Internationale groepsreis Walking in Albania

Walking in Albania

An excellent mixture of walking and sightseeing in a country I knew very little about. Theth / Valbona have spectacular Alpine scenery, very green in June but with snow still on the peaks. The people were really friendly, the food was superb (salads, grilled vegetables, aubergines, lamb, and one of the best steaks I've ever had - in Kosovo - the Pinot noir there was a bargain too), prices cheap....go before more people discover it !

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The walking in the north of the country is the highlight and I think Exodus should incorporate an extra night there, miss out Llogara national park which does not really justify the long drive that far south. I enjoyed the sights in Berat, Apollonia and Ardenica but that's enough driving time without going further down to Llogara / Vlore.

What did you think of your group leader?

Dori was indefatigably enthusiastic, knowledgeable and great company, he seemed to know everyone everywhere we went ! Our driver Timo was really helpful too and often came with us into places and on walks

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

As others have commented, there are some long drives but don't go to Albania without seeing the north. Take euros, they are accepted in many places as well as lek. Forget any preconceptions about the country, it is a very safe country to travel to. Raingear useful, we had storms at some point most days. And read up a bit on the history before you go.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Willeke

Het was een fantastische reis. Nog net op tijd om ongerept Albanië te leren kennen.

Walking in Albania

This like many of the exodus trips did not disappoint. What a welcome from our local rep Dorien , despite the heat of the day he was smiling all the time. the trip starts quietly in Tirana then moves into the mountains, fough roads even river beds we got through to the wonderful area around Theth, magnificent in a rugged way. Then the walks start, if you are not fit these next three days will find you out, up hill and more, but the scenery and view is worth it. The trip brings you to Berat with it`s wonderful cafe culture with long boulevards. This largely undiscovered country and its people are so welcoming and friendly that it was a sad day when this holiday came to an end.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

My highlight`s are many but the view you get from standing high on of the Albanian alps taking in the magnificent scenery is breathtaking.

What did you think of your group leader?

Dorien. Well what a man he is not only well learned in the history of Albania, he is also funny, he also was able to relate to all the group, whatever age or gender.He was just lovely.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Go with an open mind and just enjoy this wonderful country

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Walking and More in Albania

This trip offers a combination of (fairly serious) walking and culture, and as such might be slightly mis-named, in that the walking is concentrated at the start and the trip then becomes more of a mix - this is worth pointing out in case you are expecting heavy duty walking every day. It didn't bother me though, I loved the mix and exploring this fascinating country still struggling with its new freedom whilst also giving the old legs a bit of a stretch. There's a fair bit of travelling around, but nothing too serious, and I found the day trip into Kosovo provided an extra dimension.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Two things - the sense of achievement on reaching the summit of the mountain pass, which provided a rewarding view for the considerable effort involved to get there, and connecting with the locals. Dorian, our guide, seemed to know someone wherever we went, and these contacts were free with their thoughts and feelings and didn't mind how many questions we asked them. They were also extremely free with the raki! These were experiences I seriously doubt I'd have got if solo travelling.

What did you think of your group leader?

Dorien is a great guide, very eager to please, maybe even too eager. He could afford to relax more, maybe eat with the group, but he is always thinking about how to make the trip better. This a laudable aim, but for now let's enjoy it as it is!

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Definitely pack good walking boots and wet weather gear. Otherwise, no need to overdo it (as I did). Also, make sure you are relatively fit or you won't get the most out of the trip. Finally, to reiterate if you want to do 10 miles every day, this may not be the trip for you. If you want a mix, it is.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Albania feels very safe, and although one of our group had a camera stolen, it's entirely possible the culprit was another traveller when we stopped at a guest house (not from our group I hasten to add). The accommodation was also of a pretty good standard - aircon and wifi was freely available (not everywhere, but mostly), although there were no safes in any of the rooms.

WALKING IN ALBANIA

A fabulous holiday - superb landscape, wonderful ancient history, inspiring modern history, extremely hospitable people, we were treated like guests not tourists and the walking was good too!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Walking - completing the first days walk, much tougher than I had expected.  On the second day I hitched a lift on the luggage mule and although it was unorthodox I amazed myself by not falling off.  On all walks there were amazing views of unspoilt landscape Food for thought - the lonely cemetery in a Kosovan field, 400 graves , all male, all killed on the same day.  A sombre thought provoking moment in a week of fun and laughter. History - the Apollonia site with explanation by the archaeologist in charge - erudite and easy to listen to. Folklore - seeing real people performing with pride just for Exodus, an initiative to increase the local prosperity and pride. Discovery - being a pioneer, not only of this trip but in terms of visiting a country still largely unknown to the English Result - coming home to find 2 inches off my waist and 6lbs gone despite the generous meals!

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader was Dorien.  He was superb - full of knowledge about the history of his country and its present position.  His own experiences of growing up under communism and adapting to the present made the history real.  As this was the first Walking in Albania trip there were a few wrinkles, including the difficulty of one of the walks and the unfortunate sickness of one of our drivers but Dorien coped admirably with all difficulties.  He was unfailingly cheerful and has a vast expertise in getting things done in Albania.  Dorien and other members of his company worked tirelessly to ensure the holiday was the success that it was.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Personally I found the walking difficult - more difficult than Trins for example.  The paths are consistently steep and rocky and poles are essential.  In the mountain accommodation a torch is useful as electricity might fail.  The road travel is slow because of the state of minor roads, but this gives ample time to admire the scenery or listen to the group leader. Fresh spring water is available everywhere and the food is good - very substantial in the mountains based on meat and dairy and lighter in the centre and south.  In Berat try the local Chardonnay - wonderful

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Albania is a fabulous destination, we only saw a fraction.  It is worth going while it is still relatively undiscovered.  It is great for history buffs, great for landscape and great for the friendly, welcoming people. There are alterations that could be made to the itinerary - the start date and itinerary should be altered  so that the visit to Gjakove is NOT on Sunday when the historic bazaar is closed.  There are opportunities to spend more time in Kosovo and walk there and there is good accommodation near the Pellumbras cave which would make a good overnight base.  Although I personally loved the visit to Apollonia this could be dropped if it was decided to put more emphasis on walking.  I did love the holiday as it was, these comments are offered to improve it and make  even more special.

WALKING IN ALBANIA

Like the other nine people in my Exodus group I had only a vague preconceived image of what to expect in Albania ; possibly a rather drab, depressed society still struggling to free itself from the recent shackles of communism but with the compensatory prospect of some decent walking in a remote and little-known corner of Europe.The reality was almost overwhelming : the scenery (whether mountain or coastal) was stunning, towns and cities were bright and lively, clean, and seemingly safe; the depth of history and heritage was fascinating; and the locals were exceptionally friendly and welcoming wherever we went. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The itinerary was so full it is impossible to single out just one highlight. They must range from the spectacular mountainous landscapes around Theth and Valbona National Park to the sheer scale and drama of Berat Castle or the humbling surroundings of Ardenica Monastery. However, perhaps the abiding memory is one of the pervading optimism that seems to exist, despite the relatively short time since the demise of the repressive communist regime. The towns are vibrant, colourful and lively places. People everywhere were polite, helpful and genuinely warm and friendly. The same was true of neighbouring Kosovo. The contrast between a village cemetary, where the majority of headstones depicted deaths on the same day as a result of a massacre during the 1990's conflict, and the flourishing cafe culture and general sense of wellbeing in Prizren was truly inspirational. Both countries have made remarkable progress since their recent troubles.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader Dorien was exceptional. Intelligent (a qualified psychologist) with excellent English and a remarkable local and historical knowledge (with his father he is co-owner of the tourist company handling the trip on behalf of Exodus). The group developed a real rapport with him and greatly appreciated his efforts on our behalf. He was considering modifying some of the walking as his previous group had found it too difficult. However, we convinced him that we were capable and he even substituted a stiff 5 hour route for the easy leg-stretcher on day 2. While being in the forefront of current tourist development in Albania, he is also very much in favour of a responsible, sustainable approach to this and promoting local involvement as far as possible. He was keen to take on board any comments, suggestions or criticisms in this respect.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

While this trip is a mixture of walking and sightseeing, some of the terrain in the north of the country over the first few days is quite demanding and hardly ' moderate ' (compared, for example, to the Transyvania or Rodopi walking). A good degree of fitness is essential and poles indispensible for some of the steep rocky trails. Having said that, the toughest days come early on and the second half of the week is rather more relaxing. Exodus trip photos don't really do justice to the scenery so find some other websites to get a better idea of what is on offer. If you are fit and are considering this Albania trip then go ! I guarantee that it will exceed all your expectations. But hurry - things are developing rapidly and it won't remain a hidden gem for much longer.Catch it while its traditions and naive beauty remain largely intact.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The accommodation exceeded expectations. The Theth guesthouse was very rustic and simple but provided all necessities. Generally, however, we were more than satisfied and pleasantly surprised at the standard of the 3* hotels we used. The ' Mangalemi ' in Berat was particularly characterful. Service everywhere welcoming and either good or excellent. Prices for food and drink quoted by Exodus exceeded those that we encountered by about 30%. The general standard of restaurant food was very good and brilliant value.

WALKING IN ALBANIA

A great introduction to the northern parts of this fascianting country!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Standing on top of Valbona pass, looking in the one direction down into Theth valley, and in the other Valbona valley. Remote, windswept, with huge white mountians all around. Awe inspiring stuff.

What did you think of your group leader?

Dorien was great, very frienly and knowedgable about his country.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Brings some sweets and snacks with you into the mountains! Once you start trekking, there are no shops for 3 or 4 days, so a bit of chocolate wouldn't go amiss.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I loved it all. It was my second time in Albania, and I'll be heading back again next year. Friendly, beautiful (cheap!), with a fascinating history, it hasit all.

Walking in Albania - and sightseeing

A few beautiful walks and then some sightseeing. Great country, lovely food, better hotels than I expected.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Walking in Thethi & Valbona was great.

What did you think of your group leader?

Julian was experienced, reasurring & knowledgable. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The first two days are the walking, then the trip is mainly sightseeing. The walks are moderately challenging - mainly for the scree that you walk down. Worth it though. No special kit needed. There are some longish drives that are neccessary to see so much. Lovely to swim in the sea down in Vlore. The food was vast, amazing, filling and local. Lots of dairy and meat. Do try the local / house wine - it was remarkably good everywhere. Really. 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

WALKING IN ALBANIA

This is a new trip which still needs some work to get the balance right.  It either needs a downgrading of the difficulty level or changes to the itinerary.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The walking from Thethi and in the Valbona Valley were fabulous days and definitely at a moderate level.  The scenery in both areas is simply stunning.  Watching a huge weather system move down the Valbona Valley, complete with thunder and lightning, was amazing.  Made me feel very small yet exhilerated!  Just beautiful - at least it was until the skies opened above us!

What did you think of your group leader?

Dorien (hope the spelling is right!) is a lovely guy who is very knowledgeable about his country.  He was able to provide interesting information on almost anything we could ask him.  He obviously loves his country and took pride in showing us the best of it.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

As the trip stands at the moment it is not a moderate walking trip.  There are two moderate walks at the beginning of the week and 4 very easy walks later in the week.  Personally I would place a leisurely/moderate rating on the trip as along with the easy walks there is a lot of travelling in the bus and sightseeing involved.  If you are looking for a physical holiday you need to be aware that this trip will not tire you out each day (unless it is tiredness from the over-eating you will do!). There are some very long bus journeys which are sometimes not very comfortable but the views at the end will make it worth while.  

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The Albanian people are fantastic, the food is great, the scenery is stunning.  Personally, I would have like a lot more harder walking on the trip but I still had a fabulous time in a beautiful country that I knew very little about.  I look forward to reading some of Albania's complicated history and hopefully gaining a better understanding of the people and country.

WALKING IN ALBANIA

I would give 5 stars to the first part of the trip - Thethi and Valbona National Parks, the walks, and the guest houses we stayed in were all fantastic and just what I was hoping for in my holiday. But the rest of the trip was a very slow paced cultural/culinary tour with no walking. Perhaps it would have been a shame if I visited a country with such a depth of history and just walked in the hills, but I think others booking should know what to expect from this 'Walking in Albania' trip.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Thethi and Valbona National Parks

What did you think of your group leader?

Our leader and driver were both great - full of motivation and enthusiasm for their country and showing it to others. Very inspiring people.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Just be aware of what you are booking. Albania is a very interesting country, and if you want to mix a few days walking with the rest relaxing, long lunches, dropping into museums/castles along the way, then this could still be a good choice.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The map for the trip shows travel to the southern Llogara NP and walking areas near Berat. I think its fair to have assumed we were travelling there on a walking trip to do some further walks as in the northern NPs, but we did a drive to one lookout, and a 10 minute walk to another lookout there. No walking.

WALKING IN ALBANIA

The holiday is a mixture of walking and cultural sightseeing rather than a purely walking holiday. Albania is a wonderful country, with incredible mountains and superb History. Its tourist industry is only just beginning, meaning that some features (e.g. hotels) were less well developed than in other countries, but there was nothing which caused problems compared with the huge advantage of having people who were proud of their country and who were so keen to make tourists feel welcome. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

This has to be the two days' glorious walking in the mountains of the North. The mountains are huge, high, dramatic and virtually free of signs of human habitation for hours on end. We saw a wide range of plants and bird life, but the main excitement was just being up there. The other highlights for me were a marvellous evening being entertained by traditional musicians and dancers after the second long mountain walk - I haven't laughed as much in months - and visiting Berat, a beautiful walled town which is just like walking back in time. It reminded me of Carcassonne but without the tourists - and with significantly more free raki from the most welcoming restaurant owner in Albania. 

What did you think of your group leader?

Dorien is extremely knowledgeable about Albanian life and History, and is able to tell a story in such a way as to make it sound interesting to anyone. He is willing to talk about almost anything as well as remaining calm and cheerful all week. He was willing to listen to people's requests to alter little things, and is keen to take suggestions to keep improving the holiday.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

To get the most out of this holiday, you need to be a keen walker and interested in History, as well as not mind fairly significant bus rides. Most of our group had a walking pole and found it useful. Expect on the best walking days to be climbing continually for several hours as well as doing the same on the descent, over rocky ground. On a different note, we found that we only needed about £80 spending money as so much is included and everything is so relatively cheap. Oh yes, and take a raincoat into the mountains even if the weather is glorious, as it can become an electric thunderstorm in minutes.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This was a truly fantastic holiday. Thank you.

Amazing Albania

A challenging experience in the most stunning scenery which offers a reasonable balance between walking and sight seeing.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The moment I stepped foot on the top of the Valbone Pass - a real achievement for me to have conquered the climb!

What did you think of your group leader?

Dorian is an inspirational guide who is passionate about his country. He is knowledgeable, encouraging and supportive. We all learned so much about Albania and its history, as well as experiencing a fantastic, if challenging holiday.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Ensure your own fitness level. The early days of this holiday are challenging. I found them really difficult - primarily because I was inadequately prepared.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Accommodation throughout was very good. In the main it was better than I had anticipated. Most hotels were located in beautiful picturesque surroundings and offered comfortable rooms. I'm looking for my next Exodus adventure!

Walking in Albania

This is the second time I have done this trip and the alterations to the itinerary are good -the walking is still varied in wonderful scenery and the accommodation has improved.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

On a personal level, completing a walk I had not been able to do last year was a massive boost. For the group I feel that the traditional Albanian meal in Berat within the walls of the castle was a brilliant evening. The insights into Albanian culture gave me food for thought which will stay with me for a long time.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our guide was very friendly and helpful at all times, always looking to show us the best of Albania and making sure that at all the "sites" expert guides were available which enhanced the experience. There was also time to be spontaneous and adapt to what the group wanted to do.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

There is always a risk of electricity cuts in the country so a torch is essential. I do not normally need walking poles but I found them essential in Albania.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Albania is still unlike other countries - go with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Albanians are developing their country quickly and trying to not make the mistakes of other countries by indiscriminate development. It is a fascinating place mixing ancient and modern, welcoming to tourists who appreciate what is on offer.

Walking in Albania

The 'Walking in Albania' trip provides a wonderful opportunity to glimpse many different aspects of a fascinating and beautiful country. This is a busy and exciting holiday with never a dull moment! Most people in the group started out knowing very little about Albania because, of course, it was 'out of bounds' until Communism was overthrown in 1991. We learned such a lot! If you love climbing mountains, walking in beautiful scenery, learning about culture, history and traditions, then this is the trip for you.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Enduring memories: Watching a World Cup football match on a warm evening, in a restaurant in a beautiful park in Tirana. Reaching a beautiful mountain pass after climbing over 3,000 feet in stunning scenery and torrential rain. Driving over dry river beds at quite a speed! Learning about the difficult recent history of Albania from an excellent guide and excellent displays in Tirana Museum. Wonderful evening meal with a myriad of delicious dishes eaten in a cafe in the grounds of Berati Castle.

What did you think of your group leader?

The group leader is extremely proud of his country. He took a lot of trouble to explain Albanian customs, culture and religious tolerance to us. He was friendly and knowledgeable. Occasionally, he appeared slightly disapproving but always with a sense of fun.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Remember to use a soft bag for luggage. The mules have to carry our bags up and over a high mountain pass.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The balance of the holiday might benefit from a few tweaks. One or two days included a little too much sightseeing. Hard for some of us to take in quite so much information! The long mountain walks were at the beginning of the holiday-two big climbs on two consecutive days.

Walking in Albania

A well thought out itinerary to show various places of interest as well as good walks off the beaten track

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The family home at over 5,000 feet self sufficient having cows, sheep and chickens.

What did you think of your group leader?

A friendly informative chap but let too much time slide by to miss a few things

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If you book this for the walking and after all it is called walking in Albania you need to get at the guide about time to get everything done

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I don't want to appear to hard on our guide but we missed some walking because of time lost having coffee or lunch

Walking in Albania

A wonderful holiday. Exceeded all my expectations. Fantastic itinerary, well balanced between active and cultural activities. I can't recommend this holiday enough.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Reaching the Valbone pass, I'd injured my leg and the rest of the group went on ahead. I managed to finish the walk when I imagined myself stuck on the mountain! Albanian dancing in Berat!

What did you think of your group leader?

Dorien was wonderful. Incredibly knowledgable, enthusiastic and proud of Albania. He really went out of his way to make us welcome and comfortable, organising restaurants to eat at, helping and advising with onward travel etc.... Special thanks to him for encouraging and helping me complete the Theth to Valbone walk.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Walking poles would probably be helpful.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

walking in albania

very good trip showing the best of albania

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

prizren mountains pellumbas cave

What did you think of your group leader?

very knowlegable and attentive to everybodys requirements

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

do not take too much luggage as it is not required

Is there anything else you would like to add?

we changed the visit to the cave to early morning on the last day this is a better idea as we were tired at the end of the previous day

Walking in Albania 16.-26.June 2015 TVZ booking 4693199

An excellent trip prepared by Albanian Company Sondor . Guide Dorian worked his socks off for the group .

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The mountains in the north (Theth and Valbone region ) flora , clear water , hospitality , traditional food . Variety of itinary (walks in the mountains, history, seaside .

What did you think of your group leader?

Dorian had the trip well prepared , very knowledgeable , nothing was too much for him. Excellent minibus and safe driver .

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Travers the pass Theth to Valbone = strenuous but possible = 7 hours .

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Next year , I would suggest to concentrate more on the north of the country , perhaps add a boat trip on Lake Komani or Lake Ohrid or/and kayak on Cape Rodini and then omit Ardenica Monastry in the south . Trip should not end in Ibe but Tirana , either centre or Airport . Trip Notes : Maps : remove possible order from Exodus shop as not possible any longer .

Walking in Albania

This is the third time I have walked in Albania and it was the best. The revised itinerary with more walking in the Theth National Park and the contrasting landscape of Rubik improves the experience. Each year the accommodation and food improves so now the while holiday is a really high standard, yet Albania still retains a "different" atmosphere making it still an adventure, and the people are all really welcoming to visitors.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Achieving all the walks without feeling stiff the next day - this has taken several months of training. Mastering a few more words of Albanian. A superb fun-filled evening in Berat.

What did you think of your group leader?

Nothing is too much trouble for Dorien, he constantly made sure that everyone was happy by discussing and explaining options for meals, stops etc. He completely gets the English sense of humour and helps to generate a good group atmosphere from the start. His knowledge of Albanian history is extensive but not overbearing. He is able to get the best from the local providers - guides, horse owners and guesthouse staff because of his long experience and good reputation.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take a head torch for the occasional power cut and the cave visit Take walking poles Above all - go to Albania and experience the wonderful scenery and friendly people for yourself. See a country that although almost on our doorstep still has something a little undiscovered to offer.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I have visited three times and each time seen new things, learned new thing, made new friends and achieved new things. I would go again at the drop of a hat!

Discovering a beautiful country

Overall an enjoyable holiday with a mix of scenery/walking/culture. The hotels were generally very good -better than I expected-except the last one Teater Kame. It had a nice swimming pool but the chalets had a rather run down feel. The shower head in my room was broken -more water went over the shower room ceiling than over me- although at least the water was hot. Also the hand rail outside my chalet was broken -with nails and screws exposed. The food was generally good although 5 people (luckily I was not one of them) suffered food poisoning at one hotel.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Walking in the vicinity of Thethi -particularly the walk from Thethi to Valbona. The contrast between the two sides of the pass is quite striking. Both are beautiful -but very different scenically. It was a tough walk but well worth it for the views.

What did you think of your group leader?

I thought Juri was a very good leader. She was kind and caring throughout and looked after us well. There were eight in our party and we were all very different temperamentally- but I think we all agreed that Juri was a good leader-and will get even better with more experience.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I think it might be better if the group went to pre selected restaurants where we could be sure of getting seats, getting a menu ( preferably in English) and getting served in a reasonable time. On a couple of occasions we went to restaurants on spec. One could not take us because there was a wedding party taking place and the other took over one hour to serve lunch. I would also have liked a little bit more free time to explore places on my own -particularly Berat -which is an interesting city to visit