Hiking Tour of Kelmend – Vajusha Peak, Lepushe & Vermosh 3 D

We will leave Tirana to head toward the North of the country, with the first stop at Shkoder. Known as the biggest city of the North, it has traditionally been the cultural, financial, and political center of the Albanian North. Short Stop in the city of Shkoder for a tour of Shkoder. 

Leaving Shkoder behind we will head towards the Northwest highland of Albania. Often known as Kelmend, this area is one of the most scenic and dramatic. Sharp limestone mountainous formations, going as high as the sky, where at their feet, soft valleys and small pastoral villages are living their day-to-day life. This is also a region highly known for its cultural values when in 2022 its typical Female dress “Xhubleta” became part of UNESCO Heritage. Or for more, we can mention the history of “Nora e Kelemendit”.

In addition, another destination for the day will be Vermosh. Known as the northeast village of Albania it also has the highest number of people living around Kelmend. After lunch and accommodation at the Guesthouse, we will take the first hikes exploring the area. The destination for the day will be the Waterfall of Kelmend and the Bashkimi Canyon. Easy hikes on the first day will occupy around 2 hours. 

Overnight and Dinner at Vermosh. 

Leaving Vermosh, we will go to the next village of Lepushe. Lëpusha is one of the most spectacular natural gems of the famous Kelmend region. Also a muse for many landscape photographers and an object of countless spectacular captures! The rugged landscape, fresh air, and rare tranquility of this area make it a go-to destination for outdoor lovers.

Nature truly puts on a show here with high peaks, green pastures, and dense forests. Located in the Albanian Highlands (Malësia e Madhe), not far from Shkodra, Lëpusha is named after the wild yellow flowers that grow there, called Lëpushtra.

The hike itself is not technically difficult and is doable by everyone with healthy fitness. The terrain is soft and is totally safe to be hiked for most of the year, even on snow. The peak itself is just at the border of Albania and Montenegro and offers a spectacular view during all seasons of the year. 

Dinner and Overnight in Vermosh. 

Acceding: 700 m 

Descending: 700 m

Distance: 10 Km 

We will leave Vermosh for our way back and the next destination will be the Selca Waterfall. Not far from the village of Secla, this is one of the biggest in the country. It starts with a powerful spring flowing from old rock, formed years ago, and falls from a height of about 30 m.  In order to reach this destination, we must walk for approximately two hours. The hike is a chance to explore numerous mountain paths, see wonderful landscapes, and visit the astounding eight karstic caves of Pogonica, Grada, Rruga, Vllojaku,  Paja, Turçini, among others. After the time at the waterfall, we will have a lunch break planned before we head to Tirana.