An Albanian Adventure

On arrival, you will be met by your private driver/guide and transferred to Mrizi i Zanave Agritourism for a traditional lunch showcasing the flavours of northern Albania. Time is spent exploring the farm’s workshops, where local dairy produce, preserves, juices and wines are lovingly prepared.  Later in the afternoon, enjoy a guided look at Shkodra beginning with Rozafa Castle, dramatically set on a rocky hill above the confluence of the Buna, Drin and Kir rivers. Afterwards, wander through Shkodra's pedestrianised centre before visiting the Venice Art Mask Factory, renowned for its handcrafted masks. Overnight in Shkodra. (L)

After breakfast, travel to Koman to board the famed Koman Ferry for one of Albania’s most spectacular journeys. The leisurely cruise winds through dramatic gorges and narrow stretches of water, framed by soaring mountains rising up to 1,500 metres. Disembarking at Fierza, continue by road to the heart of the Valbone Valley National Park. On arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy a free afternoon to relax or explore the pristine surroundings, with opportunities for gentle walks and fresh mountain air. Spend two nights in Valbone. (B)

After breakfast, set out to explore the unspoilt landscapes of Valbone National Park, gaining an insight into the traditional mountain way of life. The day begins with a visit to the Valbone Waterfall, before reaching Livadhet e Gjarprit for lunch at a local shepherd’s home in the Serpent Mountain area, where you are welcomed with hearty, home-cooked regional specialities prepared using local ingredients. This afternoon, return through the national park on a scenic walk back to Valbone village, with time to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna and the tranquillity of the surrounding valleys - approx 1-2 hour walking. (B,L)

This morning, depart Valbone and travel across the border into Kosovo to visit one of Kosovo’s most culturally diverse cities. En route, stop at the Visoki Decani Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its exceptional medieval frescoes and serene setting. On arrival in Prizren, enjoy a guided tour taking in key landmarks, including the Sinan Pasha Mosque, the elegant 16th-century Stone Bridge, the Church of Our Lady of Ljeviš and the Catholic Cathedral, reflecting the city’s rich religious heritage. After free time for lunch, continue the journey south back into Albania and the capital Tirana for a 2 night stay. (B)

Begin the day with a visit to Bunk’Art 1, a thought-provoking museum housed in a former communist-era bunker, offering an insight into Albania’s recent history. Continue to the Dajti Ekspres cable car, ascending towards Mount Dajti for sweeping views over Tirana and surroundings. Returning to the city centre, take a leisurely walk around Skanderbeg Square, framed by many of Tirana’s most important landmarks, including the National History Museum with its mosaic façade, the Opera and Ballet Theatre, the Clock Tower and the Pyramid of Tirana. The tour concludes with visits to the elegant Et’hem Bey Mosque and the nearby Orthodox Cathedral, symbols of the city’s rich cultural heritage. (B)

After breakfast, depart Tirana and travel south towards Berat, with a stop in the lakeside town of Belsh. Here, enjoy a gentle stroll through the pedestrian centre and take in panoramic views across Lake Belshi, one of the region’s many scenic reservoirs. Continue to the Osum River on the outskirts of Berat for an exhilarating white water rafting experience (subject to weather conditions), offering a memorable perspective of the area’s dramatic natural scenery. Afterwards, proceed to Berat and check in for an overnight stay. Later this afternoon, explore the historic quarters of Mangalem and Gorica, famed for their white Ottoman houses climbing the hillside and linked by the elegant stone bridge across the river. Overnight in Berat. (B)

Set out to explore Berat Castle, perched high above the city and offering sweeping views across Berat’s white-washed houses, the Osumi River and distant Mount Tomorr. Within the fortress walls, visit the Onufri Iconographic Museum, home to a remarkable collection of vividly coloured Orthodox icons. Continue south to the coastal city of Vlore from where you board your private speedboat for a tour around Sazan Island and the Karaburun Peninsula, discovering pristine waters, rugged coastline and secluded bays (there will be time for swimming so where your swimsuit!) Afterwards, head to your coastal hotel in Vlore for a 3 night stay. Bid farewell to your driver/guide here. (B) 
 

Relax and enjoy the facilities at the hotel, or further explore the area under your own steam. (B)

Relax and enjoy the facilities at the hotel, or further explore the area under your own steam. (B)

You will be collected and transfered back to Tirana Airport for the return flight. (B)