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Enjoy outstanding natural beauty and rich culture in undiscovered Albania
The tour starts at our hotel in Tirana, Albania’s capital. Those travelling on the group flights will be met at the airport and transferred to our hotel (approx. 30 mins). This afternoon we'll have an orientation tour of the renovated “New Bazaar” very close to our Hotel. *Hotel Capital Tirana or Similar*
After early breakfast, we take a walking tour of the colourful streets of Tirana, which was made the capital of Albania in just 1920, passing through the old castle remains, the Pyramid, Prime Minister’s Office Building Reaching an area known as Blloku, where villas were once occupied by members of The Politburo (a former leading group of the Albanian Labour party) which today the lively centre of Tirana’s nightlife where trendy bars, cafés, and fashionable clubs can be found. We will visit the National History Museum offering an impressive façade, adorned with a gigantic mosaic known as ‘The Albanians’. The exhibits within the museum give great insight into Albania’s intriguing past and recent history up to the present day. Drive to Pogradec (approx. 2.5 hrs. drive), en route we make a short stop to visit the fortress of Elbasan and possible lunch. A city influenced by various cultures including Turks and Italians, the fortress here dates back to the 15th century. The fortifications originally incorporated twenty-six towers equidistantly spaced from each other along the length of a nine-metre high wall; today the ruins can be seen along the southern wall which remains more or less intact. Our final destination for today is one of the most charming resorts in Albania, Pogradec, thanks to its position on beautiful Lake Ohrid with clear waters and mountain views. The Albanian side of the lake was included in the UNESCO protected monuments list in 2019. Keep your eyes peeled for Ohrid trout (known as ‘Koran’ in Albania), a species endemic to the lake. We go for a scenic walk at Drilon Park where the fishing Villa of Albania’s ex-dictator was situated, on the far side of the lake, to discover the waterways and ornamental plants and trees that make up this special ecosystem. *Elite Hotel* *or Similar*
This morning we continue driving for about an hour to reach Voskopoja Village (formerly known as Moskopole) an important and well-known centre of art where many talented Albanian painters chose to practice their profession. The village has suffered over the years, as many of its treasures were stolen during the second half of the 18th century and this continued during the world wars. We take a 40 minute walk to visit one of the oldest churches representing Voskopoja religious art. Another short drive (approx. 30 mins.) takes us to the largest city of south-eastern Albania, Korçë, which sits at the foot of Moravia Mountain, 800m above sea level. This city became an important trading and handicraft centre in the 18th Century and has also been referred to as ‘the city of museums’, being home to the National Museum of Mediaeval Art and Archaeology, the Museum of Education (where the first Albanian School was opened in 1878), and the new museum of ‘Bratko Collections’ displaying antiquities from the Far East. Our visit to Korçë includes the National Museum of Mediaeval Art and Archaeology, Mirahori Mosque (one of the oldest in the Balkans) and the famous church 'The Resurrection'. Korçë has been an important religious centre for Orthodox Christians. It's also worth trying the famous local beer whilst in the city. * * *Regency Hotel or Similar*
Our drive through the mountains today is truly spectacular as we enjoy sweeping views across the Gramos and Nemercka Mountains. Along the winding route, we enjoy a short stop in Ersekë, which at 1050m is the highest town in Albania. This 17th century town is surrounded by beautiful green pastures of the Gramos Mountains. In the lush forests of Leskovik we stop at a working farm situated in the beautiful woodland. We will see how the different animals are raised here, as well as sample some authentic organic produce. Continuing onwards to beautiful Përmet, we make a quick stop at the old bridge of Benje village, and the hot springs, where we have time to relax and swim. After quite a long day (approx. 5 hrs. drive in total) we arrive in Përmet, situated in the heart of the white mountains on the Vjosë River. This evening you’re sure to be in for a treat as Përmet is famous for its food and wine, including 'gliko' sweets and raki. * * *Hotel Villa Permet or Similar*
Drive to the beautiful town of Gjirokastër (approx. 2 hrs. drive), calling in at the traditional village of Dhoksat en route for a home-cooked lunch. In the afternoon we enjoy a guided visit around the famous town of Gjirokastër. Set on a mountain slope, the cobbled streets wind their way between old houses with interesting architectural features including mediaeval towers. The castle is the main feature and stands like a balcony over the town offering wonderful panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. We visit the ethnographic museum which is the house of Albania's former dictator Enver Hoxha. /Please note: Lunch with the local family can sometimes be changed to dinner dependent on their availability. / *Argjiro Hotel or Similar *
After an early breakfast, we travel to Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated about 18km south of Saranda. Butrint owes its growth and early fame to a sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine, founded in the 4th century BC. The sanctuary was located on the south slope of the acropolis (hill) and was visited by worshippers to be healed. The Sanctuary was the making of Butrint and the sacred power of Butrint's water, was to be revered as long as the town lasted. The city developed during the Roman times however it fell into decline after an earthquake and was abandoned towards the end of the Middle Ages. From here we drive to Llogora National Park stopping along the coast on the way. Overnight in Llogora. *Llogora Tourist Village Hotel or Similar*
After breakfast, we take a walk in Llogora National Park, possibly reaching Caeser’s field. Yes, Julius Caeser crossed into today’s Albania in his battles against Pompei which was won in this territory. Next, we stop at the wonderful ruins of Apollonia (approx. 1.5 -2 hrs. drive). Originally occupied by the Illyrian tribes and then the Greek colonists from Corfu and Corinth around 600BC, Apollonia flourished in the Roman period and was home to a renowned school of philosophy (Octavian studied here) but began to decline in the 3rd century AD when its harbour started silting up as a result of an earthquake. After Apollonia we transfer for just over an hour further inland to the UNESCO town of Berat where we spend the night. *Hotel Mangalemi* *or Similar*
Today is dedicated to Berat the gem of Albania. This morning we enjoy a guided tour around the old district of Berat, with its pretty white buildings perched on the hill amid pine forests. We walk through the narrow cobbled streets and finally reach Berat Castle on the slopes of Mount Tomorr, where we are rewarded with breath-taking views (and begin to understand why it is known to Albanians as 'The City of a Thousand Windows'). Within the castle walls are dwelling houses and the Onufri Museum (Museum of Iconography), which we will visit. The rest of the day is free to explore the town. *Hotel Mangalemi* *or Similar*
From Berat, we drive to the port of Durrës (approx. 2 hrs. drive), the second-largest city in Albania and famed for housing the largest amphitheatre in the Balkans. The amphitheatre dates back to the 2nd century AD, seats 15,000 people and contains an early Christian crypt with rare wall mosaics. The city was colonised by colonists from Corinth and Korkyra in 627 BC and was named Epidamnus, but later became Dyrrachium. We then drive to the famous mediaeval citadel of Krujë (approx. 45 mins. drive), where Albania's national hero, Skanderbeg, led the resistance against the Ottomans. He kept them from crossing into Western Europe for 25 years, earning the title "Champion of Christ". We will check-in at the hotel and in the afternoon will visit the Skanderbeg Museum, a rich ethnographic museum inside the castle, and enjoy inspirational views out to the Adriatic Coast. Afterwards, we take a walk to Kruja Hospitality a characteristic house in the castle where you will sample raki and local cheeses. *Hotel Panorama or Similar*
After breakfast, time to wander through the medieval bazaar of Kruja, one of the best stocked in the country full of souvenirs and handicrafts. A transfer is included to Tirana Airport (approx. 45 minutes drive), which will be scheduled according to the group flight timings.
* 9 nights hotels with en suite facilities
* Group normally 6 to 16, plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs
* Travel by air-conditioned private bus
All breakfasts and 1 lunch included.
Food in Albania is quite varied thanks to the many influences on the country
and particularly Mediterranean combining Turkish, Greek and Italian tastes.
Dairy products, especially milk and yoghurt are present in almost every meal,
usually locally sourced. Under the leadership of Enver Hoxha Albania became a
self-sustaining country due to its isolation from the world. However the lush
fertile valleys, fresh mountain springs and Mediterranean climate, means it
is still very much a subsistence culture and shows very little sign of
changing. In the countryside expect your food to be very locally sourced.
Breakfasts are typically eggs, fresh bread, jam, honey and coffee. For lunch
and dinner, meat dishes are often goat or lamb, with fish dishes ranging from
trout to whitebait. Courses often come in mezze form complimented with a
variety of vegetables and salad, freshly baked bread, homemade cheeses, local
wines and of course, raki. In the cities along the coast there are a number
of restaurants to choose from with an array of Mediterranean cuisine and
fresh seafood.
Although treated we recommend that you always drink bottled water including
when consuming meals. The most environmentally friendly method is to share
larger 750ml re-usable glass bottles served in most restaurants.
* 9 nights hotels with en suite facilities
* Group normally 6 to 16, plus local leader. Min age 16 yrs
* Travel by air-conditioned private bus
This itinerary includes the main highlights of this fascinating country as
well as some well-kept secrets that provide true insight into the Albanian
culture. There will be some long drives (maximum 5 hours on day 4) on winding
roads through the spectacular wild scenery of southern Albania. Most hotel
stays are for one night only. All hotels are equivalent to 3 and 4-star
accommodation with en suite rooms yet the standard may vary depending on
location. Roads in Albania have improved drastically in the last decade,
however many stretches (especially in the south) are winding and have poor
signage, making for slower travelling times. Please be prepared for some
bumpy journeys where roads have not been resurfaced.
Hotels
We spend each night in a different 3 or 4-star hotel or pension with good
service, amenities and en suite rooms. Each night we will be situated within
walking distance of local attractions and a variety of choice for restaurants
to eat in the evening. The accommodation ranges from comfortable modern
properties to older properties bursting with character. Please note the
accommodation in Permet which is a small isolated town may be of a lower
standard than in other towns due to lack of accommodation choices.
/Please note: In the older properties we stay at the rooms vary in size, this
is part of the charm of the buildings. Rooms are distributed at random. /
All breakfasts and 1 lunch included.
Food in Albania is quite varied thanks to the many influences on the country
and particularly Mediterranean combining Turkish, Greek and Italian tastes.
Dairy products, especially milk and yoghurt are present in almost every meal,
usually locally sourced. Under the leadership of Enver Hoxha Albania became a
self-sustaining country due to its isolation from the world. However the lush
fertile valleys, fresh mountain springs and Mediterranean climate, means it
is still very much a subsistence culture and shows very little sign of
changing. In the countryside expect your food to be very locally sourced.
Breakfasts are typically eggs, fresh bread, jam, honey and coffee. For lunch
and dinner, meat dishes are often goat or lamb, with fish dishes ranging from
trout to whitebait. Courses often come in mezze form complimented with a
variety of vegetables and salad, freshly baked bread, homemade cheeses, local
wines and of course, raki. In the cities along the coast there are a number
of restaurants to choose from with an array of Mediterranean cuisine and
fresh seafood.
Although treated we recommend that you always drink bottled water including
when consuming meals. The most environmentally friendly method is to share
larger 750ml re-usable glass bottles served in most restaurants.
For this trip we use a private bus, the size of which will depend on the
group size, with a local driver.
*Travelling flight inclusive from London: 10 Days*
The group flight from London is a daytime flight departing on Day 1 of the
itinerary.
*Flights from London*
We normally use the scheduled services of Austrian Airlines (depending on
availability). As flight timings and schedules change regularly we recommend
you call one of our specialist sales staff or your agent to confirm
up‐to‐date timings. Please note timings may change at a later date and
cannot be confirmed until approximately two weeks before departure.
*Travelling land only: 10 days starting in Tirana and** ending in Kruje;
places are **equidistant from Tirana International Airport*
Your trip normally starts at our accommodation in Tirana in the afternoon of
Day 1 of the itinerary. Details of how to reach the start point are provided
in the Final Joining Instructions ‐ sent approximately two weeks before
departure.
Airport transfers are included for those on the group flights. Please note
that transfers are not included for clients arriving on any other flight,
even if Exodus has booked it.
If you require airport transfers, you may (by prior arrangement only) be able
to join the group transfer. Transfers are arranged to coincide with the
arrival time of the group flight - please check the group flight details 2
weeks before departure. If you do not take this transfer, or miss it, you
must make your own way to the joining point at your own expense.
Albania generally experiences a Mediterranean climate with summer
temperatures at 25-30ºC on average in the day, and the warmest months are
July and August where temperatures can rise to 35ºC or above. It becomes
cooler further inland towards Pogradec & Korçë during these months,
especially in the evenings with high temperatures around 25ºC. There is
always the small chance of rain in the mountains yet we do not to travel in
the coldest and wettest months, which are November to January. Berat also
experiences a Mediterranean climate but thanks to its location in the shadow
of Mt Tomorr, summers are much warmer than expected for the Mediterranean.
Sunhat, sun cream and sunglasses
Water bottle
Day-sack
Sturdy shoes as the terrain can be quite rough or slippy in some areas
Swimming costume, towel
Sandals/flip-flops
At time of writing the standard weight limit for hold baggage on the
recommended international carrier for this trip is 20kg. We recommend
packing only one piece of checked baggage.
As advice about luggage allowances for both hand and hold luggage is subject
to change, we suggest you check the airline's website for the latest
information prior to your departure.
Shoes for swimming at pebbly beaches
Allow about £150‐200 for lunches, evening meals and drinks. You will
notice that prices in the mountains and along the coast are very different.
In the mountains we are more off the beaten track, so prices are generally
much cheaper than at the coast. In the mountains, you can expect to pay
approx. £3‐6 for a meal, 90p for a local beer or glass of local wine, and
50p for a large bottle of water.
For restaurants in the cities along the coast, approximate meal prices can
vary between £7‐15, a beer £1.50‐2, bottle of wine £11, large bottle
of water £1, soft drink £1.30.
Our local staff are paid well and fairly for their work with
Exodus, however, most of our clients wish to give a tip to their guides in
appreciation of their help and friendliness. This, of course, is in no way
compulsory and depends on the service received. If you feel you would like to
leave a tip, as a guideline we would suggest a total of approximately £30
per person in total on this itinerary to be broken down as follows:
£20 for the leader
£10 for the driver
Your leader will advise about tipping in restaurants. Usually, the bill is
rounded up to include a tip.
* Travel insurance
* Visas and vaccinations
* Single supplement
Ved skriftlig aksept av vårt tilbud bekrefter du/dere at våre betingelser er både lest og forstått og at evt kansellerings gebyrer kan tilkomme ved en evt. avbestilling av reisen.
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