Albania Coastal Walk

Upon arrival in Tirana (at the airport or in the city), our representative will greet you and provide all the essentials for your journey: a detailed roadbook, maps, GPS unit, and a local SIM card. You'll also receive a comprehensive briefing about the exciting days ahead. The scenic drive south to the Albanian Riviera offers a feast for the senses. Travel alongside the winding Vjosa River, marvel at the salt pans of the Narta Lagoon, and enjoy sweeping coastal views from above the Bay of Vlore before passing through the iconic Llogara Tunnel. On the other side, the sun-drenched Riviera unfolds, with its azure waters and charming Mediterranean villages. Your journey concludes for the day in the delightful seaside town of Himarë, where your beachfront hotel will serve as your home base for the next five nights. From here, daily transfers will take you to explore the Ionian Coast’s trails, villages and stunning pebble beaches.

Your morning begins with a scenic drive to the charming inland village of Kudhes. As the road winds upward through groves of olive trees and clusters of houses, you’ll arrive in the heart of the village, where the shady canopy of ancient plane trees offers a perfect spot to enjoy a coffee alongside warm and welcoming locals. From Kudhes, a rocky shepherds' path beckons, adorned with vibrant pink oleanders and verdant cypress trees. As you ascend gently, pass by flocks of goats grazing nearby. Higher up, the terraced fields reveal breathtaking views of the deep blue Ionian Sea, with the island of Corfu shimmering on the horizon. Your hike continues to the hilltop village of Old Qeparo, a timeless labyrinth of stone houses and cobbled streets. Here, history seems to linger, and a hidden viewpoint offers sweeping vistas of olive groves and the serene shoreline below. From this enchanting spot, you can choose to descend to New Qeparo by the beach or extend your walk along the hillside towards Borsh, savoring more of the stunning coastal landscape. Activity: +425m/1400ft, -1400ft/-425m, 12km/7.5mi Transfer: 2 x 20 min

Today’s route trades mountains for dramatic cliffs and the fragrant Mediterranean maquis, guiding you from one dazzling beach to the next. Though not a flat walk, it’s the perfect hike-and-swim adventure from beach to beach. Your day begins with a 30-minute drive to Vuno, one of the Riviera’s most distinctive upper coastal villages. Its whitewashed houses cascade down the hillside, interspersed with centuries-old Orthodox churches. At the heart of the village, an open-air café and a partisan memorial invite you to pause and explore. From here, a gentle descent through olive groves carries you toward the sea, where the salty breeze hints at the beauty ahead. The first beach, Jal, has earned comparisons to Ibiza with its lively atmosphere, while nearby lies the secluded gem known as “The Aquarium.” Accessible only on foot, this small cove is named for its unbelievably clear, turquoise waters. The journey continues along a red-earthed trail, flanked by stunning coastal views and the rhythmic sound of waves, leading you to Livadhi Beach. Here, you can linger for a swim in the inviting waters, stroll back through Himarë to your hotel, or take the thousand-year-old cobblestone path up to Old Town Himarë. Perched high above the coast, the hilltop village and its ancient castle offer panoramic views, a serene atmosphere, and a magical setting—especially as the sun sets over the Ionian Sea. Activity: +250m/825ft, -550m/1815ft, 12.5km/8mi Transfer: 30 min

Today takes you to the lesser-known southern reaches of the Riviera for a stunning walk along a mountainous coastal trail —an experience that contrasts beautifully with the beaches. Starting in Lukova, a steep shepherd’s path leads you toward the ridge, where terraced hills seem to plunge into the turquoise sea below. As you ascend, the island of Corfu emerges on the horizon, adding a touch of magic to the sweeping coastal panorama. Reaching the pass, you’ll catch a glimpse of the wild and untamed inland landscape on the other side of the mountain. For those seeking an extra challenge, weather permitting, you can tackle the steep but straightforward ascent to Lavani Peak, the highest point in sight. From this vantage point, the olive-draped coastal slopes and the bays of tomorrow’s walk create one of the most spectacular views of the entire trip—a perfect backdrop for a peaceful picnic break. The descent takes you along a wide, exposed gravel road, offering uninterrupted views as you make your way down to the quiet village of Piqeras, where modern life gently reappears. A scenic drive along the serpentine road returns you to Himarë, where you can relax and unwind. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the lively town center or sip a cocktail by the beach as the day comes to a close. Activity: +525m/1722ft, -550m/1805ft, approx 8km/5mi Transfer: 45 min + 35 min

Today's relaxed and varied walk leads you once again to the southern side of the Riviera, blending natural beauty with historical intrigue. Starting in Lukova, you meander through flower-adorned houses, wander down old cobblestone alleys, and even stumble upon a hidden waterfall. The route then leads you along uniform paths and through terraces of olive groves—crafted entirely by hand during the communist era, where political prisoners were forced into labor to create this landscape. A gentle descent brings you to the serene Bunec Beach. With its open skies, tranquil sea, and the striking emptiness of its pebbled shore, it feels like a scene from a desert island film. Walking along the shoreline, you’ll pass a relic of the past—a concrete quay—before ascending a rarely used path that offers breathtaking views of the shimmering turquoise waters below. The walk continues along the hillside, immersing you in the Mediterranean atmosphere as the seemingly endless expanse of Borsh Beach gradually comes into view. Its inviting waters call for a refreshing swim and the chance to savor one final mental snapshot of this ideal coastal setting. Afterward, you’ll return to Himarë for your final overnight stay, reflecting on the day’s walk. Activity: +225m/745ft, -400m/1320ft, 12km/7.5mi Transfer: 45 min + 25 min

Today, the majestic heights of the Ceraunian Mountains and Llogara National Park await. For those seeking a more relaxed pace, you can opt to skip this challenging hike, enjoy a leisurely day in Himarë, and transfer to the mountains in the late afternoon. A driver will take you to the summit of the Llogara Pass, over 1,000 meters above sea level. From here, a wide gravel path ascends steadily toward the ridge, where the lush green slopes of the Karaburun Peninsula drop dramatically into the deep blue Ionian Sea. The walk along the peninsula’s spine reveals breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged Albanian Riviera to one side and the Bay of Vlorë to the other. For those eager for an extra challenge, a rocky, partially trail-less route leads to Mount Gjipali (1446m). Here, you can pause for a high-altitude picnic, soaking in the untamed beauty of the entire coastal landscape. The descent takes you through serene mountain pastures and into the "Deep Pass," a rainforest-like corridor shaded by ancient trees. This biosphere reserve is home to 500-year-old black pines and firs, their gnarled forms shaped by the relentless mountain winds. When shrouded in mist, the forest feels almost enchanted, a place of otherworldly beauty. Tonight, you’ll stay in a cozy mountain hotel nestled within the national park, a perfect retreat after a day of adventure and awe-inspiring views. Activity: +425m/1400ft, -625m/2065ft, 11km/6.9mi Transfer: 1 h

Today begins with a short transfer to the trailhead at the summit of the Llogara Pass (1043m). From here, a narrow and occasionally steep trail leads you through a forest of ancient snakeskin pines. Once tapped for resin during the communist era, these towering giants now stand peacefully amidst wild chamomile and sage. As you ascend the zigzagging shepherd’s path, the first viewpoint offers a stunning panorama of the endless Ionian Sea and the dramatic Albanian Riviera below. Your ultimate destination is the Dhjopuri Saddle (1600m), nestled beneath the imposing rocky peak of Qorre (2018m). Here, you can pause to rest and savor the breathtaking views of the Llogara Pass, which divides the Karaburun Peninsula from the rest of the Riviera, as well as the village of Dukat at the mountain’s base. This serene spot is ideal for a high-altitude picnic, surrounded by the grandeur of the mountains. Afterward, retrace your steps down to one of the charming beer-garden restaurants, where you can relax before meeting your driver who will transfer you to Albania’s vibrant capital, Tirana, where you’ll arrive in the late afternoon. Prefer to explore Tirana earlier? Let us know in advance, and we’ll arrange a morning transfer to accommodate your plans. Activity: +550m/1815ft, -500m/1650ft, 5km/3.1mi Transfer: 3.5h

If time allows, take a leisurely stroll through Tirana’s vibrant streets and uncover its unique charm. Enjoy a freshly brewed espresso at one of the cafés, watch the city come alive with its morning buzz, and browse for edible souvenirs at the lively New Bazaar. For a deeper dive into Albania’s communist history, visit Bunk’Art 2 or The House of Leaves, both just a 5-minute walk from the city’s central Skanderbeg Square. Your multifaceted journey through Albania concludes with a short 30-minute transfer to the airport.