The mountaineering in Albania is likely one of the essential causes individuals are drawn to this wonderful place. Over 70% of the nation is mountainous, which makes for some unimaginable mountaineering trails in Albania, together with some wonderful views.
A number of the greatest hikes round Albania are in, or very near, a number of the essential cities and cities in Albania too, so yow will discover a incredible base to hike and simply additionally see a number of 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 varied strolling trails in Albania blew me away. So listed here are my prime 15 hikes round Albania.
15 Greatest Hikes in Albania
I beloved mountaineering in Albania; it’s one in every 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 numerous mountaineering in Albania, however I’ve narrowed it down to fifteen based mostly 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 listing. 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 among the finest 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 may think about, the surroundings and nature is unimaginable.
The hike itself is pretty difficult however affords the most effective mountaineering within the Albanian Alps. I’d price it between average to arduous as components of the path are steep (in each instructions), nevertheless it’s well-marked. pair of mountaineering boots and poles are beneficial 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 Data
- 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 house to among the finest treks in Albania to keep away from crowds. It’s a reasonably difficult route near Kruje in Durrës, which is a incredible 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 definitely 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 troublesome 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 incredible. In the summertime, you may even swim within the water, which is exhilarating.
Path Particulars and Data
- 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 isn’t any exception.
It’s a preferred spot for hen watchers because the park attracts numerous completely different species. Maja Rosit can also be a fantastic place for a solitary and peaceable stroll because it doesn’t appeal to as many guests because the Theth to Valbone hike.
It’s a difficult stroll and fairly constant in relation to steepness, apart from the final kilometer which turns into fairly troublesome. The views of the Montenegrin mountains from the highest are completely gorgeous. In the event you’ve bought sufficient power in your legs and air in your lungs, there’s an choice to go additional as much as Rosni Peak.
Carry numerous water with you, however take consolation in figuring out that there’s additionally a hut providing water and low the place you may take a little bit break.
Path Particulars and Data
- 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 may be paired with a stroll across the Grand Park of Tirana which is unquestionably price it in its personal proper.
This is likely one of the greatest simple hikes round Albania because it’s largely flat with glorious amenities. There’s ingesting water and a rest room obtainable firstly, and you’ve got an enormous alternative of cafes and refreshments within the park and across the lake edge.
It’s inside 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 little bit cooler. You gained’t want any particular gear, only a pair of comfy trainers.
Considered 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 Data
- 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 likely one of the greatest waterfall hikes close to Albania. It’s not technically a waterfall, however reasonably a spring, nevertheless 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 incredible place for mountaineering in Albania, and the blue eye attracts many vacationers, so you may anticipate it to be a little bit busier than others. The path is closed between November and Could, nevertheless it’s among the finest summer season hikes in Albania.
The views are wonderful all the best way up, so that you gained’t be wanting spectacular surroundings. There are additionally loads of eating places alongside the path, so you may actually take it at your personal tempo and cease when you must.
It’s an extended hike, so carry comfy footwear or boots, and don’t overlook your bathing go well with if you happen to’re feeling like you could be courageous sufficient to dip within the freezing chilly water.
Path Particulars and Data
- 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 outdated 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 footwear are advisable, (if you happen to’re cautious, you may most likely cross with out getting your toes moist). The very best time of 12 months to do that hike is between Could and November.
The path may be misplaced in a few locations, however if you happen to remember the route that you have to be heading, and don’t veer off on a totally 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 Data
- 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 need to hike however the Blue Eye path is a little bit lengthy for you, then this pretty simple 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 greatest to go to between Could & September, however bear in mind that components of the path can flood if there’s been heavy rainfall. Waterproof footwear are a good suggestion if you happen to’re visiting in Autumn, and bear 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 Data
- 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 affords a number of 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 shocking 60-meter-deep canyon that stretches for over 2 kilometers in size. It may solely be visited with a information, so you may make certain that you’re exploring a novel a part of this wonderful nation.
The path to the Canyon is gorgeous, and also you’ll be handled to unimaginable views over the Theth River. The path isn’t too troublesome, with a information, and is one I undoubtedly suggest if you happen to’re heading to Theth Nationwide Park.
