Homestay Trekking in the South of the Country
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day journey through the heart of Albania, a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. This multi-day tour offers a unique blend of rural and urban experiences, from hiking through the picturesque Zagoria Valley and exploring the almost deserted village of Kala, to soaking in the warm Benje thermal pool and wandering the cobbled streets of Gjirokastra. Along the way, you'll enjoy hearty meals, stay with welcoming host families, and learn about the country's past and present. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a cultural explorer, this tour promises a wealth of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories of Albania.
Included
3 nights: Private accommodation in MBZ (shared bathroom)
3 nights: Hotel in double room
1 night: Guest house in MBZ
all journeys in public or private vehicles
English speaking tour guide
luggage transport for 1 travel bag with max. 15 kg
all entrance fees according to the program
Meals: 7×F, 1×M, 4×M (LB), 7×A
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Albania and Transfer to Peshtan
- Tirana
- Elbasan - Arrival day
- More
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.
Day 2 – Day 2: Hike from Peshtan to Limar
Day 2: Hike from Peshtan to Limar
- Gorica Bridge
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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.
Day 3 – Day 3: Hike from Limar to Hoshteve or Sheper
Day 3: Hike from Limar to Hoshteve or Sheper
- Gorica Bridge
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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.
Day 4 – Day 4: Hike from Hoshteve to Nivan
Day 4: Hike from Hoshteve to Nivan
- Divjakë-Karavasta National Park
- More
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.
Day 5 – Day 5: Hike from Nivan to Permet
- Përmet
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- The Blue Eye
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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.
Day 6 – Day 6: From Permet to Gjirokastra via Sopot Waterfall and Benje Thermal Pool
Day 6: From Permet to Gjirokastra via Sopot Waterfall and Benje Thermal Pool
- The Blue Eye Parking Place
- Tomorri
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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.
Day 7 – Day 7: From Gjirokastra to Tirana via Ali Pasha Aqueduct
- Tirana
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- Ali Pasha Bridge
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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.
Day 8 – Day 8: Exploring Tirana and Departure
- Tirana - Departure day
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- House of Leaves Museum
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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.
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