hiking in the south – moderate trails and pristine landscapes

Price From

POA

Duration

6 Days

Category

Hiking

Difficulty

T3

Support Level

Self-Guided/Drive

Destinations

Llogara, Ionian Coast

Start/Finish

Tirana

Why join this tour?

  • Challenge yourself ascending the Qorre Summit and Bureto Mountain
  • Enjoy the breathtaking views while hiking on some of the most beautiful trails along the Ionian Coast
  • Experience a blend of challenging hikes, serene beach days, and historical exploration.
  • Visit UNESCO-listed Butrint, discover Byzantine relics in Labovë, and delve into the history of Gjirokastra.

The right tour for you?

  • This is a hiking tour, so moderate level of fitness is required.
  • This is a self-guided & self-drive tour. We will provide you with all the necessary information to safely perform it.
  • This tour starts and ends in Tirana. You can book a rental car yourself or let us book one for you.
Day 1: From the Forest Paths of Llogara to Coastal Panoramas

Hiking: T2, 3h, ↑400m, ↓400m, 9km

Your tour starts with the drive to the Llogara National Park, a haven of natural beauty with lush forests, unique wildlife, and sweeping valleys. Today’s hike takes you through towering pines, over rocky paths, and past a peaceful shepherd’s settlement. The highlight is “Qafa e Thellë,” where the view of Albania’s coast stretches to the horizon. Once there, a profound stillness takes over, as the breathtaking panorama of rugged peaks and endless blue waters inspires a feeling of connection to nature’s grandeur. After the hike, relax at a comfortable hotel in the park for the evening.

The price includes:
  • Accommodation in a 4-Star hotel in the Llogara National Park
*Please see “Inclusions” section!

 

Day 2: Ascend of the wild Peak of Qorre

Hiking: T3, 7h, ↑1000m, ↓1000m, 9km

Set out to conquer Qorre Summit, rising 2,018 meters as a crown of the Ceraunian Mountains. The southeastern face of Mount Çikë plunges steeply toward the Ionian Sea, creating dramatic views along the way. The trail is visible but steep, with scree underfoot requiring careful steps. Reaching the summit, you’ll be rewarded with an unforgettable panorama of wild mountains and idyllic beaches. The descent leads through pine forests, offering a tranquil end to your hike before continuing your journey to your hotel in a coastal village.

The price includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation in a 3-Star hotel in a coastal village
*Please see “Inclusions” section!

 

Day 3: Ngjipe: Where Canyon Meets Coastline

Hiking: T2, 3h, ↑350m, ↓350m, 6km

After breakfast, drive to the starting point of the hike to Ngjipe. The trail descends gently, offering stops at panoramic viewpoints for memorable photo opportunities. Today, you will explore the Ngjipe Canyon, a 2-kilometer-long marvel with sheer walls rising more than 100 meters, shaped by years of water erosion. Relax at the clean, serene beach, surrounded by the beauty of untouched nature, before hiking back to the vehicle for the drive to your accommodation.
As you head back, you can drive to the scenic Bay of Porto Palermo, renowned not only for its stunning landscapes but also its historical significance as a Cold War military site. On a peninsula in the bay stands the ancient Fortress of Ali Pasha, a must-see before continuing your journey to your hotel, where you’ll check in for the night.

Included in the price:
  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation in a 3-Star hotel in a coastal village
*Please see “Inclusions” section!

 

Day 4: Butrint and Ksamil: A Day of Ancient Wonders and Idyllic Beaches

Begin your day with a drive to the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Butrint, a treasure trove of history dating back to the 7th century B.C. Explore its ancient ruins, from the impressive amphitheatre to the serene Baptistery, while uncovering tales of its ties to the legendary Trojan prince Aeneas. The tranquil setting, surrounded by lush wetlands and views of the Vivari Channel, enhances the sense of stepping back in time. After your visit, head to Ksamil, where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch and spend the afternoon relaxing on its pristine beaches. Conclude the day with an overnight stay in Saranda, a vibrant coastal town offering modern comforts.

Included in the price:
  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation in a 4-Star hotel in Saranda
*Please see “Inclusions” section!

 

Day 5: Byzantine History and Mountain Trails: A journey in the surroundings of Gjirokastra

Hiking: T3, 8h, ↑1100m, ↓1100m, 11km

The day starts with a drive to the village of Labovë of the Cross, home to one of the most significant Byzantine churches in the Balkans. Known for its unique architecture and historical relics, the church once held a silver cross believed to contain a fragment of the True Cross. Departing from the village, follow a scenic trail passing through Libohova’s upper reaches. The path leads through meadows, forests, and Cold War-era tunnels before reaching a summit with abandoned military installations. Descend back to Labovë before driving to Gjirokastra for an overnight stay.

The price includes:
  • Breakfast
  • Accommodation in a 4-Star hotel in Gjirokastra
*Please see “Inclusions” section!

 

Day 6: Saying Goodbye from the Heart of Gjirokastra

Gjirokastra is a remarkable example of an Ottoman merchant town, one of the last remaining in the Balkans. Its handicrafts market, the fortress and beautifully preserved museum-houses, are treasures not to be missed. Strolling through its cobblestone alleys, you’ll feel transported to another era, surrounded by the timeless beauty of stone houses and the whispers of history at every turn.
Although this tour ends here, the charm of Gjirokastra and Albania’s rich heritage await your return for more unforgettable adventures. You can choose to continue exploring more of Albania’s hidden gems or take the scenic drive back to Tirana to conclude your journey.

The price includes:
  • Breakfast
*Please see “Inclusions” section!
The price includes:
  • 5 nights accommodation in hotels on a twin-share basis
  • 5 x Breakfast
  • Detailed information and route descriptions in English
  • 24/7 emergency telephone support

 

The price does not include:

  • Any form of transportation
  • Rental Vehicle
  • Entry tickets to museums, galleries, etc.
  • Meals not listed under “The price includes”
  • Any beverages
  • Any type of insurance
  • Other services not listed under “The price includes”

Low Season:

01 April 2025 – 31 May 2025

01 October 2025 – 30 November 2025

High Season:

01 June 2025 – 30 September 2025

Traveling with a group larger than four or seeking customized accommodations? Contact us here.

Performance level:
This tour offers a combination of hiking activities with the cultural discovery of the places you will visit. A moderate level of fitness is required for the activities.

 

Orientation:

Most of the hiking trails are signed, but not always visible. Some of the trails might not be well marked and eventual bad weather can make navigation difficult. We will provide you with a detailed information package to help your navigation. Good navigation skills are necessary.

 

Packed Meals:

During this tour, there are some long hikes (Days 2 and 5), where there is no possibility to stop at a restaurant for lunch. For this reason, you need to bring packed lunches with you. You will need to prepare these meals for yourself.

 

Transfers:

This is a self-drive tour. The transfers described in the itinerary are not included in the price and you will travel on your own. You can use your own vehicle, rent one at your own convenience, or we can assist you in finding the right rental vehicle for you.
Using a camper or RV is also possible. Please contact us if you are planning to do so.

 

You can find more detailed information by clicking here.

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