The Albanian Alps are one of the most beautiful regions to visit in Albania. The main reason to visit them is their unique natural beauty. You will find amazing mountains, greenery, beautiful lakes, rivers with green-blue waters, and more. Compared to other European Alps, the Albanian Alps still retain their authenticity. It is an ideal summer destination for outdoor enthusiasts. If your time in the country is limited, you can visit this incredible region even as a day trip. In this article, you will find the top 3 things to do in one day in the Albanian Alps.
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Things to know before visiting the Albanian Alps
The Albanian Alps are a mountainous destination. So, you should be prepared for outdoor activities. In this area, you will find many rivers with crystal clear waters, waterfalls, stunning mountain views, picturesque villages, and mountain lakes. The Albanian Alps are a real paradise for quality time in nature. If you want to get your adrenaline levels up, you can try more adventurous activities. Additionally, since this is a mountain excursion, you should bring comfortable shoes and clothes, a hat, and sunscreen to avoid uncomfortable situations. In case you plan to hike, you should also bring plenty of food and water. Lastly, you need to have enough cash with you, as most places do not accept credit or debit cards.
How to get to the Albanian Alps?
The most convenient way to get around and explore Albania is by car. So, renting a car or using your own is almost essential. However, you need to be an experienced driver to drive yourself anywhere in the country. Driving in the Albanian Alps will give you epic mountain views. It is so pleasant to stop and admire the beautiful landscapes. Since the Albanian Alps are located in the northern region of the country, you can find easy access via the city of Shkoder (“Shkodër” in Albanian). The latter is the starting point of the trip to the Alps. The minibus from Shkoder can get you a transfer to the Alps. There are 2 options, either you go from Shkoder to Valbona National Park or from Shkoder to Theth. As a day trip and with limited time, we suggest that you choose the first option.
The best time to visit the Albanian Alps
The best time to visit the Albanian Alps is in May or September, when the weather is nice without being too hot. From July to August, you will probably have high temperatures even in the mountains. If you want to go hiking, early morning or late afternoon is the best time for such activities. However, trekking in the dark without a guide or other people around is not recommended for obvious reasons.
Can you visit the Albanian Alps as a day trip?
Technically, if you are someone who wants to properly explore the Albanian Alps by trying outdoor activities and visiting many places, the answer is no. However, in this article, you will find a list of easy activities that make this day trip to the Albanian mountains possible. A morning start is a must.
Top 3 things to do in one day in the Albanian Alps
1-Visit the Valbona National Park
A visit to the Valbona National Park is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in the Albanian Alps. Gorgeous mountain views and iconic roads make this place very special. You will find a picturesque village that takes you back in time. It is made up of cozy cabins and surrounding mountains. You can either walk around or just enjoy a traditional meal. The stunning views of the wild landscapes will leave you in awe.
2-Walk and hike to Xhema Lake
A few kilometers away, you can take a short hike to Xhema Lake (“Liqeni I Xhemës” in Albanian). This lake is quite small, but the surrounding mountains and the green color of the water make it a real gem. Its natural beauty and the location remind us of our time in the Swiss Alps. You can take a walk or enjoy a picnic, enjoying the amazing scenery. The best time to visit is just before sunset when the colors are magical. However, you should avoid visiting after dark.
3-Enjoy the Valbona River
Before reaching the Valbona National Park, you will have many beautiful views of the Valbona River. We were blown away not only by the turquoise water of the river but also by the beauty of the landscapes around us. If you have a car, we highly recommend stopping, finding beautiful spots, and taking photos for lifetime memories. As you can see from the photo below, it is possible to do a short hike to the river. However, climbing on the huge rocks of the river is not easy and suitable for children or people with no experience. The rocks are quite slippery. The color of the water is so tempting. However, it is icy that it is almost impossible to take a dip. You can simply cool off by dipping your feet.
Final Thoughts
The Albanian Alps are one of our favorite places, not only in Albania but also in Europe. The natural beauty of these mountains is impressive. If you have the chance to visit them, even as a day trip, we cannot recommend it enough. The views, authenticity, and local food will leave you speechless. It is the perfect way to unwind and connect with nature, even for a day.
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