The mountain climbing in Albania is without doubt one of the predominant causes persons are drawn to this superb place. Over 70% of the nation is mountainous, which makes for some unbelievable mountain climbing trails in Albania, together with some superb views.
A few of the greatest hikes round Albania are in, or very near, among the predominant cities and cities in Albania too, so you’ll find 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 gorgeous surroundings I noticed on the assorted strolling trails in Albania blew me away. So listed below are my high 15 hikes round Albania.
15 Finest Hikes in Albania
I beloved mountain climbing in Albania; it’s considered one of 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 a lot of mountain climbing 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 way in which, and customarily the general enjoyment.
1. Valbona to Theth (Hike the Accursed Mountains)
This one must be high of the record. It’s essentially the most well-known mountain climbing path in Albania as a result of it crosses the Accursed Mountains, also called the Albanian Alps. It’s top-of-the-line 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 affords the perfect mountain climbing within the Albanian Alps. I’d charge it between reasonable to exhausting as components of the path are steep (in each instructions), however it’s well-marked. An excellent pair of mountain climbing boots and poles are advisable for this hike.
This is without doubt one of the greatest 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
- Kind of Path: Out & Again
- Elevation Achieve: 2,213 m
2. Mount Gamtit
Mount Gamtit is house to top-of-the-line 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 an impressive view over Lake Bovilla. It’s undoubtedly well worth the hike up. The markings on the way in which down are a bit few and bar between, and it leads right into a forest that’s barely troublesome to navigate.
It could be price getting a information or taking a mountain climbing tour of Mount Gamtit and Lake Bovilla to guide you as much as the perfect 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
- Kind of Path: Loop
- Elevation Achieve: 958m
3. Maja Rosit
Climbing within the Albanian Alps is a very particular expertise, and the Maja Rosit Hike by means of the Valbone Nationwide Park is not any exception.
It’s a preferred spot for fowl watchers because the park attracts a lot of completely different species. Maja Rosit can also 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 in the case of steepness, excluding the final kilometer which turns into fairly troublesome. The views of the Montenegrin mountains from the highest are completely gorgeous. Should you’ve received sufficient power in your legs and air in your lungs, there’s an choice to go additional as much as Rosni Peak.
Convey a lot of water with you, however take consolation in understanding that there’s additionally a hut providing water and occasional the place you’ll be able to take a bit of break.
Path Particulars and Info
- Location: Valbone Valley Nationwide Park
- Size: 19.5 km / 12.1 miles
- Period: 9 – 10 hours
- Kind 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 might be paired with a stroll across the Grand Park of Tirana which is certainly price it in its personal proper.
This is without doubt one of the greatest straightforward hikes round Albania because it’s largely flat with glorious amenities. There’s consuming water and a bathroom obtainable at first, and you’ve got an enormous selection of cafes and refreshments within the park and across the lake edge.
It’s inside the metropolis middle, and in case you’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 of cooler. You received’t want any particular tools, only a pair of comfy trainers.
Certainly one of my favourite eating places 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
- Kind of Path: Loop
- Elevation Achieve: 82 m
5. The Blue Eye
The Blue Eye in Shkoder is without doubt one of the greatest waterfall hikes close to Albania. It’s not technically a waterfall, however quite a spring, however it’s undoubtedly 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 mountain climbing in Albania, and the blue eye attracts many vacationers, so you’ll be able to anticipate it to be a bit of busier than others. The path is closed between November and Might, however it’s top-of-the-line summer season hikes in Albania.
The views are superb all the way in which 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 could.
It’s an extended hike, so convey comfy footwear or boots, and don’t overlook your bathing go well with in case 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
- Kind of Path: Level to Level
- Elevation Achieve: 399 m
6. Mount Gjallica
For a tranquil hike by means of outdated villages and rustic Albanian landscapes, it’s essential to head to Mount Gjallica. You’ll stroll by means 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, (in case you’re cautious, you’ll be able to most likely cross with out getting your ft moist). One of the best time of yr to do that hike is between Might and November.
The path might be misplaced in a few locations, however in case you remember the course that try to be heading, and don’t veer off on a totally completely different path, you’ll choose 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
- Kind of Path: Out & Again
- Elevation Achieve: 2, 386m
7. Kryezi Waterfall Path
Should you’re in Shkoder and wish to hike however the Blue Eye path is a bit of lengthy for you, then this pretty straightforward hike to the Kryezi Waterfalls is the right different.
It’s a brief and simple hike that results in a swimming maintain in Kryezi Village. It’s greatest to go to between Might & September, however remember that components of the path can flood if there’s been heavy rainfall. Waterproof footwear are a good suggestion in case you’re visiting in Autumn, and bear in mind to take your bathing go well with!
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 Might and the tip of September.
Path Particulars and Info
- Location: Fushte Arrez, Shkoder
- Size: 2.4 km / 1.5 miles
- Period: 45 minutes
- Kind of Path: Out & Again
- Elevation Achieve: 84 m
8. Grunas Canyon
The Theth Nationwide Park affords among the greatest trekking in Albania, and Grunas Canyon is one other of its gems.
Situated within the south of the park, Grunas Canyon is a surprising 60-meter-deep canyon that stretches for over 2 kilometers in size. It might probably solely be visited with a information, so you’ll be able to ensure that you’re exploring a singular a part of this superb nation.
