Albanian Road Trip, 8 Day Itinerary
Blue Eye Southern Albania
Embark on an unforgettable Albanian road trip, starting from Tirana Airport and winding through breathtaking landscapes. Discover stunning spots like Dhërmi, Gjipe Beach, and the enchanting Blue Eye spring. Explore historic towns such as Gjirokastër and Berat, then immerse yourself in nature at Osum Canyon and Grunas Waterfall. With a mix of coastal beauty and mountainous adventures, this eight-day itinerary promises a captivating experience filled with culture and stunning scenery. Perfect for travelers seeking a unique getaway
Overview:
Day 1 - Tirana Airport to Dhërmi
Day 2 - Gjipe Beach, Himarë, Grama Bay Cruise and Ksamil
Day 3 - The Blue Eye and Gjirokaster
Day 4 - Berat Old Town and Berat Castle
Day 5 - Osum Canyon and Bogove Waterfall
Day 6 - Tirana
Day 7 - Blue Eye Kaprre and Theth Church
Day 8 - Halfway Hike Valbona Pass and Grunas Waterfall
General Tips for Travelling in Albania
-
Hiring a car is the best way to get around Albania, with many options available near the airport in Tirana. We used Green Motion and found them to be easy to deal with and relatively cheap.
Driving in Albania is on the right hand-side of the road.
A 2WD vehicle will suffice for most travellers, however an SUV may be more comfortable.
Make sure that you are adequately insured before departing. Also note that a number of rental companies will void even the top tier cover if they suspect that you have driven the vehicle off-road. This included no-go areas around the Osum Canyon where you will likely have to do an organised day trip tour as an alternative.
The roads were fairly well maintained for most areas. With some degraded sections when travelling around Theth in the Albanian Alps area.
You have to pay for parking at nearly every major attraction or town and these must be paid in cash, so make sure to always have some LEK handy.
Fuel was surprisingly expensive. When refuelling often an attendant will want to fill the vehicle for you which can make for an interesting interaction.
A car is by far the best way to get around with public transport being extremely unreliable.
Its also a running joke in Albania about how unreliable google maps is. Expect the indicated times displayed to be sometimes much longer due to traffic.
There is an extremely high police presence on the roads and when driving through the towns so make sure that you are obeying the speed limits at all times.
-
To beat crowds and still retain moderate to mild weather conditions the best time to travel is typically through the shoulder seasons between May-June and late August to Mid-October.
Accomodation is fairly easy to book with high availability apart from the northern area around Theth where there are limited options. I would suggest booking in advance in this area.
This itinerary has been designed to only be spending a night or two in each place to maximise the amount that you see. If you prefer a slower pace I would suggest adding additional days in, particularly in Theth or along the Albanian Riviera.
-
Accomodation in general was relatively cheap particularly around the areas away from the coast including Gjirokaster and Berat.
Ensure that when you are booking your accommodation you confirm that they offer a parking location.
I find planning accomodation through Booking.com to be the most convenient way. The map feature makes it easy to look at the proximity of accomodation to major towns and attractions as well as filtering for parking/private bathrooms etc.
-
Cash is king in Albania and they are happy to accept either Albanian Lek or Euros.
Note that often when you go to a resturaunt and ask if they accept card, they will say that "if often doesn't work," but then if you then turn to go somewhere else it will suddenly be fine. We were able to use card in most places.
Exepect to pay in cash for parking, and public toilets so it is always a good idea to keep some cash handy on you.
Albania as a whole is relatively cheap comparative to the rest of Europe, where it is easy to find cheap meals and budget accomodation.
On a road trip splitting costs amongst multiple people is always going to increase the affordability
-
Using a backpack rather than a suitcase was a far more efficient options particularly when walking through the streets of old town areas that are lined with cobblestones.
Bring well worn reliable runs hiking shoes that are comfortable to wear for long periods of the day.
Make sure to take your camera or empty your phone storage prior to arriving.
The temperature in summer can extremely hot around 40 degrees celcius. Ensure that you dress appropriately for the conditions.
Another essential is your bathers and a quick drying towel with many places to swim throughout the itinerary.
Theth Traditional Mountain House
Day 1: Tirana Airport to Dhërmi
Summary: depart from Tirana Airport and drive to Dhërmi, a hidden paradise that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. Nestled along the stunning Albanian Riviera, Dhërmi is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, golden sandy beaches, and dramatic mountain backdrops. Spend the afternoon relaxing on a sunbed at Dhërmi Beach or nearby Drymades Beach, a perfect start to the trip.
Total Driving Distance: 204 km
Total Driving Duration: 3 hours
Accomodation: stay in Dhërmi
Highlights: visit the town of Dhërmi and relax on Dhërmi Beach or Drymades Beach.
Day 1 Overview:
Dhërmi
Depart: Tirana Airport
Arrive: Dhërmi I Google Maps
Drive Distance: 204 km drive
Drive Duration: 3 hours
Activity Duration: Day
Dhërmi has several stunning beaches in close proximity including Dhërmi Beach and Drymades Beach. At both there is the option to pay for a sunbed otherwise there is is a public free section along Dhërmi Beach.
Perched on the hillside, the Old Dhërmi Village offers a glimpse into traditional Albanian architecture and way of life.
Stay in accommodation either on the beach side or deep within the old town depending on your preferences.
Next: After your time at the beach have a relaxing night in the old town or hit up some of the beach bars.
Day 2: Gjipe Beach, Himarë, Grama Bay Cruise and Ksamil
Summary: depart from Dhërmi early in the morning to spend a full day checking out the best beaches on offer along the Albanian Riviera. The first stop after a short 30 minute drive is Gjipe Beach. Spend around an hour here cooling off in the crystal clear waters before heading to Himarë to make it in time for your Grama Bay Boat Cruise. The group tour departs from a minidock located along Himarë main beach and returns after a total of 5 hours. The cruise stops at a number of secluded coves largely inaccessible by car, including the idyllic Aquarium Beach, Pirates Cave and Saint Andrews Bay before arriving at Grama Bay. After spending around an hour and a half at Grama Bay the boat makes the return journey to Himarë allowing you to continue your trip to Ksamil. Enjoy a night partying at one of Ksamil’s many beach bars or choose to relax in the coastal town.
Total Driving Distance: 102 km
Total Driving Duration: 3.5 hours
Accomodation: Stay in Ksamil
Highlights: visit the beautiful Gjipe beach, before taking a cruise from Himarë travelling along the Albanian Riviera stopping at Aquarium Beach, Pirates Cave, Saint Andrews Bay and Grama Bay. Spend the afternoon in Ksamil.
Day 2 Overview
Gjipe Beach
Depart: Dhërmi
Arrive: Gjipe Beach Car Park I Google Maps
Drive Distance: 8.4 km drive
Drive Duration: 30 minutes
Cost: Free entry (parking fees apply)
Activity Duration: 1 hour
Once you arrive at the carpark there is a 1.5 km, 20 minute walk down to the beach and canyon.
The beach is known for its clear turquoise waters and pebbly shoreline.
Behind the beach is Gjipe Canyon that offers an opportunity for some exploration.
Along the beach there are several restaurants to choose from.
You will return back past here by sea on the boat tour but it is a nice place to get a perspective from on land.
Himarë and Gama Bay Boat Cruise
Depart: Gjipe Beach
Arrive: Himarë meeting point for tour I Google Maps
Parking: Park in car park (fees apply)
Drive Distance: 15.2 km drive
Drive Duration: 40 minutes
Cost: 65 EUR I 108 AUD each on a Group Tour
Activity Duration: 5 hours
Operators: There are multiple tour operators offering a range of packages, we identified Himara Water Taxis Boat Tours and Himara Seas the Day who had a number of comparable tours, however Himara Water Taxis Boat Tours appeared to stop at a greater number of locations we were interested in visiting.
Time: They offer a single 10:00AM timeslot on offer operating everyday.
Depart: The tour departs from the Himara mini dock, located along the main beach of Himarë.
A number of the main beaches and sites are inaccessible without a 4x4 vehicle or a long hike which will take considerable time out of your day, as such a tour by boat is the perfect way to see a lot in a short period of time.
It stops at a number of iconic beaches on the way and allows time for swimming stops in certain places depending on the weather conditions.
Photo stops at a number of highlights including Livadhi beach, Aquarium Beach, Jale, Couples Bay, Gjipe Canyon, Saint Theodores Cave, Pirates Cave, Dhermi and Palasa before reaching Grama Bay.
Along the route the boat will also make swim stops at Goats Beach (10 minutes), the Secret Cave (10 minutes), Doves Cave (20 minutes) and Saint Andrews Bay (30 minutes).
Once the boat arrives at Grama Bay it spends around 1 - 1.5 hours allowing you to relax and explore the area a little bit before departing back for Himarë main beach.
Grama Bay is a beautiful secluded beach with crystal clear water, surrounded by rugged cliffs making the main access via boat.
The tour operators provide water and you have the option to bring your own food and drinks onto the boat.
Clothing: recommended to wear your bathers and to bring sunscreen and your camera.
After returning to Himarë either opt to spend a few more hours at the beach or get a late lunch before heading for Ksamil.
Ksamil
Depart: Himarë Beach
Arrive: Ksamil I Google Maps
Parking: at accomodation
Drive Distance: 67.2 km drive
Drive Duration: 1.5 hours
Ksamil is an extremely popular tourist destination and for this reason it is fairly built up and quite expensive which is a steep contrast from the picturesque beaches explored during the boat cruise and cheaper meals and drinks. For this reason unfortunately I would have to say I found it overrated.
The town works well as gateway to exploring other destinations within the region and has ample options for accomodation.
Note that the beach area is crowded and unfortunately you will struggle to find anywhere that won’t require you to pay for a day bed (around 50 EUR) to lay on a beach far inferior to those in other areas of the Riviera.
There are several vendors offering Jetski hire for approximately 70 EUR for a period of half an hour.
On a positive note Ksamil has a bustling nightlife scene with many beach bars and nightclubs to choose from that even attract an array of international DJs if you were looking for a night out.
Next: stay in Ksamil.
Snorkelling in the Silfra Fissure
Day 3: The Blue Eye and Gjirokaster
Summary: depart from your accommodation in Ksmail and drive around 50 minutes to the Blue Eye of southern Albania. Spend a few hours taking in the incredible clear waters and even opt for a quick swim before departing for Gjirokaster. Once in Gjirokaster you have the oppurtunity to explore the Gjirokaster Castle which offers incredible views of the surrounding Drino Valley and the iconic clock tower. Down within the old town you can walk through the Gjirokaster Bazaar before heading off on a later afternoon hike to Ali Pasha Bridge. Spend the evening dining in a traditional resturaunt whilst taking in the virbant atmosphere of the old town.
Total Driving Distance: 70 km
Total Driving Duration: 2 hours
Accomodation: Gjirokaster
Highlights: visit the Blue Eye of southern Albania, explore the Ottoman-era buildings within the old town of Gjirokaster including Gjirokaster Castle and Bazaar, and take a hike to the Ali Pasha Bridge.
Day 3 Overview:
Blue Eye
Depart: Ksamil
Arrive: Blue Eye Car Park I Google Maps
Drive Distance: 33 km drive
Drive Duration: 50 minutes
Cost: 50 LEK I 0.82 AUD at gate
Parking Fee: 100 LEK I 1.65 AUD
Activity Duration: 2 hours
Walk: from the car park there is a 30 minute walk 1.7 km walk to the main section of the Blue Eye. Note that this is very undulated and it can be extremely hot in the middle of summer. Alternatively there is a small passenger train you can take or E-scooters available to rent.
The Blue Eye known locally as Syri i Kaltër, is a natural water spring and a popular tourist attraction located near the town of Sarandë in southern Albania.
The spring is renowned for its crystal-clear, blue-coloured water, which creates the illusion of a blue eye. The water in the spring is so clear that you can see deep into the hole from which it emerges, making it look like a pupil in the middle of an eye.
The depth of the spring is estimated to be more than 50 meters but it has never been confirmed given the pressure inside of the cave.
When you arrive at the site there are several footpaths and boardwalks leading around the area offering a variety of viewpoints.
The water is freezing cold remaining around 10°C to 12°C (50°F to 54°F) throughout the year. There are a number of signs around advising against swimming however while we were there the majority of people were either putting their feet in or wading in the water. This seemed to be accepted as long as you were being respectful.
Gjirokaster Castle
Depart: Blue Eye
Arrive: Gjirokaster I Google Maps
Drive Distance: 36 km drive
Drive Duration: 50 minutes
Cost: 200 LEK I 3.30 AUD
Activity Duration: 1 hour
Gjirokastër Castle, dating back to the 12th century, is a key historical site in Albania.
The castle offers panoramic views of Gjirokastër and the Drino Valley as well as the iconic clock tower.
Inside it hosts a military museum and the National Folk Festival, showcasing Albanian culture.
After the castle walk down to the base of the hill to explore the Gjirokaster Bazaar, which is a series of traditional Ottoman-era buildings, markets and cobblestone streets.
There is also the opportunity to visit Zekate House, with entrance costing around 300 LEK. Once inside you are able to tour the various rooms, admire the intricate woodwork and painted ceilings, and enjoy panoramic views of Gjirokastër.
Ali Pasha Bridge Hike
Trailhead: depart from the castle through town on a steep ascent up until you eventually reach a clearing | Google Maps
Total Hiking Distance: 1.5 km one-way
Total Hiking Duration: 30 minute hike | one-way
Difficulty: Moderate
Altitude: 300 meters above sea level
The hike offers a glimpse into the southern Albanian country side and the chance to explore a historic bridge built during the Ottoman Empire.
The trail is well marked leading through town and becomes difficult to follow, however the bridge is always insight once you reach the ridgeline at the back of town.
There are no facilities along the trail, so bring water, snacks, and any other essentials you may need.
Be cautious if you do attempt to go on the bridge as there is no barricading or forms of protection to stop a potential fall.
Next: After your hike spend the night relaxing in Gjirokaster and revisit the main old town quarter and Bazaar area.
Gjirokaster Castle Clock Tower
Day 4: Berat Old Town and Berat Castle
Summary: depart from Gjirokaster and drive 2.5 hours to Berat Old Town. Spend a few hours walking around the town, taking in the Ottoman Era architecture before settling into a rooftop bar for lunch. In the afternoon hike or drive up to Berat Castle to get incredible views across the wider Osum river valley and look down onto the old town below.
Total Driving Distance: 180 km
Total Driving Duration: 2.5 hours
Accomodation: Berat
Highlights: explore Berat Old Town, a UNESCO world heritage listed site, made famous for its Ottoman era architecture. Then take in scenic views of the Osum River whilst navigating around the Berat Castle (Kalaja).
Day 4 Overview:
Berat Old Town
Depart: Gjirokaster
Arrive: Berat Old Town I Google Maps
Parking: Paid parking or park at accomodation
Drive Distance: 180 km drive
Drive Duration: 2.5 hours
Cost: Free entry
Activity Duration: 2 hours
Berat old town is a UNESCO World Heritage listed site having been recognized for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture and historical significance.
The town is famous for its hillside houses with large, symmetrical windows, particularly in the Mangalem and Gorica quarters. This gave it the label of the “City with a Thousand Windows”
It reflects Albania's unique blend of cultures and religions, with both Christian churches and Islamic mosques present in the city.
The iconic Osum river also runs directly through the town.
Ensure that you take sometime to walk across the bridge to get some of the best views of the town.
A highlight is also walking to the highest point within the old town and getting a drink or lunch from a rooftop bar. This offers incredible views looking back over the city.
Berat Castle (Kalaja)
Depart: Berat Old Town
Arrive: Berat Castle I Google Maps
Parking: Free Parking
Drive Distance: 1 km drive
Drive Duration: 7 minutes
Cost: Free entry
Activity Duration: 2 hours
If there is no parking yet available at your accomodation I would recommend driving up to the top of the hill and parking there given that it is free.
Alternatively there is the option to walk up to the castle which would take around 20 minutes and is entirely uphill.
The castle dates back to the 4th century BC, though much of its current structure was built during the Byzantine and Ottoman periods.
It offers breathtaking views of the city of Berat, the Osum River, and surrounding mountains.
Fairly unique to Berat Castle is the fact that within the walls is still inhabited by a number of residents.
You will find several restaurants and bars up in the area making it a great place to spend the afternoon.
Next: After your time at the castle make your way back down to Berat.
Berat Old Town
Day 5: Osum Canyon and Bogove Waterfall
Summary: depart from Hofn and drive 3 hours, passing Lagarfljót Lake as you head towards Hengifoss. Once you arrive commence a moderate 2-hour, 5 km hike enjoying stunning views of the Hengifossá river, Litlanesfoss and the basalt columns surrounding Hengifoss, one of Iceland's tallest waterfalls. After the hike, drive 1 hour to the picturesque town of Seyðisfjörður, stopping in Egilsstaðir for supplies or lunch. In Seyðisfjörður, visit the colorful wooden houses, Seyðisfjarðarkirkja with its rainbow street, and explore local cafes, restaurants, arts, and crafts shops.
Total Driving Distance: 260 km
Total Driving Duration: 4 hours
Accomodation: try and stay in Seyðisfjörður or alternatively Egilsstaðir
Highlights: Views of Lagarfljót Lake, Litlanesfoss, Hengifoss, Haífoss, Gljúfurfoss and Gufufoss, as well as the iconic Seyðisfjarðarkirkja and rainbow street.
Day 5 Overview:
Osum Canyon and Bogove Waterfall Day Trip
Arrive: Meeting point for the tour in central Berat I Google Maps
Cost: 6,943 LEK I 115 AUD
Activity Duration: 7 hours
Operators: We used the operators Visit Albania Tour Operators, which can be booked directly through Get Your Guide. There are also several other tour options available on the site which offer similar itineraries.
Time: They have a single timeslots per day departing at 9:15AM
A lot of hire companies in Albania will not allow rental vehicles to be driven within the Osum Canyon area without you potenitally voiding your insurance. As a result a day tour is the only option.
The initial drive was just over an hour along a windy road before you stop to take some photos at several viewpoints along the top of the canyon.
Osum Canyon is a dramatic river gorge in southern Albania, renowned for its towering cliffs, lush greenery, and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular destination for hikers and adventure seekers.
After this the tour descended down into the base of the canyon where you are provided some water shoes and begind to wade through the Osum River.
The guide will stop at several locations allowing you to jump off of cliffs or have a pleasant swim in the warm waters.
After the walk through the canyon we were taking to a small resturaunt and provided with lunch.
The second part of the day involves a short drive to a drop off location near Bogove Waterfall. From here there is a 20-30 minute walk to the falls.
Bogove Falls is a picturesque waterfall in southern Albania, known for its clear turquoise waters and serene natural setting, making it a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers.
At the falls you are given around an hour to swim in the freezing 6 degree waters before making the walk and eventual drive back to Berat.
Clothing: recommended to wear your bathers underneath your clothes and to pack a towel.
Next: spend a second night of accomodation in Berat
Viewpoint - Hengifoss
Day 6: Tirana
Summary: depart from Seyðisfjörður and drive 1.5 hours to Stuðlagil Canyon, renowned for its impressive basalt columns and vibrant blue-green river. After your visit, drive 2 hours to Dettifoss, opting for the east side for a closer view of one of Europe's most powerful waterfalls, accessible via a 1 km hike. Finally, head to Mývatn, where you can explore the Mývatn Nature Baths, Hverir Geothermal Area, and Dimmuborgir Lava Fields.
Total Driving Distance: 300 km
Total Driving Duration: 4.25 hours
Accomodation: try and stay around Mývatn
Highlights: Visit Stuðlagil Canyon, Dettifoss and the incredible Mývatn area.
Day 6 Overview:
Stuðlagil Canyon
Depart: Seyðisfjörður
Arrive: Stuðlagil I Google Maps
Drive Distance: 98 km drive
Drive Duration: 1.5 hours
Cost: Free entry (parking fees apply)
Activity Duration: 1.5 hours I longer if completing the hike
The canyon, located at the base of the Jökuldalur Valley, is known for its impressive basalt columns and vibrant blue-green river.
There is an easily accessible viewpoint on the east side of the canyon, providing stunning panoramic views of the basalt columns and the turquoise river below.
Or alternatively there is an optional 5 km round trip hike which can be accessed taking around 2 hours to complete.
There are several spots along the hike and at the viewpoint where you can sit and enjoy a picnic.
Dettifoss
Depart: Stuðlagil
Arrive (1): Dettifoss (East Side) I Google Maps
Arrive (2): Dettifoss (West Side) I Google Maps
Drive Distance: 125 km drive
Drive Duration: 2 hours
Cost: Free entry
Activity Duration: 1 hour
Dettifoss is one of Europe's most powerful waterfalls, located in Vatnajökull National Park in Northeast Iceland, with a dramatic 44-meter drop and a width of 100 meters.
The falls can be reached on either the east or the west side of the river. We opted to go on the East side as you can get closer to the water itself. Note however that the track leading to the carpark on the eastside is designed for 4WD vehicles and consists mainly of gravel, however access is still possible with a 2WD. Meanwhile the West side has a sealed road all the way through.
On the east side there is a 1 km hike from the car park to the viewpoint. This side allows you to get up close to the water. There are basic facilities including parking and a restroom.
On the west side again there is around a 1 km walk to the viewpoint. This side offers a broader more panoramic view of the falls with an elevated perspective.
Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to dress in layers and be prepared for changing conditions. Waterproof clothing and sturdy hiking boots are recommended.
Mývatn
Depart: Dettifoss
Arrive: Mývatn I Google Maps
Drive Distance: 77 km drive
Drive Duration: 1.25 hours
Cost: Free entry
Activity Duration: find accomodation in the town if possible
Mývatn is known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse birdlife, and unique geological features shaped by volcanic activity.
There are plenty of activities available within the wider area to spend the rest of the afternoon doing.
Visit the Mývatn Nature Baths (Jarðböðin við Mývatn) a geothermal spa offering hot mineral-rich waters with stunning views over the lake and surrounding landscape.
Visit the Hverir Geothermal Area an otherworldly landscape of boiling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and vibrant mineral deposits.
See the Dimmuborgir Lava Fields, A labyrinth of bizarre lava formations, caves, and rock pillars created by a volcanic eruption.
There are several cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options in the Mývatn area.
Next: find accomodation within the surrounding towns.
Viewpoint - Dettifoss East Side
Day 7: Blue Eye Kaprre and Theth Church
Summary: depart from Tirana early in the morning to head to Theth, a picturesque mountain village in the Albanian Alps. The drive will take around 3 hours to get to Theth on some very scenic but windy roads. Once in Theth drive down to the start of the Blue Eye of Kaprre (Theth) hiking trail. The hike will take around 2 hours to complete as a round trip and provides you with extra time for a swim in the crystal clear freezing cold water. After returning to the car park, drive to Theth Church, a quaint stone structure and an icon of the region. Spend the evening relaxing at your accomodation after a long day of driving and hiking.
Total Driving Distance: 221 km
Total Driving Duration: 4 hours
Accomodation: stay in Theth
Highlights: a scenic drive through the Albania Alps, exploring the small mountain village of Theth as well as a hike to the Blue Eye and a stop at Theth Church.
Day 7 Overview:
Hike to the Blue Eye of Kaprre Theth
Depart: Tirana
Arrive: Nderlysaj car park I Google Maps
Drive Distance: 180 km drive
Drive Duration: 3.5 hours
Cost: Free entry, parking around 50 LEK
Once in Theth the track driving in from the main road is far better suited to 4WD vehicles so be cautious and take your time
Hike Details
Trailhead: from the carpark there limited signs, head up towards the small bridge and turn right | Google Maps
Total Hiking Distance: 5 km
Total Hiking Duration: 2 hour hike | round-trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Altitude: 600 meters above sea level
The hike offers stunning views of the Albania Alps, including lush forests and beautiful streams.
You are able to swim in the water within the Blue Eye, but expect it to be freezing cold at around 6 degrees celcius.
There are very limited facilities along the trail, so bring water, snacks, and any other essentials you may need.
From the start of the short hike there is no mobile reception in the majority of this area so it is wise to download an offline map on Google Maps or use Maps.Me however the trail is fairly easy to follow from this point.
Theth Church
Depart: Nderlysaj car park
Arrive: Theth Church I Google Maps
Drive Distance: 8 km drive
Drive Duration: 21 minutes
Cost: Free
Activity Duration: 1 hour
Theth Church, a quaint stone structure dating back to the 19th century, is nestled in the scenic village of Theth.
An icon on the region the church is a symbol of Theth.
There are a number of small meadows surrounding the church grounds which make for some beautiful photos.
Within the surrounding area there are a few hotels and resturaunts where you can go to for a meal, however the options are generally limited and the prices are expensive.
Next: After your time at the Church drive to your accomodation in Theth.
Viewpoint - Goðafoss Waterfall
Day 8: Halfway Hike Valbona Pass and Grunas Waterfall
Summary: depart early from your accommodation in Theth and take a short drive to the Valbona Pass car park. Once parked, embark on the Halfway Hike to Valbona Pass, a moderate trek that spans 14 kilometers round-trip, offering breathtaking views of the Albanian Alps and lush forests. After enjoying the stunning vistas, return to your car and drive 4 kilometers to the Grunas Falls parking area, a journey of about 12 minutes. Here, take a hike to the magnificent Grunas Waterfall, a 30-meter cascade that flows into the Theth Valley.
Total Driving Distance: 6 km
Total Driving Duration: 20 minutes
Accomodation: stay in Theth
Highlights: hike half of the incredible Valbona Pass, getting scenic views of the Albanian Alps. Take a small hike to Grunas Falls and go for a swim in the icy crystal clear waters.
Day 8 Overview:
Halfway Hike Valbona Pass
Depart: Theth accomodation
Arrive: Car park I Google Maps
Drive Distance: 2 km drive
Drive Duration: 10 minutes
Cost: Free entry
Hike Details
Trailhead: from the carpark there limited signs, head up towards the small bridge and turn right | Google Maps
Total Hiking Distance: 14 km
Total Hiking Duration: 2 hour hike | round-trip
Trail Turn Point: turn at the viewpoint location I Google Maps
Difficulty: Moderate
Altitude: 1,800 meters above sea level
The hike offers stunning views of the Albania Alps, including lush forests and beautiful streams.
There are very limited facilities along the trail, so bring water, snacks, and any other essentials you may need.
From the start of the short hike there is no mobile reception in the majority of this area so it is wise to download an offline map on Google Maps or use Maps.Me however the trail is fairly easy to follow from this point.
Hike to Grunas (Theth) Waterfall
Depart: Valbona Pass Carpark
Arrive: Grunas Falls parking I Google Maps
Drive Distance: 4 km drive
Drive Duration: 12 minutes
Cost: Free entry
Activity Duration: 2 hours
Hike Details
Trailhead: from the carpark there limited signs, head up towards the small bridge and turn right | Google Maps
Total Hiking Distance: 1 km
Total Hiking Duration: 1.25 hour hike | round-trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Altitude: 550 meters above sea level
The hike leads up to the beautiful Grunas waterfall, a 30 m cascade descending down into the Theth Valley below.
The trail winds its way past a number of small streams before reaching the falls.
There are a number of viewpoints along the way offering different perspectives of the falls.
You are able to swim in the water beneath the falls, but expect it to be freezing cold at around 6 degrees celcius.
Next: stay in Theth for a second night before departing back to Tirana on Day 9 to fly out.
Viewpoint - Kirkjufell
Related Posts:
