4 Days Hiking in the Accursed Mountains: Prekal, Theth & Valbona

Our journey begins early in the morning as we leave behind the buzz of Tirana and drive north toward the secret village of Prekal, perched high in the mountains. Here, the road narrows and the world slows down. We’ll walk through lush hills and meet locals who still live closely with the land. With the crystal-clear Kir River weaving below, this is a peaceful gateway into the northern highlands.

By midday, we continue our descent into Shkoder, the cultural capital of the north. You’ll have free time to explore its vibrant streets, visit the historic Rozafa Castle, or enjoy a coffee by Lake Shkodra, as the sun dips low behind the Albanian Alps. Overnight stay in this lively yet soulful city.

We rise before dawn and head toward one of Albania’s most breathtaking experiences — the Koman Lake ferry. As we board the boat and begin our voyage, you’ll feel as though you’ve entered a fjord dream. Towering cliffs, dense forests, and the still, jade waters surround us in a cinematic scene that seems untouched by time.

Upon arrival in Fierza, we drive deeper into the heart of the Valbona Valley. After lunch in the village, we hike around the village where time stands still and traditions endure. Sheep graze quietly on green slopes, wooden houses cling to steep ridges, and every corner offers a postcard-perfect view. The air is crisp, the silence profound.

This is the soul of the tour — a hike once used by villagers to travel between valleys when roads were but a dream. We start our 17–20 km journey early, crossing the Valbona Pass, ascending nearly 1,000 meters. Along the way, rocky ridges blend into lush pine forests, and ancient stone houses whisper stories of centuries past.

At the summit, the views stretch endlessly across the Accursed Mountains — a name given for their haunting beauty and rugged mystery. We pause at quaint alpine cafes, where the warmth of a local herbal tea contrasts the cool mountain breeze. By late afternoon, we descend into Theth, a village cradled by dramatic peaks and soaked in folklore. That night, rest comes easy in a cozy guesthouse beneath a sky full of stars.

Our final morning in Theth begins with the crisp scent of mountain air and a hearty traditional breakfast. With boots laced and spirits high, we set out for a day of wonder — a scenic hike through the wild heart of the Albanian Alps.

Our first stop is the enchanting Gurnas Waterfall, a 25-meter cascade hidden among lush forest and rocky cliffs. Just a short and pleasant walk from the village center, this waterfall is the perfect place to pause, take photos, and let the soothing sound of water set the pace for the rest of the day.

From here, we continue deeper into the wilderness on our way to the legendary Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër). The 5-kilometer trail winds through pine forests, over wooden footbridges, and along riverbeds carved by time. Then, suddenly, it appears — a luminous turquoise pool surrounded by untouched nature, fed by an underground spring and glacial streams.

The Blue Eye is more than a sight — it’s an experience. With waters as cold as 5°C, it offers a refreshing (and bold!) swimming opportunity for those who wish to dive into its mythic beauty. Whether you swim, dip your toes, or simply picnic by the banks, this moment is pure magic.

In the afternoon, we hike back to the village and begin our journey home. As we drive through winding mountain roads, we carry with us more than just photos — we leave Theth with mountain dust on our boots, silence in our minds, and stories etched into our hearts. Arrival in Tirana is expected in the evening.