Are you ready to be captivated by the wild beauty of Theth and Valbona in the Albanian Alps? In this article, we provide you with all the necessary information to perfectly plan your trip. From tips on the best places to stay to advice on how to seamlessly combine hikes with the iconic Koman ferry, we ensure you’re fully prepared. With our guidance, you’ll discover how to enjoy Albania’s natural wonders most efficiently and delightfully.
Booking.comWhy Theth and Valbona Are Worth Visiting
For the most spectacular nature in Albania, you must head to the Albanian Alps, and specifically to the villages of Theth and Valbona. These villages are located in the Theth National Park and Valbona Valley National Park, respectively, both of which are stunning natural areas. More importantly, they are the starting and ending points of the famous hike through the Valbona Pass, offering breathtaking views of rugged peaks and deep valleys. The trek between Theth and Valbona is not only one of Europe’s most beautiful day hikes but also a profound way to immerse yourself in the untouched nature and rich culture of the area.
In Theth, you can experience traditional village life that has been well-preserved due to its remote location. Surrounded by high mountain peaks, the village has a magical setting. Notable sights include the kullë (a traditional tower used for sheltering from blood feuds), the Instagram-famous Church of Theth, and the Grunasi Waterfall, all accessible via scenic hiking trails. Theth is also the starting point for a 3-hour trek (one-way) to the ‘Blue Eye’, a stunning natural spring encircled by lush forests.
Valbona, located across the pass from Theth, is equally impressive. The journey there includes a trip across the magnificent Lake Koman, often hailed as one of Europe’s most scenic boat rides. Valbona itself is a gateway to various hiking trails of varying difficulty, including the route back to Theth.
How to Travel to Theth or Valbona
Your adventure to the Albanian Alps typically begins in Shkodër, one of the region’s access points. Shkodër is about 1.5 hours by car from Tirana, Albania’s capital, where most international visitors land. From Shkodër, several travel options to Theth and Valbona are available depending on your preferences and the season.
To reach Theth, you can take daily minibuses or arrange an organized transfer through your accommodation. This journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours on a recently upgraded road that offers stunning views along the way. Booking this transfer in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist season.
For Valbona, the trip involves a longer route beginning with an extraordinary boat journey. You’ll first travel from Shkodër to the Koman dam, a drive of about 1.5 hours on quite challenging roads. We navigated this route in our camper van and found it rather demanding. From the Koman dam, you embark on a ferry that sails across Lake Koman. This ferry ride is celebrated for its stunning panoramic views and is often likened to cruising through a Norwegian fjord. After disembarking from the ferry, it’s another hour’s drive to Valbona. If you have arranged a transfer, your shuttle will be waiting for you.
The Iconic Theth-Valbona Hike
The renowned Theth-Valbona hike is a highlight for anyone looking to explore the untouched beauty of the Albanian Alps. This challenging trail stretches roughly 17 kilometers through dramatic mountain landscapes and typically takes between 6 to 8 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to take in the breathtaking views. Most hikers opt to start in Theth and walk toward Valbona, mainly because the initial climb from Theth is steep but quickly rewards with sweeping panoramic views, while the descent into Valbona is less intense.
The path is clearly marked with white and red stripes, so hiring a guide isn’t essential unless you’re inexperienced with mountain treks or would like more detailed information about the area. It’s important to wear sturdy hiking boots and to bring plenty of water and snacks. The weather in the mountains can change quickly, so it’s wise to check the weather forecast beforehand.
Regrettably, the Theth-Valbona hike is not a loop, meaning it doesn’t return you to your starting point. Many choose to hike back the same day, which doubles the challenge with a total of 34 kilometers walked. Alternatively, you could stay overnight and trek back the next day. Another option is to carry (a part of) your luggage with you during the hike and continue your journey from the other village. In this case, it’s practical to leave most of your belongings in Shkodër, accessible from both Theth and Valbona. and only bring what’s necessary for your days in the Albanian Alps.
To avoid any surprises, it’s a good idea to book your accommodations in advance. Many places offer packages that include transportation to the start of the trail and back, as well as meals, making your trip planning much easier.
Conclusion: How Many Days Do You Need for the Albanian Alps?
Voor een volledige ervaring in de Albanese Alpen, waaronder de dorpen Theth en Valbona, is een verblijf van vier tot vijf dagen aan te raden. Dit geeft je voldoende tijd om niet alleen de bekende Theth-Valbona hike te voltooien, maar ook voor de reis naar de Albanese Alpen zoals met de Koman-ferry naar Valbona en om te genieten van wandelingen en de natuur in de dorpen zelf.
Je begint met een reisdag van Shkodër naar Theth of Valbona in de Albanese Alpen. Je kunt de tweede dag gebruiken om de omgeving te verkennen of kortere hike te maken.
Reserveer de derde dag voor de wandeling tussen Theth en Valbona. Afhankelijk van je tempo en hoe vaak je stopt om te genieten van de natuur, kan deze tocht de hele dag in beslag nemen. Plan na deze inspannende dag een extra dag in het dorp waar je eindigt, om daar de lokale bezienswaardigheden te bezoeken, zoals de Grunasi-waterval in Theth of de bronnen in de omgeving van Valbona.
Als je tijd en zin hebt, kun je je verblijf verlengen met extra dagen om andere wandelingen te maken, zoals naar de Blue Eye in Theth, of gewoon om te genieten van de rust en de natuur van de Albanese Alpen. Dit gebied biedt genoeg mogelijkheden voor zowel de actieve wandelaar als voor iemand die op zoek is naar rust in de natuur.
Theth or Valbona?
Choosing between Theth and Valbona might seem tough. Both villages are set in the Albanian Alps and offer incredible views, yet they have their distinct charms. We personally find Theth more appealing due to its larger size and greater variety of attractions, both within the village and its environs. You can visit historical sites and embark on stunning hikes, such as to the Grunasi Waterfall, the historic blood feud tower, and the mountain lake Blue Eye. Theth also tends to have more and better lodging options than Valbona. In short: we find Theth more enjoyable.
However, the journey to Valbona is an experience in itself, especially the magnificent boat trip across Lake Koman. This ferry ride, with its majestic views, is often compared to a Scandinavian fjord cruise and is reason enough to visit Valbona.
Our recommendation is to visit both. Consider creating a loop starting and ending in Shkodër, where you can arrange to leave your luggage. Travel from Shkodër to Theth to enjoy the village and its surroundings, staying for at least two nights. Then cross over to Valbona via the renowned hike, stay overnight after your walk, and take the Koman ferry back to Shkodër the following day. This route combines the best of both worlds and ensures you don’t miss out on anything the Albanian Alps have to offer.
Where to Stay in Theth
In Theth, you’ll find a variety of accommodations, mainly consisting of guesthouses and quaint, family-run hotels scattered across the village. These are often beautifully positioned with views of the surrounding mountains. Many of these places conveniently offer shuttle services to the start of the Valbona hike.
Tip: Accommodation prices in Albania are relatively low, making this an excellent opportunity to stay in a stunning, dream-like place for the same price—or even less—than what you might pay for a standard hotel room in the Europe.
Booking.comTop places to stay in Theth:
#1 Shpella Guesthouse Theth is housed in a traditional stone building in the village center. Guests love the beautiful mountain views, organic and traditional meals, charming interiors with stone walls and wooden ceilings, and the cozy atmosphere..
#2 Bujtina Tinari Theth is highly rated for its hospitality, delicious food, and scenic location near Theth’s famous church. Guests appreciate the homey atmosphere that makes it a standout.
#3 ‘Gurra Family’ Guesthouse offers a bit more luxury than typical accommodations in Theth. Think big, comfy beds and a slightly more Western style, all within a traditional mountain lodge setting. The views are breathtaking, and the surrounding gardens provide ample space for relaxation.
#4 Vidis Chalet Hotel is the ultimate bucket-list accommodation in Theth. The lodge’s unique design features sloping roofs, extensive woodwork, and large glass walls that offer unbeatable views. It’s the highest-rated hotel in the Albanian Alps for good reason!
#5 Molla Guest House is located in a traditional, historic mountain chalet made from rough stone and wood. The rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated, breakfast is exceptional, and the views are simply stunning.
Where to Stay in Valbona
Like Theth, Valbona offers a range of accommodations focused on guesthouses and eco-lodges that emphasize sustainable tourism. Many of these establishments are near the river that snakes through the valley from the Albanian Alps. Valbona is smaller than Theth, ensuring that wherever you stay, you are close to nature and the hiking trails.
Booking.comTop places to stay in Valbona:
#1 BUJTINA Valbonë is a dreamy mountain lodge set against a backdrop of stunning peaks. Guests praise the large terrace, friendly staff, cozy rooms, and beautiful views..
#2 Guesthouse Hyrmet Demushi is perfectly located at the end of the road that turns into the trail to Theth. This lodge, set deep in nature, offers an authentic vibe and is an ideal spot to rest before or after tackling the hike.
#3 Hotel Margjeka is nestled in a charming building in the heart of Valbone National Park, close to the trail to Theth. The location offers spectacular views and is highly rated by guests as one of the finest places to stay in the Albanian Alps.
#4 Guesthouse Dioni is an authentic wooden cabin surrounded by nature. This serene retreat, located right on the famous trail, is extremely popular among hikers looking for peace and quiet amid the trees and mountain peaks.
