From Saranda: Përmet and Surroundings Day Trip

If you’re planning a visit to Saranda and want to escape the coastal crowds for a day, a trip to Përmet and its surroundings might just be what you need. This tour promises a mix of natural hot springs, dramatic gorges, and panoramic views — quite a change from the sea. From what I’ve gathered, it’s a well-rounded experience that balances sightseeing with relaxing moments, perfect for those who want a taste of rural Albania’s beauty without committing to an overnight stay.

What I really like about this trip is how it combines different kinds of scenery — the soothing thermal baths of Bënja and the breathtaking vistas from Kelcyre Gorge. Plus, the stops along the way, like Katis Bridge and Langaricë Canyon, offer photo opportunities and natural immersion that many travelers crave. A potential snag? The tour is a full six hours, so it’s a good idea to be prepared for a fair amount of walking and driving. Still, if you enjoy exploring multiple sites in a day, this could be perfect.

This experience seems especially suited for travelers who love nature, want a break from beaches or city vibes, and appreciate some cultural history. It’s not geared toward wheelchair users or very young children, but for most active adults, it’s a compelling way to see a different side of Albania.

This experience made our article of The Top 3 Tours In Tepelene.

Key Points

• Diverse landscapes: From thermal baths to canyons and gorges, the tour offers a variety of natural sights.
• Relaxation and adventure: Hot springs for unwinding and scenic walks for appreciating Albania’s beauty.
• Cultural highlights: Katis Bridge adds a historic touch with spectacular views.
• Flexible free time: Opportunities to shop or enjoy local specialties in Përmet.
• Good value: The itinerary packs in several activities within a 6-hour window.
• Not ideal for all: Limited accessibility and longer hours make it less suited for some travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Walkthrough of the Day Trip Experience

When we think about a day trip from Saranda, what usually comes to mind? Beautiful landscapes, some historical sites, maybe a bit of relaxation. This tour hits all those notes, with a special focus on Albania’s natural treasures. The journey begins with a scenic drive through southern Albania’s rolling hills and lush greenery. It’s a good way to settle in and get a sense of the countryside, especially if you’re arriving from Saranda, which is a popular base for exploring this part of Albania.

Starting Point and Journey Time

The tour departs from “Tea Tours” & Car Rental, which keeps things simple and straightforward. The drive to Përmet takes about an hour and a half, giving you some time to relax and chat with your fellow travelers, or simply enjoy the views. The transport is a van, typically suited for small groups, which makes for a more intimate experience compared to large bus tours.

Exploring Përmet – A Charming Town

Once you arrive in Përmet, you get a quick, guided introduction to the town. This place is known for its warm hospitality and natural beauty. It’s also famous locally for its sweets, which you might want to sample later. We’ve seen reviews mentioning that the guide’s local insights add a nice touch, making the visit feel friendly and informative rather than rushed.

Thermal Baths of Bënja

One of the highlights is the Llixhat e Benjes — Thermal Baths. Here, you can relax in natural hot springs, which are reputed for their healing properties. You’ll spend around 1.5 hours here, enough time to soak and unwind. The waters are crystal clear, and the setting is peaceful — perfect for a mid-morning break. Travelers often mention how rejuvenating the experience is, especially if you enjoy natural wellness spots. Just remember to bring swimwear and be prepared for some time spent comfortably soaking.

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Katis Bridge and Langaricë Canyon

Next, you’ll cross the Katis Bridge, a historic stone structure with incredible views that make for great photos. The bridge itself is a piece of local history, and the views from there are often described as “breathtaking.” We’ve seen reviews praising this stop as a highlight, calling it a “perfect photo opportunity.”

Following that, there’s a visit to the Langaricë Canyon. This is probably the most visually stunning part of the trip — a narrow canyon with clear waters, lush greenery, and impressive rock formations. The guided tour here involves a light walk, giving you time to enjoy the scenery and take plenty of pictures. Reviewers note that the canyon’s beauty is striking, with many describing it as a “hidden gem” worth the effort.

Free Time in Përmet

After these adventures, you get about an hour of free time in Përmet. This is your chance to explore the town center, try some local treats, or buy souvenirs like fruit preserves, wine, or handmade crafts. Many travelers appreciate the chance to connect with the local culture and take a breather before heading to the next site.

