No exploration of Northern Albania is complete without a visit to Theth National Park. The drive to the mountain village of Theth, while challenging, offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Albania’s untouched wilderness.
The Northern Albania’s rugged mountains, tranquil lakes, and traditional villages, offers a deep dive into one of Europe’s hidden gems.
Jazeera Airways flies direct to Albania from Kuwait for easy and most convenient way to fly
Northern Albania, often overlooked compared to its more famous southern regions, boasts a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
This ten-day itinerary explores the area’s rugged mountains, tranquil lakes, and traditional villages, offering a deep dive into one of Europe’s hidden gems.
With its family-friendly atmosphere, Northern Albania is an ideal destination for adventurous travelers seeking to explore beyond the typical tourist trails.
Day 1: Puka
The journey begins in Puka, a charming town nestled in the mountains about 150 kilometer (93 miles) from Tirana Airport.
Known as a winter ski destination, Puka transforms into a tranquil retreat during the warmer months. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake in the town center, while children can make the most of the local playground.
Accommodation at the N’Konak Guesthouse provides a warm welcome, complete with a traditional breakfast and a taste of authentic Albanian hospitality.
Day 2: Lake Komani
A visit to Lake Komani is a must on any Northern Albanian itinerary. Often described as one of the world’s most beautiful lake journeys, the best way to experience this natural wonder is via a three-hour ferry ride from Fierze to Koman.
Travelers should check ferry schedules in advance, especially in early spring when timetables can be unpredictable.
For those arriving early in the season, a private boat tour offers a serene alternative, showcasing the lake’s clear blue waters and the dramatic snow-capped mountains surrounding it.
Accommodation at Agora Farmhouse provides a perfect base, featuring cozy cabins and exceptional local cuisine made from fresh, local ingredients.
Days 3 & 4: Theth National Park
No exploration of Northern Albania is complete without a visit to Theth National Park. The drive to the mountain village of Theth, while challenging, offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Albania’s untouched wilderness.
The village itself is steeped in history, featuring sites such as the 400-year-old lock-in tower, which once served as a sanctuary during feuds, and Theth Waterfall, accessible via a scenic hike.
The next day, a hike to the Blue Eye, a stunning natural spring, is highly recommended. Although the hike is challenging and involves some scrambling over rocks, the crystal-clear pool at the end makes it well worth the effort.
Accommodation at Thethi Paradise provides a cozy retreat after a day of adventure, with dinner served at the guesthouse.
Days 5, 6 & 7: Shkodra
Shkodra, one of Albania’s most historic cities, is an essential stop on this itinerary. With its strong Italian influence, Shkodra was part of the Venetian Republic before being surrendered to the Ottomans in 1479.
Visitors can explore Rozafa Castle, a fortress that highlights the shifting influences of power, including a church converted into a mosque. Guided tours are recommended for a deeper understanding of the castle’s history.
The city also offers a range of cultural experiences, including the Venetian Art Factory, where visitors can witness the creation of intricate masks, and the Historical Museum, which provides insights into the city’s past.Accommodation at Hotel Tradita offers a traditional Albanian experience, with excellent cuisine and live music on weekends.
Day 8: Mrizi i Zanave
A visit to Mrizi i Zanave, a working farm that embodies the slow food movement in Albania, is a highlight of this itinerary.
The farm produces all its food on-site or sources it from a network of local farmers. The menu changes seasonally, offering a unique dining experience with each visit.
Guests can tour the farm’s cheese, meat, and wine-making facilities, gaining insight into traditional Albanian food production. The farm also offers various activities for children, including interactions with the farm animals.
Days 9 & 10: Kruja
The journey concludes in Kruja, the most touristy spot on the itinerary. Kruja Castle, the center of resistance to the Ottoman invasion in the 15th century, is a must-visit.
The castle complex includes a lookout tower, a medieval church, and two museums: the Historical Museum, which details the role of Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg, and the Ethnographic Museum, which provides a glimpse into the daily lives of families from that era.
The Kruja bazaar, a single street lined with shops in restored Ottoman-era buildings, offers visitors a chance to purchase traditional Albanian crafts and antiques.
Dining options within the castle complex and the surrounding bazaar are plentiful, with Deal Restaurant providing a perfect spot for a sunset dinner with views of the castle.
For those with additional time, an optional extension to Tirana offers a final taste of Albania’s capital before concluding this unforgettable journey through the north.
