Journey to the Southeast: Discover Albania’s Hidden Gems

Itinerary:

Day 1: Explore the Vibrant Capital, Tirana
Upon arrival in Tirana, your journey kicks off with a guided city tour. You’ll uncover key landmarks, delve into intriguing stories of its communist era, and dine on a picturesque terrace in the heart of this lively metropolis.
Overnight in Tirana
Hiking profile: Urban exploration, approximately 2.5 hours

Day 2: Hike Along Lake Ohrid & Guided City Walk in Ohrid
Your morning begins with a hike in the quaint fishing village of Lin, nestled on the shores of Lake Ohrid. Following a lunch featuring freshly caught Ohrid trout served by a local family, you’ll travel to Ohrid in North Macedonia. There, a guided tour of the Ottoman-influenced old town awaits.
Overnight in Ohrid
Hiking profile: T2, elevation gain of +60m and loss of -60m, 5 km, approximately 1.5 hours

Day 3: Trek Through Galicica National Park to Lake Prespa
Today, venture into the Galicica Mountains on a circular route leading to Magaro Peak, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of both Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa. After enjoying a picnic, continue along the Prespa shoreline back into Albania, arriving in the historic city of Korça. Keep an eye out for the occasional rare pelican along the way.
Overnight in Korça
Hiking profile: T2, elevation gain of +680m and loss of -680m, 8.5 km, approximately 4.5 hours

Day 4: Expedition in Drenova National Park
Embark on today’s hike through the lesser-known Drenova National Park. The trail to “Guri i Cjapit” (Goat’s Head Stone) offers spellbinding natural views, especially during the spring bloom. After your trek, unwind at Korça’s renowned beer garden.
Overnight in Korça
Hiking profile: T2, elevation gain of +450m and loss of -500m, 11 km, approximately 4.5 hours

Day 5: Wander Through the Abandoned Hinterland
Follow a scenic path southward along the Greek border into the Grammos Mountains. Enjoy a leisurely trek through lush forests and pastoral shepherd fields that culminates at a farm where a traditional lunch is served. Later, proceed to the charming town of Permet.
Overnight in Permet
Hiking profile: T2, elevation gain of +190m and loss of -190m, 7 km, roughly 2.5 hours

Day 6: Adventure to Sopoti Waterfall & Benja’s Thermal Springs
Today’s journey takes you to the stunning Sopoti Waterfall, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Nemercka North Face. After lunch beside the Vjosa River, relax in the therapeutic, sulfur-rich thermal springs of Benja.
Overnight in Permet
Hiking profile: T2, elevation gain of +300m and loss of -300m, 6 km, approximately 3 hours

Day 7: Discover Berat – The City of 1,000 Windows
Travel to Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage city celebrated for its rich history. Following lunch, take a guided walk through the still-inhabited fortress, visit the Onufri Icon Museum, and indulge in a wine tasting at one of Albania’s premier wineries.
Overnight in Berat
Hiking profile: No hiking scheduled

Day 8: Farewell
On your final day, explore the ethnographic museum in Berat before returning to Tirana, where your unforgettable journey comes to a close.
Hiking profile: No hiking scheduled