Embark on an unforgettable journey through Albania, where breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural experiences await. From the stunning views of Shkodra Lake to the charming streets of Berat, each day is filled with adventure and discovery. Enjoy a mix of outdoor activities like hiking to the Blue Eye of Capre and exploring the Osumi Canyon, alongside culinary delights at local farms and wineries. Experience the unique beauty of Vlora with a boat tour to Sazan Island and relax along the Adriatic Sea’s vibrant promenade. This tour promises a perfect blend of nature, history, and unforgettable memories.
Group Pick up and Drop off
8 Days / 7 Nights
English
Active Holidays in Albania is an 8-day adventure through the stunning landscapes of northern and central Albania. During this tour, you’ll explore the breathtaking Shkodra Lake, Thethi Valley, and the impressive Osumi Canyon, some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the country.
The tour ranges from moderate to challenging and is suitable for travelers aged 6 and up. It includes hikes and visits to various natural sites. On the SUP trip, children can ride on your board. You’ll travel in air-conditioned vehicles and stay in comfortable hotels and local guesthouses, with twin-shared rooms.
All breakfasts are included, along with a picnic lunch on Day 2, full lunches on Days 4 and 6, wine tasting on Day 5, and a farewell dinner on Day 7. A certified local tour guide will accompany you throughout the journey, with specialized guides for SUP on Shkodra Lake and rafting/wading in Osumi River, along with all necessary equipment for these activities.
The weather is usually pleasant, but be prepared with raincoats and warm clothes for the evenings. During the day, don’t forget your hat, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle!
Today you will arrive in Tirana, Albania, where our staff will greet you at the airport. Pickup is scheduled between 13:00 – 14:00 at Tirana International Airport. Upon arrival, we will head directly to Shkoder.
Overnight in Shkoder
Begin the day with a scenic drive from your accommodation to Shkodra Lake, taking in stunning views of the Albanian countryside. After a quick introduction, by our local guide, you’ll hop onto Stand-Up Paddleboards (SUPs). Glide across the calm waters of Shkodra Lake, paddling through hidden coves and along the lake’s lush shoreline. As you paddle across the tranquil waters, you’ll navigate through picturesque patches of water lilies, which float delicately along the lake’s surface. Your guide will point out local wildlife, including rare birds, and share stories about the lake’s significance to the region. A picnic lunch will be served on the lake’s shore.
If the weather doesn’t allow us to do the SUP at Shkodra Lake, we will switch gears and take a scenic bike ride around the lake to the charming village of Zogaj. Along the way, we’ll stop for a short visit at a local home, where a woman proudly continues the tradition of weaving, offering a glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage.
In the afternoon, we will return to our hotel, and you’ll have free time to relax and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Overnight in Shkoder
Thethi is one of the most unique villages in the Shala Valley, surrounded by breathtaking nature and incredible spots to explore. Our journey begins with a drive to Nderlyse, where we’ll start a short hike toward the Blue Eye of Capre. The trail offers stunning views, with mountain peaks soaring over 2,000 meters, draped in dense pine forests. After a refreshing hike, we’ll arrive at the Blue Eye, a pristine, crystal-clear pool. For the brave, there’s the opportunity to take a dip in its icy but incredibly clean waters.
After we visit the Blue Eye, we’ll hike back to Theth and prepare for the next adventure. This time, we’ll hike through village paths and mountain trails to reach the majestic Grunasi Waterfall. Prepare to be amazed by the rainbow-like colors created by the vegetation around.
On our way back, we’ll stop at the Isolation Tower, where we’ll delve into the fascinating history of the ancient Kanun laws that once ruled these lands, including stories of the blood feuds that shaped the region’s history.
Overnight in Theth
After a healthy and delicious breakfast in Theth, we’ll take a break from outdoor adventures to immerse ourselves in Albania’s farming and culinary traditions. Our destination is Mrizi i Zanave, a renowned agritourism farm celebrated for its “0 km” ingredients and dedication to slow food. Here, we’ll tour the farm’s processing centers for dairy products, meat, and vegetables, learning about their sustainable farming practices. The farm’s wine production is another fascinating aspect, with stories of local winemaking waiting to be told.
Following the tour, we’ll enjoy a meal featuring a daily menu of traditional Albanian cuisine, presented in modern and creative ways.
In the afternoon, we’ll head to Tirana for hotel check-in and embark on a walking tour of Albania’s vibrant capital. Along the way, we’ll visit key landmarks that illustrate Tirana’s past and present, with a special focus on the city’s communist era, which plays a central role in its history.
Overnight in Tirana
Today, we will drive south through the picturesque Albanian countryside to the historic town of Berat, renowned for its unique architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site. During our visit, we will explore:
Afterward, we’ll head to a nearby village for lunch and a wine-tasting experience at one of Albania’s most esteemed wineries, which has recently won two international awards for its wines.
We’ll spend the afternoon in Berat, soaking in the atmosphere of this magical town as it transitions into evening.
Overnight in Berat
Get ready for one of the tour’s highlights: an unforgettable experience at Osumi Canyon. Depending on the season, we will either embark on an exciting rafting adventure or enjoy river wading through the canyon. Osumi Canyon stretches for 16 km and offers breathtaking views of towering 100-meter-high cliffs, narrow straits, cascading waterfalls, and other natural wonders. All necessary equipment will be provided for the adventure, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
After the adventure, we’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant with stunning canyon views, providing a perfect way to relax and take in the beauty of this incredible landscape.
Overnight in Berat
Today, we’ll have an early start to prepare for our exciting Boat Tour in Vlora. The boat will first take us to Sazan Island, an abandoned military island filled with remnants of its past. After exploring Sazan, we’ll stop at one of the beautiful beaches on the Karaburun Peninsula, located in the bay of Vlora. Here, you’ll have the chance to relax and enjoy the stunning Ionian Sea, famous for its crystal-clear blue waters.
In the afternoon, we’ll return to Vlora and check in to our hotel. In the evening, we’ll take a stroll along the long promenade of Vlora by the Adriatic Sea, soaking in the beautiful coastal views and vibrant atmosphere. At 20:00, we will gather for a farewell dinner featuring seafood in Vlora.
Overnight in Vlora
Our journey ends here, and our staff will assist you in getting to Tirana International Airport, wishing you a safe flight home. The drop-off time is scheduled for 13:00 at Tirana International Airport or in Tirana city center for those who wish to continue their journey.
