Discover beautiful Theth, the last unexplored destination of the Northen Albania, the best spots also known as Accoursed Mountains. A traditional village that sits deep at the heart of the Albanian Alps. Situated at the end of a winding mountain road, Theth is home to just a few houses surrounded by looming mountain peaks and meadows full of wildflowers. Watch slow village life unfold, wander the roads with the hillside cows, and enjoy some of the most incredible hikes. The landscape here rivals one you’d find in the Swiss Alps; the dramatic peaks of the Accursed Mountains look over the town and green fields filled with cows and goats.These lands carry a lot of history and legends, even though they happened a long time ago, you can feel the presence of the past mixed with the present, in the echos and mighty sights of the mountains surrounding you! Visit Shkodra one of the oldest cities in Albania that dates back to 4th century B.C., that lies by the magnificent Shkodra’s Lake, the biggest one in all the Balkans. Also known as the city of bikes and is of high importance of Albanian culture. The ancient Rozafa Fortress has stunning views over Lake Shkodra, while the pastel-painted buildings in the Old Town have a distinct Italian ambience. Discover the fascinating legends of the Albanian Epos and how it relates to the castle’s history. Marvel at the city famous for its typical architecture, sense of humor, and friendly atmosphere, it is one of the most important city centers of Albania. Take in the religious diversity of the city where one can find a Catholic Church, Orthodox Church, and Muslim Mosque next to each other.

Discover a town in Albania that was closed for half a century and experience the adventure of entering a bunker. From the walls of the Old Town, enjoy the panorama of Shkodra on the lake and three rivers. Find out why Shkoder is a center of culture and how carnival masks are made in this mystical city. Finish the experience by reflecting on the trip in the Albanian ethnic village. Albania is a country in Europe that was closed for about 40 years. How many secrets are hidden, how people lived during four decades of isolation in Albania, what today is evidence of Enver Hoxha's regime, how creative they are, what their culture is like, what their national cuisine is...find out during a one-day trip to the mystical Shkoder. Discover the northernmost city in Albania, a country that until the beginning of the 90s was under the most repressive communist regime of Enver Hoxha, completely isolated from the rest of the world. After the death of Enver Hoxha, the borders of Albania opened and the land of eagles, mystical and unknown, attracted the attention of people from all over the world. One of the testimonies of Enver Hoxha's rule is the bunkers. The first adventure on this special trip is entering one of the bunkers. During your stay in Shkoder, you will learn from the guide of the tourist agency Ave Tours how many bunkers have been built in Albania, and what their purpose is today. Shkoder is a city of legends, but also a very rich history. This city was founded by the Illyrians and through history, Shkoder developed under the influence of different cultures and civilizations: from Byzantium, the Venetians, the Serbian Nemanjic dynasty, and the Ottoman Empire. For a short time, Shkoder was part of Montenegro. From the walls of the Old Town, which is at an altitude of 150 meters above sea level, with an interesting history, you will enjoy the panorama of Shkoder, the city on the largest lake in the Balkans, Shkoder Lake, and three rivers. You will find out why Shkoder is the center of culture in Albania. The story of why the "Marubi" photography museum was proposed for UNESCO protection will be particularly interesting to you. Every civilization has left its mark on this city. We meet the spirit of Venice, which once ruled Shkoder, by visiting the factory for making carnival masks. We will discover how carnival masks are made by hand on this tour organized by Ave Tours. Top artists in this factory in Shkoder also made a mask for Tom Cruise for the movie that delighted millions of viewers. We end the tour in a village household where you can enjoy the national cuisine of Albania, which is recognized for its quality and delicious food.

A private guided tour to Shala River and Komani Lake,where you will explore the wilderness of the Albanian mountains where you will see dense forests and untouched places. Departure from Tirana around 8.00 am towards Komani Lake.The drive will take around 3 hours. On the way we can do a pit stop for a coffee/cold drink at a cafe. After the arrival at the boat station, we will start riding though crystal clear waters towards Shala River. The boat ride is around 1 hour long, upon reaching our destination you will have some free time to enjoy the beauty of nature. For those who are brave enough, you can go swimming in the ice-cold waters, or enjoy a drink by the river. Also, there is the option to hike for 40 minutes up the mountain where an amazing view is awaits you. When we are done with the visit to the Shala River, we will start riding back on the boat. On our way back we will stop for a coffee/cold drink at an amazing spot. Upon completion, we will head back to Tirana to give an end to our amazing tour!

Day 1: Theth National Park via Rozafa Fortress You'll begin your journey from Tirana, from where you'll travel directly to the city of Shkoder. Enjoy amazing views and the fascinating history of the Rozafa Fortress. Stop for a coffee break in the small town of Shiroke well – known by locals for its quietness and natural beauty. Following a drive Theth, where on route you will stop in the mountain village of Boge and Thore Pass surrounded by mountains. Get settled in the guesthouse in Theth and have a relaxing afternoon and a walking guide of the village where a four century old tower used as reconciliation tower and the 100 – year – old, well-preserved church are the highlights, before a rustic dinner with a glass or two of Raki. Day 2: The Blue Eye of Theth & Grunas Waterfall and Canyon Spend a day exploring Theth National Park on a leasure hike. Marvel at the view and sound of Grunas waterfall and Canyon. Enjoy a refreshing bath and a picnic lunch at the Natural pools and the Blue Eye of Theth, after hiking through stunning scenery. Day 3: Pass from Theth to Valbone Set off on a guided hike through a well-maintained trail suitable also for families and “Sunday hikers”. The route across the Accursed Mountains takes a total of 8 hours with many stops to enjoy, eat (picnic) and take photos of breathtaking panoramas. Day 4: Tirana via Koman Lake Boat Ride Enjoy Valbona’s gorgeous setting, on a wide plain surrounded by towering mountain peaks in the morning. Explore the village of Kukaj or enjoy your morning in Valbone Valley before transferring to Fierze Dam to hop on a boat for a scenic ride passing by rocky mountains and vivid green hill

We start our journey in Tirana with guided walking tour of the city center, including Skanderbeg Square, Ethem Bey Mosque, National Historical Museum, the Pyramid, Blloku area. Day 2: Thethi via Shkoder En route to Shkodra, a small city situated at the foot of the Albania Alps, stop and visit the hilltop Rozafa Castle. Enjoy its amazing views and the fortress’s fascinating history. You'll transfer for lunch in Shiroke, with Lake Shkoder well known for its fish cuisine. Experience the Old Town, St. Stephen’s Catholic Cathedral and the Ebu Bekr Mosque on a guided tour before transferring to Theth, where on route you will stop in the mountain village of Boge and Thore Pass surrounded by mountains. Day 3: The Blue Eye of Theth & Grunas Waterfall and Canyon Spend a day exploring Theth National Park on a leasure hike. Marvel at the view and sound of Grunas waterfall and Canyon. Enjoy a refreshing bath and lunch at the Natural pools of Nderlysa. Be amazed at the Blue Eye of Theth, after hiking through stunning scenery. Day 4: Durres via Kruja Leave the northern village of Theth and head for the city of Kruja. Set off on a guided tour of Dollma Bektashi Teqe, the surroundings and the Castle itself and the Skanderbeg Museum. Head for lunch in a local restaurant in Kruja, with a tremendous view of the city and valley of Kruja. Enjoy free time to wander around the Old Bazaar, transfer to the seaside city of Durres. Day 5: Saranda via Gjirokaster Transfer to Gjirokaster to discover this "city of a thousand steps” whilst driving through small villages. Once arrived, settle into your hotel before soaking up the rich history of the castle and enjoying the view of the “city of stone” from above. Explore the Ottoman Bazaar and historic wooden house before stopping for lunch in a small local restaurant for a taste of the city’s authentic dishes. On the road to Saranda, you will later stop at the “Blue Eye” spring. Day 6: Butrint and Ksamil Transfer to Butrint for a guided tour of the UNESCO archaeological site. Following that you will have free time for a beach day at the Ksamil Islands, before returning to Saranda in the evening. Day 7: Vlore via Ali Pasha Castle & Riviera Road Visit Porto Palermo Castle with your guide, before spending the day at the beach in the bay of Porto Palermo. Along the way you'll stop by Tirana, as well as the Llogara “balcony” to try local products of the area. Sightseeing tour of Berat (UNESCO) & Tirana Set off from Vlore to reach Berat, the “City of Thousand Windows”, where you will admire the Red and White Mosque, the Church of the Holy Trinity and the arched bridge of Gorica. In the afternoon Alpeta Winery will welcome you for a cellar and vineyard visit. enjoy lunch with their seasonal home-grown and locally sourced organic delights and their fine wine. Transfer in Tirana in afternoom

