Homestay Trekking in the South of the Country

Welcome to Albania! Upon your arrival, a shared transfer will take you on a scenic four-hour drive to the south, passing vibrant market stalls and crossing the coastal plain. Your destination is the quaint village of Peshtan, where you can stretch your legs with a walk to a nearby viewpoint before enjoying a hearty dinner. Rest up in a local guesthouse for tomorrow's hike into the Zagoria Valley.

Begin your day with a hike from the guesthouse through sparse forest and terraced fields, leading you to the almost deserted village of Kala. Continue your journey to the river, crossing an old Ottoman stone bridge and walking along cobbled caravan paths. Your destination is the village of Limar, known for its impressive stone architecture. Enjoy a warm welcome and an overnight stay at a local teacher's house.

Today, you'll journey through car-free paths connecting the villages, with your luggage transported by horse. As you pass through the villages, you'll learn about rural life and traditional livelihoods like animal husbandry and beekeeping. Take a break at the Doshnica waterfall before reaching your accommodation in either Hoshteve or Sheper. Spend the evening learning about your hosts' life and don't miss a visit to the local church.

Today's journey takes you on a shorter and easier route from Hoshteve to Nivan, offering plenty of mountain views. Along the way, you'll encounter remnants of military installations and other historical sites. In Nivan, visit the central square dedicated to British adventurer William Tilman. Your path then leads you down to the river, a monastery, and another beautiful stone bridge. Enjoy an overnight stay with a local host family.

The day's trek takes you across the Dhembel-Nemercke range, a route still used by local herders. As you ascend the Dhembel Pass, you'll be rewarded with views stretching as far as Greece. The descent leads you to the small town of Permet, where you can unwind and enjoy the local wines and raki. Rest up in a hotel for the next day's adventures.

A 45-minute drive from Permet takes you through a dreamy landscape to the day's starting point. Marvel at the turquoise waters of the Vjosa and the peaks of the Nemercka mountain range. Walk along canals to the Sopot waterfall, then relax in the warm Benje thermal pool. From here, a transfer will take you to Gjirokastra, the 'city of stone'. Explore the city and enjoy the atmosphere of the many small street cafés. Overnight stay in a hotel.

Spend the morning exploring Gjirokastra, famous for its fortress-like Ottoman mansions. Wander through a labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets, visit the ethnographic museum, and climb the towering castle. A short hike takes you to the nearby Ali Pasha Aqueduct. In the afternoon, head back to the modern capital of Tirana. Visit Skanderbeg Square and the trendy 'Blloku' district and marvel at the vibrant life the city awakens to in the evening. Overnight stay at the hotel.

On your final day, take a leisurely stroll through Tirana. Visit the colorful bazaar and walk through the large park that forms the city's green heart. Don't miss the chance to visit two former nuclear bunkers, now open to the public as museums. This day offers a glimpse into Albania's diverse history, contrasting starkly with the rural experiences of the past few days. After a day of exploration, a transfer will take you to Tirana airport for your departure.