At a Glance
Embark on a voyage of discovery into the off beaten wonders of Albania. A 8 day walking adventure embracing its remote regions from the Albanian Alps to the small villages of Theth and Valbone. Delve into an authentic immersion into Albania’s culture and history as you journey from Tirana to Berat.
Your expedition begins in Tirana, the country's upbeat capital, where you will overnight before a scenic drive to Shkoder. Uncover castles and a city of one of the oldest and most hisotric places of the country. Your journey continues to the magnificence of the Albanian alps and the Theth national park. Visit the shutting tower of Theth and be wowed by its background story. Hike to the Grunas waterfall, behold the series of natural pools at Nderlyse and consummate your ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- 7 nights accommodation from guesthouses to 3 star hotels on a twin share basis
- All breakfast, 4x lunch, 4x dinner
- Travel by air conditioned private bus
- Professional local guide
Itinerary
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Making your own way from the airport, your adventure begins at your hotel in Tirana, the ever bustling capital city of Albania enclosed by huge mountains and hills overlooking the Adriatic Sea at a distance. Settle in your deluxe rooms in the 4-star luxury hotel located in the heart of Tirana. Unwind in your en suite room or indulge in a refreshing drink from the bar. For those in pursue of adventure, just steps away from the hotel is the Main Square. Meander its quaint alleyways filled with an array of cafes, boutique stores and historic landmarks. Explore the Opera House National Theatre and Historical Museum that are nearby for a cultural and historical introduction to spectacular Albania. Rest in for the night and prepare for the thrilling adventure that abound tomorrow. |
Sky2 Hotel or similar 
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Level 1, Approx. 2 km (1 mile), 1 hour walking, Elevation gain: 50 m (164 ft), Elevation loss: 50 m (164 ft) This morning takes you on 2 hour scenic drive to Shkoder as you uncover the castle of Rozafa which also doubles as the city centre and one of the oldest epic landmarks in Albania. It's advisable to seize the opportunity here and shop for supplies, mementos, and snacks because they'll come in handy for the next three days of the adventure as we proceed to remote sites. The journey graduates into the scintillating Albanian Alps and Theth National Park on a 3 hours drive as the rich fauna and greenery of these locations come alive. Spend some time unwinding in your quaint guesthouse in Theth, your rustic home for the next 2 nights. From here, venture on a mild trek into the valley sandwiched between wondrous peaks. Locals going about their business and agricultural endowments characterise this journey. The next stop is at the 130 years old Roman Catholic Church of Theth, formerly used as a health centre when the communist reigned supreme. Your adventure climaxes as you unearth the vestiges of stone-based shutting or lock-in towers locally christened Kulla that served as a fortress for families in blood feuds. You’ll stay at the lovely Shpella guesthouse, situated in the heart of the small village of Theth, surrounded by the Albanian Alps. Relax in your cosy rooms with shared bathrooms. This evening, indulge in a dinner affair at the onsite restaurant boasting home cooked local dishes, everything freshly made in the wood oven outside of the house. |
Shpella Guest House, Theth or similarBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Level 3, Approx. 14 km (9 miles), 5 hours walking, Elevation gain: 400 m (1312 ft), Elevation loss: 680 m (2231 ft) After breakfast, we move to the vast agricultural endowments of the Theth Valley. More striking, as you'll discover, is the region's unwavering allegiance to mediaeval farming practice, using horse-drawn carts. Forego the vibes of the city for a walk through nature and rural paths down to the entrancing Grunas waterfalls, renowned as a beautiful jewel in the Albanian alps. At over 30 metres high, with the circles revolving around it and the mill of Boja, it's certainly one of the most fascinating sights of Theth. From the waterfalls, the journey proceeds to Nderlyse to meet another captivating natural wonder - the series of natural water pools gracing the base of rock masses, and the rare feature described as the Blue Eye of Kapre. A perfect opportunity to take a refreshing dip in its inviting waters. |
Shpella Guest House, Theth or similarBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Level 3, Approx. 10 km (6 miles), 7 hours walking, Elevation gain: 1056 m (3465 ft), Elevation loss: 720 m (2362 ft) Explore some of nature's wildest greenery on a trek to the Tropoje district, remarkable as the dwelling place of the rich Albanian folk culture. Climb up the forests and grazing reserves to peak at the 1800 m Valbone pass. Here, spend ample time to soak up the scenic ambiance and stupendous views below Valbone and the Theth Valley. Once you’re ready, continue to the Valbone River with guidance from a trail while ambling through a series of waterfalls cascading and bubbling down the rocks. The final stop is at the outlandish, yet elegant village of Rragram where a minibus awaits our entry as we move back to the hotel. Anticipate Rocky terrains and steep slopes in this journey, especially, the descent down the Valbone pass. Journey to your hotel, Hotel Rilindja, a secluded accommodation set in the Valbones Valley of Albania, an amazing remote beautiful spot with the most friendly and warm atmosphere. Experience nature in its purest form at the outdoor terrace. Enjoy dinner in the restaurant serving traditional Albanian specialties. |
Hotel Rilindja/Hotel Margjeka, Valbones Valley or similar Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Level 3, Approx. 15 km (9 miles), 5-7 hours walking, Elevation gain: 1067 m (3500 ft), Elevation loss: 833 m (2373 ft) The expedition crew is guided on this day, through the beech and sleek pine forest down to Rosi peak. From here, your adventure culminates with a move to the iconic White Circle to behold in full glare, the magical beauty of the hills and valleys resting easily on the Albanian Alps. You can promenade the entire length of the white circle at your pace or get as far as its ridge and back down to the valley. For those in pursue of a more relaxed route can amble around the locality, soaking up the culture, or walk the slopes to enjoy the rich taste of a mountain tea. If you're doing the full-length walk of the white circle, the ascent and descent is 1000 m. |
Hotel Rilindja/Hotel Margjeka, Valbones Valley or similarBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Level 1, Approx. 3 km (2 miles), 1-2 hours walking Breakfast this morning is warm and delicious, setting the tone for a great day ahead before an hour-and-a-half drive to Fierza. From there, we take a boat and drive through the mesmerising beauty of Komani lake for 2 hours, enjoying the cool breeze of its natural surroundings. The 2 hours drive gives you the latitude to behold the scintillating views of several cliffs and imposing peaks. The water body here isn't just to marvel at but it is conserved for use as a hydroelectric power station that supplies 70% of the country's electricity. The journey inches further for another 2 and half hours to Kruje, the historic spot where Skanderbeg resisted the 15th-century invasion of the Ottoman empire. You could be lucky to find some vestiges and relics here. You’ll stay at the Hotel Panorama, a prestigious accommodation set on a hillside overlooking a valley to the ancient castle of Kruje. Unwind with magnificent views from the balcony or take a refreshing dip at the rooftop pool before tantalising on a dinner affair at the hotel's restaurant serving traditional Albanian specialties. |
Hotel Panorama, Kruje or similar Breakfast |
Level 1, Approx. 2 km (1 mile), 1-2 hours walking On your last full day in this ravishing beauty of a country, this morning you’ll travel to Berat. Venture on a guided tour across the old district of this town beholding the elegant evergreen glory of its white buildings dotting the hills drenched in the pine forest. Discover the ethnographic museum which is also an 18th-century Ottoman building. The next Monument is the King Mosque and then a walk through streets paved with cobblestone takes us to Berat Castle set on the slopes of Mount Tomorr. The view atop this mount is both idyllic and eagle-eyed which is a reward for your ascent. The interior of this castle serves as a residence and also houses the museum of iconography. Spend time exploring other incredible sites in Berator simply immerse in the cafe culture on the promenade. You’ll stay at a 4 star hotel in Mangalem, the iconic living quarters of Berat, where the castle observes the entire area from its heightened panoramic position. Relax in your ensuite room overlooking the inner courtyard, a spacious bathroom with walk-in shower and countless lovely touches. Delight in the delectable meals from the charming restaurant coupled with soothing drinks from the bar. |
Hotel Mangalemi, Berat or similar Breakfast, Dinner |
Savour one last breakfast, a perfect time to reflect on your incredible journey before you bid farewell and make your own arrangements for your onward travel. Alternatively, airport transfers can be arranged at an additional cost, please contact us. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
NoneBreakfastDates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure point is Tirana
- The finish point is Berat
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Tirana. The closest major airport is Tirana International Airport and is 19 km from the center of Tirana.
- Airport transfers are not included. Joining location starts in your accommodation in Tirana making your own arrangements there. Alternatively, airport transfers can be arranged at an additional cost, please contact us.
