Valbona Pass: Hiking in the Albanian Alps
Hike through the heart of the Albanian Alps, crossing dramatic mountain passes and offering breathtaking views every step of the way.
Valbona Pass is a high mountain pass in the Albanian Alps, offering a stunning hiking trail between the Valbona Valley and Theth. Known for its dramatic mountain scenery, the pass provides breathtaking views and a challenging yet rewarding trek through diverse landscapes.
A brief summary to Valbona Pass
- CR48+822, Valbona, Pass, AL
- Visit website
Local tips
- Hike from Valbona to Theth, as the Valbona side offers more scenic views during the ascent.
- Start your hike early, ideally between 6:30 and 7:30 AM, to avoid the midday heat.
- Bring enough cash, as there are no ATMs in Valbona or Theth.
- Pack light and wear comfortable hiking shoes.
- Check the weather forecast before you hike and bring a light raincoat, as unexpected rain can occur.
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach Valbona Pass, begin in Shkoder. Take a minibus from Shkoder to Koman (approximately €8 or 800 LEK). Then, take the Komani Lake Ferry to Fierze (€10 or 1000 LEK). From Fierze, a minibus will take you to Valbona (€8 or 800 LEK). From Valbona village, arrange a local taxi to Rrogam, the start of the trailhead (€30). Alternatively, you can start your hike from the guesthouse door in the valley.
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Walking
From Rrogam, the trailhead is well-marked with red and white signs. The hike to Valbona Pass is approximately 9.5 km to Theth. Start early to avoid the heat and give yourself ample time to enjoy the scenery. The ascent to the pass takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, with a final 2.5 to 3-hour descent into Theth village. There is a forest cafe along the way that is a perfect place for a break.
Discover more about Valbona Pass
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Molla Guest House
4.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Theth at Molla Guest House, a cozy retreat surrounded by majestic mountains and rich Albanian culture.
Alpbes Theth Guesthouse
5.0 km
Discover the beauty of the Albanian Alps at Alpbes Theth Guesthouse, where comfort meets authentic local experiences amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Bujtina Malaj
5.2 km
Experience Albanian hospitality in the heart of the Alps at Bujtina Malaj, your gateway to Valbona Valley National Park's stunning beauty.
Albanian Alps
5.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Albanian Alps, a mountain range offering stunning views, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural experiences for intrepid travelers.
Vaskat Ndërlysaj
6.9 km
Explore the stunning hiking trails and natural beauty of Vaskat Ndërlysaj in the Albanian Alps. A perfect escape for nature lovers and adventurers.
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7.2 km
Explore the breathtaking mountain pass in Albania, a hidden gem perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers, offering stunning vistas and outdoor activities.
Bunkers of Valbona
7.2 km
Explore Albania's communist past amidst the stunning scenery of Valbona Valley National Park.
Syri Kaltër
7.2 km
Discover the mesmerizing turquoise waters of The Blue Eye in Theth National Park, a natural wonder in the Albanian Alps.
Blue Eye Kaprre
7.3 km
Discover the stunning Blue Eye of Kaprre in Theth National Park, Albania: a natural spring with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking alpine scenery.
Bujtina Albjoni
7.6 km
Experience Albanian hospitality amidst stunning mountain scenery at Bujtina Albjoni, your gateway to the Valbona Valley National Park.
Valbona valley river
7.6 km
Discover the pristine beauty of Valbona Valley River in the Albanian Alps: a haven for hikers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers.
Qafë thore
7.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Qafë Thore Plateau in Albania, where stunning views, diverse ecosystems, and rich culture await every traveler.
Bujtina Arturi
7.6 km
Experience Albanian hospitality in the heart of Valbonë Valley, with stunning views and easy access to hiking trails.
Centerpark Valbona
8.1 km
Escape to Centerpark Valbona in the Albanian Alps: Cozy cabins, stunning views, and endless outdoor adventures await in Valbona Valley National Park.
Maja e Thatë
8.2 km
Discover the breathtaking Maja e Thatë, an iconic peak in Albania's Valbona Valley, offering stunning views and outdoor adventures.
Unmissable attractions to see
Valbonë-Teth viewpoint peak
0.3 km
Explore the unparalleled beauty of Valbonë-Teth Viewpoint Peak, a must-visit destination in the Albanian Alps offering stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
Ujëvara e Rrogamit - Rrogami Waterfall
1.0 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Rrogami Waterfall in Albania, where nature's tranquility meets stunning landscapes.
Valbona - Theth Hiking Trail
2.7 km
Experience the breathtaking Valbona - Theth Hiking Trail, where stunning landscapes and rich culture come together in the heart of Albania's Albanian Alps.
