.5 km / 12.1 miles
- Period: 9 – 10 hours
- Sort of Path: Out & Again
- Elevation Acquire: 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 certainly price it in its personal proper.
This is among the finest straightforward hikes round Albania because it’s largely flat with glorious amenities. There’s ingesting water and a rest room out there in the beginning, and you’ve got an enormous alternative of cafes and refreshments within the park and across the lake edge.
It’s throughout the metropolis middle, and if you happen to’re visiting in the summertime it’s a stunning 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 gear, only a pair of comfy trainers.
Certainly one of my favourite eating places in Tirana is positioned 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 Acquire: 82 m
5. The Blue Eye
The Blue Eye in Shkoder is among the finest waterfall hikes close to Albania. It’s not technically a waterfall, however moderately a spring, but it surely’s positively price 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 possibly can anticipate it to be a bit busier than others. The path is closed between November and Could, but it surely’s probably the greatest 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 possibly can actually take it at your personal tempo and cease when you have to.
It’s an extended hike, so carry comfy sneakers or boots, and don’t neglect your bathing swimsuit if you happen to’re feeling like it’s possible you’ll 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 Acquire: 399 m
6. Mount Gjallica
For a tranquil hike via previous villages and rustic Albanian landscapes, you need to head to Mount Gjallica. You’ll stroll via 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 sneakers are advisable, (if you happen to’re cautious, you possibly can in all probability cross with out getting your ft moist). One of the best time of 12 months to do that hike is between Could and November.
The path will be misplaced in a few locations, however if you happen to consider the course that you ought 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 Acquire: 2, 386m
7. Kryezi Waterfall Path
In the event you’re in Shkoder and wish to hike however the Blue Eye path is a bit lengthy for you, then this beautiful straightforward hike to the Kryezi Waterfalls is the right various.
It’s a brief and straightforward hike that results in a swimming maintain in Kryezi Village. It’s finest to go to between Could & September, however bear in mind that elements of the path can flood if there’s been heavy rainfall. Waterproof sneakers are a good suggestion if you happen to’re visiting in Autumn, and keep in mind to take your bathing swimsuit!
This hike is a superb possibility for households because it’s a simple 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 Acquire: 84 m
8. Grunas Canyon
The Theth Nationwide Park gives a few of the finest trekking in Albania, and Grunas Canyon is one other of its gems.
Situated within the south of the park, Grunas Canyon is a shocking 60-meter-deep canyon that stretches for over 2 kilometers in size. It could possibly solely be visited with a information, so you possibly can make sure that you’re exploring a singular a part of this superb nation.
The path to the Canyon is beautiful, and also you’ll be handled to unimaginable views over the Theth River. The path isn’t too tough, with a information, and is one I positively advocate if you happen to’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 unimaginable views and surroundings, and is among the finest mountaineering trails close to Albania.
The 8-kilometer point-to-point route gives two completely different choices via 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 possibility for the steeper route.
Whichever route you resolve 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 affordable diploma of health.
Path Particulars and Info
- Location: Dibër, Albania
- Size: 8 kilometers / 5 miles
- Period: 4 hours
- Sort of Path: Out & Again
- Elevation Acquire: 80 meters
10. Dajti Mountains
The Dajti Mountains body the capital metropolis of Tirana and supply some nice mountaineering choices simply exterior the capital. It’s one among my favourite issues to do in Tirana.
Head up the Dajti Mountains on the Dajti Expres; the cable automotive that provides 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 basically woodland, and though interspersed with open areas, gives some shade from the excessive temperatures in the summertime.
On the summit, you’ll have unimaginable 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 scorching). Take loads of water and good strolling sneakers or trainers.
Path Particulars and Info
- Location: Behind the Deserted Resort, marked with white rocks and purple marks.
- Size: 5.3 kilometers / 3.3 miles
- Period: 2.5 hours
- Sort of Path: Out & Again
- Elevation Acquire: 425 meters
11. Blue Eye, Sarande
The ‘different’ Blue Eye in Albania, positioned close to the Albanian Riviera, is a shocking, pure marvel in Albania. It’s positioned within the coronary heart of the Blue Eye Nationwide Park, which is dwelling to some nice Albania treks.
The principle path via the Nationwide Park to the Blue Eye is a simple and well-defined route open to all ages and skills. It’s been newly renovated and is paved for many of the manner.
The out and again path is a few of the most family-friendly mountaineering in Albania. The path crosses a small river earlier than reaching the unimaginable Blue Eye, the place you possibly can courageous the freezing waters to chill off. There are just a few stalls and a restaurant on the path to benefit from this journey.
It’s additionally probably the greatest winter hikes in Albania, as most of the higher-altitude hikes are inundated with snow. The situation and decrease altitude make it an excellent winter possibility for eager hikers.
Path Particulars and Info
12. Maja Thanasit
This reasonable 7-kilometer path to the summit of Maja Thanasit is among 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 unimaginable views throughout the encircling panorama and over the ocean past.
The path itself is comparatively uncovered on a rocky path, so the solar will be scorching within the peak of summer season. Make sure that to take loads of water and sunscreen. You’ll encounter loads of wildlife in each natural world varieties alongside this peaceable and delightful Albania mountaineering path.
Path Particulars and Info
- Location: Llogara Nationwide Park
- Size: 7.4 kilometers / 4.6 miles
- Period: 2.5 hours
- Sort of Path: Out & Again
- Elevation Acquire: 350 meters
13. Lake Prespa Loop
This lovely looped path is among the finest summer season hikes in Albania, particularly if you happen to’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 customarily good health.
The path is among the lesser-known day hikes round Albania, and so that you’ll discover that it’s not as well-marked as others on this record. It’s subsequently good for people who love adventures and testing their navigation abilities. It’s a number of enjoyable and gives 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 Acquire: 414 meters
14. Freskia Marshez Loop
This is among the extra widespread Albania trails close to Shkodër and is an gratifying 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 abilities 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 gives 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 gives a few of the most difficult mountaineering in Albania.
Whereas it’s brief in distance, the path itself is difficult and winds via 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 encircling mountain ranges.
That is actually one of many Albania trails to be tried solely by skilled hikers, however the dedication is certainly price it.
Path Particulars and Info
- Location: Close to Shkodër
- Size: 5.3 kilometers / 3.3 miles
- Period: 2.5 hours
- Sort of Path: Out & Again
- Elevation Acquire: 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
Most of the trails run via fields and villages. The locals are very welcoming and pleasant, however it’s possible you’ll meet guard or sheepdogs. Most are unlikely to strategy you, however maintain your distance and don’t provoke them.
Test The Climate Earlier than Heading Out
The climate in Albania will be unpredictable and stormy. Maintain 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 12 months.
The Trails Can Be Slippery
Ensure you put on appropriate footwear. In the event you’re mountaineering in Albania in Could or June, and are at a excessive elevation there should still be snow, so consider how this will have an effect on the terrain. Equally, in Autumn there might have been extra rain, so that is additionally one thing to remember.
Sattelite Telephone is Advisable
A satellite tv for pc cellphone is certainly really useful, or obtain the map to your cellphone earlier than you permit. A number of the trails disappear and it will probably change into unclear which course you must go. Have your cellphone there to make use of as a backup.
Test 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 in opposition to winter mountaineering in Albania except you’re aware of and have expertise with the terrain.
Mountain climbing in Albania: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to generally requested questions on mountaineering round Albania.
The Valbone to Theth path is the most well-liked place to go mountaineering in Albania as a result of it crosses the Albanian Alps. The views over the mountain ranges are completely unimaginable.
One of many best hikes in Albania is the hike round Tirana Lake. It’s extra of a strolling path, but it surely’s a stupendous manner of seeing the lake and the Grand Park of Tirana.
Sure, the Kryezi path results in the Kryezi waterfalls and swimming gap. It’s an awesome hike in Albania for households because the terrain is comparatively flat, and it’s a shorter stroll.
Waterproof sneakers or boots are a good suggestion, as most of the hikes cross rivers and creeks. If there’s been heavy rainfall (largely in Spring or Autumn) elements of trails can change into slippery, moist, or flooded.
The Blue Eye path in Shkoder is among the most lovely locations to go mountaineering. Not solely will you see some superb views on the descent, however you’ll additionally see a few of the most turquoise water on the Blue Eye too.
No, mountaineering in Albania isn’t harmful, however the trails are typically not significantly well-marked and aren’t well-maintained. Ensure you have a dependable map app that you need to use with out the web so that you don’t get misplaced or take a information the place you attainable.
In Closing
You actually received’t be disenchanted with the mountaineering in Albania. There’s a lot magnificence to see on this nation; the mountain ranges and delightful landscapes, the encircling nature, and animals – you’re certain to have an unimaginable 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 solution to escape the warmth.
I hope this information helps you intend your subsequent hike in Albania!