From Llogara Pass to the highest peak of the Albanian coast
The most beautiful ridge trail in Albania? Definitely yes! The marked route starts at Llogara Pass (1043 m), climbs steeply through a forest of centuries-old, wind-swept pines to the Ceraunian Mountains and from there to the summit of Maja e Çikës (2044 m). The views of the Albanian Riviera and the mountainous hinterland are fantastic. This is a fairly challenging undertaking, you’ll need five to six hours from Llogara to the summit, and at least four hours back.
A shorter option is to climb the Maja e Qorrës (2018 m), which rises directly above the Llogara Pass and also offers breathtaking views of the coast and the Karaburun peninsula.
You can also continue on the ridge over Maja e Çikës and walk to Gjipe Beach or Himarë, with at least one night in a tent needed (see map).
Albanian Classics: From Theth to Valbonë
By far the best-known hike in Albania. The route connects Theth with the Valbona Valley, with the highest point of the route being the Valbona Pass (Qafa e Valbonës) at 1795 m. The trail is steep, but quite comfortable (in season you’ll pass two bars with drinks and snacks on each side), well-trodden and well-marked. The pass is an amazing place to get views of both valleys lined with jagged peaks. The 14-kilometre route will take you about six hours (see map).
The best of the Albanian Alps in one day: from Lepushë to Theth
A challenging but beautiful trail that connects the Kelmend Region with the village of Theth in the Albanian Alps. The route follows a relatively well-marked trail through stunning mountain scenery, but it includes steep climbs and descents. The terrain is difficult to navigate in places. At one point the trail passes through a snowfield that doesn’t melt even in summer. The 10- to 12-hour hike can only be recommended for experienced hikers (see map).
Albania’s highest mountain of Korab from Radomirë
Two trails lead to the top of the highest Albanian mountain of Korab (2764 m) from the village of Radomirë: the first option is direct, marked and more frequently used (see map). It will take you about 8-9 hours there and back. The second one is one to two hours longer, but more beautiful in terms of scenery since it crosses the picturesque meadows of Fushë Korabi. In the final stretch before the summit, you’ll pass through northern Macedonian territory (see map). The best way is to combine the routes, one for ascent and the other for descent.
From Stëmbec to the Cirque of Nemërçka
A shorter hike in the most dramatic mountain landscape outside the Albanian Alps. The trail starts in the picturesque village of Strëmbec in the Vjosa Valley and takes you to an impressive cirque in the eastern face of the Nemërçka Mountains. The Sopot Waterfall, about 20 metres high, is another landmark along this route. At the waterfall, the trail disappears in places, but continues to the 2000-metre-wide and nearly 1,000-metre-high amphitheatre under the peak of Maja e Papingut (2485 m).
Between Ohrid and Prespa Lakes: The Dry Mountain (2288 m. n. m.)
The Dry Mountain (Mali i Thatë) is a steep ridge that separates the Ohrid and Prespa Lakes. The summit called Pllaja e Pusit reaches an altitude of 2,288 metres above sea level. With a little imagination, you will feel like you are on the island, as you will be surrounded by vast bodies of water. The best starting point is the village of Alarup (see map).
Moutain with Holes: Tha karst plateau near Tirana
The unusual relief of the Mountain with Holes (Mali me Gropa) reminds stormy seas or dunes. Actually, it is composed of hundreds of crater-like karst sinkholes spread across a large plateau. The usual hike includes a climb from the village of Shëngjergj to the summit of Maja e Miçekut at 1827 metres, from there you will have the landscape dotted with sinkholes in the palm of your hand (see map). It takes 4-5 hours to get to the summit and about three hours to get back. This is one of the most beautiful hikes around Tirana, perfect for a day trip from the Albanian capital.
From Lepushë to Maja e Vajushës
The village of Lepushë in the region of Kelmend is one of the most beautiful in the Albanian Alps thanks to its picturesque location on the border with Montenegro. The hike up the nearby 2,059-metre-high Maja e Vajushës (you’ll also come across the name Talijanka) will reward you with a beautiful view of the imposing, almost perpendicular walls of the Karanfili massif on the Montenegrin side of the mountains. The ascent is not difficult, and the journey shouldn’t take you more than five hours there and back (see map).
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