Theth valley viewpoint
3.0 km
Experience the stunning panoramic views at Theth Valley Viewpoint, a must-see tourist attraction in the heart of the Albanian Alps.
Kisha e Thethit
3.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Kisha e Thethit, an enchanting church nestled in the stunning landscapes of Albania's Thethi region.
Bujtina Polia
3.4 km
Experience the beauty of Theth at Bujtina Polia, a perfect blend of comfort, local culture, and adventure in the Albanian Alps.
Theth
3.4 km
Discover Theth, Albania: Hike through stunning alpine scenery, explore waterfalls, and experience traditional village life in the heart of the Albanian Alps.
Qender Theth
3.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Qender Theth, a hidden gem in the heart of the Albanian Alps, perfect for nature lovers.
Reconciliation Tower
3.5 km
Explore the Reconciliation Tower in Albania, a remarkable museum showcasing the nation's rich history and cultural heritage in a stunning setting.
Kaskada e Grunasit
3.6 km
Discover Kaskada e Grunasit, a stunning waterfall in Theth National Park, offering a refreshing escape into Albania's breathtaking landscapes.
Waterfall Grunas - Theth
3.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Grunas Waterfall in Theth National Park, Albania – a stunning natural wonder surrounded by majestic mountains.
Waterfall Theth
3.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Theth Waterfall, a hidden gem in Albania's stunning natural landscape.
Ujevjerra e Grunasit (Grunas Waterfall)
3.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Grunas Waterfall in Albania, a perfect blend of nature's tranquility and adventure.
Theth National Park
3.6 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Theth National Park, Albania's hidden gem in the Albanian Alps.
theth, albania
3.9 km
Discover the breathtaking hiking trails and rich culture of Theth, Albania, a hidden gem in the heart of the Albanian Alps.
Essential places to dine
Simoni Kafe
0.8 km
Discover Simoni Kafe in Rragam – where family-friendly vibes meet authentic Albanian flavors in a cozy setting.
Restaurant Camping Leka
1.9 km
Experience authentic Albanian cuisine surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Valbona National Park at Restaurant Camping Leka.
Bar Restaurant
3.2 km
Experience the heart of Albanian cuisine amidst stunning mountain views at Bar Restaurant in Theth.
Hotel Restorant Alpet Theth
3.3 km
Experience authentic Albanian cuisine amidst breathtaking scenery at Hotel Restorant Alpet Theth - where every meal tells a story.
Blue River Bar & Grill
3.5 km
Experience authentic Albanian flavors at Blue River Bar & Grill in Theth – where culinary delight meets stunning natural beauty.
Villa GJECAJ Guesthouse and Restaurant
3.5 km
Experience authentic Albanian cuisine at Villa GJECAJ Guesthouse and Restaurant in Theth, surrounded by stunning mountain vistas.
Gjon Shpella
3.5 km
Discover authentic Albanian cuisine at Gjon Shpella in Fushe-Thethi, where tradition meets breathtaking views.
Petriti
3.5 km
Experience authentic Albanian cuisine amidst breathtaking landscapes at Petriti in Theth – a true gem for travelers seeking adventure and flavor.
Bar restaurant zojgja
3.5 km
Experience authentic Albanian cuisine with stunning views at Bar Restaurant Zojgja in Theth - your gateway to local flavors.
Restaurants & Guesthouse Villa Gurra
3.5 km
Experience authentic Albanian cuisine and warm hospitality at Villa Gurra in Theth - a perfect blend of nature and flavor.
Fast Food Pizzeri Jezerca
3.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Fast Food Pizzeri Jezerca in Theth – perfect for tourists craving delicious pizza amidst stunning Albanian scenery.
Bar Restaurant Jezerca
3.6 km
Discover traditional Albanian cuisine amidst breathtaking alpine views at Bar Restaurant Jezerca in Theth.
Royal Land Hotel & Restaurant
4.1 km
Experience unparalleled comfort and authentic Albanian cuisine at Royal Land Hotel & Restaurant in scenic Theth.
Thethi Paradise Restaurant & Hotel
4.2 km
Experience unmatched hospitality and authentic Albanian cuisine at Thethi Paradise Restaurant & Hotel amidst stunning alpine scenery.
Kristal Theth
4.3 km
Experience authentic Albanian cuisine at Kristal Theth, where cozy ambiance meets breathtaking views in the heart of Theth.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kulla e Ngujimit
3.5 km
Discover Kulla e Ngujimit, a charming cafeteria in Thethi, Albania, where stunning mountain views and local flavors await every traveler.
Mini Market Jezerca
3.6 km
Explore the heart of Theth at Mini Market Jezerca - your local hub for fresh goods and authentic Albanian culture amidst stunning landscapes.
petrol Station
3.6 km
Explore the Albanian Alps: Fuel up in Theth for an unforgettable adventure in nature's paradise.