Path Particulars and Data
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 likely one of the greatest mountaineering trails close to Albania.
The 8-kilometer point-to-point route affords 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 choice 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 affordable diploma of health.
Path Particulars and Data
- 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 provide some nice mountaineering choices simply exterior the capital. It’s one in every of my favourite issues to do in Tirana.
Head up the Dajti Mountains on the Dajti Expres; the cable automotive that gives some wonderful 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, affords 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 sizzling). Take loads of water and good strolling footwear or trainers.
Path Particulars and Data
- 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 house to some nice Albania treks.
The primary 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 means.
The out and again path is a number of the most family-friendly mountaineering in Albania. The path crosses a small river earlier than reaching the unimaginable Blue Eye, the place you may courageous the freezing waters to chill off. There are a couple of stalls and a restaurant on the path to profit from this journey.
It’s additionally among the finest winter hikes in Albania, as most of the higher-altitude hikes are inundated with snow. The situation and decrease altitude make it winter choice for eager hikers.
Path Particulars and Data
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 stunning mountain. You’ll get unimaginable views throughout the encompassing panorama and over the ocean past.
The path itself is comparatively uncovered on a rocky path, so the solar may be sizzling within the peak of summer season. Be sure 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 Data
- 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 stunning looped path is likely one of the greatest 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 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 simple and flat. It’s appropriate for anybody with some expertise of mountaineering and customarily 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 due to this fact excellent for people who love adventures and testing their navigation abilities. It’s a whole lot of enjoyable and affords some stunning views of this quiet and peaceable a part of Albania.
Path Particulars and Data
- 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 likely one of the extra widespread Albania trails close to Shkodër and is an pleasurable 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 keen to simply accept the problem, the views and the panorama are properly definitely worth the effort. It affords stunning views of the close by Fushë Arrëz village, in addition to loads of fascinating natural world alongside the route.
Path Particulars and Data
15. Hardedaj – Nenreth – Theth
This 5-kilometer point-to-point path close to Shkodër affords a number 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 stunning countryside and views of the encompassing mountain ranges.
That is actually one of many Albania trails to be tried solely by skilled hikers, however the dedication is unquestionably price it.
Path Particulars and Data
- 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 you could 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 climate in Albania may be unpredictable and stormy. Preserve your eye on the climate the day earlier than you propose 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 develop into flooded, relying on the time of 12 months.
The Trails Can Be Slippery
Be sure 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 be snow, so remember how this may increasingly have an effect on the terrain. Equally, in Autumn there might have been extra rain, so that is additionally one thing to bear in mind.
Sattelite Telephone is Really helpful
A satellite tv for pc telephone is unquestionably beneficial, or obtain the map to your telephone earlier than you permit. A number of the trails disappear and it could develop into unclear which route you must go. Have your telephone there to make use of as a backup.
Examine the Opening Dates of the Trails
For security causes and due to climate circumstances, many of the mountaineering trails in Albania are closed in the course of the winter months (October – April) resulting from heavy snowfall and ice. So, earlier than you head out, examine when the paths are open, and I counsel towards 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, nevertheless it’s a phenomenal means of seeing the lake and the Grand Park of Tirana.
Sure, the Kryezi path results in the Kryezi waterfalls and swimming gap. It’s a fantastic 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 most of the hikes cross rivers and creeks. If there’s been heavy rainfall (largely in Spring or Autumn) components of trails can develop into slippery, moist, or flooded.
The Blue Eye path in Shkoder is likely one of the most stunning locations to go mountaineering. Not solely will you see some wonderful views on the descent, however you’ll additionally see a number of the most turquoise water on the Blue Eye too.
No, mountaineering in Albania isn’t harmful, however the trails are typically not notably well-marked and aren’t well-maintained. Be sure 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 gained’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 encompassing nature, and animals – you’re positive to have an unimaginable time and see some wonderful sights.
The cities can develop into highly regarded in the summertime, so going for a hike in Albania’s countryside is the right technique to escape the warmth.
I hope this information helps you propose your subsequent hike in Albania!