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Albanian Riviera – Beach, Culture & Hike

Albanian Riviera – Beach, Culture & Hike

Price

760

Duration

6 days

Max People

8

Min Age

12

Tour Type

Overview

Albanian Riviera trip is carefully designed to enjoy the best of the Ionian coast through nature and culture. It is an active tour recommended for families, couples, or friends who prefer to hike, walk, horse riding, and explore the local culture.

Highlights:

Berat castle, Mangalem, and Gorica neighborhoods (UNESCO)

Hike Qorra peak in Llogara national park

Hike Gjipe bay, canyons, and relax on the beach

Butrint archeological site (UNESCO)

Gjirokaster city (UNESCO)

Horse riding in Gjirokaster 

Included/Excluded

  • Professional tour guide/driver
  • Transportation with comfortable car as per itinerary
  • Fuel, taxes, and parking
  • Accommodation in double/twin rooms with breakfast
  • Entrance fee Onufri Museum
  • Entrance fee Porto Palermo fortress 
  • Entrance fee Butrint archeological park
  • Entrance fee Gjirokaster fortress and Weapons museum
  • Entrance fee Zekate House
  • Meals
  • Tips
  • Personal Expenses

Tour Plan

Day 1. Tirane – Berat – Albanian Riviera (250 km)

The tour guide will meet at your hotel lobby and continue driving to the city of Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here you will explore the ancient history of the city and the three quarters, that have made this city special: Mangalem, Gorica, and Kalaja. The guided city tour includes a visit inside the largest habited castle in Albania. Later we head to walk through tiny narrow streets of Mangalem and Gorica neighborhoods. The local experience here is incomparable, from going inside ottoman mosques to visiting orthodox churches. 

The city is very famous for its ancient olive groves and vineyards. A local delicious meal is highly recommended in Berat.

In the afternoon you will head to the Ionian coast to accommodate and catch the sunsets. 

Day 2. Hiking Qorra Peak

Mornings by the sea are the best. After a traditional breakfast, we hike our boots for an interesting hiking day. The destination of the day is Qorra peak which offers great panoramic views of the Ionian coast, Karaburun peninsula, and Corfu island. Our professional guide will walk you through the dense pine forest. The trail is maintained and a moderate level. 

The total hiking time is between 6-7 hours. The afternoon is dedicated to relaxing by the beach.

Additional information:

Total hiking distance: 7km Min Elevation: 1002 meters Max elevation: 2015m Time: 7-8 hours Level: Moderate

Day 3. Gjipe hiking and Canyon (30 km)

Another beautiful morning by the sea. Today we walk to the hidden bay of Gjipe, which is uniquely created by canyons possible to explore inside. The guided tour walks down to the beach where you will swim in the crystal blues waters, have local seafood, and explore inside the deep canyon. This is a wonderful experience for those who love adventure. In the afternoon we head to Qeparo village to accommodate.

Additional information: 

Walking time: 1.5-2 hours Distance: 4 km

Day 4. Albanian Riviera & Sarande (40 km)

After breakfast, we prepare to discover the rest of the Albanian Riviera. The first stop will be the medieval village of Qeparo. The guided tour walks around to visit orthodox churches and get closer to the local lifestyle. Later we drive further to Porto Palermo bay, a well-defended medieval fortress with an intriguing story. Next, we head down south to Saranda. The city has great nightlife and summer vibes to relax. Accommodation in Saranda.

Day 5. Butrint – Gjirokaster (90 km)

In the morning we drive more south to the archeological site of Butrint. Butrint is inhabited since prehistoric times by different colonies and it’s been listed under UNESCO World heritage since 1992. The guided tour takes approximately 2 hours walking through the speechless ruins accompanied by the history of our guide. 

The next destination is another World Heritage Site, the city of Gjirokaster. It is recognized as Stone City for its medieval fortress and characteristic houses. The old Bazar of Gjirokaster is certainly a gem to be explored. Accommodation in guesthouse.

Day 6. Gjirokaster - Nivice – Tirane (260 km)

The tour continues to the inland of Laberia province. This famous mountain area is the origin of the Albanian ruler Ali Pashe Tepelena, who served as a pasha during the 19th century in the Ottoman Empire. You will visit the water viaduct of Ali Pasha, which is proof of the development that received the area during his reign. Later we head to Peshtura Waterfalls to explore the karstic springs and swim in the blue crystal waters. After lunch in Nivice village above the canyons, we head to the capital Tirana. Additional information: Distance: 2 km | Elevation gain: 250 meters | Time: 1 hour | Difficulty: Easy

Tour Map

Maps

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See Trips was created with the only mission to make Memories for tourists visiting the southeast Europe region. We like to create unique experiences by combining local culture, nature, and fun. Our team has understood from past background in tourism that travelers have changed nowadays and they love to involve with local communities.

Address

Tirana, Albania 1001

Phone

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