Semi-Private Hiking Tour; Theth & Blue Eye in 3 Days

If you’re craving a trip that combines jaw-dropping scenery with authentic mountain life, this semi-private 3-day hiking tour through the Albanian Alps offers just that. Designed for those who love nature and are comfortable with some walking, this experience from Tirana takes you into the heart of one of Europe’s lesser-known mountain treasures.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, you get to visit the Blue Eye, a natural pool so vividly blue and green that you’ll want to swim in it (if you’re brave enough). Second, the chance to explore Theth Village, with its traditional stone houses, historic sites, and stunning setting, feels like stepping into a different world.

Of course, no trip is perfect — the journey involves some long drives through rugged terrain, and the hikes are classified as easy to moderate, so you’ll want to be comfortable on your feet. But for those looking to disconnect, see spectacular landscapes, and enjoy a taste of Albanian mountain life, this tour hits the right notes.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just someone eager to see a part of Europe that’s still largely untouched, this experience suits active travelers who love nature and cultural sights.

Key Points

• Authentic Albanian mountain experience with visits to iconic sites like Blue Eye and Theth Village
• Balanced itinerary with manageable hikes, including the stunning Grunas Waterfall
• Expert guides ensure you’re safe and informed while exploring
• Comfortable, traditional homestays give a taste of local life
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and pay later plans
• Suitable for travelers with some hiking experience comfortable with easy to moderate trails

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: From Tirana/Shkoder to Theth via Blue Eye

Your adventure begins early — around 6:00 AM — as you leave the city behind and head into the Albanian Alps. The drive itself is a scenic highlight, with views of wild fields, rushing rivers, and the expansive Shkodra Lake. This is a journey that feels like stepping into a different world, away from the hustle of city life.

The route takes you through a rural landscape with fewer cars and more open space, culminating in a steep climb up to Qafa e Thores at 1700 meters above sea level. This part of the drive is quite an experience, with zig-zagging mountain roads that will make you hold on a little — but the views are worth it.

Once you arrive in Theth, you’ll start your exploration with a walk to Blue Eye — a natural pool famous for its striking blue and green colors. The hike to Blue Eye takes about 3 hours one way, covering roughly 6.2 km with an elevation gain of around 700 meters. It’s considered an easy to moderate trail, but it does require some experience and decent shoes. The visual reward? Absolutely worth it. The Blue Eye’s vibrant waters seem almost unreal, a perfect snapshot of the raw beauty in these mountains.

After returning to Theth, you’ll visit the Old Church and the “Lock in” Tower — landmarks that have stood for centuries, telling stories of local life and history. Staying overnight in a traditional guesthouse means you get a close-to-nature experience and a chance to unwind in a simple, authentic setting.

Day 2: Waterfalls and Mountain Vistas

The next morning, after breakfast, the focus shifts to Grunas Waterfall. The hike from Theth Village to the waterfall takes about an hour, and it’s a lovely walk through the Albanian Alps countryside, passing traditional stone houses and local farms. The waterfall itself is a stunning sight — a cascade of white water pouring over grey rocks, creating a natural curtain that’s declared a natural monument since 2002.

The waterfall’s size and power are impressive, and it offers a great photo opportunity. It’s a peaceful spot where you can absorb the landscape and appreciate the untouched environment. After some time here, you’ll return to Theth for the afternoon, which is yours to explore or relax.

Day 3: Returning with Memories

Your last morning in Theth provides a chance to enjoy the mountain scenery before heading back. The drive back includes the same zig-zag roads, pulling you away from the rugged terrain and towards civilization. Along the way, the guides will point out highlights and share stories, adding context to the stunning sights.

You’ll arrive back in Shkoder or Tirana, filled with a sense of accomplishment and a collection of incredible photos. The journey might be long, but it’s a small price to pay for experiencing one of Europe’s most beautiful mountain regions.

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What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

Included in the tour are transportation from your hotel in Tirana or Shkoder, accommodation in cozy but basic guesthouses, all entry tickets, and a knowledgeable guide. Breakfasts are covered across the stay, which helps start each day right.

However, you’ll need to budget for lunches, dinners, snacks, and personal souvenirs. Lunch costs around 12-15 Euros, and while the accommodations are simple, they offer a genuine taste of local life — no luxury resorts here, but plenty of charm.

The tour is designed for small or private groups, which means more personalized attention and a more relaxed pace. The guide’s expertise is a notable highlight, as many reviews praise their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience more engaging and informative.

Practical Tips:

• Bring comfortable hiking shoes and rain gear just in case
• Pack a hat, sunscreen, water, and snacks to stay energized
• A camera is essential for capturing the landscapes
• The tour is flexible with cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, making it easier to plan with confidence

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for anyone with a sense of adventure and appreciation for natural beauty. It’s well-suited for active travelers who are comfortable with some hiking, as the trails are not overly strenuous but do require basic fitness.

It’s also a good fit for those interested in cultural sights, as the villages and historic sites add depth to the journey. If you’re after a peaceful escape into nature with plenty of photo opportunities and authentic local flavor, you’ll find this tour quite rewarding.

That said, if you’re looking for a very relaxed, luxury experience, this might not be the best fit — the accommodations are simple and the focus is on natural beauty and culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children? The tour involves some hikes and mountain roads, so it’s best for kids who are comfortable with walking and not afraid of rugged terrain. Families with older children or teens who enjoy the outdoors might find it a good fit.

What should I bring for the hikes? Comfortable shoes are a must, along with a hat, sunscreen, water, snacks, and rain gear just in case of weather changes.

Is the tour physically demanding? The hikes are categorized as easy to moderate, with some experience recommended. The longest hike to Blue Eye is about 6.2 km one way with 700 meters of elevation, so a decent level of fitness will help you enjoy it more.

What’s the accommodation like? Staying in traditional guesthouses means basic amenities but a chance to experience local Albanian hospitality firsthand. The rooms are simple but comfortable.

How flexible is the booking? You can reserve with the option to pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, giving you peace of mind.

Can I customize the experience? Small group or private options are available, which can be tailored to your interests or pace, making it a more personalized adventure.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day hike through the Albanian Alps offers a wonderful mix of breathtaking scenery, cultural sites, and authentic mountain life. The guides’ knowledge and the stunning natural sights like Blue Eye and Grunas Waterfall make this an experience to remember.

It’s best suited for travelers who want an active escape without the need for technical climbing or strenuous treks. The balance of driving, hiking, and culture makes it a well-rounded introduction to Albania’s mountains.

If you value expert guidance and genuine natural beauty over luxury accommodations, you’ll find this tour very satisfying. It’s a chance to see some of Europe’s lesser-known yet most captivating landscapes, leaving you inspired and full of stories to tell.

In summary, this tour shines in its authentic mountain experience, scenic highlights, and knowledgeable guides. It’s a fantastic option for adventurous souls ready to explore the rugged beauty of the Albanian Alps, especially those who enjoy a slower, more immersive travel pace.

You can check availability for your dates here: