Albania offers a remarkable array of unique attractions, ancient mountain cultures, forgotten archaeological sites and villages where time seems to have stood still. With its stunning mountain scenery, a thriving capital in Tirana and beaches to rival any elsewhere in the Mediterranean, Albania has become the sleeper hit of the Balkans.
Albania lies on the Adriatic and Ionian Sea within the Mediterranean Sea. It is bounded by Montenegro to the northwest, Kosovo to the northeast, the Republic of Macedonia to the east and Greece to the south and southeast. Within Albania, you can experience rugged mountains and valleys, mediterranean beaches, and bustling cities.
The independence of Albania from the Ottoman Empire was proclaimed on 28 November 1912, but the architectural influence can still be seen today. In the time after that, Albania transformed from a communist, isolated country to a republic with ties to other European countries and the United States. Still, many of the villages in rural areas have stayed close to their past and follow the same lifestyle as they have for hundreds of years.
Albania shares many symbols associated with its history, culture and belief. These include the colours red and black, animals such as the golden eagle living across the country, costumes such as the fustanella, plis and opinga which are worn to special events and celebrations, plants such as the olive and red poppy growing as well across the country.
Offering the best of both worlds, Albania has majestic mountainscapes of the Balkan Alps and beaches that rival the best of the Mediterranean such as the Albanian Riviera.
From historic Shkoder one starts with a tranquil ferry ride on the Koman Lake into the Accursed Mountains to visit two of the most remarkable valleys: Valbona and Theth – both dominated by towering mountains and traditional alpine houses. This trip covers part of the Balkan Trail in one of the most beautiful and untouched countries in the area.