Valbona Valley National Park: A Hiker's Paradise in the Albanian Alps
Discover the untouched beauty of Valbona Valley National Park in the Albanian Alps: hiking, wildlife, and breathtaking mountain scenery.
Valbona Valley National Park, often called the 'Gem of Albania,' is a breathtaking protected area in the northern part of the country. Established in 1996, the park encompasses 80 square kilometers of the Albanian Alps, also known as the Accursed Mountains. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in a landscape of towering peaks, alpine meadows, glacial springs, and stunning waterfalls. The park's diverse ecosystems provide a habitat for a wide array of flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for brown bears, wolves, golden eagles, and the elusive Balkan lynx. The Valbona River, with its crystal-clear waters, winds through the valley, adding to the picturesque scenery. Hiking is the most popular activity in Valbona Valley National Park. The park boasts a network of trails that cater to various skill levels, from leisurely valley walks to challenging mountain ascents. The Valbona to Theth trail is one of the most well-known hikes in the Balkans, connecting Valbona Valley with Theth National Park. This 17-kilometer trail takes you over a mountain pass, rewarding you with panoramic views of the Albanian Alps. Other notable hikes include the trail to Jezerca Lakes and the ascent to Maja e Jezercës, the highest peak in the Albanian Alps. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the village of Valbona offers a glimpse into traditional Albanian mountain life. Here, you can find guesthouses offering comfortable accommodations and delicious, locally sourced cuisine. The park's remote location and pristine environment make it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature.
Local tips
- The best time to visit Valbona is from May to October, when the weather is sunny and dry, ideal for hiking.
- Bring sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water, and layers of clothing, as the weather in the mountains can change quickly.
- Consider storing your luggage in Shkoder if you're planning to hike to Theth to avoid carrying unnecessary weight.
- Check the weather forecast and trail conditions with locals before embarking on any hikes.
- Book accommodations and transportation in advance, especially during peak season.
A brief summary to Valbona Valley National Park
- 8706, AL
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach Valbona Valley National Park via public transport, begin by taking a bus from Tirana or Shkoder to Koman. From Shkoder, the minibus to Koman typically leaves around 6:30 AM from Rozafa Hotel. From Tirana, the bus departs around 5:00 AM. The bus trip from Tirana to Komani Lake costs approximately 15 euros. At Koman, transfer to the Koman Lake Ferry, which departs at 9:00 AM. The ferry trip to Fierze costs around 7 euros per person and takes approximately 3 hours. If you are traveling with a car, you may take the car onboard, costing approximately 30-40 Euro for a standard 5-seater vehicle. It is recommended to reserve your place for the car at least 1 week in advance during the high season (June – September). Upon arrival in Fierze, minibuses will be waiting to take you to Valbona. This final leg of the journey costs approximately 7 euros per person. The ride takes 45 minutes to 1 hour.
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Car
To reach Valbona Valley National Park by car, the fastest route from Tirana is via the highway to Kukës, Gjakovë in Kosovo, and the Qafa e Morinës border crossing. Alternatively, you can take a narrow, winding road from Kukës via Krumë. From Puka, head southeast on SH21 for about 25 kilometers. After reaching the junction near Bajram Curri, take the left onto SH24. Continue on SH24 for approximately 30 kilometers until you reach the Valbona Valley National Park entrance. Be sure to have cash on hand as there might be a small entrance fee to access the park. Expect to drive for at least three and a half hours from Tirana to Koman due to the terrible road in the final stretch. Parking is available at Hotel Fusha e Gjese Rragam, near the start of the Valbona-Theth trail.
Attractions Nearby to Valbona Valley National Park
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Hotel Valbona- Tourism Development and Info Center
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Mulliri i Vjetër i Valbonës
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Bunkers of Valbona
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Valbona valley
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Valbonë
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Valbona valley river
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Panoramic view on the valley Valbone
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Valbona - Theth Hiking Trail
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Zla Kolata
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Valbonë River
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Ujëvara e Rrogamit - Rrogami Waterfall
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Valbonë-Teth viewpoint peak
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Maja Jezercë
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Valbona Pass
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Prokletije
