Albania Trekking Express: Hiking the Albanian Alps




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Itinerary
Ready to discover one of Europe’s best-kept secrets? Northern Albania is a wild and beautiful corner of the Balkans, where dramatic peaks, emerald valleys and warm mountain hospitality set the scene for an unforgettable trekking adventure.
We begin in Tirana before heading north to Shkodër, the gateway to the Albanian Alps, for our first evening together over delicious local cuisine. Then it’s on to the stunning Komani Lake where we'll catch a ferry cruising between towering cliffs as we venture deep into the mountains.
Our base in Valbonë places us among breathtaking alpine scenery, before we tackle the iconic hike to Theth via the Valbonë Pass (1,800m). Expect sweeping panoramas, pine forests and a true sense of achievement at the top. In Theth, we’ll soak up the peaceful valley views, visit the charming Theth Church and, if we’re feeling adventurous, hike to the vivid Blue Eye.
We return to Tirana for a final night to celebrate our adventure — an epic journey of mountains, nature and new friendships in the heart of the Albanian Alps.


Welcome to Albania
1 night: Shkodër
Arrival: our adventure starts in Tirana
Welcome to Albania! Book a flight that lands by 2pm at the latest today, so that we can gather for welcome meeting— (click here to see how it works!) in good time before we start our journey to Northern Albania where we'll be staying tonight, in the city of Shkodër.
Heading north to Shkodër
In the afternoon we’ll hop into our transfer and head north to the city of Shkodër, where we’ll spend our first night in Albania. Known as the gateway to the Albanian Alps, this vibrant city blends history, culture and laid-back charm.
After checking in, we’ll head out for a gentle walking tour of Shkodër's historic centre. We’ll stroll along the pedestrianised Rruga Kolë Idromeno, famous for its Italian-influenced architecture, pastel façades and lively cafés — the perfect setting to start soaking up the local atmosphere together.
In the evening, we’ll sit down for our first group dinner, sampling traditional Albanian delicacies and getting to know one another properly. Tomorrow our adventure into the Albanian Alps begins — but tonight is all about good food, good company and the excitement of what’s to come.

Komani Lake and Valbonë Valley National Park
1 night: Valbonë
The blue waters of Komani Lake
This morning will be an early start as we set off from Shkodër, leaving the city behind as we journey through the wild and beautiful landscapes of northern Albania. Our destination this morning is the breathtaking Komani Lake, where steep rock walls plunge dramatically into bright turquoise waters.
Here, we’ll hop aboard a scenic ferry and glide through this spectacular canyon-like lake, soaking up one of Albania’s most unforgettable views. Surrounded by towering cliffs and crystal-clear water, we’ll feel completely immersed in nature. If we’re feeling adventurous, we can opt for a kayaking experience, paddling out onto the glassy blue surface to explore hidden corners of the lake at our own pace.
Onto Valbonë Valley National Park
The ferry will carry us to Fierze, where we’ll disembark and continue deeper into the Albanian Alps towards Valbonë Valley National Park. Nestled among dramatic peaks, this is where we’ll spend the night in a cozy local guesthouse, experiencing true mountain hospitality.
Once settled in, we can head out for a short hike to explore the surrounding valley, breathing in the crisp alpine air and getting a taste of the landscapes that await us. Or we can simply relax, unwind, and take in the epic views of Valbonë from our doorstep — recharging our energy for the big hike that awaits us tomorrow.

Crossing the Valbonë Pass
1 night: Theth
From Alpine Peaks to the Heart of Theth
Today is all about one of Albania’s most iconic adventures and after breakfast, we’ll lace up our boots and set off on the legendary Valbonë–Theth hike.
Our trail leads us steadily upward toward the Valbonë Pass, sitting at around 1,800m above sea level. As we climb, we’ll be surrounded by breathtaking panoramas of rugged peaks, dense pine forests, and rolling alpine pastures.
We’ll take plenty of breaks along the way to catch our breath, snap incredible photos, and soak in the silence of the mountains. At the top, we’ll celebrate our achievement before enjoying a well-earned packed lunch immersed in nature, high above the valleys below.
From there we'll descend into picturesque Theth, where dramatic peaks tower above traditional stone houses. By the afternoon, we’ll reach our welcoming guesthouse, tired but exhilarated after an unforgettable day on the trails.

Exploring Theth
1 night: Theth
Nature, Culture, and Mountain Charm
Today is ours to explore the nature and beauty of Theth National Park and all that it has to offer. We could head out first thing to witness the famous Blue Eye - Theth's natural spring where we can gaze deep into the impossibly clear waters, and if we're feeling brave go on to find a swimming spot nearby for a cold refreshing dip afterwards.
Another must see is the Grunas Waterfall and Canyon, just a short walk from Theth itself and well worth the visit to witness the lofty waters falling onto the rocks below.
Before another home-cooked dinner back at the guesthouse we might want to take one last peaceful walk amidst the stone houses surrounded by mountain vistas taking a detour via the iconic Theth Church, soaking in this stunning region before we return to the hustle of Albania's capital tomorrow.

Back to Tirana
1 night: Tirana
From mountains to city: farewell to Theth
This morning, we’ll be bidding farewell to Theth National Park as we set off along a scenic mountain road, making our way back to Albania’s capital. The journey itself is a highlight, with epic panoramic vistas unfolding at every turn.
Along the way, we might stop in charming northern villages, soaking in the authentic rural life. We’ll pass through Shkodër and Lezhe, and might want to make a stop to explore their historic streets and local culture.
As we continue our drive, the landscapes shift from rugged mountains to the lively energy of the city, offering a perfect mix of nature, history, and local experiences before we arrive in Tirana, ready for an afternoon of exploration.
Exploring Albania's capital
On arrival into Tirana we'll head out to explore Albania’s lively capital. We'll stroll through its bustling streets, admiring its colourful buildings and street art that brings this city to life.
In Skanderbeg Square, we take in the iconic landmarks and feel the pulse of local life. We can make a stop at Bunk'Art 2 to learn about the history of this fascinating country or simply wander through the charming neighbourhoods, stopping at cozy cafés to enjoy a coffee and watch the world go by.
In the evening we'll enjoy one final meal all together as a group, sharing some final Albanian dishes as we reminisce on our days adventuring through Albania's northern landscapes together.

Goodbye Albania
Check-out and goodbyes
This morning we'll check out from our Tirana accommodation and continue our onwards journey. For some this might mean heading back to the airport, for others perhaps a deeper journey into the Balkans.
Either way we'll look back on our action-packed few days of Albanian exploration fondly, looking forwards to our next WeRoad adventure all together!
What's included
- 5 nights accommodation in guesthouses, homestays and hotels
- Transfer from Tirana to Shkodër
- Transfer from Shkodër to Koman
- Scenic ferry along the Komani Lake from Koman to Fierze
- Transfer from Fierze to Valbonë
Medical and baggage insurance - (coverage limits by destination country/region - €10,000 Italy, €20,000 Europe, €30,000 World, €50,000 USA/Canada)
What's not included
- Food and beverages when not specified
Public transport (bus, metro, taxis, trains, Uber)
- All the extras you'll be able to fit in your backpack
- Anything not mentioned in the "What's included" section
Optional activities
Please see below extra optional activities that you can experience during your trip. Your Group Leader will be happy to assist with organizing these activities for the group. Availability may vary depending on location and group preferences.
Please note these activities are provided by third party suppliers and liability rests exclusively with these third party suppliers.
Kayaking in Koman Lake with Lunch - approx. USD83
Transfer and entry to Blue Eye - approx. USD24
Zipline activity in Theth - approx. USD24
Bunk d'Art 2 entry in Tirana - approx. USD12
Additional info
- Accommodation will be in shared rooms in local hotels, homestays and guesthouses.
- Info on private roomsShow all details
Why WeRoad
Small groups, on average 11 people
Move or change your trip for free up to 31 days before departure
Book with $ 0. Pay the $ 100 deposit only once the trip is confirmed
The Group Leaders
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This is a WeRoadX
A trip designed and created entirely by an experienced WeRoad Travel Group Leader.
This is a trip designed and created entirely by an experienced WeRoad Travel Group Leader. They organise the whole trip: from defining the itinerary to selecting accommodation and on-site experiences. On the WeRoad website you can book the trip and manage it in MyWeRoad, just like any other WeRoad.











