Morning – Journey Begins & Historical Wonders

Departure from Tirana:
Start your day with a picturesque drive from Tirana to Shkodra, one of Albania’s oldest and most culturally rich cities.

Visit to Rozafa Castle:
Upon arrival, step into legend with a visit to the iconic Rozafa Castle. Perched on a hilltop, it offers breathtaking views of Lake Shkodra, the Buna River and the surrounding Albanian Alps. Learn the captivating tale of Rozafa, the woman immured in the castle’s walls to ensure its strength and admire the landscape that surrounds this historic stronghold.

Midday – Local Cuisine & Cultural Immersion

Traditional Albanian Lunch:
Enjoy an authentic culinary experience in a local restaurant. Delight in traditional dishes such as tave dheu, qoftet e shtepise, or speca te mbushur, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

Visit to the Historical Museum of Shkodra:
Step into the city’s rich past through fascinating exhibits that include archaeological artifacts, traditional costumes, household items and rare historical photographs.

Marubi National Museum of Photography:
Explore Albania’s first photography museum, which houses an extraordinary collection of images dating back to the 19th century. This is a unique opportunity to witness the evolution of Albanian society and tradition through the lens of three generations of Marubi photographers.

Afternoon – Relaxation & Optional Discoveries

Hotel Check-in & Free Time:
Settle into your hotel and take some time to relax. In the afternoon, enjoy personal leisure time, whether you choose to continue exploring or simply unwind.

Optional Activities:

• Biking Tour: Rent a bike and ride along the lake or through the vibrant city streets.

Evening – Flavors of the North

Dinner at a Traditional Restaurant:
Wrap up your day with a delightful dinner in one of Shkodra’s best-loved traditional eateries. Savor signature dishes such as tave kosi (baked lamb with yogurt) or fergese (a rich pepper, tomato, and cheese stew), accompanied by local wine or raki.

Overnight Stay in Shkodra

Morning – Into the Heart of the Mountains

Breakfast at the Hotel
Start your day with a hearty breakfast made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Prepare for a scenic adventure into the untouched beauty of the Albanian Alps.

Journey to Tamara
Begin your drive through breathtaking mountain passes. Along the way, admire panoramic views of lush valleys, dramatic peaks and traditional alpine villages.

Coffee Break in Tamara
Stop in the picturesque village of Tamara. Take a relaxing break at a local cafe, sip a warm coffee and soak in the peaceful surroundings.

Drive to Lepushe
Continue your journey deeper into the mountains, as the road winds through alpine meadows and dense forests, each turn revealing another postcard-perfect scene.

Midday – Village Life & Natural Wonders

Arrival & Check-in in Lepushe
Arrive in the quaint mountain village of Lepushe and settle into your cozy guesthouse. Feel the rustic charm and tranquility of this remote alpine haven.

Traditional Albanian Lunch
Enjoy a delicious meal made with regional ingredients. Savor home-cooked specialties such as mountain cheese, fresh bread and slow-cooked meats, all prepared in the traditional way.

Visit to Lepushe Waterfall
Begin a short scenic hike through pine forests and flower-filled meadows to reach the hidden Lepushe Waterfall. Enjoy the serene ambiance and take in the crystal-clear cascade surrounded by greenery.

Afternoon – Canyons & Wilderness

Drive to Bashkimi Canyons
Depart toward the majestic Bashkimi Canyons near Vermosh. As you travel, take in the untouched natural beauty of the northern Albanian highlands.

Explore Bashkimi Canyons
Arrive at the canyons and take a guided walk through this dramatic landscape. Discover towering rock walls, gushing mountain streams and quiet corners perfect for photography and reflection.

Return to Lepushe
Head back to Lepushe in the early evening, passing once again through scenic mountain paths and quiet valleys.

Evening – Food, Fire & Tranquility

Dinner in Lepushe
Unwind with a hearty alpine dinner featuring local recipes and seasonal ingredients. Enjoy a meal in a cozy setting with the aroma of woodfire and the sound of nature all around you.

Optional: Wine by the Fire
As night falls, gather around the fireplace with a glass of homemade wine or raki. Let the calm mountain air and gentle crackling of the fire end your day on a peaceful note.

Overnight in Lepushe

Breakfast at the Guesthouse
Begin your day with a delicious homemade breakfast crafted from local, organic products. Savor warm bread, fresh cheeses, village honey and jam made from seasonal fruits. A perfect start, rooted in the flavors of the region.

Choose Your Adventure:

• Hiking to Vajusha Peak
  Join a 6-hour guided hike to Vajusha Peak, an unforgettable journey through alpine meadows and rugged landscapes. The trail offers sweeping panoramic views of the Accursed Mountains, perfect for adventurers seeking a challenging yet rewarding connection with nature.

• Village Exploration
  For a slower pace, enjoy the charm of Lepushe. Stroll through the village, revisit the Lepushe Waterfall and immerse yourself in the calm rhythm of mountain life. Ideal for photography, sketching or quiet reflection.

Optional Experiences:

• Horseback Riding: Ride along peaceful forest trails and alpine pastures, guided by local riders.

• Yoga Session: Practice yoga on your own amidst the stunning mountain scenery, a peaceful and mindful way to connect with nature at your own pace.

Midday – Traditional Flavors of the Alps

Optional Traditional Lunch in Lepushe
Enjoy a hearty meal prepared with farm-to-table ingredients. Savor local specialties such as grilled lamb, garden-fresh salads, mountain herbs and handmade cheeses.

Afternoon – Farewell to the Mountains

Departure for Tirana
Begin your journey back to Tirana. Enjoy a relaxing drive through scenic highlands, stopping midway for a coffee break and one last taste of the north.

Evening – Arrival in the Capital

Return to Tirana
Arrive in Tirana, filled with memories of untouched landscapes, warm hospitality and authentic Albanian culture.