Discover the Magic of Albania: 84 Lakes Scenic 2-Day Tour

Planning a trip to Albania and looking for something off the usual tourist trail? This 84 Lakes Scenic 2-Day Tour promises exactly that — a chance to explore untouched landscapes, explore local culture, and enjoy peaceful moments away from crowds. If you’re someone who loves nature’s quiet beauty combined with a dash of history, this could be a perfect fit.

What we particularly like about this tour is its focus on authentic experiences — from discovering the charm of Belsh to wandering around lakes shaped like maps of Albania. Plus, the tour’s mix of cultural landmarks and scenic boat rides makes it feel substantial without feeling rushed. On the flip side, it’s a relatively full schedule for just two days, so if you prefer slow-paced exploring, this might feel a bit intense.

This trip suits travelers seeking calm, natural beauty, and local flavor that’s genuinely different from the usual Albania highlights. It’s especially ideal if you want a blend of outdoor scenery, local eats, and a touch of history, all bundled into a manageable short trip.

Key Points

• Unique setting of 84 lakes in a region largely untouched by mass tourism.
• Cultural highlights include Skanderbeg statue, Sami Frashëri, and the Nymph of the Lakes.
• Varied activities like boat rides, rowing, cycling, and exploring ancient ruins.
• Authentic local cuisine served at guesthouses and agritourism spots.
• Beautiful scenery includes lakes shaped like Albania’s map, Belsh’s deepest lake, and lakeside villages.
• Flexible group sizes and local guides who speak English, Italian, and Albanian.

This tour offers a fascinating combination of nature, history, and culture—all packed into just two days. It’s organized by Green Tour in Belsh, a provider known for showcasing authentic Albanian experiences. The itinerary is quite packed, so you’ll want to be prepared for an active but rewarding couple of days.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Day One: Exploring Belsh and Surrounding Lakes

Welcome and Cultural Introduction

Your adventure kicks off in Belsh, where you’ll meet your guide at the main square. From there, a brief walk introduces you to three of Belsh’s iconic monuments: the statue of Skanderbeg — Albania’s national hero, Sami Frashëri’s monument, and the Nymph of the Lakes, a symbol that captures the town’s lakeside charm. These landmarks offer a good starting point to appreciate the local pride and history.

Coffee and Local Flavors

Next is a relaxed coffee break at a local café, giving you a taste of everyday Albanian life. It’s a good chance to chat with your guide and get some insights into the area.

Old Fountain and Rest

A short walk takes you to Belsh’s old fountain, a symbol of the town dating back to the communist era. This spot offers a glimpse into the recent past, balancing history with the present.

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Transfer to Seferan and Lake Walks

After a quick hotel check-in, the tour continues with a transfer to Seferan, a village that’s one of the region’s hidden treasures. Here, you’ll stroll around Lake Seferan and visit the symbolic podium of Aphrodite, adding a mythic touch to the landscape. The walk around the lake is scenic, peaceful, and perfect for snapping photos.

Traditional Albanian Lunch

Lunchtime is at a local guesthouse, where you’ll enjoy an authentic meal prepared with village ingredients. Highlights include fresh homemade cheese, village-style chicken, savory byrek (pies), and duck with cornbread stuffing. The food is hearty and straightforward, giving a real taste of local rural life.

Art and the Deepest Lake

Post-lunch, a visit to the Seferan Art Center allows for a peek into local craftsmanship and creativity. Then, you head to Lake Merhoja, which reaches a remarkable depth of 61 meters. It’s a striking feature — a reminder of the area’s geological diversity.

Rowing and Sunset Views

A highlight of the day is rowing on the Lake of Flowers, which is uniquely shaped like the map of Albania. The gentle boat ride offers a tranquil, almost meditative experience. As evening approaches, the tour moves to a sunset boat ride on Lake Belsh, where the setting sun casts a warm glow over the water, creating picture-perfect moments.

Evening Leisure

Ending the day with a leisurely bike ride along the lakeside path allows for some active relaxation and panoramic views. Dinner at the hotel completes the day, giving you time to unwind and reflect.

Day Two: More Scenic and Cultural Discoveries

Morning with the Views

Day two begins with breakfast at the hotel, then an excursion to Belsh’s Panoramic Tower. From up high, you’ll get sweeping views of the lakes and surrounding countryside — a great way to appreciate the landscape.

Lakeside Agritourism

Next, you’ll visit a renowned lakeside agritourism farm. Here, you can try fishing or kayaking if you’re feeling active, or simply enjoy the peaceful rural atmosphere. The site emphasizes local organic products, and the lunch served here is fresh and homemade.

Exploring Local Shops and Sweets

In the afternoon, there’s free time to browse local shops, artisanal craft stores, and souvenir stalls. A visit to Belsh’s oldest pastry shop offers a chance to taste traditional sweets that have been sold for generations — a perfect ending to your stay.

Return and Departure

By late afternoon, the group is transferred back to Rinas Airport or TEG, wrapping up your brief but immersive Albanian experience.

Transportation, Group Size, and Overall Value

Since this is a private group experience, the transportation is comfortable and tailored to your schedule. Pickup is included from the airport or designated locations, meaning no stress about finding your way. The tour’s inclusive activities and meals are designed to give you a well-rounded taste of the region without any hidden costs.

Considering the duration and scope, the price reflects a good value for the variety of experiences packed into just two days. The guides are fluent in multiple languages, making the trip accessible for a range of travelers.

What Are the Main Pros and Cons?

Pros:
– Unique landscape with 84 lakes and shaped like a map of Albania.
– Authentic local food and rural experiences.
– A mix of scenic boat rides, cultural landmarks, and outdoor activities.
– Small group, personalized experience with flexible scheduling.
– Beautiful, peaceful scenery ideal for photography and reflection.

Cons:
– The packed schedule may feel a bit intense for those wanting a more relaxed pace.
– Some might find the focus on outdoor activities and sightseeing a bit limiting if they prefer cultural museums or urban exploration.
– The tour is not suitable for travelers over 95 years or those with mobility issues due to physical stops and walking.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy nature and rural settings but also want some cultural insights. It’s a particularly good choice if you’re after a peaceful, authentic experience that’s different from the crowds that often flock to Albania’s more famous sites. If you like the idea of exploring lakes, trying local foods, and experiencing the tranquility of the countryside, this trip will suit you well.

It’s also suitable for small groups who appreciate personalized attention and a flexible itinerary. While families with children over 12 could enjoy it, the active elements and outdoor nature might be less suitable for very young children or those with limited mobility.

How long is each day’s activity?
Day one runs from around 9:30 am to late evening, with a full schedule of sightseeing, meals, and activities. Day two is shorter, starting with breakfast and ending around 6 pm with the return transfer.

Are meals included and what can I expect?
Yes, meals are included, mainly traditional Albanian dishes like homemade cheese, chicken, pies, and local specialties. The food is hearty, straightforward, and made from local ingredients, giving you an authentic taste of the region.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians?
The tour menu features meat dishes, but you can ask about vegetarian options in advance. Given the focus on local cuisine, ample vegetarian-friendly dishes might be available, but it’s best to confirm with the provider.

What are the main activities?
Expect cultural visits, scenic walks around lakes, rowing, boat rides, cycling, and exploring local art and crafts. A good part of the experience is about enjoying nature and the peaceful rural atmosphere.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Some walking, boating, and cycling are involved, so comfortable footwear and a moderate level of fitness are recommended. The tour is not designed for those with mobility issues or for very young children.

What is the best time of year to go?
While the data doesn’t specify seasons, generally, spring and early autumn would offer the best weather for outdoor activities and scenic views.

Is there free time to explore on my own?
Yes, there’s some free time in Belsh for shopping or relaxing at local cafes, especially in the afternoon of day two.

If you’re craving an experience that combines calm lakes, local culture, and scenic beauty with manageable logistics, this Albanian tour delivers. It’s well-suited for travelers who want to see a quieter side of Albania that’s rich in natural charm and authentic local life. While the itinerary is packed, it’s designed to give a comprehensive snapshot of the region’s landscapes and traditions in just two days.

This tour isn’t for those looking for a very relaxed, slow-paced trip — it’s about collecting impressions, enjoying the outdoors, and tasting genuine Albanian hospitality. The small group size and local guides make it feel intimate and personal, a real highlight for those wanting a meaningful, scenic escape.

Whether you’re into nature, history, or simply want a peaceful retreat, this 84 Lakes Scenic Tour offers a memorable taste of Albania’s quiet, authentic side.

You can check availability for your dates here: