Hidden Valley Trek in Albania

Our 5-day trek begins on the edge of the breathtaking Zagoria River Valley, part of Europe’s first Wild River National Park. Tucked between four dramatic mountain ranges, this untouched corner of Albania feels like a hidden world lost in time.

We enter the valley via a forgotten caravan route, once bustling with merchants, now a tranquil trail scattered with Ottoman bridges, Orthodox churches, and echoes of a rich cultural past. The day’s hike starts with a scenic ascent through open woodlands to a panoramic mountain pass, revealing the full splendor of the valley below.

Descending through ancient terraced fields, we pause in the nearly deserted hamlet of Kala, home to just three remaining residents. Here, we cool off with a refreshing dip beneath a majestic Ottoman stone bridge—a moment of wild beauty and calm.

Continuing along a cobbled path once trodden by caravans, we climb toward Limar, a village boasting sweeping views of Mt. Strakavec (1,958 m) and known for its traditional stone houses. Tonight, we stay with Noli and Margerita, the village’s beloved schoolteacher and his wife. Over a warm, homemade dinner of locally sourced ingredients, they’ll share captivating stories from Albania’s communist era—a rare, intimate window into life in this remote valley.

Meals: B / LP / D
Accommodation: Guesthouse (shared)
Location: Limar

Today’s trail winds along scenic footpaths, with towering peaks above and the Zagoria River meandering far below. Our route connects the remote villages of Leskaj, Doshnica, and Hoshtevë, offering a rich glimpse into traditional rural life. Along the way, we meet locals whose livelihoods still depend on animal husbandry, beekeeping, and the gathering of medicinal herbs.

In Doshnica, we pause for a coffee break with the villagers, before continuing to the natural basin atop the Doshnica Waterfall, where you’re invited to soak your feet in the crystal-clear waters. Depending on the river’s level, we’ll either follow the stream onward or loop back through the village before beginning our final ascent to Hoshtevë.

Once in the village, we visit the Church of the Holy Apostles, a masterpiece of Orthodox heritage, featuring stunning Byzantine frescoes and intricately carved wooden icons—truly one of the finest rural churches in Albania.

Like many in this region, the villagers of Hoshtevë once left in search of a better life. Our hosts, Katrina and Ladi, are part of the returning diaspora, having spent 17 years abroad in Greece before coming home to open a guesthouse. Their warmth and hospitality shine as they welcome us with stories of resilience and return, and serve a hearty, home-cooked dinner made with love.

Meals: B / LP / D
Accommodation: Guesthouse (shared)
Location: Hoshtevë

Today marks the longest and most challenging stage of our journey—crossing the dramatic Dhembel-Nemërçkë Range, a rugged passage that leads us out of the Zagoria Valley and back into the rhythm of the modern world. With the drive around the range nearly as long as the trek itself, our luggage is carried by horse, following a route still essential to local shepherds today.

At the base of the trail, Enver Hoxha’s bunkers stand as silent sentinels, guarding the entrance to a narrow crack that climbs deep into the mountains. For centuries, shepherds have crossed this pass on epic migrations from Albania’s southernmost reaches to the fertile highlands of the Pindus Mountains near Mt. Gramoz—a journey that can take up to two weeks with their flocks.

The ascent brings us into a stark yet striking alpine valley, cloaked in wildflowers in spring, but otherwise bare of trees and flanked by steep, sweeping slopes. Our climb culminates at Dhembel Pass (1,450 m), where we’re rewarded with jaw-dropping views stretching into Greece and down into the lush Vjosa Valley and city of Përmet below.

The long, rocky descent demands focus but brings us gradually into the charming old town of Përmet, where we slip in through its quieter backstreets. After the day's exertion, relax in our centrally located hotel, and treat yourself to the town’s renowned cuisine, local wines, and homemade raki—a well-earned celebration in this laidback riverside city.

Meals: B / LP / D
Accommodation: Hotel (private room)
Location: Përmet

We begin the day with a short scenic drive along the turquoise waters of the Vjosa River, heading into the unspoiled countryside. Our final hike ascends through wild macchia scrubland, past nearly abandoned mountain villages, offering spectacular views of majestic Mt. Nemërçkë. The north face of Southern Albania’s second-highest peak (2,485 m) towers above us, plunging 650 meters straight into the Vjosa Valley below.

After reaching the highest point of the day, we descend into the quiet village of Ogdunan, where we’re warmly welcomed by a local family—a final taste of the valley's hospitality. From here, the trail continues downward into the stunning Langarica Canyon, ending at an ancient Ottoman stone bridge, nestled above natural thermal springs.

Here, we pause to soak in the warm, sulfur-rich waters, long believed to hold healing properties for a variety of ailments. It’s the perfect reward after five days of trekking—whether you choose to relax in the pools or explore the scenic canyon on foot.

Refreshed and recharged, we then set off on a 1.5-hour drive along the Vjosa River to reach the atmospheric town of Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll be staying in a traditional Ottoman-era mansion in the heart of the historic old town. The evening is yours to wander cobbled streets, sample local delicacies, or simply rest up—with more time tomorrow to dive deeper into this remarkable “City of Stone.”

Meals: B / L / D
Accommodation: Hotel (private room)
Transfers: 15 min + 1.5 hours
Location: Gjirokastër

If time permits, take the opportunity to explore Tirana’s vibrant streets one last time. Stroll through the city, sip an espresso at a charming café, and soak in the lively morning atmosphere. The New Bazaar is the perfect place to wander, where you can pick up some edible souvenirs—local delicacies and handmade goods from the heart of the city.

For those interested in diving deeper into Albania’s communist past, you can visit Bunkart 2 or The House of Leaves—both offering valuable insights into the country’s history and located just a 5-minute walk from Skanderbeg Square.

After your exploration, we’ll take a 30-minute transfer to the airport, marking the end of your journey through Albania’s rugged landscapes, charming villages, and rich history.

Thank you for joining our adventure! We hope to see you again in this land of warm hospitality, breathtaking mountains, and sun-kissed beaches. If you’re not ready to leave yet, ask us about more activities—whether it’s hiking in the mountains, discovering Albania’s cultural gems, or relaxing on the Albanian Riviera—there’s always more to explore in the Balkans!

Meals: B / – / –
Accommodation: None
Transfers: 30 minutes
Location: TIA (Tirana International Airport)