Trips from our location
Our location is in southwest Albania and is an ideal base for exploring various fun trips and attractions in the area. We’re happy to share a few of our favorites with you.
Kuçovë
(about a 10-minute drive )
Kuçovë is the center of Albania’s oil industry and is home to a military base.
It’s an old communist industrial town, and at times, the air can smell quite strongly of crude oil. We’re in an oil extraction area, after all.
Many of the pumpjacks you see scattered around are no longer in operation. Unemployment is as high as the factory chimneys, but even here, people are happy to see visitors.
Every day, but on sunday everything is open, there’s a market until around 1:00 p.m.!
The old city Dimal. (Qyteti Antik Dimal)
(about a 42-minute drive )
An Albanian archaeological site.
Here you’ll find the remains of the ancient Illyrian city of Dimal. From the hilltop, you have a beautiful view over the valley of the Osum River.
You can see old walls, gates, and the remains of a small theatre.
Do you love history and archaeology? Then this place is definitely worth a visit!
Berat 'the city with 1000 windows'
(about a 20-minute drive )
The oldest city in Albania is known for the unique architecture behind its nickname. In the old part of the city, the white houses with their many windows climb impressively up the hillside.
The pride of Berat is the citadel, which stretches out in the shape of an elongated triangle over the highest part of the rocky hill above the northern bank of the Osum River. Enjoy the beautiful view over Berat and the Osum from here.
Also visit the Onufri Museum and experience centuries of history in the open air.
Onufri Museum: Open Tue–Sat 9:00–18:00, Sun 9:00–16:00.
Since 2014, there has also been a promenade along the green strip by the river Bulevardi Republika. Here you’ll find a string of cafés and bars, and you can fully experience the traditional evening “slipper parade.”
Going-out tip: Lili Homemade Food in the Mangalemi district, just below the citadel. Traditional Albanian cuisine, truly “homemade,” all fresh and full of local ingredients. Because it’s set in a cozy home environment, it can take a bit of effort to find (narrow streets and small stairways), so give yourself some extra time.
Address: Rruga Llambi Guxhumani, Berat, Albania. Say hello to Lili from us!
Are you joining a NATURESCRIPT Retreat? Then a visit to Lili’s is definitely included during our excursion to Berat!
Apollonia-Fier
about a 50-minute drive )
Archaeological Park and Museum
Apollonia was founded at the beginning of the 7th century BC in the lands of the Taulants, an Illyrian tribe, by colonists from Corinth. The city was named after the god Apollo, in his honor. Of the 27 cities in the ancient Mediterranean world that bore the same name, Apollonia of Illyria was the most important and played a major role as a trading intermediary between the Hellenes and the Illyrians. It is estimated that the city once had around 60,000 inhabitants.
Stroll among the centuries, old columns and enjoy the view over the Vjosa Valley. The archaeological site of Apollonia is quite extensive and takes about two hours to explore.
Fier
(about a 60-minute drive )
The city of Fier is also the ideal starting point for discovering the beautiful nature of southern Albania.
Nature lovers can indulge themselves in the Divjakë–Karavasta National Park or at the Narta Lagoon.
In the hills above Fier, you’ll find the Ardenica Monastery, a spiritual place full of history and tranquility.
In addition, Fier lies in the heart of the fertile Myzeqe plain, known for its olive groves, vineyards, and welcoming villages where you can taste local wines, olive oil, and traditional dishes.
Photo: Divjakë–Karavasta National Park Lagoon
Lushnjë
(about a 40-minute drive )
Lushnjë is not a typical tourist hotspot, but rather a wonderful place to experience the real, rural Albania, with friendly people, delicious food, a rich history, and beautiful nature nearby.
The city offers a lovely mix of mosques and churches that coexist peacefully. The Tabak Mosque and several old Orthodox churches are definitely worth a visit.
In the city center, you’ll find cozy cafés, local markets, and small restaurants serving traditional dishes.
On market days, the town buzzes with local trade and friendly energy
or visit the Historical Museum, located next to the city park.
Open: Mon–Sat 8:00–16:00 hr
A walk to Goraj
A walk to the village of Goraj
Approximately a 1.5-hour walk to the restaurant by the lake.
Enjoy the beautiful Albanian countryside along the way.
Restaurant owners: Neki and Dhurata
National Park Mali i Tomorri
(about a 1 hour and 22 minute drive) an amazing ride!
A pilgrimage site on a sacred, forested mountain ridge, also known as the habitat of wolves and eagles.
A mountain that carries history and faith within it, full of legends and myths.
Maximum elevation: 2,416 meters. Featuring different layers of rare plants and animals.
Osumi Canyon (Kanionet e Osumit)
(about a 1 hour and 45 minute drive)
A picturesque river canyon in southern Albania with steep cliffs where visitors can go rafting past numerous waterfalls.
The 26-kilometer-long gorge was carved by the Osum River and reaches depths of up to 100 meters in some places.
The canyon features stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and caves.
In spring and winter, the water flows high and wild, while in summer and autumn it becomes calmer, allowing you to swim in certain parts of the river.
Bogovë Waterfall
(about a 1 hour and 20 minute drive)
Bogovë Waterfall || Ujëvara e Bogovës
A beautiful and peaceful spot where you can cool off and relax. There are stunning “hidden” waterfalls, accessible via a short hike (about 20 minutes from the parking area). The water is ice-cold and crystal clear, and you can swim in it! Pure nature! A fantastic spot for children!
Mal Shirag (Mali i Shpiragut)
(about a 1 hour and 15 minute drive)
Mal Shpirag (Mali i Shpiragut) is a mountain massif located 5 km from the historic center of Berat, in southern central Albania. It reaches an elevation of 1,198 m (3,930 feet) above sea level.
On the way, you’ll pass through the village of Sinjë, where you can see the beautiful Kisha e Shëndëllisë church and visit the Sinjë Historical Museum (Muzeu Historik Sinjë). This area also played an important role in Albania’s struggle for independence.
(The drive to Muzeu Historik Sinjë is about 46 minutes.)
Water spring Llixha
(about a 15-minute drive)
The well is located in a beautiful pool and is freely accessible. The water is healthy and crystal clear. It also contains sulfur, giving it a slightly pungent smell, which is typical for geothermal springs.
Kanioni i Holtës
(about a 1 hour and 15 minute drive, enjoy the scenic route along the way)
Holta Canyon: A Natural Wonder in Gramsh
Holta Canyon, located near the town of Gramsh in central Albania, is a spectacular natural destination that captivates visitors with its stunning landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and crystal-clear water. This canyon is known as one of Albania’s hidden gems and offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a nature lover or an outdoor enthusiast, Holta Canyon is a must-visit!
Immerse yourself in the unspoiled beauty of Albania!
Bar Restorant 'Sofra e Peshkut'
(about a 55-minute drive)
Liqeni i Banjes, Gramsh
This is along the route to Holta Canyon. A picturesque spot with views of Banja Lake and a very relaxed atmosphere! Enjoy the scenery, the tranquility, and the food here.
A fantastic route, pure enjoyment!
'Our hidden gem'
(Close to our location)
We’ve discovered a beautiful hidden spot here in the hilly nature of Albania. Nestled among the forests, a magical landscape unfolds: a clear little river winds through the green valley, with crystal-clear water perfect for swimming and cooling off on warm days. The peace, the rustling of the trees, and the gentle babble of the water make it a true paradise. We’re so thrilled to have found this place.
A spot that makes you feel completely away from it all, yet so close by.
Perondi Sint Nicolaaskerk (Kisha e Shën Kollit)
(about 2.1 km from our location)
A walk nearby takes you to St. Nicholas Church. The gate is locked, but a friendly woman named Vlora, who lives across the street, will come and open it for you if you ask!
The church is very old and truly beautiful, both inside and out, definitely worth a visit!
Source: Wikipedia
St. Nicholas Church (Albanian: Kisha e Shën Kollit) is located in Perondi, Berat County, Albania. It was declared a cultural monument of Albania in 1963.
About 18 kilometers north of Berat, St. Nicholas Church is one of the oldest Byzantine monuments in Albania. The basilica, built in the 11th century, has three naves, a wooden roof, and a vaulted altar. The narthex and bell tower were added later, and in 1786 the roof was rebuilt and arches were added. Renovations were carried out by specialists from the Institute for Monuments in 1930 and 1970, but the age of the church is still clearly visible.
Posh beach, Spille
(about a 1 hour and 16 minute drive)
Discover this beach where crystal-clear water meets the finest, cleanest sand in all of Albania. At the beach club, enjoy delicious Mediterranean cuisine featuring fresh seafood, locally grown vegetables, and juicy seasonal fruits.
The beach is divided into two exclusive zones:
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Family Zone – a peaceful spot to relax with the whole family.
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Deluxe Zone – perfect for enjoying summer vibes with friends, refreshing cocktails, and great music at the beach bar.
Space and comfort are key: all sunbeds are generously spaced so everyone can enjoy their own bit of privacy. There is also ample parking available.
Experience the charm of Spille, where sun, sea, and relaxation come together.
Alpeta Agrotourism & Winery
(about a 47-minute drive)
We visited this place during our 2022 road trip. The route was stunning! We had a very enjoyable and informative wine tour. It was fascinating to see and learn how this family business, run by three brothers, produces their wines and makes raki. The staff were very friendly, clearly passionate about their product and craft. The dinner was also delicious! A beautiful location with a fantastic atmosphere.
We definitely recommend it!
Sineci Lumas
(about a 31-minute drive)
A beautiful spot for nature lovers. If you’re adventurous, you can also take the hike to the Katundas Caves , definitely worth it! Perfect for a barbecue with friends or visiting the restaurant, which is open in the summer.
Source: Internet
The Monastery of Ardenicë (Manastiri i Ardenicës)
51 autominuten vanaf onze locatie
The Monastery of Ardenica
A beautiful monastery with breathtaking frescoes.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Family Time Berat
(10-minute drive from our location)
Swimming pool with restaurant
Cool off during the summer months and enjoy!
