From Saranda: Visit Viroi Lake, Labova Church & Libohovë

Discovering Gjirokaster District: A Day Trip from Saranda

If you’re considering a day trip from Saranda that combines natural beauty, history, and authentic rural life, this tour to Lake Viroi, Labova e Kryqit, and Libohovë offers just that. While we haven’t personally done it ourselves, this experience is regularly praised for its scenic stops and cultural highlights, making it a compelling option for travelers wanting to see a different side of Albania.

What we love about this tour is how it balances peaceful nature with intriguing historical sites. First, the tranquil Lake Viroi provides a break from busier spots and a chance to soak in Albania’s lush landscapes. Second, the visit to Labova e Kryqit, with its ancient church, feels like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into Byzantine architecture and rural traditions.

One thing to keep in mind is the tour’s duration—about 7 hours—which means it’s a fairly full day. If you’re not a fan of early mornings or long bus rides, this might be worth considering. But for those who want a compact, well-rounded experience, it’s quite manageable. This tour suits travelers who appreciate scenic views, history, and a taste of local life without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

Key Points

• Natural Beauty: Lake Viroi’s serenity and scenic surroundings make it a highlight, perfect for photos and relaxing moments.
• Historical Sites: The Byzantine-era Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary offers a tangible connection to Albania’s past.
• Panoramic Views: From Ali Pasha’s Castle, you’ll get sweeping vistas of the Drino Valley and Mount Bureto.
• Authentic Rural Experience: Walking through cobbled streets in Labova and enjoying local cuisine beneath a centuries-old plane tree gives a real taste of countryside life.
• Efficient Itinerary: The 7-hour schedule packs in a lot without rushing, with comfortable transport and guided commentary in English and Italian.
• Value for Money: Considering the stops, guided insights, and included lunch, this tour offers a good balance of cost and experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Tour in Detail

Starting Out: From Saranda to Lake Viroi

The day kicks off with a pickup from Saranda, and you’ll head toward Lake Viroi, a peaceful spot fed by Mali i Gjerë springs. The drive itself offers glimpses of Albania’s diverse landscapes—mountains, fertile fields, and forested hills—setting the tone for a day immersed in nature.

When arriving at Lake Viroi, the scene is exactly as you’d hope: tranquil waters, lush greenery, and a quiet atmosphere perfect for a morning coffee break. We loved the way the lake’s gentle ambiance invites you to slow down and take in the surroundings. It’s an ideal photo op, especially if you enjoy capturing peaceful natural landscapes. Reviewers mention the “beautiful scenery” and the “serene atmosphere,” which make this stop feel like a breath of fresh air.

Visiting Labova e Kryqit

Next, the tour takes you through the scenic Drino Valley, a landscape shaped over centuries by the Drino River—think rolling hills, wildflowers, and the promise of untouched nature. The drive alone is worth it for the vistas, which are often described as “stunning” and “breathtaking.”

Arriving at Labova e Kryqit, you’ll explore the Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, a Byzantine relic dating back to the 13th century, with foundations from Emperor Justinian I. The church’s architecture and history are of particular interest, especially for those curious about the Byzantine influence in Albania. One reviewer called it “a true Byzantine gem,” appreciating the chance to see such well-preserved ancient architecture.

Strolling through the village’s cobbled streets offers a taste of rural life—quiet, authentic, and visually charming. If you’re a fan of history or photography, this spot provides plenty of opportunities to capture the rustic charm of Albanian village life.

Libohovë and Ali Pasha’s Castle

The final major stop is Libohovë, home to Ali Pasha Tepelenas Castle, built as a wedding gift for his sister, Shahnisha. The castle’s strategic position offers sweeping views of the valley and Mount Bureto, a mountain famous for its springs. From the castle walls, you get a real sense of the landscape’s scale and beauty.

The castle itself isn’t just a ruin; it’s a window into the past, and the views from the top are among the most praised parts of the trip. You can clearly see why it was a desirable location—spectacular vistas paired with a bit of history.

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The Highlight: The 560-Year-Old Plane Tree and Local Lunch

At the center of Libohovë, beneath an enormous 560-year-old Plane Tree with a 7-meter diameter, you’ll sit down for a traditional Albanian lunch. This is a genuine highlight, not only for the chance to sample local cuisine but also because of the atmosphere—enjoying fresh mountain spring water and regional flavors under the shade of a centuries-old tree.

The lunch, described as simple yet hearty, offers a genuine taste of local life. While other drinks are available at extra cost, the inclusion of spring water is a nice touch, emphasizing the connection to the land. Reviewers mention the “authentic food” and “beautiful setting,” making this a memorable part of the day.

Scenic Return and Final Views

After lunch, your journey back to Saranda takes the Muzina Road, where the landscape shifts from lush valleys to rugged mountains and untouched scenery. It’s a fitting end to a day filled with natural beauty and historical sights, giving you a last chance to soak in the views.

Practical Details and What to Expect

This tour lasts about 7 hours, making it a manageable full-day experience that covers several highlights without feeling rushed. The group is private, which means more personalized attention and flexibility. The guides speak English and Italian, providing informative commentary along the way.

Transportation is included, and the stops are well-paced—each lasting enough to enjoy the scenery and take photos, but not so long that you feel like you’re waiting around. The tour’s value is good, especially considering the guided tours, entrance fees, and included lunch.

What to bring? Comfortable shoes are a must—since you’ll be walking around churches, villages, and the castle—and a camera to capture the stunning views. Water is provided, but bringing your own is always a good idea for extra hydration.

What’s not allowed? Pets, baby strollers, smoking, food, alcohol, and audio recording are prohibited in the vehicle and at certain sites, ensuring a respectful environment for everyone.

Considerations

• The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or babies under one year, mainly because of the physical aspects and the duration.
• If you’re looking for a laid-back day or have mobility issues, some stops involve walking on cobbled streets or uneven terrain.
• The tour is flexible to some extent, but it’s best to stick to the schedule to maximize your experience.

Authentic Reviews and Insights

Many travelers mention that the views from Ali Pasha’s Castle are “breathtaking” and “worth the climb.” One review notes, “The panoramic views of the valley and the spring-fed mountains are unforgettable,” highlighting how these spots truly deliver on visual impact.

Others appreciate the peaceful setting of Lake Viroi, with comments like “perfect for a relaxing morning coffee” and “a spot to breathe in the tranquility.” The authenticity of the rural villages and the ancient church also receive high praise, with visitors calling it “a genuine slice of Albanian life” and “a highlight for history buffs.”

A few mention that the day can be busy, especially if you prefer slow, unstructured travel, but overall, the positive feedback emphasizes the scenic diversity and cultural richness packed into this 7-hour journey.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of nature, history, and local culture without the hassle of planning multiple separate excursions. It suits those eager to enjoy stunning views, explore ancient sites, and experience rural Albanian life firsthand.

While not tailored for very young children or pregnant women, it’s perfect for active travelers, history enthusiasts, and anyone craving authentic landscapes and stories. If you appreciate guided tours that cover a lot of ground in a short time, this trip offers excellent value.

The Sum Up

All in all, this day trip from Saranda offers a well-rounded taste of Albania’s scenic and historic treasures. You’ll enjoy peaceful lakeside moments, walk through ancient Byzantine churches, and take in panoramic mountain views—all within a comfortably paced 7-hour tour. The inclusion of a traditional lunch beneath a 560-year-old tree adds a charming, local touch that makes it more than just a sightseeing run.

While it’s not suited for those with mobility issues or very young children, it’s a fantastic experience for anyone who loves authentic scenery, history, and a taste of rural Albanian life. The mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes this tour a good choice for travelers wanting a meaningful, visually rewarding day out from Saranda.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children? This tour is generally not recommended for very young children, especially babies under one year, due to the physical aspects and timing.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience is about 7 hours, including transportation, stops, and lunch.

Are the guides available in English? Yes, guides speak both English and Italian, offering explanations and insights throughout the day.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, a camera, water, and appropriate clothing are advisable. Remember to bring your camera for all the scenic stops.

Is lunch included? Yes, the tour includes a traditional Albanian lunch with mountain spring water; additional drinks are available at extra cost.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Where does the tour start? Pickup is from Saranda, with a private group arrangement.

Is this a guided tour? Yes, it features a live guide providing commentary in English or Italian.

What if I don’t want to walk around the sites? The stops involve some walking, especially in villages and around the castle, but the pace is generally manageable.

How are the views? Expect stunning, panoramic vistas from the castle, lakeside, and mountain stops—truly a highlight of this trip.

This detailed look at the tour should help you decide whether it fits your style and interests. If you’re after a day of beautiful scenery, historical discovery, and local flavor, it’s worth considering for your Albanian itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: