Albanian Coastal Trail

A scenic morning drive along sparkling bays leads to the inland village of Kudhes. From here, a winding path climbs through olive groves and stone houses to the shaded village center — a pleasant stop for coffee under the plane trees. The rocky shepherd’s trail beyond the village is lined with oleanders and cypress trees, where curious goats graze along the slopes. As you ascend, views open over terraced fields, the deep blue sea, and the island of Corfu. The route ends at the atmospheric Old Qeparo, with its cobbled streets and stone houses, before descending to New Qeparo by the beach or continuing along the coast toward Borsh.

Distance: 9-12 km
Climb: 375-425 meters
Overnight: Himare

Today’s route follows coastal cliffs and Mediterranean macchia from one stunning beach to the next. Though not entirely flat, it’s the perfect hike-and-swim day along the beaches that made the Albanian Riviera famous. After a short morning drive, start in the hillside village of Vuno, with its white houses, old churches, and the central open-air café. A pleasant descent through olive groves brings you to the sea near Jale, once dubbed Albania’s Ibiza, and the secluded “Aquarium,” known for its crystal-clear water. Following a red-earth trail accompanied by the sound of waves, reach Livadhi Beach, where you can relax, walk to your hotel, or climb the ancient cobblestone path to Old Himara and its hilltop castle.

Distance: 12,5 km
Climb: 250 meters
Overnight: Himare

Today’s hike explores the lesser-known southern part of the Riviera, offering a coastal mountain route opposite the beaches. From Lukova, a steep shepherd’s path leads toward the ridge, revealing terraced hills that drop into the turquoise sea, with Corfu visible on the horizon. From the pass, there’s a view of the wild inland, and in good weather, an optional ascent to Lavani Peak — the highest point in sight. The descent follows a wide gravel road with open views all the way to Piqeras, after which a scenic drive back to Himara winds along the serpentine coastal road. In the evening, enjoy some rest, a stroll in the town center, or a cocktail by the beach.

Distance: 6 km
Climb: 450 meters
Overnight: Himare

Today’s relaxed walk explores the southern side of the Riviera. Starting in Lukova, stroll through flower-adorned houses, old cobblestone alleys, and a small waterfall. The route continues along hand-built terraces of olive groves, once cultivated by political prisoners during communism. A gentle descent leads to Bunec Beach, with its tranquil sea and pebbly shore. Walking along the coastline, pass a relict concrete quay and ascend a little-used path overlooking the turquoise waters. The hillside trail gradually reveals the long Borsh Beach, perfect for a refreshing swim before returning to Himare for the overnight stay.

Distance: 12 km
Climb: 225 meters
Overnight: Himare

Today you explore the heights of the Ceraunian Mountains and Llogara National Park. Alternatively, you may skip the most demanding walk, spend the day in Himare and transfer up in the late afternoon.

A short drive takes you to the Llogara Pass at over 1,000 meters, where a wide gravel path leads to the radio towers and offers views of the Karaburun Peninsula and the deep blue Ionian Sea. Along the peninsula’s ridge, a rocky path allows for an optional climb to Mt. Gjipali (1,446 m) for a high-up picnic with panoramic coastal views. The descent passes a mountain pasture and the Deep Pass, a shaded green corridor in a protected biosphere reserve known for its ancient black pines and firs. Tonight, stay in a comfortable mountain hotel in the park.

Distance: 11 km
Climb: 425 meters
Overnight: Llogara

A short transfer brings you to the highest point of the Llogara Pass (1,043 m). The narrow, sometimes steep trail winds through ancient snakeskin pines, once tapped for resin during communist times. Climbing steadily along a zigzag shepherd’s path, you reach a viewpoint overlooking the Ionian Sea and the Albanian Riviera. The route continues to the Dhjopuri Saddle (1,600 m) beneath Mt. Qorre (2,018 m), a perfect spot for a picnic and wide-open views of Llogara Pass and Dukat village below. You return the same way to a mountain restaurant, where a driver picks you up for the transfer back to Tirana, arriving in the late afternoon.

Distance: 5 km
Climb: 550 meters
Overnight: Tirana

If time allows, take a stroll through Tirana’s lively streets. Enjoy an espresso in a cozy café, explore the vibrant “New Bazaar,” or visit “Bunk’Art 2” and “The House of Leaves” to learn about Albania’s communist past. Your journey concludes with a short transfer to the airport — farewell from the land of warm hospitality, majestic mountains, and sunlit beaches.