From Saranda: Përmet and Surroundings Day Trip

Explore the natural beauty of southern Albania with the From Saranda: Përmet and Surroundings Day Trip. This 6-hour adventure departs from “Tea Tours” & Car Rental and takes you through some of the region’s most impressive sights, including thermal baths, gorgeous canyons, historic bridges, and spectacular river viewpoints. Expect to relax in natural hot springs, walk across storied stone bridges, explore lush gorges, and enjoy a scenic drive through charming towns.

While the tour offers a wonderful introduction to this less-traveled part of Albania, it does involve some walking and uneven terrain, making it best suited for travelers with comfortable mobility. The group size is managed for an intimate experience, guided by a bilingual live guide in Albanian and English. The tour is ideal for those interested in nature, photography, and local culture, offering a balanced mix of outdoor exploration and cultural stops.

Key Points

• Duration: 6 hours, starting at “Tea Tours” & Car Rental
• Highlights include: thermal springs of Bënja, Langaricë Canyon, Kelcyre Gorge, and Cold Water in Tepelenë
• Transport: Comfortable van ride through scenic Albanian landscapes
• Guided experience: Led by a bilingual guide in Albanian and English
• Flexibility: Includes free time in Përmet for shopping, dining, or strolling
• Booking: Reserve now & pay later with a full refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point at “Tea Tours” & Car Rental in Saranda

The tour begins at the “Tea Tours” & Car Rental location in Saranda, from where a comfortable van takes you on a 1.5-hour drive into southern Albania. The route offers glimpses of the country’s scenic rural landscapes before arriving at the first stop in Përmet. This start point ensures a smooth and organized beginning to the day, with the convenience of a central meeting location.

Visiting the Thermal Baths of Bënja for Healing Relaxation

The highlight of the trip is the visit to the Thermal Baths of Bënja, renowned for their healing properties. You spend around 1.5 hours here, soaking in the natural hot springs that are believed to offer health benefits. The baths’ mineral-rich waters are a perfect way to unwind, and the setting is peaceful, surrounded by nature. Guests often appreciate the opportunity to relax in these crystal-clear waters and enjoy the tranquil environment.

Walking Across Katis Bridge with Viewpoints of the Past

Next, the tour leads you to Katis Bridge, a historic stone bridge that spans a river, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The short walk across this architectural gem provides a chance to capture photos of the lush valley and learn about its historical significance. The bridge’s timeless charm and scenic vantage point make it a favorite stop for its blend of history and natural beauty.

Exploring the Lush Langaricë Canyon

After crossing Katis Bridge, the group visits the Langaricë Canyon, where a light walk takes you through impressive rock formations and greenery. The canyon’s clear waters and cool shade provide a refreshing escape. There’s ample time for photography and simply soaking in the stunning scenery. The combination of rock walls, flowing waters, and vegetation makes this canyon a highlight for nature lovers.

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Free Time in Përmet for Local Flavors and Shopping

Following the canyon exploration, the itinerary allows for around 1 hour of free time in Përmet. This is perfect for buying local products such as fruit preserves (gliko), wine, or handmade crafts. Travelers can also enjoy a coffee or stroll around the town center, soaking up the hospitality and traditional atmosphere of this charming town known for its natural beauty.

Visiting Kelcyre Gorge for a Panoramic River View

The next stop is the Kelcyre Gorge, where a photo stop offers a magnificent viewpoint over the Vjosa River. The gorge provides a panoramic vista of sharp cliffs, flowing waters, and surrounding greenery. It’s a wonderful spot to appreciate the landscape’s natural grandeur and snap memorable photos, with the opportunity to learn about the gorge’s natural and cultural significance from the guide.

Cooling Off at Cold Water in Tepelenë

The tour concludes with a visit to Cold Water (Ujët e Ftohtë) in Tepelenë, where crystal-clear mountain waters invite you for a brief rest and refreshment. This spot is ideal for relaxing after the day’s activities, with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy the cooling effect of the mountain streams. It’s the perfect end to a busy day of outdoor exploration.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour’s itinerary includes stops at each of the key locations with guided explanations. The total drive time is approximately 3.5 hours, split across the day with breaks in between. The group size is kept manageable, and the guide ensures smooth transitions between stops.

Travelers are advised to bring comfortable shoes, swimwear if they wish to bathe, sunscreen, water, and a camera. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or babies under 1 year, and involves some walking on uneven terrain.

In case of cancellation, a full refund is available if canceled up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. Payment can be made later, providing flexibility for spontaneous bookings.

The Unique Charm of the Përmet Day Trip

This 6-hour trip offers a well-balanced schedule that combines natural beauty, historic sites, and local culture. The stops at thermal baths, canyons, and gorges highlight Albania’s varied landscapes and provide photographic opportunities that are hard to find elsewhere.

The tour’s strength lies in its scenic stops and guided insights, making it especially appealing to those interested in outdoor activities and Albanian nature. Its pacing ensures guests have enough free time to relax, shop, or enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Tour?

This trip suits adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor exploration and scenic views. It is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and those curious about Albanian countryside and small towns. The inclusion of thermal baths and gorges makes it a memorable experience for anyone seeking authentic natural encounters.

While the tour is quite active, it does not involve strenuous hiking, making it accessible for most physically able visitors. However, those with mobility restrictions should consider the uneven terrain and walking involved.

Final Thoughts on the Përmet and Surroundings Day Trip

This tour provides a rich snapshot of southern Albania’s natural beauty and cultural charm in a manageable 6-hour format. The combination of relaxing hot springs, spectacular canyon walks, and breathtaking viewpoints makes it a compelling choice for travelers seeking an outdoor adventure close to Saranda.

The guided nature of the trip, along with the local insights provided, enhances the experience, making it both educational and enjoyable. For those interested in exploring Albania beyond the coast, this trip offers a rewarding taste of its diverse landscapes—a memorable day out for lovers of nature and scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the trip last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the early afternoon.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear if you plan to bathe, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for babies under 1 year and involves walking on uneven terrain, so travelers with very young children should consider this.

Does the tour include meals?
No, but there is free time in Përmet for lunch or snacks, and guests can buy local products at the town.

What languages are available for the guide?
The guide speaks Albanian and English.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation is by comfortable van for the entire day.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves walking and some uneven terrain, so it’s best suited for those with good mobility.

What sights stand out the most?
The thermal baths of Bënja, Langaricë Canyon, and Kelcyre Gorge are particularly praised for their stunning scenery.

Is there free time during the trip?
Yes, there is free time in Përmet and at other stops for shopping, photos, or relaxing.

Can I book this tour on the day?
Availability depends on local demand, but booking later is possible with the pay later option.

What makes this trip unique compared to other Albanian day tours?
Its combination of natural thermal springs, spectacular canyons, and river viewpoints make it stand out, offering an authentic experience of southern Albania’s diverse landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby