We completed this walk in mid September so experienced good walking weather conditions, not too... Chris Porter, 2017 See more reviews
The trip notes warn: "This trek is suitable for the average walker who is prepared to put in... David Martin, 2017 See more reviews
This is a holiday for those who want a mixture of some quite tough walks in rather remote places... Lynn Roulstone, 2017 See more reviews
A great way to discover a little of this real gem of a country, this trip combines some amazing... Arthur Caves, 2016 See more reviews
This like many of the exodus trips did not disappoint. What a welcome from our local rep Dorien ,... Alan Long, 2016 See more reviews
This trip offers a combination of (fairly serious) walking and culture, and as such might be... Nick Corble, 2016 See more reviews
A challenging experience in the most stunning scenery which offers a reasonable balance between... Lynn Guy, 2015 See more reviews
Overall an enjoyable holiday with a mix of scenery/walking/culture. The hotels were generally... Paul Holtham, 2015 See more reviews
This is the third time I have walked in Albania and it was the best. The revised itinerary with... Jane Byrne, 2015 See more reviews
An excellent trip prepared by Albanian Company Sondor . Guide Dorian worked his socks off for the... Elsbeth Linnhoff, 2015 See more reviews
Itinerary Expand all Tirana to Kruje Day 1 Start Tirana The tour starts at our centrally located hotel in Tirana, Albania's trendy capital. Those on the group flight arrive at lunch time and will be transferred to the airport (approx. 30 mins drive).Standard Hotel Day 2 Drive via Shkodër and Rozafa Castle to Theth; short walk around the village We have an early start this morning and drive to Shkodër (approx. 2 hrs), where we visit the Castle of Rozafa and the city centre of one of the oldest and most historic places in Albania. We recommend that you also take this opportunity to shop for anything you might want for the next three days (snacks, chocolate etc.) before we head into the more remote regions. Our journey continues into the breathtaking Albanian Alps and Theth National Park (approx. 3 hrs), an area admired for its rich flora and fauna. After checking into our quaint guesthouse in Theth, we set off on a gentle walk through the valley nestled between the wonderful surrounding peaks, gaining an insight into agricultural life as we pass locals going about their day. We continue to the Roman Catholic Church of Theth, built in 1892, which was once used as a health centre during the communist regime. The highlight, however, is a visit to the shutting tower (or lock-in tower) of Theth, known locally as ‘Kulla’. These historic stone ‘lock-in towers’ were used for protection of families that were involved in blood feuds and this is one of the few that remains today. Basic Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Day 3 Walk to Grunas waterfall, Nderlyse and the 'Blue Eye of Kapre' Theth Valley is predominantly an agricultural region, where age-old farming practices and horse-drawn carts are still used today. We observe rural life as we begin walking to Grunas Waterfall. From here we continue on to Nderlyse where we find a string of natural water pools and a feature known as the ‘Blue Eye of Kapre’. There is an opportunity to swim here, so don't forget your swimming things.Basic Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Day 4 Trek over Valbonë Pass to Rragam village; transfer to Valbonë, home of Albanian folk culture We walk through some of the wildest scenery into the Tropojë District, known as the home of Albanian folk culture. We firstly ascend through forests and alpine pastures to reach the Valbonë Pass (1950m), from where we take a few moments to enjoy the spectacular views down Valbonë and Theth Valleys. We then follow a trail which brings us alongside the Valbonë River, passing some beautiful waterfalls along the way. We finish at the quaint village of Rragam, where the minibus will wait for us to transport us to our hotel. Expect some rocky mountainous terrain today, particularly as we descend. Standard Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Day 5 Follow a route below Rosi Peak, passing through forest to the 'White Circle' Our route today takes us through beech and pine forests down Rosi Peak and leads us onto the 'White Circle', where we enjoy panoramic views of the peaks and valleys of the Albanian Alps. There is the option to either do the full length of the 'White Circle' or walk as far as the ridge of the 'White Circle', then back down the valley. For those who wish to opt out of the 'White Circle' walk, you can instead walk independently in the local area, or head to the slopes to collect some mountain tea. Please note that the total ascent/descent is 1000m if doing the full length.Standard Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Lunch Dinner Day 6 We take a boat on Komani Lake; continue to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Berat After breakfast, we drive to Fierza (approx. 1.5 hrs). We then take a boat through the beautiful Komani Lake (which takes approx. 2 hrs). The boat journey allows us to take in the spectacular scenery whilst we wind our way between high cliffs and towering peaks. Three hydroelectric power plants have been built here at the lake, which produces approx. 70% of Albania's electricity. We then drive for another 1.5 hrs and have lunch in Vau I Dejës, near Shkodër. After lunch, we make our way to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Berat (approx. 3 hrs), our final destination for today. Our hotel is situated in Mangalem, the historic quarter of Berat, where the castle peers down upon the area from its hilltop.Standard Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Day 7 Visit the Ethnographic Museum and the King Mosque in Berat; drive to Krujë in the afternoon, followed by a folklore evening This morning we enjoy a guided tour around the old district of Berat, with its pretty white buildings perched on the hill amid pine forests. Our tour includes a visit to the Ethnographic Museum (a 18th-century Ottoman house) and the King Mosque. We walk through the narrow cobbled streets to finally reach Berat Castle on the slopes of Mount Tomorr, where we are rewarded with breathtaking views. Within the castle walls are dwelling houses and the Onufri Museum (Museum of Iconography). There is free time to enjoy the other sites of Berat or to perhaps absorb the relaxed café culture on the promenade. In the afternoon we drive to Krujë (approx. 3 hrs), the centre of Skanderbeg's resistance to the Ottoman invasion in the 15th century. The town's old bazaar is an excellent place for souvenir shopping, with traditional wares, antiques and rugs. We visit the Skanderbeg Museum and Krujë Castle and take a short walk to a teqe (a small place of worship for those practising the Bektashi branch of Islam) dedicated to the saint Sari Saltik, located on Krujë Mountain. Our hotel this evening is situated in the historic centre of Krujë. We are in for a treat tonight as our evening is filled with music and dance.Standard Hotel Meals included: Breakfast Dinner Day 8 End Kruje Those on the group flight will be transferred back to Mother Theresa Airport for their lunchtime flight to London (approx. 1-hour drive to the airport). Meals included: Breakfast
Albania No visa required for most nationalities, including UK passport holders, most other EU nationalities, US, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand.
Hotels & Guesthouses We will 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. Our two nights in the guesthouse at Theth are in double and triple rooms, with shared bathrooms (triple rooms are not mixed sex).
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Reviewed September 2017 Chris Porter Trip: Walking in Albania Walking in Albania We completed this walk in mid September so experienced good walking weather conditions, not too hot plus rain at night, how considerate. The trip was just as described in the detailed trip notes involving some stunning high mountain walking plus a range of terrific other non exertive cultural experiences. Phew. Instead of entering back into our rather luxurious new Mercedes coach on day one after a delicious lunch in Shkodër we crammed into this battered rough and tough old blue bus with no seatbelts and mis matched seats. This wonderfully set the scene for all that we were about to head on a trip into serious back country. Great fun. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Theth to Volbona via Volbona Pass was fantastic, stunning mountain vistas and you felt could almost touch Montenegro we were that high and close. A close second though was the Lake Komeni boat trip, deep gorges and wildlife close by on the shore, so near yet too far. What did you think of your group leader? Dorian was a great and personable tour leader deaing with the range of personalities in a large group with aplomb. He displayed considerable knowledge of his country and seemed to know practically everyone in Albania. A highlight was his sensitivity in frequent engagement with locals, who genuinely appeared to appreciate our group’s attention rather than rushing past. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Fitness is quite important as it is not a stroll in municipal parks. Several of the walks were quite challenging, as to be expected with 1,000 metre ascents /descents, although the rewards were equally spectacular. Some people found sections of the Volbona Pass walk vertiginous, although with the group travelling at a slowish pace there was no sense of rushing to catch up.
Reviewed September 2017 David Martin Trip: Walking in Albania Some fairly challenging walks with fantastic views followed by more leisurely sight-seeing The trip notes warn: "This trek is suitable for the average walker who is prepared to put in some physical preparation". For us, as a family of 5 adults, the longer walking days provided more challenge for some than others. However, worries (suggested to me by my doctor) that my creaky 60-year-old knee would give up were unfounded, though I found walking poles essential. The trip notes perhaps understate the poor state of the remote mountain road down to Theth, with vertiginous drops off the side of the road and some scary moments passing other vehicles. It is not only on the walks that you need to be able to deal with heights! The 'basic hotel' in Theth is, in fact, delightful: rooms are simply-finished but very attractive and the view from the terrace down the valley as you sip raki or a cold beer, or both, is lovely. Service is slow at busy times but the family who runs the hotel make up for any failings by their warm welcome. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? We went for the walking more than the sight-seeing and the walk over the Valbona pass was, despite its challenges, the high point. The views up from Theth were very different from those on the way down to Rragam and Valbone. Everywhere we looked there were jaw-dropping views. The drive down to Berat was very long but the city is beautiful and well worth it once we got there. What did you think of your group leader? It would have been great if the guide had been more knowledgable about the basics of the geology, flora and fauna of the mountain area. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Do assess your own level of physical fitness and do some preparation, even if a stiff climb up the South Downs is rather tame compared to 1000m ascent in the Albanian Alps. Don't be put off by any enduring reputation that Albania has for violence. There are probably still a great many guns in private hands but we didn't see any. The political situation described most eloquently by Robert Carver in 'The Accursed Mountains' no longer applies: the book is well worth reading but not as a guide to modern Albania. A lot has changed in 20 years! Is there anything else you would like to add? We couldn't have found a better group holiday for our family holiday together. It was the sort of adventure we all like.
Reviewed June 2017 Lynn Roulstone Trip: Walking in Albania Good mixture of walking and culture This is a holiday for those who want a mixture of some quite tough walks in rather remote places and also wish to explore the culture of this little known (to most British people) European country. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Getting to the top of the mountain on the walk between Theth and Valone. I really didn't think I'd make it, but ti was worth it for the view. The wonderful Ethnographic museum in Berat - and the town itself. The veiw from the Hotel Panaroma on the last night - it lived up to its name. What did you think of your group leader? Dorian always had interesting facts to tell us about the areas we were visiting and was very good at adapting plans to the needs of the group. We wouldn't have seen so many amazing places without his knowledge. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? The walking can be quite tough, if like me, you are used to walking in less hilly/mountainous areas. Be prepared to pack a lot into each day. Is there anything else you would like to add? The town of Berat was amazing, as was the hotel there. I'd have loved to have stayed another night so I could have explored the local area more.
Reviewed July 2016 Arthur Caves Trip: Walking in Albania Walking in Albania, July 2016 A great way to discover a little of this real gem of a country, this trip combines some amazing days of walking with interesting cultural sights. The walking is truly first rate, perfect for day hikes, the days in the mountains are full of unspoilt beauty and rugged terrain, always with comfortable (and surprisingly good quality) accommodation waiting at the end of the day. Coupled with days sightseeing in Berat, Prizen and Kruja, this makes for a truly enjoyable, memorable trip. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Walking the Valbone pass, looking down one way to Thethi and the other to Valbone, under clear skies and rugged, handsome mountains in every direction. What did you think of your group leader? Dorien has the unique mix of skills that make for a great guide, able to move from mountain guide to city seamlessly he makes the whole experience run like clockwork, no small feat and to be appreciated no end by travellers. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? In the heat of high summer the walks may be a little tougher than you might expect, consider those days the high end of moderate, but this is balanced by the other days and short walk options. Is there anything else you would like to add? With the tide of tourists spreading south from Croatia, go before it gets huge.
Reviewed July 2016 Alan Long Trip: Walking in Albania Walking in Albania This like many of the exodus trips did not disappoint. What a welcome from our local rep Dorien , despite the heat of the day he was smiling all the time. the trip starts quietly in Tirana then moves into the mountains, fough roads even river beds we got through to the wonderful area around Theth, magnificent in a rugged way. Then the walks start, if you are not fit these next three days will find you out, up hill and more, but the scenery and view is worth it. The trip brings you to Berat with it`s wonderful cafe culture with long boulevards. This largely undiscovered country and its people are so welcoming and friendly that it was a sad day when this holiday came to an end. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? My highlight`s are many but the view you get from standing high on of the Albanian alps taking in the magnificent scenery is breathtaking. What did you think of your group leader? Dorien. Well what a man he is not only well learned in the history of Albania, he is also funny, he also was able to relate to all the group, whatever age or gender.He was just lovely. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Go with an open mind and just enjoy this wonderful country
Reviewed June 2016 Nick Corble Trip: Walking in Albania Walking and More in Albania This trip offers a combination of (fairly serious) walking and culture, and as such might be slightly mis-named, in that the walking is concentrated at the start and the trip then becomes more of a mix - this is worth pointing out in case you are expecting heavy duty walking every day. It didn't bother me though, I loved the mix and exploring this fascinating country still struggling with its new freedom whilst also giving the old legs a bit of a stretch. There's a fair bit of travelling around, but nothing too serious, and I found the day trip into Kosovo provided an extra dimension. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Two things - the sense of achievement on reaching the summit of the mountain pass, which provided a rewarding view for the considerable effort involved to get there, and connecting with the locals. Dorian, our guide, seemed to know someone wherever we went, and these contacts were free with their thoughts and feelings and didn't mind how many questions we asked them. They were also extremely free with the raki! These were experiences I seriously doubt I'd have got if solo travelling. What did you think of your group leader? Dorien is a great guide, very eager to please, maybe even too eager. He could afford to relax more, maybe eat with the group, but he is always thinking about how to make the trip better. This a laudable aim, but for now let's enjoy it as it is! Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Definitely pack good walking boots and wet weather gear. Otherwise, no need to overdo it (as I did). Also, make sure you are relatively fit or you won't get the most out of the trip. Finally, to reiterate if you want to do 10 miles every day, this may not be the trip for you. If you want a mix, it is. Is there anything else you would like to add? Albania feels very safe, and although one of our group had a camera stolen, it's entirely possible the culprit was another traveller when we stopped at a guest house (not from our group I hasten to add). The accommodation was also of a pretty good standard - aircon and wifi was freely available (not everywhere, but mostly), although there were no safes in any of the rooms.
Reviewed September 2015 Lynn Guy Trip: Walking in Albania Amazing Albania A challenging experience in the most stunning scenery which offers a reasonable balance between walking and sight seeing. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? The moment I stepped foot on the top of the Valbone Pass - a real achievement for me to have conquered the climb! What did you think of your group leader? Dorian is an inspirational guide who is passionate about his country. He is knowledgeable, encouraging and supportive. We all learned so much about Albania and its history, as well as experiencing a fantastic, if challenging holiday. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Ensure your own fitness level. The early days of this holiday are challenging. I found them really difficult - primarily because I was inadequately prepared. Is there anything else you would like to add? Accommodation throughout was very good. In the main it was better than I had anticipated. Most hotels were located in beautiful picturesque surroundings and offered comfortable rooms. I'm looking for my next Exodus adventure!
Reviewed September 2015 Anonymous Trip: Walking in Albania Walking in Albania Stunning drives and stunning walks in the Albanian Alps will live with us. And also the group, which was a very successful convivial and complementary collection of personalities. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? The folklore evening was probably the best evening I've ever spent on an Exodus trip. What did you think of your group leader? Dorian was an enthusiastic and energetic walk leader, thinking on his feet and doing his best to cater for the interests of each member of the group. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Be prepared to enjoy copious amounts of local feta cheese! Food generally is not greatly inspiring, especially for vegetarians.
Reviewed September 2015 Paul Holtham Trip: Walking in Albania Discovering a beautiful country Overall an enjoyable holiday with a mix of scenery/walking/culture. The hotels were generally very good -better than I expected-except the last one Teater Kame. It had a nice swimming pool but the chalets had a rather run down feel. The shower head in my room was broken -more water went over the shower room ceiling than over me- although at least the water was hot. Also the hand rail outside my chalet was broken -with nails and screws exposed. The food was generally good although 5 people (luckily I was not one of them) suffered food poisoning at one hotel. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Walking in the vicinity of Thethi -particularly the walk from Thethi to Valbona. The contrast between the two sides of the pass is quite striking. Both are beautiful -but very different scenically. It was a tough walk but well worth it for the views. What did you think of your group leader? I thought Juri was a very good leader. She was kind and caring throughout and looked after us well. There were eight in our party and we were all very different temperamentally- but I think we all agreed that Juri was a good leader-and will get even better with more experience. Is there anything else you would like to add? I think it might be better if the group went to pre selected restaurants where we could be sure of getting seats, getting a menu ( preferably in English) and getting served in a reasonable time. On a couple of occasions we went to restaurants on spec. One could not take us because there was a wedding party taking place and the other took over one hour to serve lunch. I would also have liked a little bit more free time to explore places on my own -particularly Berat -which is an interesting city to visit
Reviewed July 2015 Jane Byrne Trip: Walking in Albania Walking in Albania This is the third time I have walked in Albania and it was the best. The revised itinerary with more walking in the Theth National Park and the contrasting landscape of Rubik improves the experience. Each year the accommodation and food improves so now the while holiday is a really high standard, yet Albania still retains a "different" atmosphere making it still an adventure, and the people are all really welcoming to visitors. What was the most inspirational moment of your trip? Achieving all the walks without feeling stiff the next day - this has taken several months of training. Mastering a few more words of Albanian. A superb fun-filled evening in Berat. What did you think of your group leader? Nothing is too much trouble for Dorien, he constantly made sure that everyone was happy by discussing and explaining options for meals, stops etc. He completely gets the English sense of humour and helps to generate a good group atmosphere from the start. His knowledge of Albanian history is extensive but not overbearing. He is able to get the best from the local providers - guides, horse owners and guesthouse staff because of his long experience and good reputation. Do you have any advice for potential travellers? Take a head torch for the occasional power cut and the cave visit Take walking poles Above all - go to Albania and experience the wonderful scenery and friendly people for yourself. See a country that although almost on our doorstep still has something a little undiscovered to offer. Is there anything else you would like to add? I have visited three times and each time seen new things, learned new thing, made new friends and achieved new things. I would go again at the drop of a hat!
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