20th October – Departure from Malta
Depart Malta at 2310hrs on the flight to Skopje, North Macedonia.
21st October – Arrival in Skopje, North Macedonia
Arrival at 0050am, Skopje International Airport.
After clearing customs, pick up luggage and transfer to the hotel in Skopje, Hotel de Koka or similar, for some hours of rest, before travelling to cross the border to Kosovo and then to Albania.
After breakfast, at around 0900am, depart from Skopje to Prizren, in Kosovo.
This charming Ottoman-era city is known for its cobblestone streets, historic mosques, and vibrant culture. Guests will explore key sites like the Stone Bridge, Sinan Pasha Mosque, and the old bazaar.
Enjoy traditional Kosovo dishes such as qebapa and pita, at a local restaurant (own expense).
At an agreed time in the afternoon, continue the journey to Shkodër, Albania.
As one of Albania’s oldest cities, Shkodër boasts stunning views of Lake Shkodër, Rozafa Castle, and a lively cultural scene. Relax and soak the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Overnight at Tradita Hotel boutique in the city center.
Dinner not included.
22nd October – Theth National Park
After breakfast and at an agreed time, depart to Theth, a picturesque mountain village located in the Albanian Alps. Known for its unspoiled natural beauty, Theth offers breathtaking views of rugged peaks, rivers, and traditional stone houses. Includes a guided hike to the Blue Eye of Theth, a stunning turquoise spring surrounded by lush greenery. The hike is moderate, suitable for nature lovers, and offers incredible photo opportunities.
Savor a homemade meal at a guesthouse in Theth, featuring fresh local produce and traditional mountain cuisine (included).
Travel back to Shkodër for an overnight stay, where you can then enjoy a leisurely evening in the city.
Dinner not included.
23rd October – Komani Lake & Shala River
Breakfast at the hotel, and we travel to Komani Lake where we will board a boat to take us along Komani Lake and Shala River.
Komani Lake, often called the “Albanian Fjords,” is a lake surrounded by dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters, making it one of Albania’s most scenic destinations.
The Shala River, a serene and secluded spot ideal for relaxation whilst enjoying its emerald waters.
After the lake tour, proceed to visit Neomalsore Agrotourism to learn more about the traditional Albanian recipes. Here, we will prepare authentic dishes such as byrek and tavë kosi under the guidance of local chefs.
Enjoy the fruits of your labor . Includes a traditional welcome drink and a traditional beverage served during the meal. This could be wine produced in Albania, traditional raki, or a fruit-based drink from the area for those who don’t consume alcohol (included).
After this full day, we will return back to our hotel in Shkoder.
Dinner not included.
24th October – Cultural and culinary experiences in Shkoder area
Breakfast at the hotel.
Morning at leisure. Highly suggested to explore Shkodër at your own pace. Possible to visit the Marubi National Museum of Photography or stroll along the Pedonale, the city’s main pedestrian boulevard.
At an agreed time, transfer from Shkoder, where after a short drive, we arrive at Mrizi i Zanave Agrotourism, to have lunch and a tour of the vineyard. This place is highly recommended and the food is divine. A tour of the property will be given, in which we will learn about sustainable farming practices, and enjoy a gourmet meal featuring seasonal ingredients.
Afterwards, we travel back to the hotel in Shkoder.
In the late afternoon, we depart on a relaxing sunset boat cruise on Lake Shkoder.
Following the cruise, dinner will be at a traditional restaurant in the small village of Shiroke, known for its fresh fish dishes (own expense).
Return back to our hotel and overnight in Shkodër.
25th October – From Shkoder to Berat via Kruje
Breakfast at the hotel.
Start our travels to Berat, with a stop enroute in Kruje.
Known as the place led by Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg, Krujë is home to the historic Krujë Castle and the Old Bazaar. Guests can explore the castle, visit the Skanderbeg Museum, and shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs in the bazaar.
It will be time to have lunch in Kruje. Taste traditional Albanian dishes with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains (own expense).
Depart from Kruje to Berat.
Known as the “City of Thousand Windows,” Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its Ottoman-era architecture and historic neighborhoods.
The rest of the afternoon, is at leisure, to wander the cobblestone streets of the Mangalem and Gorica quarters. Enjoy the peaceful riverside promenade and when it gets dark, do not miss the view of the 1000 windows, all lit up, whilst having dinner in one of the many restaurants dotted along the city (own expense).
Overnight in Berat in a very typical hotel.
26th October – Rafting adventure and Gjirokaster exploration
Wake up and have breakfast whilst enjoying an amazing morning view of Berat.
Depart to the Vjosa River, one of Europe’s last wild rivers, for a thrilling rafting experience. Led by professional guides, this activity offers a mix of adventure and scenic beauty, suitable for beginners and experienced rafters alike.
You can enjoy a picnic-style lunch by the river (own expense).
In the afternoon, transfer to Gjirokaster, where we will have time to explore on our own this UNESCO-listed city, known as the “Stone City” for its slate-roofed houses and historic fortifications.
Everyone is free to go around on their own where you can visit within walking distance from the hotel, the Gjirokaster Castle, the Ethnographic Museum. Least but not last, do not miss to soak the atmosphere of the old bazaar, surrounded by many restaurants and bars where you can easily have dinner (own expense).
Overnight at a hotel within the historic centre of Gjirokastër.
27th October – Journey to Tirana
After breakfast, at and agreed time, we start our journey to Tirana.
Since, it is a bit of a long drive, enroute, we will have a stop for lunch at Kantina Duka, (included). This stop also includes a visit to the winery, a tour of the vineyard, a visit to the cellar, and a kayak or boat ride, depending on each one’s preference. The vineyard tour lasts 30 minutes.
We then proceed our journey to Tirana. Arrival and check in.
The rest of the afternoon / evening (depending the time of arrival), explore at your own leisure, Albania’s vibrant capital city. Suggested highlights include Skanderbeg Square, the colorful buildings of the New Bazaar, and the Bunk’Art Museum.
Overnight at a centrally located hotel in Tirana.
Dinner not included.
28th October – Nature exploration in Shengjergj
After breakfast, depart to Shengjergi, where we will visit this tranquil mountain village known for its stunning natural attractions.
A short hike leads to Shengjergj Waterfall, perfect for nature photography.
Lunch own expense.
• Optional Visit: Explore the Cave of Pëllumbas, an ancient cave filled with stalactites and stalagmites, accessible via a scenic trail.
Return back to Tirana and overnight.
Dinner not included.
29th October – Back to Malta
Our adventure comes to an end.
Breakfast in Tirana and start our journey back to Skopje airport, via Kosovo.
A brief break for lunch at a local restaurant during the journey (own expense).
If arrival in Skopje is a bit early, we might have time to go around Skopje city, but not guaranteed, as it will depends on the road traffice.
Depart Skopje airport at 2125hrs, arrival in Malta at 2315hrs.
