Hidden Valley Trail

Today marks the start of your trek at the edge of the remote Zagoria Valley, a pristine tributary within Europe’s first Wild River National Park. Entering this hidden landscape along an ancient caravan route, you walk through a valley shaped by history, with traces of Ottoman bridges and Orthodox churches along the way.

The hike begins with a steady ascent through open woodland to a mountain pass, offering sweeping views across the entire valley. A gentle descent through terraced fields leads to the tiny hamlet of Kala, home to just a handful of residents, where you can cool off beneath an impressive Ottoman stone bridge.

Continuing along the old cobbled caravan path, the trail climbs toward Limar, a traditional village set against expansive views of Mount Strakavec and its distinctive stone houses. In the evening, you are welcomed into a family-run guesthouse, where a home-cooked dinner and local hospitality offer a memorable introduction to life in this secluded corner of Albania.

Distance: 11 km
Climb: 750 meters
Overnight: Limar

Today’s walk follows scenic foothpaths high above the winding Zagoria River, with sweeping views of the surrounding mountain ranges. The trail connects the remote villages of Leskaj, Doshnica, and Hoshteve, offering insight into traditional rural life shaped by animal husbandry, beekeeping, and the gathering of medicinal herbs.

After a coffee stop in Doshnica, we reach the basin above Doshnica Waterfall, where a refreshing foot soak provides a welcome break. Depending on water levels, the route continues along the stream or returns to the village before the final ascent to Hoshteve.

Upon arrival, we visit the Church of the Holy Apostles, one of the finest examples of rural Orthodox heritage in Albania, renowned for its Byzantine frescoes and intricate wood carvings. In the evening, we are warmly welcomed by our hosts, Katrina and Ladi, members of the returning diaspora, who share their story over a delicious home-cooked dinner at their family-run guesthouse.

Distance: 14,5 km
Climb: 725 meters
Overnight: Hoshteve

Today’s route is shorter and more relaxed, with constant views of Mount Çajupi (2,145 m). Walking along gentle paths, we pass through the villages of Vithuq, Koncka, and Nivan, connected by unpaved roads that hint at the gradual arrival of the outside world.

Once the administrative heart of the area, Nivan reveals traces of its recent history, including former military installations and a central square dedicated to William Tilman, the legendary British mountaineer who supported local resistance during World War II.

Continuing on, the trail descends through oak forest toward the river, where we visit a historic monastery. If time allows, a short detour leads to one of Ali Pasha’s stone bridges before reaching Sheper. Here, we spend the night with our hosts, Antoneta and Mondi, in a village marked by Aromanian heritage and poignant reminders of Albania’s communist past.

Distance: 12,5 km
Climb: 600 meters
Overnight: Sheper

Today marks the final stage of the trek as we cross the Dhembel-Nemercke Range, returning to the outside world. The trail, still used by locals, climbs past Enver Hoxha’s historic bunkers and offers stunning views of Mount Çajupi (2,145 m) and the surrounding alpine valleys. Shepherds from as far as Konispol bring their flocks to these fertile summer pastures, sometimes traveling for weeks.

The bare alpine valley is flanked by steep slopes, culminating at the Dhembel Pass (1,450 m), with panoramic views across the Eastern Mountains, into Greece, and down to the city of Përmet. A careful descent along rocky trails brings us to Leuse, a traditional stone village featuring an impressive fresco-covered church, one of the finest in Southern Albania.

From Leuse, it’s a short walk to our centrally located hotel, where you can relax after a long day and enjoy the region’s renowned cuisine, wines, and raki.

Distance: 10 km
Climb: 625 meters
Overnight: Permet

Today begins with a scenic 45-minute drive to the trailhead, where the turquoise Vjosa River has carved deep into the rock, and Mount Nemercka (2,485 m) towers above. From a distance, its 650 m sheer face impresses, but a walk along the water channels to Sopot Waterfall at the base reveals its full majesty.

After the hike, a natural gem awaits at the Langarica Canyon, where the warm thermal pools of Benje offer a relaxing soak said to have healing properties—perfect after several days of trekking. You can also explore the canyon on foot before transferring (about 90 minutes) to Gjirokastër.

Tonight, you stay in a traditional Ottoman-style mansion in the old town. Stroll through the charming streets of the “City of Stone”, enjoy the historic atmosphere, and relax in one of its cozy cafés. Tomorrow offers more time to discover this remarkable city.

Distance: 6 km
Climb: 300 meters
Overnight: Gjirokaster

Today we explore Gjirokastër, famed for its intricate Ottoman mansions and preserved as a “Museum Town” and UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city survived socialist modernization campaigns and retains its historic charm.

Wander through narrow cobbled streets, visit the ethnographic museum, and climb to the towering castle above. The clock tower offers sweeping views over the Drino Valley, a perfect reminder of the recent trekking days.

In the afternoon, transfer (up to 4 hours) to Tirana, Albania’s modern capital. Explore Skanderbeg Square and the trendy Blloku district, where cafés, bars, and nightlife bring the city to life. This is the ideal place to relax and enjoy the vibrant urban atmosphere after days of trekking.

Distance: 6 km
Climb: 250 meters
Overnight: Tirana

The last day in Tirana offers a chance to explore the city’s streets and landmarks if time permits. Pause for an espresso in a quaint café, watch the lively morning activity, and pick up edible souvenirs at the bustling “New Bazaar.” To learn about Albania’s communist history, visit “Bunkart 2” and “The House of Leaves,” both just a five-minute walk from Skanderbeg Square. Your Albanian adventure concludes with a 30-minute transfer to the airport.