Kir Valley

The Kir Valley (Lugina e Kirit) is a hidden gem. Shkodër is practically at your fingertips when you visit: after passing the well-known Mes Bridge, simply head upstream a few kilometres to enter the Albanian Alps. You can eat at one of the good restaurants in addition to taking in the natural splendour.

For centuries, the entrance to the valley has been guarded by Drisht Castle (Kalaja e Drishtit), whose ruins stand on a hill above the village of the same name. The remains of the walls date back to the 14th century, when the castle was ruled by the Venetians. The village of the same name could be reached by an asphalt road, the rest you have to walk. From the castle, you have a wonderful view of the foothills of the Albanian Alps and the plain around Shkodra Lake.

Beyond Drisht, the Kir Valley suddenly closes in. At Ura e Shtrenjtë neighborhood the river carved a gorge and other rock formations several metres deep into the limestone bedrock. It also creates countless pools whose clear emerald waters are perfect for summer swimming.

Prekal, the last larger village in the valley, is surrounded by steep slopes covered with lush vegetation. There are good swimming opportunities here too. The pleasant Jozi restaurant will be the ideal destination for your day trip from Shkodër.

In the village, there is more than a hundred metres deep Zhyla Cave (alb. Shpella e Zhylës). A stream which usually dries up in summer flows out of it.

From Shkodër to Prekal it is about 25 kilometres along a scenic asphalt road. 4×4 vehicles can continue to Theth, which is one of the most exciting off-road undertakings in Albania.