Experience a stress-free arrival with a private transfer to your hotel, giving you time to relax and recharge after your flight. Tirana, Albania’s capital since 1920, is a city where history and modernity coexist. Ottoman, Italian, and communist influences are visible along its tree-lined boulevards. Your downtown hotel puts you steps away from a bustling urban life. A guided city tour will give you insights into Tirana’s rich history and vibrant culture. By evening, discover “Blloku,” the city’s social hotspot. This former enclave of Albania’s political elite is now brimming with trendy cafes and lively bars.

After breakfast, transfer to Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the last surviving Ottoman merchant towns in the Balkans. We will visit the majestic castle and the Skënduli House, a historical gem showcasing the lifestyle of the past. In the evening, take time to explore the old city’s winding streets on your own, discover the artisan shops in the lively Old Bazaar, and enjoy the special atmosphere of the city. Relax and unwind with an overnight stay in Gjirokastra.

Hiking: T2, 2h, ↑250m, ↓200m, 7km

Transfer to Libohovë, a small town in the outskirts of Gjirokastra, where the hike of the day starts. Your guide will lead you on a clearly visible but unmarked path, mostly traversing meadows, up to Labovë of the Cross. This route was part of the old pastoral trails used by migrants traveling from Greece to the north.
After settling in and enjoying lunch at our guesthouse, we will visit the iconic Byzantine church of Labovë, a site of immense historical significance. We will learn about its silver cross that gave the village its name, and that once contained a relic of the True Cross.

Hiking: T3 8h, ↑1100m, ↓1200m, 11km

After breakfast, transfer to the upper part of Libohova to begin today’s hike. The path will take us through meadows and forests, gradually climbing to a saddle where Cold War tunnels lie quietly as a reminder of the past. The trail continues along the ridgeline to a summit featuring more abandoned military installations and breathtaking views. Descend into the valley, passing tranquil landscapes, before reaching Labovë e Sipërme. End the day with a transfer to Përmet for a relaxing evening.

Hiking: T2, 4h, ↑500m, ↓500m, 8km

In the morning, we will depart on an uphill walk toward the village of Lipë. After a brief exploration of the village, the hike continues along a trail overlooking the picturesque Vjosa River valley, surrounded by chestnut trees. The next stop is planned in Leusë, to visit the enigmatic St. Mary’s church, built on the ruins of a 6th-century Byzantine monastery. Return to Përmet, and from there transfer to Bënjë, home to natural thermal pools framed by the stunning Langarica Canyon and the Ottoman Bridge of Katiu. Spend the afternoon relaxing in the baths or exploring the canyon before returning back to Përmet for the evening.

The day begins with a journey to Berat, a city steeped in history and culture. Upon arrival, take some time to settle into your room. In the afternoon, we will embark on a guided exploration of Berat, a city with over 2,400 years of history, discovering its origins as an Illyrian settlement, its transformation into the castle city of Antipatrea, and the medieval churches adorned with frescoes and icons. The guided tour of the city includes a walk through the cobblestone alleys of the old town, a visit of the castle, and of the Onufri Museum.

Hiking: T3, 4h, ↑500m, ↓500m, 9km

After breakfast, transfer to the starting point of the hike near the village Sinjë. Following the ridgeline in a northern direction, the trail ascends to 1,197 meters, where breathtaking panoramic views await. On clear days, you can admire vistas of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, Mount Tomorr, Mount Dajti, and even distant peaks near Gjirokastra and Përmet. We will return to Sinjë for lunch before transferring to Tirana. Once grey and subdued, Tirana is now a vibrant, colourful city brimming with life and energy. A farewell dinner is planned in a restaurant in Tirana.

After breakfast at your hotel, say goodbye to Albania’s beautiful landscapes before transferring to the airport for your journey home.