Mirë se erdhët – Welcome to Albania! That's what you'll be greeted with upon arrival at Tirana Airport. From here, your journey continues directly to the mountainous north and Shkodra. This historic city lies on the shores of Lake Skadar, the largest lake in Southeast Europe – perfect for a refreshing swim if time allows. If you're more interested in culture, there's plenty to discover in Shkodra: From Rozafa Castle, you'll get your first glimpse of the Albanian mountains and hear fascinating legends. At the Marubi Photo Studio, you can immerse yourself in Albanian history and explore life since the 19th century through the photographs of the first Albanian photographer. Stroll through the market or soak up the vibrant atmosphere in one of the cafes along the pedestrian zone, where the richly decorated windows, balconies, and wooden doors evoke the city's golden age. Perhaps you'll even visit a silversmith before ending the day with a relaxing, traditional Albanian dinner.

Your journey to the "enchanted mountains" of northern Albania begins early in the morning. You drive east along the Drin River to Koman. The river has carved a deep gorge into the mountains, and despite the numerous reservoirs, the steep rock faces still rise impressively on both sides. The road ends in Koman, and a small adventure awaits: a nostalgic ferry takes you through this breathtaking mountain landscape to Fierza on the reservoir of the same name. During the 2-3 hour crossing, you can enjoy the fjord-like views, watch the children playing, or try a game of dominoes with the locals. The river is the only connection to the outside world for many residents, which is why the ferry also stops at remote villages. After the crossing, you continue your journey by land. Passing typical villages and traditional stone houses with wooden shingle roofs, you travel further and further into the mountains until you reach Valbona National Park. Here you begin your first hike along crystal-clear streams and quiet forest paths. At Xhemes Lake you can take a refreshing dip before reaching your accommodation after about seven kilometers.

Today's hike takes you deeper into the mountains. Passing old bunkers and blooming summer meadows, you'll climb to a hut at 1,650 meters. During communist times, this area near the border with Montenegro was a restricted zone, and the hut served as a military barracks. If you wish, you can continue climbing to the border and soak in the impressive mountain scenery. At 2,040 meters, you'll reach a weathered border pyramid, from which you can admire both the rugged peaks of Prokletije National Park in Montenegro and the highest mountain of the Albanian Alps, Jezerca (2,694 meters). After returning to the hut, you'll descend to your next accommodation in a comfortable guesthouse.

In the morning, your luggage will be loaded onto the pack animals, as today's plan includes crossing the Valbona Pass (1,815 m). Your hike will take you past small streams and blooming summer meadows, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. After the small village of Rragam, the path becomes steeper, but the effort is well worth it: From the pass, stunning views of the picturesque valleys on both sides unfold before you. During the descent to Theth, a fairytale beech forest provides shade from the sun until the trees gradually thin out, revealing the imposing silhouette of Mount Arapi (2,217 m) and the first houses of Theth. Passing the traditional, wood-roofed stone houses, you will finally reach your comfortable guesthouse in the heart of the village.

Today you have a choice of two hikes: You can head north and explore the rocky slopes of Arapi while climbing the Peja Pass. The old caravan route, which continues into Montenegro, is also used as a route to climb the highest mountain of the Albanian Alps, Jezerca. Alternatively, you can hike south to the Denelli Plateau. Following donkey trails used by shepherds to transport their produce to the village, you'll reach the fertile plateau, which is cultivated by two families. Here you can sample fresh cheese, yogurt, or a typical dish. Afterward, you have the option of continuing your ascent to the Kakise Pass or returning to Theth.

The village of Theth lies scattered throughout the Albanian Alps – today you have the opportunity to explore it on your hike. Nestled among small fields and grazing herds, you'll discover the small church and the tower house. The latter once served as a "blood tower," offering refuge to men caught in blood feuds until reconciliation between families was achieved. Although there have been many efforts to abolish customary law and blood feuds, some families still adhere to the rules of the "Kanun." Following small irrigation channels, you can ascend to the Grunas Waterfall and admire the Stone Age terraces perched on a cliff overlooking the river. Then, you'll follow the river down to the settlement of Nderlysa, where you'll spend the night at one of the farms (double room with shared bathroom). You can spend the afternoon relaxing or helping the family with their daily chores in the fields or with the sheep. Learn how to prepare a traditional dish or refresh yourself with a dip in the cool river.

Your farewell hike takes you through a gorge to a hidden karst spring. The "Blue Eye" owes its name to its intense blue color and round shape. Idyllically situated, without cell phone service, electricity, or access roads, the bustling life here feels a world away from the isolated, enchanted mountains of Albania. Enjoy the silence one last time before returning to the city in the afternoon. A local minibus will take you over the Thores Pass and past the Edith Durham Monument to the capital. You'll arrive in Tirana in the evening.

Visit the National Museum, stroll through one of the markets, or enjoy nature in one of the city's parks before heading to the airport. An extra night in Tirana is well worth it! This will give you plenty of time to explore this fascinating city, a blend of modern development and a communist past, at your leisure.

Your luggage will be transported from accommodation to accommodation by car or pack animal. Soft luggage such as travel bags, backpacks, or duffel bags is recommended. A maximum of 15 kg can be transported per person. You will only need your daypack for the hikes. Please note that bulky luggage such as suitcases or trolleys are not suitable for this tour.

Also available as a shorter 6-day option. Information available upon request.