Details
Day 1: Tirana/Shkoder → Theth
Our adventure starts early at 06:00 AM. We will pick you up from your hotel and head towards the beautiful North. You’ll see the scenery change dramatically from flat coastal fields to the big, wild mountains of the Albanian Alps. At 07:30 AM, we switch to a local mountain car to navigate the quiet, winding roads leading into the valley.
The Best Viewpoint
As we drive up, the mountain air gets fresh and carries the scent of wild herbs. If you visit in May or June, you will be treated to beautiful purple fields of blooming lavender. We will make a stop at the high mountain pass of Qafa e Thores (1,700 meters high), which is the most famous spot to capture amazing photos of the surrounding jagged peaks before we head down into the valley floor.
Hiking to the Blue Eye
Around noon, we begin our trekking journey to the Blue Eye of Theth, a magnificent natural pool filled with bright blue and emerald water supplied by melting mountain snow. The trail winds through beautiful, dense woods along a scenic river. After enjoying this postcard-perfect nature scene, we return to the village center to dive into local history. We will visit the famous Old Stone Church and the iconic Lock-in Tower, both of which stand as living monuments to ancient mountain traditions and stories of how locals lived centuries ago.
Hiking Overview (Standard Route):
Total Distance: 18 km (unless taking the shortcut)
Walking Time: About 6 hours total
Difficulty: Medium (Good for people who enjoy active walking)
Day 2: Theth → Valbona
The Great Mountain Crossing: Theth to Valbona
Get ready for the most exciting and challenging day of the journey! After breakfast, we will lace up our boots and hike from Theth National Park directly over the mountain ridge to Valbona Valley. This is a classic, rewarding day spent in the heart of the wild mountains. While it requires a steady effort, the staggering alpine views waiting at the top make every single step worth it.
The High Point
The defining highlight of the day is reaching the crest of the Valbona Pass. Standing at this high mountain saddle, you will feel a huge rush of excitement as both majestic valleys stretch out below you at the exact same time. It is the absolute perfect spot to rest, catch your breath, eat a trail snack, and take panoramic photos of the towering Accursed Mountains.
After enjoying the pass, we begin our steady descent down into Valbona, a peaceful, idyllic alpine village tucked safely between high rocky peaks. We will end our rewarding day at a traditional local guesthouse to relax, share stories, and enjoy a hearty dinner.
Hiking Overview:
Total Distance: 14 km
Uphill Climb: 1,050 m
Time Required: 6 – 8 hours
Difficulty: Medium / Challenging (One-way crossing)
Day 3: Valbona → Tirana/Shkodra
The Water Route Home: Valbona to Tirana/Shkodër
After breakfast in Valbona, we begin our journey back to the lowlands, trading the high rocky peaks for the emerald waters of the north. This is a wonderfully relaxing and highly scenic final day designed to wrap up your alpine mountain adventure in comfort.
The Lake Koman Cruise
We will travel to the docks and board a local boat ferry to sail through Lake Koman, a spectacular reservoir often globally described as the “Fjords of Albania.” As we glide peacefully along the calm water, you will pass deep limestone canyons, hidden waterfalls dropping into the lake, tiny isolated farms clinging to the hillsides, and thick green forests. This tranquil cruise offers an exclusive look into a remote part of the country that is completely inaccessible by cars or standard roads.
The Road to the City
Upon arriving at the Koman Dam, we transition back to land transport. The drive out takes us along the rugged, dramatic shores of Vau i Dejës Lake, giving you one final look at the wild northern landscape before we return to civilization. Your driver will transfer you smoothly back to either Tirana or Shkodër by the evening, dropping you off directly at your hotel door with lasting memories of Albania’s beautiful peaks and waterways.