An exclusive tour available only during the Christmas period! Together with the professional local guide, you will visit the most magical places. You will experience the charming atmosphere and admire stunning Christmas lights and decorations. What makes Christmas time in Shkodra unique? You will get the opportunity to admire the Shkora Christmas tree. What are the city’s holiday traditions and celebrations? You will hear captivating Christmas legends about Shkodra. Fill your heart with joy and feel mesmerized by the Christmas magic of Shkodra.

Shkodra, the capital of the North, is one of the oldest cities in Albania that dates back to 4th century B.C, which lies by the magnificent Shkodra’s Lake, which is the biggest lake in all of the Balkans! Also known as the city of bikes,and the high importance of Albanian culture. The ancient Rozafa Fortress has stunning views over Lake Shkodra, while the pastel-painted buildings in the Old Town have a distinct Italian ambience. Discover the fascinating legends of the Albanian Epos and how it relates to the castle's history. The city is famous for its typical architecture, sense of humor, and friendly atmosphere. It is one of the most important city centers of Albania. Take in the religious diversity of the city where one can find a Catholic Church, Orthodox Church, and Muslim Mosque next to each other. Depart from Tirana at 9:00 am and we will be driving to Shkodra for around 2 hours. Stop for a coffee break by the wonderful Shkodra’s lake,and after that we will visit the old castle. There we will learn about the fascinating legends of the Albanian Epos and how it relates to the castle's history. After visiting Shkodra’s castle, we will visit St. Stephens Cathedral, which lies in the center of the city where you will learn about the history of this church. We will then take a walk through the old city of Shkodra before we visit the Ebu Beker Mosque and learn about its history. After visiting the mosque, we will head towards Mesi Bridge, which was built in the mid 18th century. Afterwards there will be an optional lunch of traditional Shkodra cuisine called Tave Krapi if you are interested in trying the most famous dish in Northern Albania. We will then start our drive back to Tirana where you will be dropped off at your hotel.

