Amazing 7 days Eco and Cultural Tour South East and west of Albania

• Morning:

  • Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at the hotel in Përmet.
  • Meet the Guide: After breakfast, meet your guide for the day's adventure.
  • Depart for Gjirokastra: Begin your journey to the ancient town of Gjirokastra, a drive of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

• Arrival in Gjirokastra:

  • Upon arrival in Gjirokastra, immerse yourself in the rich history of Albania. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture and stunning stone houses.

• Explore the Old Town:

  • Visit the historic "Neck of the Bazaar," the heart of the Old Town, where traditional artisanal workshops have largely transitioned into quaint souvenir shops, offering a glimpse into local craftsmanship. Keep an eye out for a few remaining stone carvers at the top end of the bazaar.

• Sightseeing Highlights:

  • Gjirokastra Castle: Explore the iconic castle that dominates the skyline and offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape.
  • Skendulaj Museum House: Visit this museum, which has undergone transformation over the years. Part of it served as a political prison for dissidents during the regime. The weapons museum within offers insight into Albania's complex history.
  • Traditional House of the Skendulaj Family: Tour this 300-year-old home, a testament to the craftsmanship of Gjirokastra's master builders.

• Afternoon Leisure:

  • After exploring the town and its historical landmarks, enjoy some free time in the bazaar. Take the opportunity to shop for local handicrafts, enjoy a coffee at a quaint café, or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

• Evening:

  • Spend your evening at leisure, allowing time for relaxation and reflection on the day’s experiences.

• Overnight: Stay overnight in Gjirokastra.

• Morning:

  • Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel.
  • Departure for Vlora: Set off for Vlora, driving along the breathtaking Albanian Riviera. Your journey will take you through the scenic Llogara Pass, a high mountain pass situated within the Ceraunian Mountains, connecting the Dukat Valley in the north with Himarë in the south.

• Llogara National Park:

  • Along the way, make a brief stop to capture stunning photographs of the Albanian Riviera, where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas converge.
  • Entering Llogara National Park, you’ll be surrounded by lush pine and oak forests, which set the stage for this "mountain of panoramas." With its diverse flora and fauna, the park is a popular destination, especially in the summer for those seeking a refreshing retreat.
  • You can enjoy a leisurely walk or a short hike to experience the park's natural beauty before continuing your journey.

• Arrival in Vlora:

  • As you approach Vlora, take in the views along the waterfront.
  • Visit the Monument of Independence, which commemorates the Albanian Declaration of Independence. This significant monument, created by renowned Albanian sculptors Muntaz Dhrami and Kristaq Rama, is located in Flag’s Plaza, near the site where the first Albanian government convened in 1913. Enjoy a brief 10-minute stop to appreciate this historical landmark.

• Visit Zvërnec Island:

  • After your visit to the monument, head to Zvërnec Island, situated approximately 13 km from Vlora. This charming island sits 30 meters above sea level and is named after the nearby village.
  • Take in the beauty of its lush pine forest, which stretches over nine hectares, and explore the well-preserved Byzantine Monastery of St. Mary, dating back to the 13th century. Despite its compact size—approximately 400 meters in length and 300 meters in width—Zvërnec Island offers a magical experience in nature and history.

• Evening:

  • Return to Vlora for dinner, savoring local dishes that highlight the region’s culinary traditions.

• Overnight: Stay overnight in Vlora.

Morning: Breakfast and Departure

• Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your accommodation to energize yourself for the day ahead.
• Meet your local guides in the lobby for a brief overview of the day’s activities.

Transfer to Berat City

• Depart for Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and stunning natural landscapes.
• Enjoy the scenic drive as you approach this beautiful city.

Arrival in Berat and Visit to the Fortress

• Upon arrival, transfer to the Berat Fortress (Kalivo), a historical site that has stood for centuries.
• Explore the interior of the fortress, walking through its ancient walls and taking in the panoramic views of the town and surrounding hills.
• Visit the Onufri Museum, located within the former church of Sainte-Marie. Here, you can admire a collection of religious art from the 16th century, including works by the renowned Albanian icon painter, Onufri.

Lunch at the Fortress

• Enjoy a delicious traditional lunch inside the fortress at one of the local eateries, giving you a taste of Berat's culinary delights while surrounded by stunning views.

Afternoon: Free Time in the City Center

• After lunch, take some free time to explore the city center at your leisure. Stroll through the cobbled streets, visit the charming shops, or relax at a café.
• Make sure to admire the unique architecture, including the "White City" houses that are characterized by their distinctive balconies.

Evening: Discover the Magic of Berat at Night

• As night falls, experience the enchanting atmosphere of Berat. The city lights reflecting on the Osum River and the illuminated fortress create a magical ambiance.
• If you like, explore more of the city’s cultural spots or enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight in Berat

• After a fulfilling day of exploration, return to your accommodation for the night, reflecting on the beauty and history of Berat.

Morning: Transfer to Kruja via Karavasta National Park

• Start your day with breakfast at your hotel, energized and ready for your final adventure.
• Transfer to the National Park of Karavasta with a scenic drive through Albania’s picturesque landscapes.
• Enjoy the stunning views and natural beauty as you travel towards the lagoon.

Visit to Karavasta Lagoon

• Arrive at Karavasta National Park, home to the largest lagoon in Albania and a vital habitat for wildlife, including the rare Dalmatian Pelican.
• Take some time to explore the park’s lush Mediterranean pine forests and observe the diverse fauna.
• You may take a short walk along the lagoon to appreciate its beauty and tranquility, or opt for an optional boat tour if available.
• Capture the stunning landscapes and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this Ramsar wetland.

Lunch

• After your explorations, enjoy lunch at a local eatery near the lagoon, sampling traditional Albanian dishes.

Afternoon: Transfer to the City of Kruja

• Depart from Karavasta for a scenic 2-hour drive to the historical city of Kruja.
• As you approach Kruja, take in its stunning views, dominated by the impressive fortress on a hilltop.

Kruja: Historical Exploration

• Visit the Skanderbeg Museum, dedicated to Albania's national hero, Gjergj Kastrioti (Scanderbeg), who famously defended Albania against Ottoman rule.
• Optionally, explore the Ethnographic Museum, which is housed in the former home of Scanderbeg’s descendants, showcasing artifacts from the 18th century.
• Stroll through the famous Bazaar of Kruja, where you can find traditional crafts, souvenirs, and local delicacies. Enjoy some free time for shopping and personal exploration.

Evening: Return to Tirana

• After a fulfilling day in Kruja, return to Tirana, the capital city of Albania.
• Depending on your time of arrival, enjoy a panoramic tour of Tirana, taking in major attractions such as Skanderbeg Square, the National History Museum, and the colorful buildings of the city.

Farewell Coffee and Dinner

• Celebrate the end of your tour with a farewell coffee at a local café, reminiscing about the experiences and sights you’ve enjoyed.
• Enjoy your final dinner in Tirana, savoring traditional cuisine and reflecting on the memories made during your journey.

Overnight in Tirana

• After dinner, return to your hotel for your last night in Albania.

Departure: Thank You for Joining Us!

• In the morning, depending on your flight schedule, enjoy your breakfast and prepare for your transfer to "Mother Teresa" Airport for your departure.
• Thank you for being part of this tour, and we hope to see you again on future adventures!

This itinerary encapsulates the natural beauty and historical significance of your final day, ensuring that you leave with wonderful memories of Albania. Enjoy the rest of your trip!