Kolonja Day Tour with Breakfast and Dinner

Planning a day trip that combines cultural discovery, stunning scenery, and authentic Albanian cuisine? The Kolonja Day Tour from Tirana might just fit the bill. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, I’ve gone through the details and traveler feedback to give you a candid look at what you can expect.

What really stands out is how this experience offers a full immersion into Albania’s lesser-known yet fascinating region of Korçë County. From exploring the vibrant town of Erskeça to visiting historical sites and enjoying traditional meals, there’s an appealing mix of culture, nature, and comfort.

Of course, no tour is perfect for everyone. It’s a 15-hour, quite packed day with lots of moving parts, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, this might require some consideration. That said, if you’re eager to learn about local heritage and enjoy scenic mountain views, this tour is a solid pick—especially for those who appreciate authentic, home-style Albanian food.

Key Points

• Full-day experience covering scenic landscapes, historical sites, and local culture
• Includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner—great value for a comprehensive culinary experience
• Visits to Erseka and Saint Kolli Vodice church for cultural and historical insight
• Scenic stops with photo opportunities of Mount Gramoz and traditional Albanian villages
• Guided tour with live guides in Albanian and English for a personalized touch
• Not suitable for those with mobility issues due to walking and walking distances

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to the Tour Experience

The Kolonja Day Tour offers a way to uncover Albania’s southeastern gems through a well-organized, guided journey. It’s designed for travelers who want more than just a quick look—this is about experiencing the region’s landscapes, history, and flavors in one full, satisfying day.

Two aspects that stand out immediately are the culinary highlights and the opportunity to see local architecture and historic sites up close. Starting with a hearty breakfast, you’re set for a day that weaves through scenic mountain views, cultural stops, and delicious meals. The inclusion of a traditional dinner at a mountain restaurant in Erseka cements this as a true taste of local life.

One potential downside is the long duration—at 15 hours, it’s a substantial commitment. The schedule is quite full, with multiple stops and transportation between points. If you’re not used to long days on the road or walking, it might feel a bit rushed. Also, note that transportation isn’t included from your hotel to the meeting point, so you’ll need to arrange that yourself.

This tour seems best suited for adventurous travelers who want to deepen their understanding of Albanian culture beyond Tirana. It’s great for those who appreciate a mix of history, nature, and authentic cuisine in a single day.

What You Can Expect from the Journey

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at the Oxygen Boutique Hotel in Tirana, which provides a comfortable meeting point. From there, you’ll hop onto a bus or coach for about an hour to reach the first scenic stop. The transportation aspect is straightforward, but keep in mind that the tour price doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan accordingly.

Morning: Scenic Drive and Coffee Break

The initial part of the day involves a one-hour bus ride through Albania’s landscape, setting the tone for what’s to come. Then, you’ll stop for a coffee break with a view of Mount Gramoz, which many travelers find to be a highlight. The chance to sip coffee while taking in stunning mountain scenery is a simple but memorable moment.

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Mid-Morning: Exploring Erseka and Local Heritage

Next, you arrive in Erskeça, the vibrant center of Kolonja. Here, you’ll have time to explore the town’s architecture and atmosphere. The guide might highlight local traditions and point out notable buildings, like the characteristic houses.

Lunch: Traditional Albanian Flavors

One of the tour’s special features is the traditional lunch in a natural setting near Saint Kolli Vodice church. The meal includes local village products, offering a genuine taste of Albanian cuisine. Travelers often comment on the authenticity and simplicity of the food, which feels like eating in a friend’s home rather than at a tourist spot.

Afternoon: Cultural and Historical Visits

The visit to Saint Kolli Vodice church is a highlight for many. This historic church reflects the area’s religious and cultural history. The church’s significance is emphasized by the story of the Jovanes family, who built the church and contributed to the region’s founding. Tour participants often find these stories enriching, giving context to the architecture and religious practices.

You’ll also enjoy a stop at a house from the 1800s, which provides a glimpse into traditional Albanian life from a bygone era. These visits add a layer of authenticity and allow for some great photo opportunities.

Late Afternoon: Scenic Views and Free Time

The day continues with more stops for photos and exploring. You might find the views of Mount Gramoz breathtaking—something that makes the long day worthwhile. The guide may also offer some free time, giving you space to wander or relax.

Evening: Dinner and Return

The tour wraps up with a dinner at Sofra Kolonjare, a restaurant designed to showcase mountain architecture and local dishes. It’s a great way to end the day with a relaxed meal and a chance to unwind before heading back to Tirana.

Back at the Oxygen Boutique Hotel, you’ll have completed a full circle of cultural and scenic highlights, with plenty to think about—and photos to share.

Value and Practicalities

Considering the $292 price point, this tour packs quite a lot into a single day. The inclusion of breakfast, lunch, and dinner makes it a good deal for those wanting a full culinary experience without extra costs. Plus, visiting key sites like Saint Kolli Vodice church and the characteristic 1800s house adds depth beyond just sightseeing.

The guided aspect, with guides speaking both Albanian and English, ensures you’ll get context and stories that bring the experience alive. Traveling with a group also means you’ll meet like-minded travelers, which can make the long day more enjoyable.

One thing to keep in mind is the timing—starting times vary, and the day’s schedule is packed. You should come prepared with comfortable shoes, warm clothing (especially if the weather is cooler in the mountains), and essentials like water, camera, and snacks.

The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, given all the walking and walking tours involved. Also, since transportation isn’t included from your hotel, it’s best suited for travelers who can coordinate their own transfer or are staying close to the meeting point.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a meaningful cultural experience combined with scenic mountain views and hearty Albanian food, this tour offers quite a lot. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with a jam-packed day of sightseeing and don’t mind long hours on the move. For travelers eager to get off the beaten path and learn about the history and architecture of Korçë County, it fits well.

This experience might not be perfect if you’re seeking a slow-paced or very relaxed day, or if mobility is an issue. But for those curious about Albania’s southeastern regions, looking for authentic meals, and eager to see some stunning views, it’s a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation from Tirana included?
No, transportation from your hotel to the meeting point is not included. The tour starts at the Oxygen Boutique Hotel, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer.

What is the length of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 15 hours, starting and ending at the same hotel in Tirana.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast in the morning, a traditional Albanian lunch near Saint Kolli Vodice church, and dinner at Sofra Kolonjare.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour involves a lot of walking and long hours, so it may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Do guides speak English?
Yes, the guides speak both Albanian and English, ensuring you get good explanations and stories during the tour.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a camera, water, and snacks are recommended. Smoking isn’t allowed during the tour.

What are the highlights of this experience?
The main highlights include the scenic drives, the visit to Erseka, the historic Saint Kolli Vodice church, a traditional house from the 1800s, and enjoying Albanian cuisine through the meals included.

Is this experience family-friendly?
It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with long days and walking. For families with young children or those needing accessible options, it may require planning or reconsideration.

In essence, this Kolonja Day Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Albanian culture, history, and landscapes in a single day. It’s a great way to step outside Tirana and see a different side of Albania—authentic, scenic, and flavorful. Just be ready for a busy but rewarding adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: