Albania Hiking Guide: 17 BEST Albanian Hikes & Tours 2025
Want to discover the best hikes in Albania? Keep reading to find 17 of our favourite hikes and tours Albania has to offer.
With over 70% of the country being mountainous, hiking in Albania is a must. After spending a month exploring the country from high to low, we can easily say that hiking was one of our favourite things to do. In fact, almost all of our favourite memories revolve around hiking trips, from incredible views to personal accomplishments.
If you want to do something a little adventurous whilst visiting Albania, this hiking guide is a must, as it’ll take you through all the best hikes, why you should do them, and all the essential information, so you know what you’re setting yourself up for in advance!
No matter where you are planning on basing yourself, there’s bound to be a beautiful hike not too far away, with almost all of the hikes on this list being very close to the main towns and cities. This way you can reward yourself to a nice rest following your hike, to visit some of the other amazing attractions in Albania.
Best Hiking Tour In Albania
The Theth To Valbona hike is one of the most incredible hikes in Albania. If you’re short on time, we’d highly recommend booking onto this tour for the ultimate hiking experience!
17 BEST Albania Hiking Trails
Whether you’re a hiking expert, or just looking for a nice place to stroll, there are plenty of options to suit you. Whilst there are so many different hikes you could do, we’ve narrowed it down to the top 17 hikes in Albania, so you can get your hiking fix!
1. Theth To Valbona
Completing the Theth to Valbona hike has to be top of your hiking bucket list when in Albania! This spectacular hike takes you through Theth National Park, to the top of the 1795m tall Valbona Peak, where you will be rewarded with the most incredible views over Valbona Valley.
Despite being renowned as one of the most beautiful hikes in Europe, and possibly the most famous in Albania, Theth to Valbona is unique in that it does not see the same footfall as many other places in Europe. The trail retains an untouched feeling, surrounding you with the peacefulness of nature.
The hike itself is relatively challenging, with steep uphill sections on loose gravel paths, so a base level of fitness is advisable. However, if you take it slow, we would expect most people to be able to complete this hike. The sense of personal achievement when you finish is second to none, leaving you feeling as though you’re on cloud 9.
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2. Maja e Rosit
Starting in Valbona, the Maja e Roshit hike is one of the more adventurous hiking routes in this guide! Whilst the peak is actually situated over the border in Montenegro, you’ll start this hike in the little mountain village of Valbona.
Winding through the pristine landscapes of the Valbona Valley National Park, you’ll be surrounded by towering mountain peaks and lush alpine meadows.
The trail to Maja e Rosit is best described as a rewarding challenge, with a mix of diverse terrains, from forest paths to rocky scrambles. The first two sections of the hike will see you meandering uphill through a canyon, followed by beautiful alpine meadows.
The final section of the trail is particularly steep and challenging, though the views from the top make it more than worth it, as you get unrivaled vistas over Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo, all from one spot.
It is worth noting that there is nowhere to refill water along the trail, so ensure you have at least 2.5 litres per person, considerably more in summer.
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3. The Blue Eye, Theth
Albania is home to a beautiful and unique natural wonder: The Blue Eye. Located in the idyllic mountainous landscapes near Theth, hiking to the Blue Eye offers a captivating experience hiking to one of Albania’s most enchanting natural wonders.
The hike begins at the beautiful village of Theth, so we’d recommend combining it with some of the other hikes in the region for the perfect Albania hiking adventure.
The hike begins by following a path through the Grunas Canyon, through lush green meadows and dense forests, gradually revealing the beauty of the rugged mountains.
As you approach the Blue Eye, you’ll see the crystal clear, turquoise waters of the natural spring tucked away amongst a rocky landscape. The vivid blue hues will honestly take your breath away with their beauty.
This hike is especially beautiful, as you’ll be following along the river most of the way. Whilst you will have a relatively steep uphill section lasting around 45 minutes, the majority of the trail is relatively flat so most people will be able to complete it.
It is worth noting, the trail is closed between November to May.
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4. Liqeni i Tiranes
Exploring the hiking trails around Liqeni i Tiranes, or the Lake of Tirana, is one of the best Albanian hiking experiences for families.
Located within the Grand Park of Tirana, and set against a backdrop of rolling hills and lush greenery, this hike offers the chance to explore Albania’s natural beauty whilst having the convenience of being right in the city.
Whilst it is only 5.6km around the lake, the trail is pretty flat and has plenty of amenities, including cafés, restaurants, and toilet facilities. It meanders through forests, open fields, and along lakeside paths, providing a beautiful backdrop to the city.
Even if you do not wish to hike around the entire lake, a day out in Tirana Park is a day well spent. Bring a picnic and a frisbee and you can easily forget you’re in a capital city.
Quick Facts
5. Grunas Waterfall
Theth National Park is by far one of the best hiking destinations in Albania, and the Grunas Waterfall hike is another stunner. This hike is an easy out and back, though if you wish to hike up to the base of the waterfall, there is a steep climb on loose gravel, which I may or may not have slipped over on!
This hike winds through the stunning Grunas Valley, past beautiful traditional mountain huts, surrounded by greenery, with the tall peaks of the Accursed Mountains surrounding you in all directions.
Make sure you bring swimmers as you can swim at the base of the falls – if you’re brave enough! You’ll likely find a handful of other hikers relaxing around the base of the waterfall and we would recommend doing the same. It’s an incredibly serene spot.
If you’re in Theth as part of a larger hiking holiday, we’d recommend completing this hike the day after the Theth to Valbona hike, or one of the other longer day hikes, in order to give your legs a bit of a break!
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6. Maja e Tujanit, Mount Dajti National Park
Located just outside Tirana, the Maja e Tujanit hike is one very few people know about, but it quickly became one of our favourite.
Located at the top of the Dajti Ekspres, the longest cable car in the Balkans, you’ll wind along forest paths uphill to a clearing with spectacular views over Tirana. Continue along the path a little bit further and you’ll be greeted with the most spectacular view over the mountain valley and lakes below. It is honestly breathtaking.
Whilst the trail is sometimes a little bit questionable, look out for the red and white stripes as these will guide you in the right direction.
This hike is one that most locals don’t even know about, so expect to be hiking alone the majority of the way. Surrounded by the sounds of nature, you’ll feel totally at peace. As it is such a short and quick hike, easily accessible from Tirana, this hike has to make it onto your Albanian hiking bucket list. We promise you won’t regret it.
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7. The Blue Eye, Saranda
Ah, yes, another blue eye! The Blue Eye in Saranda is more famous and much more easily accessible than the one in Theth, mentioned previously. With an easy, out-and-back trail, this is definitely one for the whole family.
The route is well-defined, along a mixture of paved and gravel paths, with the most beautiful natural phenomenon waiting for you at the end. There’s even a small restaurant for you to grab a bite to eat.
Once you reach the Blue Eye, gaze into it’s depths with small blue dragonflies fluttering around you. Can it get any more magical than that?
If you’re up for a bit more of an adventure, continue along the trail around the Blue Eye for spectacular views of all the different shades of turquoise and blue. It really is something special.
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8. Maja e Thanasit, Llogara National Park
This Albanian hiking trail is great for a variety of different abilities, with its straightforward paths and gradual inclines. This is a must-do hike if you want a great hiking experience when in Albania. This moderately challenging 7.4km hike is a great way to get the ultimate view overlooking the stunning Ionian coastline.
If you are planning on tackling this hike in the hotter months then be prepared to pack a sun hat and plenty of water. Along the route you will encounter a wide variety of fauna and flora which will give this hike a beautiful and peaceful atmosphere.
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9. Aquarium Beach
To reach this small hidden paradise you will need to start in the nearby town or Jala, where you can enjoy the beautiful beach that they have to offer. From there you will hike south along a gravel path that will give you amazing panoramic views of the Ionian Sea. We would recommend getting to this beach as early as possible, as it can get quite busy in the middle of the day, especially for such a small beach.
There are no facilities at Aquarium Beach, so make sure you bring plenty of water and enough food for as long as you intend to visit. If you want to visit Aquarium Beach from a different route, then Livadhi Beach makes a great starting point. This alternate hiking route will take you up a gradual incline over a cliff that overlooks Livadhi Beach. From here you will begin to decline down the same gravel path to Aquarium Beach.
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10. Gjipe Beach
Known as one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole of Albania, Gjipe Beach is definitely as good of an endpoint as any. To get to the trailhead, you will need to drive down to the furthest part along the road that heads towards Gjipe Beach, however, unless you have a 4×4, you will need to park in the car park and start the 2km hike from here (200 lek per person).
The hike will take on a gradual decline down a gravel track that overlooks the bright blue ocean. Along the way, you will pass several bunkers, which allow you to witness a glimpse of Albania’s troubled past. Be careful of cars that may be driving past, but regardless this is a beautiful and relatively easy hike that will allow you to reach a golden sand beach, where you can swim, relax, eat, or continue your hike down Gjipe Canyon.
If you fancy a longer hike, then why not start in the nearby towns of Dhermi or Vuno, which will allow you to add an extra few kilometers to your hike.
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11. Mill Trail
This hiking trail will allow you to explore the beautiful Old Town of Dhermi, as well as the stunning beaches that this seaside town has to offer. This hike starts in the picturesque old town of Dhermi, where you can wander through the beautiful cobblestone streets. Head up to the Monastery of St. Mary, where you will be rewarded with gorgeous panoramic views of the whole town and get a glimpse of the trail’s endpoint, Dhermi beach.
This gentle 1.5 kilometer hike is a great way to explore more of the town, while finding an excuse to get a delicious ice cream at the bottom. The path down is clearly marked and the starting point, which is at the hairpin bend as you enter/ exit Dhermi Old Town, will be noticeable, with a board about the history of this trail.
Following the stream down to the coast, you will pass a beautiful waterfall as well as a bright red bridge. Towards the end of the hike, you will pass a century-old church which you will be able to stop and admire, before finishing with a refreshing dip in the inviting sea.
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12. Mount Korab
Mount Korab is part of the Radika Mountains, located on the border between Albania and North Macedonia in the beautiful Dibër area. This is considered to be a fairly challenging hike, as the route can be slightly difficult to follow at times. Due to its remoteness, you are unlikely to encounter many other people on this route.
Despite the challenging nature of this hike, it is well worth it for the beautiful nature and sense of accomplishment you will achieve by completing this stunning hiking trail.
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13. Lake Prespa
Located in the east of Albania, the Lake Prespa Loop offers a beautiful trail along the stunning lake. If you’re in Albania, in the summer, this is one of the most beautiful hikes, in the middle of the mountains, with the summer sun sparkling off the lake’s waters.
Lake Prespa is nestled between Albania, North Macedonia, and Greece, and is renowned for its natural beauty and serene landscapes.
The trail will take you through varying landscapes including dense forests, charming lakeside villages, and beautiful viewpoints with incredible views over the lake and its surroundings.
Very few tourists venture to the East of Albania, and by doing so you’re spoiled with some of the most beautiful, untouched scenery in the whole of the country.
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14. Ali Pasha Bridge Loop
Located just outside of the beautiful town of Gjirokaster is a historical treasure tucked away where most tourists will never venture. This makes this hiking adventure super accessible and easy to combine with a day exploring the historical town.
This loop starts in Gjirokaster Bazaar, before heading steeply uphill into the hills overlooking the castle. You’ll follow a track round some houses before you’re suddenly hit with incredible views over rolling green hills and a valley deep below. It will honestly feel like you’re miles out of town, when in actual fact, you’ll only be around 30 minutes away!
Hiking down to Ali Pasha Bridge is relatively steep, and the last section may require a little bit of scrambling on loose scree, so good footwear is essential.
Whilst you can hike out and back, we’d recommend completing the loop to spend longer in the beautiful Albanian countryside, enjoying the 360-degree views.
This hike is relatively exposed for most of the way, so we would recommend bringing plenty of water and a sun hat if you’re hiking in summer – Albania can get pretty hot!
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15. Freskia Marshez Loop
The Freskia Marshez Loop is a popular hiking route that is situated near the city of Shkodër in the north of Albania. This hike is not for everyone, as sections are difficult to navigate and often over-grown.
However, if you are up for a challenge, then is the perfect hike to add to your Albanian hiking adventure. With views overlooking the small village of Fushë Arrëz, the effort you put in will definitely be worth it for the stunning views and sense of accomplishment upon completion.
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16. Mount Gamti
Located just a short distance from the picturesque village of Kruje, Mount Gamti is one of the best hikes in Albania. This 13.2 kilometer long hike is ideal for people who want to challenge themselves whilst still being able to enjoy all of the wonders of any hiking trip in Albania.
Whilst climbing up this beautiful mountain, you’ll be able to soak in the beautiful nature of Albania. At the halfway point, you will be rewarded with a picturesque view of Lake Bovilla, which will imprint in your mind for the descent down through a gorgeous forest.
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17. Kryezi Waterfalls Trail
This family-friendly hike is a perfect short adventure for all ages and abilities. This hiking trail is the perfect alternative to the slightly longer and harder Blue Eye trail in Theth.
On this short hike, you’ll encounter some stunning views whilst being immersed in Albania’s beautiful nature. In the warmer months make sure to bring your swimmers and enjoy a nice relaxing dip in the crystal blue water of the plunge pool.
Quick Facts
Best Hiking Tours In Albania
If you don’t fancy going it alone, or if you’re short on time, we’d highly recommend booking onto a tour with an experienced guide. There are a few, such as Lake Bovilla, which would be difficult to complete yourself, so a guided tour is a great option!
Bovilla Lake
This private tour will allow you to hike around Bovilla Lake as well as Mount Gamti with your own personal guide. This hiking tour will allow you to hike at your own pace, so a variety of fitness levels are able to take part. From the summit of Gamti Mountain you will be able to enjoy panoramic views overlook the lake, as well as the surrounding area.
Peaks Of The Balkans
This 8-day ultimate Albanian hiking experience isn’t for the faint-hearted. If you want to challenge yourself and tackle some of the largest mountains in the region then this is the perfect tour for you! Covering Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro this adventure will have you testing your limits while being catered for by your personal guide.
Mount Korab
Mount Korab sits at 2764m and is the fourth-highest mountain in the Balkans. This multi-day hike is a great way to challenge yourself and complete a bucketlist hiking experience in Albania. Situated on the border between Albania and North Macedonia, Mount Korab sumit gives you panoramic views spanning over two countries. Complete with delicious meals and a knowledgable guide, this is a great way to explore one of the most beautiful places in Albania.
Theth To Valbona
The Theth to Valbona hike is the pinnacle of any Albanian hiking holiday, with amazing views, beautiful nature and a knowledgable guide this tour is the best way to explore the area. With all the stress of organising transport and accommodation taken away, this tour allows you to truely enjoy the picturesque surrounds of Theth National Park, as well as take a breathtaking ferry through Komani Lake. This tour is a must for anyone wanting to explore the beauty of Albania without the stress that planning has associated with it.
Map Of The Best Hikes In Albania
Recommended Gear For Hiking In Albania
Filter Water Bottle
We’d highly recommend bringing a filter water bottle on your Albanian hiking trip. The water in Albania is non-potable, so by bringing a filter bottle, you can not only fill it up from the tap to save plastic waste, but you can also fill it up from lakes and streams you encounter along the way.
We’ve used Water to Go filter bottles for years. They’re incredible quality, never leak, and have never once made us ill, despite some of the very questionable water we’ve filled them up with.
Lightweight Backpack
A decent backpack can make or break a hike. Imagine carrying something that’s going to rub and chafe, dig into your back, or feel extra big and heavy for 20km. That sounds completely miserable. This backpack is lightweight and comfortable and will make all the difference when hiking long distances, trust us!
Hiking Poles
Whilst not necessary for every hike, you may benefit from a pair of hiking poles on some of the longer, more challenging hikes, especially those that are steep and with loose footing. This will give you that extra bit of support so you don’t fall and twist an ankle.
Hiking Shoes
A good pair of hiking shoes is essential for any of the trails marked ‘moderate’ or ‘challenging’. They will stop your feet from blistering and protect them against sharp stones and twisting an ankle. Your hike will be way more comfortable wearing them! We’ve linked the hiking shoes we recommend, though we understand this is a very personal thing and it’s important to get shoes that feel comfortable for you.
FAQs
Still got questions about all the amazing hiking in Albania? We’ve tried to answer some of the most frequently asked questions below.
What is considered a tough hike?
A tough hike is generally one considered to have one or a combination of: challenging terrain, significant elevation gain, and a demanding level of physical exertion.
Whilst the difficulty level we’ve detailed throughout this post is subjective, the grading of hikes uses a relatively universal guide, outlined below.
Easy: Suitable for most people with a basic level of fitness. Less than 12km in distance and elevation gain of less than 800m. Terrain is considered relatively even.
Moderate: A base level of fitness is advisable. This level would be considered easy for frequent hikers. A maximum distance of 20km and elevation gain of 800-1500m. There may be some more difficult terrain sections, including loose gravel, scree, and rocky paths.
Challenging: Regular hiking experience is advisable. May be longer than 20km and elevation gain of more than 1000m. Terrain will be challenging, which may include scrambling in sections and difficulty navigating paths.
Is Albania worth visiting?
Albania is absolutely worth visiting and it quickly became one of our favourite countries in Europe. With stunning mountain landscapes, beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and delicious food, it’s becoming one of the most up-and-coming European destinations. The hiking trails in Albania are remote and beautiful, perfect if you want to fully immerse yourself in nature.
What is the prettiest place in Albania?
Albania is full of so many stunning places, it’s hard to choose just one! If you love hiking and being in the mountains, Theth has to be considered the prettiest place in Albania. Nestled into a valley in the heart of the Albanian Alps, with beautiful rivers, waterfalls, and quaint mountain huts, Theth has to take the number one spot.
If you prefer beaches, Aquarium beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Albania. Tucked away with no amenities, the sparkling turquoise water is simply stunning.
Wrap Up: Hiking In Albania
Immersing yourself in the hiking trails of Albania is the best way to discover this beautiful, mountainous country. From the rugged peaks of the Accursed Mountains, to the tranquil lakeshores and crashing waterfalls, Albania offers something for every kind of hiker.
The Albanian hiking experience not only immerses you in the breathtaking beauty of the country, but also provides you with the unique opportunity to discover traditional villages and warm hospitality along the way.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker ready to tackle the country’s toughest trails, or someone who simply wants to immerse themselves in the serenity of nature, there really is something for everyone.
The memories you make on these trails will last a lifetime, and even if the going gets tough, you won’t regret your decision one minute. The views during the hike, and the feeling of accomplishment when you finish, will make every difficult step worth it.
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