Theth: Exploring Albania's Hidden Mountain Gem
- Margaux Delang
- 7 okt 2024
- 3 minuten om te lezen
Nestled in the heart of the Albanian Alps, Theth is a remote village that offers breathtaking natural beauty and a glimpse into traditional Albanian mountain life. Surrounded by towering peaks, lush valleys, and crystal-clear rivers, Theth is the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventurers. Popular activities include hiking to the stunning Grunas Waterfall, visiting the iconic Lock-in Tower, or exploring the nearby Blue Eye, a mesmerizing natural spring. Despite its growing popularity, Theth has retained its authentic charm, with its stone houses, wooden bridges, and warm hospitality making it a must-visit for those seeking peace and adventure in the mountains.
How to get there?
At 6 AM, we were picked up from the center of Shköder by a minibus to continue our journey towards Theth. The ride, which lasted approximately three hours, took us through winding mountain roads, but the breathtaking views along the way made it all worthwhile. Towering peaks, deep valleys, and lush greenery unfolded around us as we ventured deeper into the heart of the Albanian Alps.
Booking the minibus was straightforward; we simply sent a message via WhatsApp to the transport company, and they efficiently arranged everything. The cost of the trip was €24 per person, offering a convenient and affordable way to reach Theth. The company offers transfers both from Shköder to Theth and the return journey. You can reach them at +355 682 958 060 for a smooth, hassle-free ride through the scenic mountains.
What to do?
The Blue Eye Trail
Theth is an ideal destination for enjoying stunning mountain views while taking on some of Albania’s most beautiful hikes. One of the most popular trails in the area is the Blue Eye Trail, which we had the chance to experience.
We started our hike directly from our accommodation, as the trailhead at Theth Church was only about a kilometer away. From there, the path led us past the scenic Grunas Waterfall and eventually brought us to the famed Blue Eye. If you complete the full loop, you can expect around 7 hours of walking, including an hour spent at the Blue Eye itself, covering a total distance of approximately 18 kilometers.
Alternatively, you can shorten the route, as we did when the rain set in. We opted to take a taxi back to Theth from the Blue Eye, cutting off around 3 kilometers from the total hike.
For those looking for a quicker option, you can drive to the village of Nderlysaj and start the hike from there. This version takes only 1.5 to 2 hours round-trip. From Nderlysaj, follow a straightforward dirt path up the mountain. The climb gets a bit more challenging for about 45 minutes as you ascend, but the effort is well worth it.
As you make your way up, be sure to turn around and soak in the breathtaking views of the canyon and the Accursed Mountains. Near the top, you’ll come across a bridge with a sign pointing to the “Blue Eye.” Cross the bridge, pass the house on your left, and follow the trail until you reach an opening revealing the stunning Blue Eye—a truly unforgettable sight.
Where to stay?
During our visit to Theth, we stayed at Villa Ujëvara e Vogël, a charming and peaceful guesthouse nestled in the stunning Albanian Alps. The location is perfect for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the region, with easy access to nearby hikes like the famous Theth Waterfall and Blue Eye.
The villa offers simple but comfortable rooms, and the staff is very welcoming, making us feel right at home.
If you're seeking a relaxing escape surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, Villa Ujëvara e Vogël is a great option to consider during your trip to Theth.