Description – why you need to visit this place ⚡
Honestly, some of the most incredible scenery I have ever seen. Albania hiking is so underrated. This hike is really popular in the north of Albania. It goes from Valbona to Theth, or you can also do it the other way around. There is a lot of discussion about which way is best, but I think Valbona-Theth was a good route, especially as there are more forests towards Theth which provided some much-needed shade towards the mid to end of the day.
Location information 📍
Start point coordinates
42.443898, 42.443898
End point coordinates
42.403673, 19.769226
Location details
There is not a distinct start and end point to the trail. It just depends on where you are staying.
Route description 🔍
There are lots of people doing the route and it is very easy to follow. We only used a map to get onto the proper trail and then followed the signs from there.
Parking info 🚙
NA - we used public transport to get to our accommodation in Valbona and back from Theth. I used Komani Lake Ferry (https://komanilakeferry.com/) to book transportation from Shkoder to Valbona, and then also from Theth back to Shkoder. I believe they also organise transport from the capital, Tirana.
Tips/tricks/advice... 🤘
Check the weather - it's mostly sunny but there was a hale storm the day before I did the hike. The route is pretty easy terrain - I did it in trainers and it was not a problem.
Coffee recommendations ☕
Simoni Cafe (https://maps.app.goo.gl/D99YJsMrgtFKQcdZ7) towards the start of the trail (from Valbona side) is a really nice place to stop off. I got an incredible iced coffee from here! They also sell snacks and beers and you can top up your waters and go for a toilet break. Definitely recommend stopping off here.
Food recommendations 🍴
Bar Kafe Zef Rrgalla (https://maps.app.goo.gl/vp5uMwSP6NsY3fRz6) closer to the Theth side of the trail is a great place to stop off for food. They sell lots of traditional Albania food. It also has a beautiful view.
Pub recommendations 🍻
There are lots of places to stop off for a drink along the trail and in Valbona and Theth themselves.
Other recommendations nearby 👀
In Valbona I stayed at Jezerca Guesthouse and in Theth I stayed at Guest House Rrashkadoli. Both were really lovely guesthouses. Jezerca Guesthouse in Valbona was a little further from the trail than some other guesthouses. But Guest House Rrashkadoli was closer to the end of the trail. Guest House Rrashkadoli is super small (I think there were 8 people staying there in total) and we all had dinner and breakfast together, it has a really nice vibe. Jezerca Guesthouse was a bit bigger, we played cards with the other guests and owners and it was really fun. I would recommend staying at either of these guesthouses and I had a lovely stay at both.
Stay wild,
