EXTREMELY WILD AND INCREDIBLY CLOSE New beginnings in the Balkans: Little Albania is set to become Europe’s next big thing in travel. Because its landscapes are as beautifully unfiltered as its people are unabashedly welcoming
Albania: The Last Wild Beauty of Europe
Albania is emerging as one of Europe’s most exciting travel destinations, offering a rare blend of unspoiled landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Once isolated from the world, this small Balkan country is now making headlines as a must-visit spot for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and food enthusiasts.
Recently, Condé Nast Traveler Germany featured Albania in an exclusive travel story, where journalist Kalle Harberg joined the Albania Rafting Group founders, Zamo and Alma Spathara, on a journey through the country’s most breathtaking landscapes. Together, they explored the Vjosa River, hiked the holy Mount Tomor, savored slow food at Hotel Castle Park in Berat, and visited local wineries.
Rafting on Europe’s Last Wild River
One of the highlights of the journey was rafting on the Vjosa River, known as Europe’s last free-flowing river. With no dams disrupting its course, the Vjosa is a natural wonder, offering thrilling rapids and stunning turquoise waters. Until recently, conservationists fought tirelessly to protect the river from proposed hydroelectric projects. Their efforts paid off in 2023, when the Albanian government declared Vjosa National Park, ensuring the river remains untouched for future generations.
For those looking for adventure, Albania Rafting Group offers guided rafting and kayaking experiences, providing an adrenaline rush while showcasing the region’s raw beauty.
Berat: A Journey Through Time
Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage city, was another key stop on the itinerary. Known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” Berat is a living museum, with well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture and an ancient castle still inhabited today.
At Hotel Castle Park, guests can experience authentic Albanian cuisine at its finest. This slow food house, run by Alma and Zamo Spathara, champions locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Visitors can even take part in cooking classes, learning how to prepare regional specialties before enjoying a meal with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Beyond the city, Berat’s rugged landscapes provide endless opportunities for hiking, canyoning, and off-road adventures. A trip to the Osum Canyon, often referred to as Albania’s Grand Canyon, offers breathtaking scenery and natural pools perfect for a refreshing swim.
Permet: The Hidden Gem of the South
A short drive from Gjirokastër and Saranda, Permet is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here, travelers can stay at Albania Rafting Group’s glamping site, where eco-friendly safari tents blend seamlessly with nature.
Adventurers can choose from a range of activities, including:
- Rafting and kayaking on the Vjosa River
- Hiking to Sopoti Waterfall
- Exploring Langarica Canyon and its thermal baths
- E-bike tours through picturesque villages
Permet is also known for its rich culinary traditions, featuring some of Albania’s finest wines, raki, and organic produce.
The Albanian Riviera: Europe’s Best-Kept Secret
Albania’s Riviera is quickly gaining recognition as a top Mediterranean destination, rivaling the beauty of Italy’s Amalfi Coast or Greece’s islands. The village of Dhërmi, with its whitewashed houses and crystal-clear waters, offers a serene escape. Visitors can unwind at the luxurious Zoe Hora Hotel or enjoy a stylish beachside retreat at La Brisa Boutique Hotel.
One of the Riviera’s most stunning spots is Gjipe Beach, a secluded cove at the end of a dramatic canyon. Accessible only by foot or boat, it remains one of the most pristine beaches in Europe.
Tirana: A City on the Rise
Albania’s capital, Tirana, is transforming at an astonishing pace. From the once-forgotten Pyramid of Tirana, now a cultural hotspot, to the vibrant nightlife of the Blloku district, the city offers a dynamic mix of history and modernity.
For a taste of Albania’s evolving gastronomy, Uka Farm is a must-visit. Founded by former Agriculture Minister Rexhep Uka, this farm-to-table restaurant serves organic, pesticide-free dishes, showcasing the country’s rich agricultural heritage.
Albania: The Future of European Travel
Once Europe’s most mysterious country, Albania is now making waves in the travel industry. With its untouched landscapes, welcoming locals, and growing tourism infrastructure, it’s no surprise that Condé Nast Traveler Germany has highlighted it as the next big travel destination.
For those seeking adventure, culture, and culinary delights, Albania offers an unfiltered and unforgettable experience—and now is the perfect time to explore it.