Kelcyre Gorge and Viewpoints

The journey continues with a visit to the Kelcyre Gorge, a spectacular viewpoint over the Vjosa River. The gorge offers some of the most stunning vistas of the whole trip. It’s a fantastic spot for photos and appreciating the raw power of nature. The reviews often mention how impressive the views are, making it clear this is a must-see highlight.

Rest at Cold Water in Tepelenë

Finally, the tour makes a stop at Ujët e Ftohtë — Cold Water in Tepelenë. This area features mountain waters so clear and cold that it’s a refreshing end to the day. It’s a relaxed spot where you can unwind, take photos, and soak in the mountain scenery before heading back to Saranda. Reviewers find this stop to be a perfect way to cool down after a day of exploring.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

The entire trip lasts about 6 hours, which is a solid day of sightseeing without feeling rushed. The tour is guided in both Albanian and English, ensuring clear explanations and stories along the way. The stops are timed so you get enough time to enjoy each site, but you’ll want to keep an eye on the clock to stay on schedule.

Transport is via a van, suited for small groups, which helps keep things cozy and manageable. The driver’s skill makes for a smooth ride through often winding and scenic roads. The group size is likely to be small to medium, which tends to foster a friendly atmosphere.

What’s Included and What to Bring

Included in the tour are guided visits and transportation, but you’ll need to bring comfortable shoes for walking, swimwear for the thermal baths, sunscreen, water, and a camera to capture the views. The tour advises against alcohol and nudity, which is standard, but it’s good to remember to dress appropriately for walking and outdoor exploration.

Accessibility and Suitability

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with altitude sickness, as some sites involve walking or uneven terrain. It’s also not recommended for babies under a year old, mainly because of the physical nature of some stops.

The Value and Booking

For roughly six hours of guided exploration, the price seems reasonable, especially considering the variety of sites included. The “reserve now, pay later” option provides flexibility, which is handy if your plans are still shifting. The cancellation policy allows for a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance — a reassuring feature for spontaneous travelers.

Who Should Consider This Trip?

This day trip is a good pick if you’re after a mix of nature and culture, and you’re comfortable with some walking and outdoor activities. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, natural hot springs, and photo-worthy viewpoints. If you’re looking for a relaxed experience with time for quick shopping or sampling local foods, this tour delivers.

However, if you prefer a very leisurely pace or have mobility issues, some stops might be challenging. Likewise, if you’re traveling with very young children or need accommodations for disabilities, this might not be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this tour offers a well-balanced look at southern Albania’s impressive landscapes. The highlights — from thermal springs to dramatic gorges — are genuine spectacles that stay with you long after the day ends. It’s a solid choice for curious travelers eager to experience Albania beyond its coasts.

If you’re someone who loves scenic views and natural beauty, you’ll probably find this trip a rewarding adventure. The stops at Bënja and Kelcyre Gorge, in particular, are what make this trip stand out. Just be prepared for a full day, and pack your camera and comfortable shoes.

This tour isn’t about luxury or high-end experiences; it’s about appreciating raw, unspoiled nature and enjoying some well-chosen sites. For those who enjoy exploring at a relaxed pace while soaking in stunning scenery, it’s definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
Not really. The tour involves walking and uneven terrain in some locations, so it’s not ideal for wheelchair users or those with mobility challenges.

How long is the drive from Saranda?
The drive to Përmet takes about 1.5 hours, giving you plenty of scenic views along the way.

What should I bring for the thermal baths?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and possibly flip-flops. The waters are natural hot springs, so no special gear is needed, just your comfort.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, there’s free time in Përmet for shopping. Local products like fruit preserves, wine, and crafts are available.

Is there a guide?
Yes, a local guide will accompany the group during the visit to Përmet, providing insights and helping with questions.

How much free time do I have in Përmet?
About an hour for exploring, shopping, or relaxing after the main sightseeing stops.

Are meals included?
No, meals aren’t included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to eat in Përmet during your free time.

Would this be good for families?
It depends. The physical aspects and length might be challenging for very young children, but older kids who enjoy nature and walking should find it interesting.

In the end, this trip from Saranda to Përmet and its surroundings offers a genuine slice of Albania’s natural charm — perfect for those who love scenic drives, waterfalls, and relaxing in thermal waters. It’s a memorable way to see a different side of this diverse country.

You can check availability for your dates here: