Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rural landscapes of Albania with the ” Tower Tour.” This unique multi-day adventure offers an authentic glimpse into the country’s historical towers, pristine natural beauty, and traditional way of life.
Designed for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, this tour provides an opportunity to connect with local communities, contribute to the rural economy, and enjoy breathtaking views in a setting untouched by mass tourism. From exploring ancient guesthouses and historic sites to hiking, volunteering, and savoring traditional cuisine, this journey is a perfect blend of culture, history, and nature.
Tirana, Albania
May – October
This tour is ideal for travelers looking for an immersive, off-the-beaten-path adventure into Albania’s rural heartland. It is designed for those who:
• Appreciate authentic experiences over luxury travel.
• Enjoy moderate physical activities such as hiking and volunteering.
• Have an interest in history, cultural heritage, and local traditions.
• Prefer small group travel for a personalized experience.
• Want to contribute to sustainable tourism and support local communities.
If you seek an enriching cultural journey where you can connect with locals, explore breathtaking landscapes, and stay in historic home stays, then the “Tower Tour” is perfect for you.
• Walking Tour in Tirana The journey begins with a 2.5-hour walking tour through the capital, where we will uncover the history of Tirana and Albania. We will visit key attractions such as Skanderbeg Square, Bunk’Art 2, the Clock Tower of Tirana, Et’hem Bey Mosque, the “Cloud” installation, the Pyramid of Tirana, the Blloku district, Enver Hoxha’s former residence (exterior view), and the Orthodox Church.
• Traditional Dinner and Live Çifteli Music After a 50-minute drive, we arrive at Kulla Hupi, a 300-year-old tower transformed into a traditional guesthouse. Accommodation is provided here, and the evening will be accompanied by a traditional dinner and live çifteli music.
Overnight: Guesthouse Hupi Tower
• Hiking to Skanderbeg’s Tower Rock After breakfast, we embark on a hike to one of Bulqizë’s most visited attractions – Skanderbeg’s Tower Rock. This natural balcony, located at 950 meters above sea level, offers a spectacular 360° view of the surrounding mountains.
• Visit to Dushaj Waterfall After descending from the hike, we continue our walk to visit Dushaj Waterfall, a 10-meter-high cascade with crystal-clear water that flows from the mountains near Kulla Hupi.
• Traditional Lunch at Kulla Hupi
• Visit to the City of Bulqizë and the Mining Museum After lunch, we explore Bulqizë, known for having the largest chromium mine in the country. We visit the Mining Museum to learn more about the history and impact of mining in the region.
• Evening Cooking Class In the evening, we return to Kulla Hupi for a cooking class where, together with our hosts, we will prepare traditional dishes that will also serve as our dinner.
Overnight: Guesthouse Hupi Tower
• Volunteering at Bujtina Çeliku We start the day with a unique experience at Bujtina Çeliku, where we assist with village chores such as vineyard pruning, branch clearing, shoveling, and grass cutting – an authentic rural experience.
• Lunch at Bujtina Çeliku
• Visit to Barçi Tower in Lis After lunch, we visit Barçi Tower, a 100-year-old structure where descendants of the original builders still reside.
• Traditional Handicraft Workshop: Learn the art of traditional crochet and needlework from the hostess of the Barçi Tower. Create your own small handicfart piece and take it home as a unique souvenir from this journey.
• Visit to Ura e Vashës (Maiden’s Bridge) We explore one of Albania’s most significant Ottoman bridges, which historically served as an important trade route. If weather conditions permit, we will have the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Mat River.
Overnight: Guesthouse Hupi Tower
• 4×4 Mountain Exploration We set off in the morning for an off-road adventure through untouched nature, exploring forests, meadows, a shepherd’s hut, the Dry Lake, and the Kamavec fields.
• Picnic Lunch in the Mountains
• Visit to Salë Markja Tower We cross to the other side of the mountains to visit this 200-year-old tower, a cultural monument and a symbol of the region’s resistance.
• Dinner and Accommodation at Troja Resort A unique night at a modern resort in the heart of nature, showcasing how rural areas are evolving with new investments.
Overnight: Troja Resort
• Morning at a Cow/Goat Farm: Learn the traditional method of milking a goat by hand, just as it was done in the old days, and help with the daily farm work.
• Local Traditional Pasta ‘Jufka’ Factory: On the way to Peshkopi, we will stop at a local factory to see the entire process of how traditional ‘Jufka’ pasta is made.
• Exploring Peshkopi: We visit the small town of Peshkopi, stroll along its main boulevard, and learn about its history.
• Visit to the Old Water Mill and Thermal Baths: We explore an old water mill that still uses hydropower to grind corn and visit Peshkopi’s famous thermal baths.
• Hiking in Rabdisht Village: We walk through the cobblestone streets of one of Dibra’s most picturesque villages and hike to a scenic viewpoint above the village for breathtaking views.
• Traditional Lunch at Guesthouse Sabriu.
• Visit to Zuna Tower in Sohodoll: We explore a four-story tower built in 1827, a rare historical monument.
• Lurë National Park and Doci Tower: We visit Lurë National Park and Doci Tower, a 200-year-old structure famously mentioned by Edith Durham, a British traveler, writer, and anthropologist known for her extensive work on the Balkans in the early 20th century.
Overnight: Oxhaku i Docit
• Exploring the Seven Lakes of Lurë by 4×4 In the morning, we set off in 4×4 vehicles to explore the three glacial lakes of Lurë. Known for their breathtaking beauty, these lakes make Lurë National Park one of Albania’s most remarkable natural wonders. Depending on the weather, we may have the opportunity to swim in the lake.
• Lunch at Bujtina Oxhaku i Docit
• Farewell dinner in Tirana: Upon arrival, we will conclude the day with a refined dining experience at a prestigious five-star agrotourism venue. Here, guests will indulge in a farm-to-table culinary experience, where every dish is crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, complemented by exceptional service in an elegant setting.
Overnight: Blerina Agritourism
As our incredible journey comes to an end, we will transfer to the airport, taking with us unforgettable memories of breathtaking landscapes, cultural experiences, and new friendships. Though it’s time to say goodbye, the spirit of adventure will stay with us, inspiring future travels. Until next time—safe travels and see you again soon!
!! MIRUPAFSHIM !!