Destination Visit – Albania

Walking in Albania offers some of the most beautiful and genuinely untouched scenery in the entire Balkans, a landscape so raw and dramatic it feels as though much of it has been left entirely as nature intended. Towering mountain peaks rise sharply above deep river gorges and ancient pine forests, while sweeping coastal paths reveal jaw-dropping panoramas of the Ionian and Adriatic seas stretching endlessly into the horizon. Around every corner, a new and breathtaking view unfolds, whether that is a cascading waterfall tumbling into a hidden valley, a remote shepherd’s track winding through wildflower meadows, or a clifftop trail that suddenly opens onto a vista so spectacular it stops you completely in your tracks.

The waters here are nothing short of extraordinary. Crystal clear lakes and rivers shimmer in shades of turquoise and emerald that seem almost too vivid to be real, fed by glacial springs and mountain streams so pure you can see every stone on the riverbed below. Along the coast, secluded coves and near-deserted beaches are lapped by seas of glittering blue, tucked beneath dramatic limestone cliffs that plunge dramatically into the water below.

Each walk strikes the perfect balance of exploration and relaxation, taking you through hidden villages where time appears to have stood still, past crumbling hilltop ruins and ancient stone bridges, and into pockets of wilderness

The Albania trip combines two fantastic hotels, each offering a completely different experience throughout the holiday. In Tirana, guests stay at the stylish Tirana International Hotel, perfectly located in the heart of the capital and ideal for exploring Albania’s culture, cafés and historic sights.

Along the stunning Albanian Riviera, guests enjoy four relaxing nights at Regina City Hotel, a modern beachfront hotel with beautiful sea views, comfortable rooms and excellent facilities including a rooftop pool and restaurant. It provides the perfect place to unwind after a day of scenic walking.

The local cuisine of the Balkans is one of the highlights of travelling through Albania, deeply rooted in the rural traditions, pastoral farming culture and rich biodiversity that shape everyday life across the region. Dishes are built around ingredients that locals have cultivated and celebrated for generations, from the sheep and goat herds that graze the mountain highlands to the olive groves, vineyards and vegetable plots that line the Adriatic and Ionian coastlines. Guests can enjoy everything from freshly caught seafood and charcoal-grilled meats to colourful salads, flaky homemade pastries and slow-cooked stews prepared using age-old recipes passed down through families. Local customs and seasonal festivals often revolve around food, with harvest celebrations, communal bread baking and traditional folk gatherings all playing a central role in Albanian village life. Wildlife and the natural landscape are equally woven into this story, with beekeeping, foraging for wild herbs and freshwater fishing all contributing to the incredible variety on the plate. Whether dining along the Albanian Riviera or in charming mountain villages, the food perfectly reflects the warmth, heritage and hospitality of a region that remains proudly connected to its roots.

“Our visit to Albania was excellent with great guides Spiros & Jose. Spiros seemed very knowledgeable about the history & keen to pass this on to to us.”

Beverly

“What a fascinating country to visit, we learned so much, its history, culture, cuisine, beautiful countryside and coast, and all brought to life so expertly by Jose and Spierro, who went above and beyond to make this holiday such a success.”

Private group

“Everyday was different and packed with interesting itinerary.”

Private Group

“A superb holiday. I enjoyed it immensely.”

David P

“Jose the holiday rep, made the holiday. He was sensitive to everyone’s needs. He joined in, he included everyone.”

Kath I

“Fabulous rep Jose, went above and beyond to help everyone and so cheerful.”

Christine S