TobaccoShop
6.8 km
Discover local flavors and authentic Albanian products at the Tobacco Shop in Nderlysaj, a must-visit grocery store for tourists.
Hotel Valbona- Tourism Development and Info Center
7.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Valbonë at Hotel Valbona, your gateway to adventure and local insights in Albania's stunning landscapes.
Valbona
8.0 km
Explore Valbona's vibrant supermarket, where local flavors and essentials meet the charm of Albanian hospitality.
Bar Cafe Luli
13.2 km
Experience the local charm of Nikç at Bar Cafe Luli, a delightful grocery store cafe offering tasty snacks and refreshing drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Shepherd's Rest Mountain Coffee and Tea House
13.3 km
Experience the beauty of Vusanje at Shepherd's Rest Mountain Coffee and Tea House, a perfect blend of nature, coffee, and tranquility.
Boga Alpine Resort - Camping Albania / B&B (Way to Theth)
13.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Albania at Boga Alpine Resort – your ideal camping and dining destination in the heart of the Alps.
Restaurant Boga Alpine Resort
13.8 km
Experience the exquisite flavors and stunning views at Restaurant Boga Alpine Resort in the heart of Albania's breathtaking landscapes.
Gazmend's super market
16.1 km
Discover the charm of Gazmend's Super Market in Lëpushë, where local flavors and community spirit come together in a delightful shopping experience.
Nacionalni park Prokletije
16.1 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Nacionalni park Prokletije, a true gem of Montenegro's natural heritage.
Visitors Center , National Park Prokletije, Gusinje
16.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Montenegro's Prokletije National Park at the Visitors Center, your gateway to adventure in nature's paradise.
Vision bakery
17.6 km
Discover the sweet and savory delights of Vision Bakery in Gusinje, where traditional Montenegrin flavors come to life in every bite.
Kafana Kolata
17.6 km
Discover the cozy charm of Kafana Kolata, a coffee haven in Gusinje, Montenegro, offering delightful brews and a warm atmosphere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar&Restaurant Emanueli
1.7 km
Discover the flavors of Albania at Bar&Restaurant Emanueli, a culinary treasure in Rragam offering local dishes in a cozy setting.
Bar-Camping
2.0 km
Discover the charm of Bar-Camping in Gjelaj-Rrogam, a unique blend of outdoor adventure and refreshing local drinks in Albania's stunning landscapes.
Bar Kafe Gjoka
2.6 km
Discover the charm of Gjelaj at Bar Kafe Gjoka, where refreshing drinks and stunning views create the perfect escape in Albania.
IBC Legata
3.3 km
Experience the charm of IBC Legata, a serene bar in the breathtaking landscapes of Fushe - Thethi, Albania, perfect for relaxation and local flavors.
Bar&Grill & Music Waterfall
3.5 km
Experience the fusion of flavors and melodies at Bar&Grill & Music Waterfall, where every meal is a celebration amidst nature's beauty.
Bar kafe kodra e lterit
3.7 km
Relax in the serene surroundings of Bar Kafe Kodra e Lterit in Theth, Albania, where stunning views and local charm meet.
Bar-Tabachino
6.8 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Bar-Tabachino in Nderlysaj, where local culture meets vibrant nightlife for an unforgettable experience.
Bar Restorant Samueli
6.9 km
Experience the essence of Albanian fast food at Bar Restorant Samueli, where delicious meals meet breathtaking mountain views.
Restaurant and Bar Ndërlysaj
6.9 km
Discover the flavors of Albania at Restaurant and Bar Ndërlysaj, where stunning views meet delicious local cuisine in the heart of Theth.
Blue Eye Bar
7.1 km
Discover Blue Eye Bar in Kaprre e Gimajve, where vibrant atmosphere meets local flavors for an unforgettable experience.
Riverside Valbone
10.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Riverside Valbone, where nature meets comfort in the heart of Albania's stunning landscapes.
Rrollo
10.8 km
Experience the vibrant ambiance of Rrollo, a cozy bar in Fushe -Okol, Albania, where local culture meets refreshing drinks.
Bar & guesthouse
13.3 km
Experience the charm of Dragobi at this inviting bar and guesthouse, where local culture and warm hospitality meet in a breathtaking setting.
Bar & Guesthouse “Metaliaj”
13.4 km
Discover the enchanting Bar & Guesthouse Metaliaj in Dragobi, Albania – a perfect blend of local charm, stunning views, and delightful beverages.
Pjetër Ulaj
13.7 km
Experience the warmth of Albanian hospitality at Pjetër Ulaj Bar, where refreshing drinks and stunning mountain views await in Bogë.
