Albania Multisport Adventure

Welcome to Tirana, Albania! Upon arrival, your driver will meet you at Mother Teresa Airport for a comfortable transfer to your hotel in downtown Tirana. In the evening, explore the vibrant Blloku district, once exclusive to Albania’s political elite. Now, it’s the city's liveliest spot, filled with trendy bars and bustling cafes—perfect for enjoying a drink and soaking in the local atmosphere.

Travel Time: 45 Minutes (Airport to Tirana)

Start your day at 8:00 AM with a drive to Përmet, renowned for its diverse hiking trails. After lunch at the hotel, embark on an uphill hike toward the village of Lipë for a brief exploration. Continue along a trail overlooking the Vjosa River valley, now designated Europe's first Wild River National Park. Pause in Leusë to visit the historic St. Mary's Church, celebrated for its 18th-century architecture and intricate murals. In the late afternoon, immerse yourself in local culture by visiting a Përmet family to sample homemade raki and preserves. Conclude the day with accommodation in Përmet.

Ascend: 1,650 feet (502 meters)
Descend: 1,650 feet (502 meters)
Distance: 5 Miles (8 Km)
Hiking Time: 3 Hours
Travel Time: 4 Hours (Tirana to Përmet)
Alpine Hiking Scale: T2 - Mountain Hiking
Paths and Terrain: Paths with continuous track bed. Sometimes steep terrain, slight risk of rockfall and feet slipping.
Hiking Requirements: competent, agile, and with quality hiking shoes.

Begin your day with a visit to Bënjë's natural thermal baths, featuring six sulfur-rich pools along the Langarica River. Explore the Langarica Canyon, where towering walls narrow to just a few meters, creating a surreal landscape. After lunch at a local restaurant, journey to Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture. Wander the cobbled streets, visit the imposing hilltop castle, and tour a traditional 17th-century home reflecting the region's historical urban life. Conclude your day with dinner and an overnight stay in Gjirokastër.

Travel Time: 1.5 Hours (Përmet to Gjirokastër)

Transfer to Labova of the Cross to visit its historic Byzantine church. Hike through meadows along ancient pastoral trails to Libohovë. At a local farm, enjoy a meal made from fresh, homegrown ingredients. In the afternoon, enjoy a century-old ritual—coffee preparation on a rock, from roasting to serving with jam and Raki. End the day exploring Gjirokastra’s charming streets and handicraft workshops.

Ascend: 660 feet (201 meters)
Descend: 820 feet (249 meters)
Distance: 4.3 Miles (6.9 Km)
Hiking Time: 2 Hours
Travel Time: 45 Minutes (Gjirokastër to Labovë)
Travel Time: 30 Minutes (Lcoal farm house to Gjirokastër)
Alpine Hiking Scale: T2 - Mountain Hiking
Paths and Terrain: Paths with continuous track bed. Sometimes steep terrain, slight risk of rockfall and feet slipping.
Hiking Requirements: competent, agile, and with quality hiking shoes.

After breakfast, journey along the stunning Bença River valley, passing canyons, caves, and waterfalls. Start your hike from Kudhës, a traditional village with stone houses and cobblestone alleys. Follow rugged trails to Upper Qeparo, rich in history and culture. Visit the Tower of Ali Pasha, then hike downhill to the beach of Qeparo for a relaxing finish.

After a seaside lunch, continue to Dhërmi with a stop at Porto Palermo Bay. Discover its Cold War history and see the hidden submarine tunnels. Visit the ruins of Ali Pasha’s Fortress, offering stunning coastal views. End the day with a comfortable stay at a hotel in Dhërmi.

Ascend: 820 feet (249 meters)
Descend: 1,300 feet (396 meters)
Distance: 5 Miles (8.1 Km)
Hiking Time: 3 Hours
Travel Time: 3 Hours (Gjirokastër to Kudhës , and to Dhërmi)
Alpine Hiking Scale: T2 - Mountain Hiking
Paths and Terrain: Paths with continuous track bed. Sometimes steep terrain, slight risk of rockfall and feet slipping.
Hiking Requirements: competent, agile, and with quality hiking shoes.

Enjoy a day of kayaking through the pristine waters of the Ionian Sea to the Pirate's Cave for a close-up look inside. Continue to Gjipe Beach, where the dramatic canyon meets the sea. Enjoy free time to relax, swim, and explore this stunning coastal spot.

After relaxing at Gjipe Beach, kayak back to Dhërmi. Spend the afternoon at Llogara National Park, known for its stunning vistas and lush surroundings. Take in the expansive views of Corfu Island and the Albanian Riviera from the "Balcony" viewpoint. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at a hotel in the park.

Travel Time: 45 Minutes (Dhërmi to Llogara National Park)

Note: If sea conditions prevent kayaking, the day begins with a short transfer to the hiking trail. Follow a well-marked path down to Gjipe Beach, stopping at scenic viewpoints along the way. After lunch, hike back to the vehicle and begin the journey to Tirana.

Hike through Llogara National Park, starting in a dense pine forest before reaching rocky terrain and a small shepherd’s settlement. At “Qafa e Thellë,” take in panoramic views of the Ionian coast—on clear days, even the Italian shoreline. After lunch in the park, transfer to Tirana for an afternoon of exploration.

Discover Tirana, Albania’s vibrant capital, where Ottoman, Italian, and communist influences shape its streets. Start at Skanderbeg Square, surrounded by landmarks like the National History Museum, Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the Clock Tower. Stroll along the pedestrian street to see the ruins of the Byzantine-era Castle of Tirana. End your day with a farewell dinner at a nearby restaurant and a comfortable stay in a Tirana hotel.

Ascend: 1,300 feet (396 meters)
Descend: 1,300 feet (396 meters)
Distance: 6 Miles (9.65 Km)
Hiking Time: 3 Hours
Travel Time: 45 Minutes (Llogara National Park to Tirana)
Alpine Hiking Scale: T3 - Difficult Mountain Hiking
Paths and Terrain: Paths are not always visible, but some are exposed. Partially exposed sections with the risk of slipping, gravel, or unexpected changes in path and terrain.
Hiking Requirements: With previous experience and competent agility needed. High-quality hiking boots are essentials. Basic to medium alpine experience is needed.
 

Transfer to the airport for your departure, concluding your journey through Albania’s rich history and stunning landscapes.