The path to the Canyon is gorgeous, and also you’ll be handled to unbelievable views over the Theth River. The path isn’t too troublesome, with a information, and is one I undoubtedly advocate in case 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 without doubt one of the greatest mountain climbing trails close to Albania.
The 8-kilometer point-to-point route affords two completely different choices by means 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 possibility for the steeper route.
Whichever route you determine on, you’ll go 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
- Kind of Path: Out & Again
- Elevation Achieve: 80 meters
10. Dajti Mountains
The Dajti Mountains body the capital metropolis of Tirana and provide some nice mountain climbing choices simply exterior the capital. It’s considered one of my favourite issues 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 basically woodland, and though interspersed with open areas, affords 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 Deserted Lodge, marked with white rocks and purple marks.
- Size: 5.3 kilometers / 3.3 miles
- Period: 2.5 hours
- Kind 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, pure marvel in Albania. It’s situated within the coronary heart of the Blue Eye Nationwide Park, which is house to some nice Albania treks.
The primary path by means of 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 a lot of the method.
The out and again path is among the most family-friendly mountain climbing 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 just a few stalls and a restaurant on the path to take advantage of this journey.
It’s additionally top-of-the-line winter hikes in Albania, as lots of the higher-altitude hikes are inundated with snow. The situation and decrease altitude make it winter possibility for eager hikers.
Path Particulars and Info
12. Maja Thanasit
This reasonable 7-kilometer path to the summit of Maja Thanasit is without doubt 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 encircling panorama and over the ocean past.
The path itself is comparatively uncovered on a rocky path, so the solar might be sizzling within the peak of summer season. Ensure that to take loads of water and sunscreen. You’ll encounter loads of wildlife in each natural world types alongside this peaceable and delightful Albania mountain climbing path.
Path Particulars and Info
- Location: Llogara Nationwide Park
- Size: 7.4 kilometers / 4.6 miles
- Period: 2.5 hours
- Kind of Path: Out & Again
- Elevation Achieve: 350 meters
13. Lake Prespa Loop
This lovely looped path is without doubt one of the greatest summer season hikes in Albania, particularly in case you’re staying within the east of the nation.
You’ll set off close to the gorgeous metropolis of Korce and be handled to a combination 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 mountain climbing and customarily good health.
The path is without doubt 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 record. It’s subsequently good for those who love adventures and testing their navigation expertise. It’s a whole lot of enjoyable and affords 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
- Kind of Path: Circle
- Elevation Achieve: 414 meters
14. Freskia Marshez Loop
This is without doubt one of the extra fashionable Albania trails close to Shkodër and is an pleasant 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 keen to just accept the problem, the views and the panorama are effectively well worth the effort. It affords 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 affords among the most difficult mountain climbing in Albania.
Whereas it’s brief in distance, the path itself is difficult and winds by means 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 encircling mountain ranges.
That is definitely 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
- Kind of Path: Out & Again
- Elevation Achieve: 321 meters
Issues To Know About Climbing in Albania
Right here are some things to consider earlier than you go mountain climbing in Albania.
Be Conscious of Animals
Most of the trails run by means of fields and villages. The locals are very welcoming and pleasant, however you might meet guard or sheepdogs. Most are unlikely to method you, however maintain your distance and don’t provoke them.
Test The Climate Earlier than Heading Out
The climate in Albania might be unpredictable and stormy. Maintain your eye on the climate the day earlier than you intend to go mountain climbing 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
Ensure you put on appropriate footwear. Should you’re mountain climbing in Albania in Might or June, and are at a excessive elevation there should still be snow, so remember 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 Telephone is Really helpful
A satellite tv for pc cellphone is certainly advisable, or obtain the map to your cellphone earlier than you allow. A few of the trails disappear and it will probably change into unclear which course it’s best to 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 circumstances, a lot of the mountain climbing trails in Albania are closed in the course of the winter months (October – April) as a result of heavy snowfall and ice. So, earlier than you head out, test when the paths are open, and I counsel in opposition to winter mountain climbing in Albania until you’re accustomed to and have expertise with the terrain.
Climbing in Albania: FAQs
Listed here are some solutions to generally requested questions on mountain climbing round Albania.
The Valbone to Theth path is the most well-liked place to go mountain climbing in Albania as a result of it crosses the Albanian Alps. The views over the mountain ranges are completely unbelievable.
One of many best hikes in Albania is the hike round Tirana Lake. It’s extra of a strolling path, however it’s a lovely method 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 ideal hike in Albania for households because the terrain is comparatively flat, and it’s a shorter stroll.
Waterproof footwear or boots are a good suggestion, as lots of the hikes cross rivers and creeks. If there’s been heavy rainfall (largely in Spring or Autumn) components of trails can change into slippery, moist, or flooded.
The Blue Eye path in Shkoder is without doubt one of the most lovely locations to go mountain climbing. Not solely will you see some superb views on the descent, however you’ll additionally see among the most turquoise water on the Blue Eye too.
No, mountain climbing 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 should use with out the web so that you don’t get misplaced or take a information the place you doable.
In Closing
You definitely received’t be disenchanted with the mountain climbing 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 unbelievable time and see some superb sights.
The cities can change into very popular in the summertime, so going for a hike in Albania’s countryside is the right approach to escape the warmth.
I hope this information helps you intend your subsequent hike in Albania!