Day 1: Arrival to Tirana Airport pickup service is available throughout the day and will bring you to the hotel in Tirana. Explore the city in a guided walking tour before sitting down to a traditional dinner in a local restaurant. Day 2: Lepushe village via Shkoder Head to the northernmost part of Albania in the region of Kelmendi, home to mountain slopes covered with forests and pastures that rise into the view. Stop along the way for a guided tour in Rozafa Fortress with its amazing 360-degree views and fascinating history. Enjoy lunch and free time in the cobblestone promenade along Cem River of the village of Tamara Reach and get settled into the guesthouse in Lepushe Village Discover the waterfall and the old stone mill, and set off to explore some trails Arrive in the guesthouse in the evening where a delicious, traditional dinner is to be savored. Day 3: The Accursed Mountains: Vajusha Peak and Grebaje Valley Following a hearty breakfast and with your picnic-lunch packed, we start hiking towards Vajusha Peak along the forest of Dobku mountain. Enjoy lunch with the stunning views of the Accursed Mountains. Reach Grebaje valley in Prokletije National Park where we hop on a local transportation to arrive in our guesthouse in Vusanje (Vuthaj). Celebrate your day in the guesthouse with dinner and a mountain view. Day 4: Vusanje to Theth via Peja Pass Drive through Grebaje valley until you reach the start of the hike. The path passes along the craggiest part of the Prokletije/Bjeshkёt e Namuna mountains. Almost the entire hike is surrounded by steep mountains with stunning views. This itinerary allows us a glance into the region’s past when it was a forbidden zone during the Communist era. A border military post, a bunker and the border crossing pyramid sign still remain by the crossing. The transfer hike finishes at the beautiful village of Theth with its traditional tower houses surrounded by steep mountains. Day 5: Natural wonders of Theth Spend a day exploring Theth National Park and admiring the views of the waterfall and canyon. Take a refreshing dip at the natural pools and have a picnic lunch at the Blue Eye of Theth. Visit the village of Theth in the afternoon and check out the centuries-old tower and well-preserved church. Included meals: breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner.  Day 6: Pass from Theth to Valbone Set off on a guided hike through a well-maintained trail suitable also for families and “Sunday hikers”. The route across the Accursed Mountains takes a total of 8 hours with many stops to enjoy, eat (picnic) and take photos of breathtaking panoramas. Day 7: Tirana via Koman Lake Boat Ride Enjoy Valbona’s gorgeous setting, on a wide plain surrounded by towering mountain peaks in the morning. Explore the village of Kukaj or enjoy your morning in Valbone Valley before transferring to Fierze Dam to hop on a boat for a scenic ride passing by rocky mountains and vivid green hills. Transfer to Tirana get settled in the hotel.

Day 1 Tirana- Kruje-Shkoder On our way north the first visit would be at the historic city of Kruja where we will visit the old Bazaar , the medieval castle and the museum of the Albanian National Hero Skanderbeg As we set out on our journey from Tirana, we are headed towards the beautiful North of Albania, with the majestic Castle of Rozafa as our first destination Leaving the Castle, we travel down to the vibrant city of Shkoder! With its unique architecture, hilarious sense of humour, and warm hospitality, this city is an essential part of Albania's history Overnight in Shkodra Day 2 Shkodra-Durres-Berat we will be travelling to the coastal city of Durres, a unique blend of culture and nature. Here, we will be able to take a leisurely stroll on the main promenade and witness the serene beauty of the sea, as well as visit the historic amphitheatre which has long been home to the battles of Gladiators. We shall set forth from Durres and make our way to Central South Albania, to the City of Many Windows, Berat. Since 2008, it has been inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage list, and continues to be a significant city even today, boasting a remarkable history of over two millennia. Overnight in Berat Day 2 Berat-Gjirokaster-Sarande-Blue Eye-Himare we shall journey towards Gjirokastra, a place 230 kilometers away, renowned for its remarkable preservation of the Ottoman architecture and its prominent agricultural land. We will traverse through the depths of Southern Albania, admiring the green fields that the countryside has to offer. Along our path, we shall be accompanied by the Vjosa River, one of the few untamed rivers of Albania and the surrounding Balkan region. Visiting Old Bazaar, Gjirokastra Castle and Skenduli Heritage House. Visiting Blue Eye One must traverse the verdant parkland to behold the grandeur of the "Blue Eye" spring - an awe-inspiring natural phenomenon and popular tourist attraction. After the Blue eye we drive to the first city of The Albanian Riviera, Saranda. A beautiful picturesque city on the shores of the crystal clear waters of the Ionian Sea Overnight in Himara Day 4 Himare-Llogara National Park-Zvernec-Tirane You can enjoy some free time on the small coastal city of Himare on the first part of your day. Sunbathing if its hot enough or just to enjoy the nature beauty of the town. We drive through the Albanian Riviera leaving Himara behind and passing by the village of Dhermi . After a stop for photos we head to Llogara National Park , we will have a stop on the same place where paragliders start their flight with some amazing view to enjoy. Zvërnec Island is an island within the Narta Lagoon connected to the mainland by a 270m long wooden bridge. If lucky enough we can have a look on the migrating flamingos calmly occupying the shallow waters. The island contains the well preserved 13th-14th century Byzantine Zvërnec Monastery which we can visit. Return to Tirana