Walking in Southern Albania (Guided)

Walking in Southern Albania (Guided)

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8 Days From

$1272

Walking in Southern Albania (Guided)

8 Days Starting and ending in Tirana, Albania

Visiting: Tirana, Limar, Hoshteve, Sheper, Permet, Gjirokastra

Tour operator:

The Natural Adventure

Tour code:

939

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 10

Physical rating:

Fit

Interests:

Cultural, History

Activities:

Sightseeing

From: $1272

NB: Prices correct on 05-Oct-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through Southern Albania with this guided walking tour, starting with a warm welcome at Tirana Airport and a transfer to the charming village of Peshtan. Over eight days, traverse ancient caravan routes, explore traditional villages, and marvel at the stunning landscapes of Mount Strakavec and the Zagoria River. Experience authentic Albanian hospitality with stays in local homestays and guesthouses, and savor delicious meals along the way. Highlights include the Ottoman bridge in Hoshteve, the fresco-covered church in Leuse, and the natural thermal pools at Benje. Conclude your adventure in the historic city of Gjirokastra before returning to Tirana to explore its vibrant cultural scene. This tour offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and culture, providing an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of Albania.

Highlights

  • Walk along an ancient caravan route to the almost deserted village of Kala with views of Mount Strakavec.

  • Experience the rural lifestyle and meet locals while walking on ancient footpaths to Hoshteve.

  • Visit the Church of the Holy Apostle in Hoshteve, a fine example of Orthodox heritage.

  • Explore the shadow of Mount Cajupi and visit the last of Ali Pasha's stone bridges.

  • Enjoy panoramic views from the Dhembel Pass and visit the fresco-covered church in Leuse.

  • Relax in the natural thermal pools at Benje near Lengarica Canyon.

  • Discover the cultural heritage of Gjirokastra and explore the chic Blloku District in Tirana.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrival At Peshtan

Location: Tirana

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Peshtan

Meals Included: Dinner

Your driver welcomes you at Tirana Airport for a complimentary transfer to the village of Peshtan. Complimentary transfer from Tirana Accommodation in Peshtan Meals included: dinner

Day 2 : Peshtan – Limar 11Km

Location: Limar

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in a homestay in Limar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Walks today follow an ancient caravan route up to high passes and the almost deserted village of Kala. You get great views of Mount Strakavec today, and spend overnight in a local homestay, hosted by a local teacher and expert in local history. Walking for the day: 11km, 5h, ↑750m ↓425m Accommodation in a homestay in Limar Meals included: breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner

Day 3 : Limar – Hoshteve 15Km

Location: Hoshteve

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Hoshteve

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Walk on ancient footpaths to reach Hoshteve. Passing several traditional villages, you have the chance to experience the region’s rural lifestyle, meet local people and take in the mountain landscapes towering over the Zagoria River below. Below the village Doshnica, there’s a possibility to visit a waterfall, depending on water levels. An Ottoman bridge connects Hoshteve with the neighbouring villages of Nderan and Zhej as well as the Church of the Holy Apostle in Hoshteve, a fine example of Orthodox heritage. Walking for the day: 15km, 6-7h, ↑725m ↓575m Accommodation in Hoshteve Meals included: breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner

Day 4 : Hoshteve – Sheper 13Km

Location: Sheper

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Sheper

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After yesterday’s more demanding walk, this is a shorter and easier route in the shadow of Mount Cajupi, taking in Nivan where the central square is dedicated to William Tilman, a famous British mountaineer who lived here while fighting together with the local resistance in German-occupied Albania during WW2. Then the trail then takes you to the river, a monastery and the last of Ali Pasha’s stone bridges. Continuing over mountain meadows, you reach Sheper and stay overnight in a local guesthouse, hosted by an Aroman/Vllach family, nomadic shepherds who were settled here during the communist era.

Walking for the day: 13km, 5h, ↑600m ↓550m

Day 5 : Sheper – Permet 10Km

Location: Permet

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Permet

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Continue to follow another ancient trail over the Dhembel-Nemercke range, with views of Mount Cajupi as you climb up to summer pastures used by local shepherds. The alpine valley is flanked by steep slopes and the Dhembel Pass (1,450m), with views across the eastern highlands towards Greece, and to the town of Permet far below. Follow a long, rocky descent to Leuse, another beautiful stone village with an amazing fresco-covered church, considered one of the finest in Southern Albania. It is then only a 15mins walk to reach Permet and your hotel for the night.

Walking for the day: 10km, 7-8h, ↑625m ↓1,250m

Day 6 : Permet – Gjirokastra 6Km

Location: Gjirokastra

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Gjirokastra

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Enjoy more panoramic views of Mount Nemercka at the entrance to Lengarica Canyon as well as the natural thermal pools at Benje. Transfer to Gjirokastra.

