Theth — heart of the Albanian Alps
A protected village of stone tower-houses, the Blue Eye, and the start of Albania's most famous trail to Valbona.
Why Theth?
In the heart of the Accursed Mountains, Theth is what most travellers picture when they imagine Albania's wild north — kullas (stone tower houses), waterfalls, and trails that climb into limestone amphitheatres.
When to visit
June–September is the realistic window. The road in is closed by snow December to April. July–August is peak. September has the gold light and quieter trails.
Where to stay
Guesthouses run by local families — Bujtina Polia, Hana Guesthouse, Villa Gjelaj. Half-board (dinner + breakfast) is the norm at €25–€45 per person.
What to eat
Flija (layered pancake), goat cheese, lamb, mountain trout. Most guesthouses serve homemade. Honey and rakia are everywhere.
Don't miss
- The Blue Eye of Theth — 2.5h round-trip hike from the village
- The Theth–Valbona trail — 7h, the most famous Albanian hike
- The Lock-in Tower (Kulla e Ngujimit) — kanun-era refuge house, now a museum
- Grunas Waterfall — 30-min walk
How to get there
From Shkodër: 3h by 4×4 (the road is partially paved, partially rough). Daily summer minibuses, otherwise hire transfer.