Small Group Hiking Tour of Theth & Blue Eye in 2 Days

Discover the 2-Day Small Group Hiking Tour of Theth & Blue Eye

This 2-day tour in Albania costs $494.52 per person and offers a comprehensive adventure into the Albanian mountains. Designed for small groups of up to 10 travelers, it emphasizes hiking through scenic landscapes, visiting iconic sites like Theth National Park and the Blue Eye, and staying in cozy guesthouses. The tour starts early in Tirana with hotel pickup and explores Shkodra, Qafë Thore, and remote mountain roads, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

What makes this tour stand out is the balance between guided outdoor activities and comfortable accommodation, all within a well-paced 2-day itinerary. The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness and some hiking experience, as it involves walking on easy to moderate trails. The reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, breathtaking views, and a warm, friendly atmosphere, making it an appealing option for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere
• Hiking through the Albanian Alps includes visits to Theth National Park and the Blue Eye
• Comfortable shared accommodations in guesthouses with breakfast included
• Stress-free logistics with pickup and transportation from Tirana or Shkodra
• Expert guides lead you through scenic routes and share local insights
• Includes site entry tickets and transportation costs, with optional private rooms for extra

Starting in Tirana with Hassle-Free Pickup

The tour begins bright and early at 6:00 am from Tirana or Shkodra, with hotel pickup arranged by the tour provider. This setup removes any worries about transportation logistics and sets a comfortable tone for the two days ahead. The tour’s small group size guarantees more personalized guidance, making the experience intimate and flexible.

After a short 30-minute drive, the group reaches Shkodra, where scenic views of rivers, wild fields, Shkodra Lake, and rugged mountains unfold. The journey continues with local transportation heading toward the Albanian Alps, passing through Qafë Thore, a renowned spot for its aromatic lavender fields in late spring and the best panoramic views of the mountains at 1700 meters above sea level.

Visiting Shkodra and the Highland Landscapes

Shkodra, often considered the gateway to northern Albania, offers a glimpse of lush landscapes before heading into more rural and untouched regions. The drive takes approximately 30 minutes, and the local transport adds an authentic touch to the adventure.

Progressing along the winding roads, travelers arrive at Qafa e Thores, a mountain pass famous for its photo-worthy scenery. This part of the journey is especially picturesque in May and June, when lavender fields bloom, making the landscape feel like a scene from a postcard. The altitude here provides stunning vistas of the Albanian Alps, setting the tone for the upcoming hike.

Exploring Theth National Park and Cultural Sites

Upon arriving at Theth, guests settle into a guesthouse, where the focus shifts to cultural exploration. The tour includes visits to the old church and the Lock in Tower, which symbolizes Theth and offers insights into its centuries-old history.

The guesthouse stay provides a cozy environment for resting after a day of trekking. The shared accommodation accommodates groups of 2 to 5 travelers, fostering a communal atmosphere and opportunities to connect with fellow hikers. Room options include private upgrades for an additional €40 per night, offering more privacy.

Hiking to the Spectacular Blue Eye of Theth

A highlight of the trip is the hike to the Blue Eye, a natural wonder formed by melting snow water erosion. The 6.2 km loop trail takes about 3 hours at an easy to moderate pace, with 700 meters of elevation gain. The trail is accessible to those with some hiking experience and offers breathtaking views of the bright blue and green waters.

The Blue Eye is renowned for its vivid colors and tranquil setting, resembling a scene from a postcard. The water temperature stays around 5°C, making a daring dip a challenge for brave souls. The hike’s scenic beauty and the unique natural formation leave a lasting impression.

Day Two: From Theth to Grunasi Waterfall

The second day begins with a morning wake-up in Theth, soaking in the mountain scenery. After breakfast, the group embarks on a 1-hour hike to Grunasi Waterfall, a white curtain of water pouring over rocks, creating a miniature waterfall spectacle.

The 6 km hike involves 270 meters of elevation gain and takes about 3 hours round-trip. The trail is considered moderate, with natural beauty along every step. The waterfall’s powerful cascade and the lush surroundings are a perfect setting for photos and reflection.

Traversing Mountain Roads Back to Shkodra

Following the waterfall adventure, the tour retraces its route along narrow, winding roads back toward Shkodra. The drive offers more scenic views of the rugged terrain and mountain passes. The journey to Tirana or Shkodra concludes after about an hour, bringing the adventure full circle.

Practical Details and Inclusions

All entry tickets for the sites visited are included, along with tourist and road taxes, as well as petrol. The tour also covers transportation from Tirana or Shkodra to Theth and back, with breakfasts provided during the stay.

Not included are lunch, dinner, drinks, and personal expenses. Expect to budget around €12-€15 for a meal. Optional private rooms are available for €40 extra per night if travelers prefer more privacy.

The tour requires moderate physical fitness and some hiking experience, making it suitable for active travelers comfortable with easy to moderate trails.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

What differentiates this adventure is its focus on scenic landscapes, cultural highlights, and personalized guidance. The small group size ensures an intimate experience, as highlighted by glowing reviews praising knowledgeable guides like Daniel, Parid, Mira, and Marko.

The inclusion of the Blue Eye—even if not originally on the itinerary—is a testament to the flexible and accommodating approach of the operators. Comfortable guesthouse accommodations and well-maintained transportation make the journey comfortable despite the rugged terrain.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This 2-day hiking trip appeals most to adventurous souls with some hiking experience, who want to explore remote mountain areas and natural wonders like Theth National Park and the Blue Eye. The tour suits those seeking guided outdoor activities with local insights and comfortable lodging.

While physically demanding, the moderate trails and organized logistics help keep the experience enjoyable. It’s ideal for small groups seeking a personalized, authentic Albanian mountain adventure.

The Sum Up: An Authentic Albanian Mountain Journey

The Small Group Hiking Tour of Theth & Blue Eye offers a well-rounded exploration of northern Albania’s stunning landscapes and cultural sites. With professional guides, comfortable guesthouses, and scenic hikes, the tour balances adventure and comfort.

It is especially suited for those with some hiking experience who want an immersive experience in alpine wilderness. The inclusion of Blue Eye, local transport, and site tickets adds value, making it a rewarding and manageable multi-day trip.

While the rugged roads and moderate difficulty require a decent level of fitness, the views and experiences more than compensate. This tour promises an authentic taste of Albania’s natural beauty—perfect for travelers eager to discover the Albanian Alps with expert guides by their side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for complete beginners?
This tour requires some hiking experience and moderate physical fitness, making it better suited for those comfortable with easy to moderate trails.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers breakfasts, shared guesthouse accommodation, professional guides, transportation, site entry tickets, tourist and road taxes, and petrol.

Can I upgrade to a private room?
Yes, private rooms are available for an additional €40 per night, subject to availability.

How long does the hike to Blue Eye take?
The hike to Blue Eye lasts approximately 3 hours one way, covering 6.2 km with 700 meters of elevation gain.

What are the main highlights of the trip?
Major highlights include Theth National Park, the Blue Eye, Grunasi Waterfall, and scenic mountain roads with stunning views of the Albanian Alps.

Is transportation provided between Tirana and Theth?
Yes, the tour includes transportation from Tirana or Shkodra to Theth on Day 1 and back on Day 2, ensuring a stress-free journey.