Day 1: Tirana, Shkodër, Tamarë, Lëpushë, Vermosh, Ujvara e Bashkimit, Vuthaj
Begin your adventure with an early morning departure from Tirana, heading north towards the Albanian Alps. Stop in Shkodër, one of Albania's oldest and most historic cities. Situated between Lake Shkodër and the Albanian Alps, it has long served as the gateway to the north and is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere. After a short coffee break, continue your journey through some of the country's most scenic mountain roads.
Drive through Tamarë, a picturesque alpine village located in the heart of the Kelmend region. Once isolated, Tamarë has become famous for its traditional stone houses, crystal-clear river, and dramatic mountain scenery, making it one of the most beautiful villages in northern Albania.
From Tamarë, continue to Lëpushë, one of the hidden gems of the Albanian Alps. Surrounded by vast alpine meadows and rugged peaks, Lëpushë is renowned for its untouched landscapes and traditional mountain lifestyle. During spring and summer, its green valleys are covered with colorful wildflowers, creating breathtaking scenery.
Your journey then takes you to Vermosh, the northernmost village of Albania, located just a few kilometers from the Montenegrin border. Vermosh is famous for its peaceful atmosphere, spectacular alpine landscapes, and the Vermosh Valley, often considered one of the most beautiful valleys in the Balkans.
Before crossing into Montenegro, visit Ujvara e Bashkimit (The Waterfall of Unity), a beautiful waterfall named to symbolize the friendship and connection between Albania and Montenegro.
Enjoy dinner and overnight accommodation in Vuthaj.
Day 2: Zastan, Lakes of Jezerca, Vuthaj, Tirana
After breakfast at the hotel, board your 4x4 vehicles for an exciting off-road drive to Zastan, the starting point of today's hike. The scenic drive climbs through forests and alpine landscapes, significantly shortening the hiking distance while offering magnificent mountain views.
From Zastan, begin your approximately 3-hour hike towards the breathtaking Lakes of Jezerca, located beneath the towering Jezerca Massif, home to the highest peak of the Dinaric Alps at 2,694 meters. The glacial lakes are famous for their crystal-clear turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and pristine alpine environment, making them one of the most spectacular hiking destinations in the Balkans.
Before returning to Albania, stop for a traditional lunch in Vuthaj near the beautiful Hartini Waterfall. Hidden among dense forest, the waterfall provides a refreshing natural setting and is the perfect place to unwind after the hike while enjoying local cuisine. Following lunch, begin your scenic drive back through the Albanian Alps, arriving in Tirana in the evening, bringing to an end two unforgettable days exploring one of the most spectacular mountain regions in the Balkans.