Walking for the day: 6km, 3h, ↑350m ↓350m

Day 7 : Gjirokastra To Tirana

Location: Tirana

Accommodation Name: Accommodation in Tirina

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy the cultural heritage of Albania’s capital, museums, architecture and the famous Blloku District. Once the living quarters of politburo elite, it’s now a chic upmarket neighbourhood packed with boutiques and cafes.

Day 8 : Departure

Location: Tirana

Meals Included: Breakfast

Departure after breakfast, group transfer to Tirana airport.

Complimentary transfer to Tirana airport at 14.00 (40mins)

What's Included

  • Complimentary Transfer

    Complimentary transfer from Tirana Airport to the village of Peshtan and from Tirana to the airport at the end of the tour.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is provided in Peshtan, Limar, Hoshteve, Sheper, Permet, Gjirokastra, and Tirana.

  • Meals

    Meals included are breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner throughout the tour.

  • Guided Walking Tours

    Guided walking tours are included, covering various routes and distances each day.

What's Not Included

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all participants.

  • Flights

    International and domestic flights to and from Tirana are not included.

Mode of Transport

The tour includes complimentary transfers from Tirana Airport to Peshtan and from Gjirokastra to Tirana. Enjoy scenic walks between villages, with a transfer to Gjirokastra on Day 6. Departure includes a group transfer to Tirana airport.

Accommodation

Experience authentic Albanian hospitality with stays in local homestays and guesthouses, including a night in a traditional village hosted by a local teacher, and a guesthouse run by a nomadic shepherd family. Enjoy the comfort of a hotel in Permet and explore the cultural heritage of Gjirokastra and Tirana.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides a variety of accommodations including a homestay in Limar, a guesthouse in Sheper, and hotels in Permet and Gjirokastra. In Peshtan, you will also stay in local accommodations.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, meals are included throughout the tour. You will receive breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner on most days.

  • Is there a complimentary airport transfer included in the tour?

    Yes, there is a complimentary transfer from Tirana Airport to the village of Peshtan at the start of the tour, and a group transfer to Tirana airport at the end of the tour.

  • What kind of walking experience can I expect on this tour?

    The tour involves walking on ancient caravan routes and footpaths, with daily walks ranging from 6km to 15km. You will experience a variety of terrains including high passes, mountain meadows, and rocky descents.

  • Will there be opportunities to interact with local people during the tour?

    Yes, the tour provides opportunities to meet local people, especially during stays in homestays and guesthouses, and while visiting traditional villages.

  • What cultural sites will be visited during the tour?

    The tour includes visits to cultural sites such as the Church of the Holy Apostle in Hoshteve, an Ottoman bridge, and the fresco-covered church in Leuse. You will also explore the cultural heritage of Gjirokastra and Tirana.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    The Natural Adventure was founded by people who love hiking and cycling in wild and wonderful places. Places that we want to keep that way. Responsible tourism has, therefore, been at the heart of what we do since the get go.

  • Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

    In April 2020 as a response to the COVID-19 crisis, we launched the Support Local Communities Initiative. We have enabled an option when booking a tour for customers to make a donation to support our local partners. 100% of the donations go directly to our local suppliers.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Whether you’re travelling on your own, as a couple, a group of friends, or a family, our self-guided holidays allow you the freedom to choose your own holiday companions.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our self guided walking and cycling holidays typically include: Accommodation, Breakfasts, Luggage transfers, Detailed holiday information pack including GPS-checked and regularly updated route descriptions, road notes and maps, 24/7 phone assistance by our local representative and/or our central office

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    We are part of the 'Safe Travels' initiative.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, as long as you can reach the next location.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Accommodations in double or twin rooms (solo travellers are usually accommodated in single rooms at an extra cost; we never mix and match)

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If possible, and entirely at the discretion of the Tour Operator, a change of the dates may be possible without charging an amendment fee, provided that it is requested at least 30 days before the departure date. In some cases, we will still have to pass to you any non-refundable charges imposed by our suppliers. In all other cases, change of dates will normally be treated as a cancellation.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    All places have been carefully checked by us and their quality is regularly monitored. We have selected accommodations that offer friendly service, clean and comfortable rooms and local flavour.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    The Natural Adventure was founded in the UK in 2009, by Peter Duncan, former UK Chief Scout and BBC Blue Peter presenter, and Alex Pazderski, an avid hiker and acclaimed expedition kayaker. Both natural adventurers and keen explorers of wild places and trails, remote communities and responsible tourism partners, Peter and Alex founded our company inspired by the responsible travel values t

Reviews of this operator

Kicki Neely  

Walking Fishermens trail in western…

19-Sep-2022

Walking Fishermens trail in western Portugal will be a memory for life. We loved every minute of our week. All arrangements worked perfectly, from accommodation to luggage transport to questions we had before setting off. Our local agent met with us before we started the walk and we felt very reassured by his local knowledge and support. All accommodation was different, local, clean, friendly and easy to find. Very good value for money. I can really recommend Natural Adventure company and we will be back for more adventures. Many thanks Kicki Neely and friends

Marian Wilkins (Google Reviewer)  

A friend and I did...

