Historic Hike – South Albania’s Legends

Descend from Llogara National Park toward the Ionian coast, following the ancient trail known as Caesar’s Path. According to tradition, Julius Caesar used this very route during his campaign to seize Orikum.

After the hike, continue along the spectacular Albanian Riviera coastline to Ali Pasha Castle. Set on a small peninsula in the bay of Porto Palermo, this fortress offers stunning sea views and a glimpse into Albania’s layered history.

End the day in an authentic Albanian coastal village, where traditional stone houses, local cuisine, and warm hospitality create a memorable atmosphere. Stay overnight in a welcoming family-run hotel along the Albanian Riviera and enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant featuring regional specialties.

Hike Information

Distance: 13 km

Elevation Loss: –1329 m

Difficulty: Moderate (long descent)

Continue your journey along the spectacular Albanian Riviera, driving south toward the coastal city known as the “City of Forty Saints” — Saranda.

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint National Park, one of the most important archaeological treasures in the region. Butrint reveals layers of history through its well-preserved theater, basilica, city walls, and ancient ruins set within a unique natural landscape.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Saranda for a relaxing stroll along the seaside promenade. End the day with a delicious fish dinner featuring fresh local flavors.

Stay overnight in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Saranda and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Walking Information (Butrint Visit)

Distance: 1.5 km

Elevation Gain/Loss: +70 m / –70 m

Duration: approx. 2 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Leave Saranda behind and head inland toward the scenic highlands near Gjirokaster.

Begin your hike from Libohova toward Labova e Kryqit, following part of an ancient Roman trade route that once connected southern Albania with Greece. This historic path was also traveled by Lord Byron during his famous journey through the region.

Upon reaching Labova, visit its remarkable Byzantine church — one of the most important monuments of its kind in the Balkans — set peacefully within the traditional stone village. Experience authentic hospitality with a visit to a local family, gaining insight into regional traditions and daily life.

After lunch, transfer to Gjirokaster for an afternoon city tour through its cobbled streets and distinctive stone architecture. Conclude the day with dinner at a traditional restaurant.

Stay overnight in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Gjirokaster and enjoy a traditional dinner in the city.

Hike Information

Distance: 10 km

Elevation Gain/Loss: +862 m / –992 m

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Follow the historic Byron itinerary and hike past the ancient ruins of Antigonea, founded in the 3rd century BC by Pyrrhus of Epirus.

Continue along elevated village trails on the slopes of the Lunxheria Mountains, enjoying panoramic views and authentic mountain landscapes. Return to Gjirokaster in the afternoon for further exploration of the city’s cobbled streets and distinctive stone architecture.

Stay overnight in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Gjirokaster and enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant.

Hike Information

Distance: 10–12 km

Difficulty: Moderate

Leave Gjirokaster behind and drive toward the UNESCO World Heritage city of Berat. With over 20 centuries of history, Berat is a mosaic of cultures, blending ancient civilizations, Roman heritage, Ottoman influence, and modern traditions.

Explore the cobbled streets on a city tour, visiting the Castle of Berat, Onufri Museum, and the Church of Saint Mary. Stroll through Mangalem and Gorica, two of the city’s most characteristic neighborhoods, and enjoy lunch featuring local cuisine and wine.

Continue toward the coastal city of Durres, a historic hub of Albanian culture and art. Enjoy a short visit or some free time by the sea before returning to Tirana, concluding the tour.