Hiking in Albania: 7 Trails You'll Love

Albania is a hiker's dream still flying under the radar: dramatic peaks, empty trails, and guesthouses that welcome you like family. Here are seven routes we never tire of.

1. Theth–Valbona Pass — the classic. A 6–7 hour crossing of the Accursed Mountains over the 1,795 m pass, with views that fill your camera roll in the first hour.

“Every trail in Albania ends with a table full of food and new friends.”

2. The Blue Eye of Theth — an easy half-day walk to a spring so vividly turquoise it looks photoshopped. Brave souls swim; the water is 10°C year-round.

3. Llogara Pass to Cika Summit — where the Riviera meets the mountains. Climb from the Llogara National Park through pine forest to views over the entire Ionian coast.

4. Koman Lake to the Shala River — combine the famous ferry ride with a hike up to the Shala river's glass-clear pools, often called Albania's Thailand.

5. Gjipe Canyon — a coastal walk to a hidden beach wedged between towering canyon walls. Go early, bring water, and stay for sunset.

6. Mount Korab — at 2,764 m, the highest peak shared by Albania and North Macedonia. A full-day ascent for experienced hikers, best June to September.

7. Dajti by the old trails — skip the cable car and hike up Tirana's backyard mountain through beech forest, finishing with a well-earned meal at the top. Whatever you choose, the mountains of Albania will surprise you.