7:00 AM - Departure from Tirana The adventure begins with a pick-up at your hotel in Tirana or Shkoder. We head toward Northern Albania, passing through stunning landscapes featuring wild fields, rivers, Shkodra Lake, and the dramatic Albanian Alps. The beauty of nature will leave you speechless as we journey to Shkoder.
Transport to Thethi As we leave the main road and venture toward Theth, the landscape becomes increasingly rural, with less traffic and more untouched nature. This area is famous for cultivating medicinal herbs, and depending on the time of year (May–June), you might be treated to the sight of lavender fields in full bloom, filling the air with fragrance reminiscent of Provence.
Scenic Drive: The road winds steeply, ascending to an altitude of 1,700 meters above sea level at Qafa e Thores. From here, you’ll be rewarded with a picture-perfect view of the Albanian Alps, perfect for a stop and a photo opportunity.
After a scenic ride, we’ll arrive in Thethi, where you can take in the unique charm of this traditional village, known for its stone houses, lush surroundings, and historical sites.
Midday: Hike to the Blue Eye
12:00 PM – Have Traditional Lunch in the guesthouse and Start of Hike to the Blue Eye After a short break, we embark on a hike toward the Blue Eye, a stunning natural phenomenon formed by the erosion of water from the Albanian Alps’ melting snow. This hike is about 3 hours one way, covering a distance of 18 km (round trip) and an elevation gain of 700 meters. For those looking for a shorter route, local transportation from Theth to Nderlysaj is available (cost: 5-7 Euros per person), reducing the hike to 1 hour each way.
The Blue Eye: The Blue Eye’s crystal-clear, bright blue waters and its surrounding nature are a sight to behold. Imagine stepping into a postcard. Fun fact: the temperature of the water is a chilly 5°C, so if you’re feeling brave, you might want to dip your toes in or even take a quick swim.
Return to Thethi Village:
Visit to Historical Sites: After the hike, we’ll return to Thethi village. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the Old Church, a charming example of Albanian architecture, and the “Lock-in” Tower, a symbol of Theth's historical role in defending its people. Learn about the centuries-old stories tied to these iconic buildings.
Overnight Stay: The day concludes with an overnight stay in a traditional guest house in Theth, where you’ll experience the local hospitality and enjoy a well-deserved rest.
Hiking Details:
Total Distance: 18 km (round trip)
Elevation Gain: 700 m
Hike Duration: 6 hours (with breaks)
Trail Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Loop
What to Bring: Comfortable hiking shoes, a water bottle, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera for the spectacular views.
