Albania Hidden Valley Trek

The first hike starts at the doorstep of the valley. Zagoria is not yet visible as the mountain ranges of Dhembeli, Nemercka, Lunxheria, and Bureto encompass and shield it from the outside world. An almost forgotten caravan route leads inside this hidden place.

The path takes us over terraced fields to the almost deserted village of Kala and down to the river, where we cross via one of Ali Pasha’s impressive Ottoman stone bridges.

Climbing up to Limar, remains of the cobbled caravan path are visible. A stroll through the village reveals its whole extent, and you can learn more about life here from your host, a local teacher.

Only footpaths connect the villages en route to the next overnight location. Your luggage is transported by horse.

Passing several hamlets allows you to experience the rural lifestyle. You'll meet the locals along the way and get to admire the mountain peaks above and the Zagoria River below, where the cooling Doshnica Waterfall awaits.

Don't miss a chance to visit the Church of the Holy Apostles, a fine example of Orthodox heritage.

Today, a shorter and easier route with views of Mt. Cajupi allows for a relaxed but rewarding walking day. Nivan once served as the centre of the commune. Remains of military installations and storage depots are still visible, while its central square is dedicated to William Tilman, a famed British mountaineer and sailor who fought with the resistance against German occupation during WW2.

Once more, the trail takes us down to the river, monastery, and (on an optional detour) to the last of Ali Pasha’s stone bridges. After a shortcut across meadows, you reach Sheper. Many nomadic Aroman shepherds were forced to settle here during communism.

You can spend your time with the family or explore the village. This is the last village overnight.

Crossing the Dhembel-Nemercke Range is the last stage of our trek. Bunkers still protect the entrance to a crack that climbs to the top of the mountain with fabulous views of Mt. Cajupi.

The alpine valley is bare of trees and flanked by steep slopes. The Dhembel Pass sits at its end and offers views of the Eastern Mountains, across into Greece, and to the city of Permet far below.

The long rocky descent leads into Leuse, another stone village with a fresco-covered church - perhaps the most beautiful in Southern Albania.

From here, it's only a short walk to the centrally located hotel. Put your feet up and enjoy the city’s cuisine, wines, and raki.

The scenery alone is worth the 45-minute drive to today's trailhead. From afar, the sheer 650m high wall of Southern Albania's 2nd highest summit looks impressive. A walk along water channels towards the Sopot Waterfall at the wall's base reveals its full extent.

Returning from the hike, the warm thermal pools of Benje await. The sulfuric waters are said to have a healing effect and are a welcome treat after the last days of hiking. Soak and relax, or explore the river canyon on foot.

From here, it's a good 90-minute transfer to Gjirokaster, where you stay at one of the vernacular Ottoman buildings in the old town.

Gjirokastra, a world heritage site and "museum town", is famed for its intricate, fortress-like Ottoman mansions. Get lost in a maze of narrow, cobbled streets, visit one of the Ottoman mansions, and climb to the towering castle above.

To Tirana, it's a 3.5 hour drive - plan your flight accordingly or add an overnight in the modern capital, where you can visit the Skanderbeg Square and trendy "Blloku" district to watch the city come to life at night.

Time permitting, Tirana invites you to explore its streets and sights on a stroll. Sip an espresso in one of the charming bars, and observe the busy morning flow.

A private transfer is arranged to drop you off at the airport 2.5 hours prior to your flight.