Itinerary · 5 days
The Albanian Alps in 5 days
Lake Koman, Valbona and the hike over the pass to Theth
- Best for
- Hikers, nature lovers, active travellers
- Getting around
- Shared minibuses and the Koman ferry; no car needed
- Pace
- Active
- Route
- Shkodër → Valbona → Theth → Shkodër
The classic northern loop: a boat ride through a flooded gorge, two high valleys and one of the best day hikes in the Balkans. Best from June to September, when the pass is clear of snow. No car needed; minibuses and guesthouses handle the logistics.
Day 1 · Overnight in Shkodër
Arrive in Shkodër
From Tirana: about 2 hours by bus
- Morning
- Travel north from Tirana, or cross from Montenegro.
- Afternoon
- Walk the pedestrian old town and visit the Marubi photography museum.
- Evening
- Sunset from Rozafa Castle over three rivers and the lake.
Tip: Ask your guesthouse to book the next morning's Koman ferry transfer and to arrange luggage transport to Theth for day 3.
Day 2 · Overnight in Valbona
The Lake Koman ferry to Valbona
About 2 hours by minibus, 2.5–3 hours by boat, then 1 hour to Valbona
- Morning
- Early pick-up in Shkodër and the drive to the Koman dam.
- Afternoon
- The ferry through the gorge to Fierzë, then a minibus up to Valbona.
- Evening
- Dinner at your guesthouse and an early night before the hike.
Tip: Sit on the open deck for the best views, and bring snacks; there's little food on board.
Day 3 · Overnight in Theth
Hike Valbona to Theth
On foot: about 6–8 hours over the Valbona Pass
- Morning
- Set off early and climb through beech forest to the Valbona Pass, at around 1,800 m.
- Afternoon
- Descend into the Theth valley, with a stop at the café huts on the way down.
- Evening
- Arrive in Theth to a hearty guesthouse dinner. You've earned it.
Tip: Carry at least 2 litres of water, sun protection and a layer. Snow can linger on the pass into June.
Day 4 · Overnight in Theth
A day in Theth
On foot around the valley
- Morning
- Walk to the Grunas waterfall and the Lock-in Tower.
- Afternoon
- Hike to Theth's Blue Eye pool for a (very cold) swim; allow most of the afternoon for the round trip.
- Evening
- Sunset by Theth's church and another home-cooked dinner.
Tip: There are no ATMs in Theth. Make sure you brought enough cash in lek from Shkodër.
Day 5 · Overnight in Shkodër
Back to Shkodër
About 2.5–3 hours by minibus
- Morning
- Take the morning minibus down the newly paved road to Shkodër.
- Afternoon
- Cycle to Lake Shkodër or the Mesi Bridge, or continue to Tirana.
- Evening
- Celebrate with dinner on Kole Idromeno street.
Tip: Minibuses out of Theth fill up; reserve your seat through your guesthouse the day before.