A Complete Guide to Hiking in the Albanian Mountains

Albania's mountains are a hiker's paradise that most of the world hasn't discovered yet. With peaks exceeding 2,700 meters, ancient forests, glacial lakes, and trails that see a fraction of the traffic found in the Alps or Dolomites, Albania offers an authenticity that's increasingly rare in European hiking.

Why Hike in Albania?

Albania sits at the crossroads of Mediterranean and continental climates, creating extraordinary biodiversity. The country's mountainous terrain — over 70% of the land is above 300 meters — means trails pass through diverse ecosystems within single day hikes. Add in some of Europe's lowest trail traffic and you have a hiker's dream.

Key Hiking Regions

The Accursed Mountains (Albanian Alps) The dramatic limestone peaks of northern Albania rival anything in the Dolomites. The Valbona to Theth trail is the country's most famous hike, but dozens of less-known routes offer equal beauty with fewer people.

Eastern Mountains (Shebenik & Surrounds) The Shebenik-Jabllanice range offers a completely different character — ancient beech forests, glacial lakes, and the chance to walk through UNESCO World Heritage ecosystems. Mount Shebenik (2,253m) is a challenging but rewarding summit with panoramic views across Albania and into North Macedonia.

Tomorr Mountain Sacred to both Christians and Bektashi Muslims, Mount Tomorr (2,416m) rises dramatically above the city of Berat. The annual August pilgrimage combines hiking with cultural experience.

Essential Gear for Albanian Mountain Hiking

Albanian mountain weather is unpredictable. Pack layers, rain gear, and always carry more water than you think you'll need. Many trails lack water sources, and facilities are minimal compared to Western European mountain areas. Sturdy hiking boots are essential — trails can be rocky and technical.

Trail Difficulty & Safety

Albanian trails range from gentle village walks to serious mountaineering. Key safety considerations include rapidly changing weather, limited rescue services in remote areas, and the importance of carrying navigation tools. In areas like Shebenik, bear awareness is also important — make noise on the trail and carry bear spray.

Best Time to Hike

The prime hiking season runs from May through October, with July and August offering the most reliable weather but also the warmest temperatures. September and October provide cooler hiking conditions with spectacular autumn colors, particularly in the beech forests of eastern Albania.

Where to Start

For first-time visitors, the Valbona-Theth trail provides an accessible introduction to Albanian mountain hiking. For those seeking wilder experiences, the trails of Shebenik National Park offer genuine wilderness immersion with far fewer visitors.