25-Jan-2024

A friend and I did the Alps to the Riviera walk in France at the end of 2021 and it was the best holiday experience either of us has ever had. It’s an amazing way of immersing oneself in the countryside and getting the full flavour of the country away from the tourist attractions. The Natural Adventure Company made perfect arrangements for us, gave us clear directions and was just a call away, to sort out any issues. The walk gave us incredible memories that will enrich us for a lifetime. I am in the process of booking my next wonderful adventure and I can’t wait to get started!

Cathy O'Connor (Google Reviewer)  

I recently hiked, with a...

26-Jul-2024

I recently hiked, with a friend in the Italian Alps (the Val D'Aosta) and can highly recommend the region, and the Natural Adventure company. We were very pleased with the accommodation and the food was excellent most of the time- generous portions of excellent local dishes. The resources we were sent were excellent and very thorough. It was very easy to follow the routes as we were given so much detail- which we printed out and took each day's instructions with us, and the App helped to keep us on track. Sadly, we couldn't stay at the last location because there was a storm one night and the village we were due to stay in was flooded and cut off. The Natural Adventure did all they could to support us immediately, and help us find an alternative and we ended up staying where we were, as we were so pleased with that hotel and knew we could continue our hikes from there. We were very pleased with the holiday, the walks, the info and all our dealings with them. I would highly recommend them

Amanda Daly (Google Reviewer)  

We booked our self-guided Kumano...

15-Jul-2024

We booked our self-guided Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trip in Japan with The Natural Adventure (known locally as Oku Japan). The experience was top notch from beginning to end. The information packet was thorough and helpful, and details regarding trains and local buses (timetables, pricing, etc) were consistently accurate. Each and every accommodation was unique, charming, and welcoming. When there was an issue checking into our final hotel, the local office was quick to respond and the problem was solved within the hour (it was also a Sunday, so extra points). We weren’t expecting this to be a gourmet food tour of the region, but it was that as well! On top of it all, we found the price very reasonable for everything that is included. We had a wonderful experience thanks to The Natural Adventure, and would certainly travel with them again.

Cynthia Shinn (Google Reviewer)  

I have been working with...

26-Feb-2024

I have been working with The Natural Adventure for a few years now and it's been a flawless experience. I have now booked 4 different trips (4th to happen in April 2023). Accomodations have been great and local operators (bikes, hiking guides and boats) have all been great. The rates are very fair and trip selections are great. Hoping to see some boat bike options in Greece and Turkey!

Ellen Taylor-Powell  

Great communications, customized trip

20-Aug-2022

This is our first time using Natural Adventure to plan a hiking trip in Europe. I wanted an 8-day hike to start on a certain date to explore a northern region of Portugal. They were so accommodating - customized our trip to meet our needs with responsive communications and full itinerary; everything has been taken care of. We look forward to the trip!!

Linda Giovine (Google Reviewer)  

We hiked the Kerry Way...

02-Jun-2022

We hiked the Kerry Way with Natural Adventure and it was terrific. Outstanding views and good Irish weather. Some days were longer than expected due to placement of Bed and Breakfasts. Hosts were warm and helpful even dried our gear and shared local secrets. Irish hospitality in high gear.

Tim Fuhs (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I booked...

14-Sep-2023

My wife and I booked the Lechweg short break hike with the natural adventure company this Fall and we’re very happy with our experience. I noticed one of the reviews questioning what they (natural adventure co) provide. That’s a fair question and from my perspective as a USA citizen, they provided a very important liaison/conduit role into the EU that would be prohibitive or downright impossible for a non EU citizen hiking/biking in Europe. In addition, I have found that in dealing directly with a few European companies directly, information does not always flow as smoothly as we like. The natural adventure company’s communication style fit our liking perfectly in that we receive a fast and thorough response with every question. They are prompt and helpful. They did subcontract with another company for boots on the ground support but the hotel reservations and itinerary were in house. We would definitely use the natural adventure company again no question.

Beverley Young  

Highly Recommended

03-Aug-2022

All the way through from booking, correspondence afterwards and now a wonderful holiday. The Natural Adventure have been helpful and have provided a brilliant holiday. The hikes each day are cracking, maps & routes are detailed and easy to follow. The hotels are great too. Completely love our holiday! Would definitely use The Natural Adventure again and recommend.

Jeanna Janssen (Google Reviewer)  

Really poor experience with my...

30-Jul-2024

Really poor experience with my recent Tour Du Mont Blanc trip. Our company contact Pierre was so unprofessional and did not care about the safety of travelers. On the second day he left to do a hike and we didn’t hear back until multiple days later. I experienced multiple travel delays which meant the loss of the prepaid travel arrangements and their solution was a 250 euro taxi to the hotel. Do not recommend.

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Oct 12, 2024 - Oct 19, 2024
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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    The Natural Adventure requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 42 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of the natural adventure charges.

    Up to 42 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.