Albania generally experiences a Mediterranean climate with summer temperatures at 25ºC on average in the day, and the warmest months are July and August where temperatures can rise to 30ºC and above. It becomes cooler further inland towards Korca during these months, especially in the evenings with high temperatures around 25ºC. There is always the small chance of rain in the mountains yet we aim not to travel in the coldest and wettest months, which is November to January. Berat also experiences a Mediterranean climate but thanks to its location in the shadow of Mt Tomorr, summers are much warmer than expected for the Mediterranean.
The walking level on this trip is rated Level 3 Moderate.
Level 1 Leisurely: Experience is not necessary; anyone fit and healthy enough to complete a weekend walk will thrive. Walks are often optional. Trails are seldom flat, so expect a reasonable number of ascents and descents. You normally walk for two to five hours per day; daily ascents will likely be around 985ft to 1,640ft (300m to 500m), perhaps with the odd day around 1,970ft (600m).
Level 3 Moderate: Expect easy, medium-length walks or harder, shorter walks. Some experience is useful, but not essential. Good health and reasonable fitness are important. There will be walks at higher altitudes and some longer, harder days. Generally, though, the underfoot conditions will be fair. A walking day is normally five to seven hours; daily ascents will likely be around 1,640ft to 2,625ft (500m to 800m), perhaps with the odd day around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m).
Level 5 Challenging: Fitness is vital with extended walking in mountainous terrain. You might also experience high altitude, challenging climates and remote locations. Trekking experience is desirable, but not vital if you are confident in your physical condition. Walking days are usually between six and eight hours, although they may be longer for passes or peaks. Daily ascents can be around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m), perhaps with the odd day around 3,610ft to 3,940ft (1,100m to 1,200m).
Level 7 Tough: Trekking experience is essential and preferably at altitude. You need complete confidence in your ability to trek for many days over difficult terrain. You may encounter extreme altitude and weather conditions and may need to use ice axes and crampons. Stamina is essential as walking days last six to nine hours (sometimes more on occasions). Daily ascents will likely be around 2,955ft to 3,280ft (900m to 1,000m), perhaps with the odd day around 3,610ft to 3,940ft (1,100m to 1,200m).
Split and optional grades: Where a trip falls between two grades, an intermediate or ‘split’ grade is used. For example, Level 2 (Leisurely/Moderate). Occasionally there are optional ascents available; in this case, the grade will be highlighted.
This trek is suitable for the average walker who is prepared to put in some physical preparation. For the most part, our walks follow good trails yet the terrain can be very rocky and slippery in parts, particularly in the Theth and Valbonë regions. We will encounter sustained steep ascents/descents (sometimes with gravel slopes) and you should be confident in your ability to deal with heights.
Over the course of the week, enjoy five walks of varying length. There are three spectacular full day walks of up to about 7 hours walking per day, and two shorter walks each of roughly 1-3 hours walking (including stops). Walking hours stated are given as approximates only. The remainder of our time is spent sightseeing in Berat and Krujë.
There will be some long drives (approx. 4 hrs in total on Day 6 plus a 2hr boat journey), which are unavoidable in order to see as much as possible. Due to certain areas still being relatively undeveloped, some of the drives will be on windy and quite bumpy roads. Some roads are full of potholes and of a much lower standard to what is mostly expected in Europe. Still, you are always rewarded with spectacular wild scenery throughout. There may be some very short off road journeys where seatbelts cannot be guaranteed for the 4×4 vehicles used.
Luggage is transferred by horses during the trek. Hard suitcases are therefore not suitable.
Spend 2 nights in a mountain guesthouse and 5 nights in 3-star en suite hotels. Ratings should not be compared to Western Europe as there is currently not a regulated system for this in Albania. The guesthouse and hotels are chosen for their character, location and welcoming atmosphere. The hotel and guesthouse in the mountains (Theth and Valbonë) are charming yet rustic. Your two nights in the guesthouse at Theth are in double and triple rooms, with shared bathrooms (triple rooms are not mixed sex, single supplements are not available here).
Extend your stay with additional nights in Tirana before or after your tour. Additional nights can also be arranged in Berat, Please contact us to book.
For this trip, private buses are used. One transfer includes a short off road section, for this journey we use local transport which will likely not have seatbelts.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 90 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 90 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 90 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 90 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. The tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.
