Welcome to Albania! Your journey begins in Tirana, where we meet you at the airport or city center for a warm welcome and a brief orientation. Equipped with all materials for this self-guided tour, you are ready to embark on an adventure along one of Europe's most stunning hidden coastlines. Leaving the city behind, you head south toward the Albanian Riviera, passing through untamed landscapes, rolling hills, and ancient waterways. The Vjosa River, Europe’s last wild river, flows freely through pristine valleys, while the Narta Lagoon glistens in the sunlight, serving as a sanctuary for flamingos and migratory birds. As you ascend toward Llogara Pass, the road reveals breathtaking views of Vlora Bay and the endless Ionian Sea. Through the Llogara Tunnel, a different world awaits—the Riviera in all its Mediterranean splendor. Winding roads meander through whitewashed villages and olive groves, descending toward the charming seaside town of Himarë, your home for the next five nights. Here, the sea meets the mountains, the air is filled with the scent of citrus and salt, and the slow rhythm of coastal life embraces you. Unwind by the shore, savor fresh seafood, and allow the promise of adventure settle in. The true journey begins tomorrow.

 Highlights of the day:

• Vjosa River & Narta Lagoon – Witness the untouched beauty of one of Europe’s last wild rivers and the peaceful saltwater lagoon, home to flamingos and rich wildlife.
• Panoramic Views Over Vlora Bay – Take in stunning views where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas meet, framed by dramatic cliffs and endless blue waters. 

Travel Details: Arrival in Albania and transfer to Himarë; Expected travel distance: ~180 km; Overnight in Himarë at hotel (-/-/-)

The day begins with a scenic drive along the dazzling Ionian coast, where the morning sun sparkles over the endless blue sea. As you turn inland, the road gently ascends to Kudhës, a quiet village nestled among olive groves and traditional stone houses. In the heart of the village, the shade of ancient plane trees offers the perfect setting for a morning coffee, where the warmth of the locals makes you feel like a welcomed guest rather than just a traveler passing through. Leaving Kudhës behind, the trail transforms into a rugged shepherd's path, lined with fragrant oleander blossoms and towering cypress trees. As you ascend, curious goats pause their grazing to watch you pass, their bells chiming softly in the mountain breeze. Upon reaching the terraced fields above the valley, the view suddenly unfolds—a sweeping panorama of the Ionian Sea, with the silhouette of Corfu rising in the distance. This is the magic of the Albanian Riviera: a blend of unspoiled nature and ancient traditions, untouched and unhurried. 

Soon, you arrive at Old Qeparo, perched on the hillside like a forgotten world frozen in time. Winding cobblestone streets lead past stone houses adorned with climbing ivy, while hidden viewpoints offer stunning vistas over the olive groves and the shimmering coastline below. From here, choose your path: descend to New Qeparo for a refreshing dip in the sea, or extend your journey along the hillside, following a tranquil coastal route to Borsh, where the landscape unfolds in one final breathtaking display of unspoiled beauty.

Highlights of the day: 

• Hike Through Olive Groves & Shepherds’ Trails – A peaceful ascent lined with cypress trees, oleanders, and grazing goats.
• Panoramic View Over the Ionian Sea & Corfu – A picture-perfect moment from the terraced hillsides.
• Еxplore Old Qeparo – Wander through a timeless stone village with breathtaking viewpoints over the coastline.

Travel Details: Trekking distance: ~12 km; Time: 5,00h. Up: +425 m/Down: -425m. Overnight in Himarë at hotel (B/-/-)

Today’s journey is a perfect blend of hiking and swimming, where rugged cliffs meet shimmering turquoise waters. Instead of mountain trails, the path winds along the coastline, guiding you from one breathtaking beach to another. This is the essence of the Albanian Riviera—a landscape of sun-drenched shores, secluded coves, and timeless villages. A 30-minute morning drive leads you to Vuno, a picturesque hillside village where white stone houses, ancient Orthodox churches, and a vibrant central café invite you to pause and take in the charm. From here, the descent begins through centuries-old olive groves, with the scent of salt becoming more pronounced as the Ionian Sea comes into view. The first stop is Jal Beach, once referred to as "Albania’s Ibiza," followed by the hidden gem of Aquarium Beach, an unspoiled paradise where crystal-clear waters shimmer like liquid glass. As you continue along the red-earthed coastal trail, the sound of crashing waves accompanies you to Livadhi Beach, where you can enjoy a final swim before deciding your next move—walk through Himarë to your hotel or to take the ancient cobblestone path to Old Himarë, where the castle ruins and hilltop views offer a stunning sunset panorama over the coast. 

Highlights of the day:

• Olive Grove Descent to the Sea – A scenic trail leading down to the turquoise Ionian waters.
• Swim at Jal & Aquarium Beaches – Experience Albania’s most stunning and secluded swimming spots.
• Hike the Coastal Trail to Livadhi Beach – A red-earthed path with endless sea views. 

Travel Details: Trekking distance: ~12,5 km; Time: 5,00h. Up: +250 m/Down: -550m. Overnight in Himarë at hotel (B/-/-)

Today, you embark on an exploration of the lesser-known southern Riviera, where rugged mountains tower above the coastline, providing breathtaking views away from the beaten path. Leaving the beaches, your journey begins in Lukova, a tranquil village where a steep shepherd’s trail ascends the ridge. As you climb, the landscape unfolds—terraced hills cascading toward the turquoise sea, olive groves extending endlessly, and the island of Corfu emerging on the horizon. Reaching the mountain pass, you catch your first glimpse of the untamed inland wilderness beyond. For those seeking an additional challenge, weather permitting, you can hike up to Lavani Peak, the highest point in view, for a breathtaking 360° panorama. Here, amidst pure silence and untouched beauty, you settle in for a peaceful picnic, enjoying one of the most unforgettable vistas of your journey. The descent follows a wide, open gravel road, allowing you to soak in the coastal scenery as you make your way down to Piqeras, where the world slowly comes back to life. From there, a scenic transfer takes you back to Himarë, where you can relax, enjoy an evening stroll through the vibrant center, or sip a cocktail by the beach while reflecting on the day's adventures.

Highlights of the day: 

• Scenic Ridge Hike Above the Riviera – Experience breathtaking views where mountains meet the sea.
• Optional Ascent to Lavani Peak – Reach the highest point in sight for an extraordinary panorama.

Travel Details: Trekking distance: ~6 km; Time: 4,00h. Up: +450 m/Down: -500m. Overnight in Himarë at hotel (B/-/-)

Today's journey takes you once again to the southern Riviera, where history and nature intertwine along a path shaped by time. Beginning in Lukova, you wander through flower-lined houses and narrow cobblestone alleys, discovering a hidden waterfall—a small yet enchanting reminder of the region’s untouched beauty. As you descend into the endless olive terraces, you step into history. These groves, built entirely by hand, were once the product of forced labor by political prisoners during Albania’s communist era, their silent resilience etched into the landscape. Leaving the hills behind, you arrive at the serene shores of Bunec Beach, a place of haunting beauty where the open sky, calm waters, and deserted shoreline create a scene from a forgotten world. Walking along the shore, past a weathered relic of a communist-era concrete quay, you ascend a little-known path, where the Ionian Sea stretching endlessly below in vibrant shades of blue and turquoise. As the trail continues along the coastal hills, the vast expanse of Borsh Beach gradually comes into view—its inviting waters offering the perfect spot for a final swim and a moment of quiet reflection before returning to Himarë for the night.

Highlights of the day: 

• Explore Charming Lukova – Wander through cobbled alleys, traditional houses, and a hidden waterfall.
• Bunec Beach – A Scene of Tranquility – Enjoy the solitude of a nearly untouched, cinematic shoreline.
• Scenic Coastal Path Above the Ionian Sea – Follow little-used trails with breathtaking views of the turquoise waters.
• Swim & Unwind at Borsh Beach – End the walk with a dip in the longest beach of the Riviera.

Travel Details: Trekking distance: ~12 km; Time: 4,00h. Up: +225 m/Down: -400m. Overnight in Himarë at hotel (B/-/-)

Today, the Ceraunian Mountains and Llogara National Park call for an unforgettable high-altitude adventure. For those seeking a more relaxed day, you may opt to stay in Himarë and ascend in the late afternoon. However, for those ready to embrace the heights, the journey begins at Llogara Pass (1,000m), where a wide gravel path winds toward the ridge, revealing breathtaking views of the Karaburun Peninsula’s pristine western slopes cascading into the Ionian Sea. The hike along the spine of the peninsula offers sweeping panoramas—on one side, the rugged Riviera coastline, and on the other, the vast Bay of Vlora. A challenging yet rewarding ascent leads to Mt. Gjipali (1,446m), the highest point in the area, making it an ideal spot for a picnic with breathtaking coastal views. From here, the descent takes you through highland pastures and into the Deep Pass, where a rainforest-like biosphere reserve greets you with its ancient black pines and firs. Twisted by centuries of wind and often shrouded in mist, these trees create a surreal atmosphere reminiscent of an enchanted forest. As the sun sets, you arrive at your charming mountain hotel in Llogara National Park, where the crisp air and tranquil surroundings offer the ideal setting to relax before the final leg of your adventure.

Highlights of the Day:

• Scenic Ascent to Llogara Pass – Panoramic views over the Karaburun Peninsula and the Ionian Sea.
• Optional Summit of Mt. Gjipali (1,446m) – A challenging yet rewarding climb with breathtaking coastal vistas.
• Deep Pass & High Pastures – Experience a contrast of rugged landscapes and lush, hidden greenery.

Travel Details: Trekking distance: ~11 km; Time: 5,00h. Up: +425 m/Down: -625m. Overnight in Llogara at hotel (B/-/-)

Today’s journey takes you to the highest trails of the Albanian Riviera, where the Ceraunian Mountains meet the sky. A short transfer brings you to Llogara Pass (1,043 m), the starting point for an unforgettable ascent. Following a narrow, winding shepherd’s path, you hike through a forest of ancient pines, their gnarled trunks whispering stories of the past. Once tapped for resin during the communist era, these towering giants now rest peacefully, surrounded by fields of chamomile and wild sage. As you ascend, the landscape unfolds, revealing breathtaking panoramas of the Ionian Sea and the endless coastline below. The trail leads to the Dhjopuri Saddle (1,600 m), situated beneath the rocky peak of Qorre (2,018 m). This is a perfect place to pause, absorb the tranquility of the mountains, and enjoy sweeping views of Llogara Pass, the Karaburun Peninsula, and the valley of Dukat below. After soaking in the moment, you descend the same path, finishing the hike at one of the rustic restaurants where a well-deserved refreshment awaits. From here, a transfer takes you back to Tirana, where you arrive in the late afternoon. 

Highlights of the Day: 

• Breathtaking Viewpoints Over the Ionian Sea – Witness some of the most spectacular coastal panoramas of the journey.
• Reach the Dhjopuri Saddle (1,600m) – Rest beneath the towering 2,000m peak of Qorre.

‍Travel Details: Transfer: 3,5H; Trekking distance: ~5 km; Time: 4,00h. Up: +550 m/Down: -500m. Overnight in Tirana at hotel (B/LP/-)

As your journey comes to an end, Tirana invites you for one final experience of its vibrant energy. If time allows, take a leisurely stroll through the city’s lively streets, soaking in the rhythm of daily life. Savor a morning espresso at a quaint café while observing the city awaken, or explore the lively New Bazaar. For those intrigued by history, Tirana provides a fascinating glimpse into its communist past. Just a short walk from Skanderbeg Square, you can explore Bunk’Art 2, an underground bunker transformed into a museum, or visit The House of Leaves, a former surveillance center that reveals the country’s hidden stories. With memories of rugged mountains, turquoise waters, and warm Albanian hospitality, a brief transfer to the airport marks the end of your adventure. It’s not goodbye, but see you again—Albania’s mountains, sea, and warm hospitality will always be here to welcome you back!

Travel Details: Transfer for departure to Tirana International Airport; (B/-/-)