Discover the Magic of Albania: 84 Lakes Scenic 2-Day Tour

Discover the Magic of Albania: 84 Lakes Scenic 2-Day Tour

This 2-day private tour in Albania offers an engaging mix of natural beauty, historical sights, and authentic local experiences. Starting from Belsh, a charming town surrounded by 84 lakes, the tour is perfect for those craving calm, unspoiled landscapes and cultural authenticity away from busy tourist spots.

The itinerary combines scenic walks, visits to Illyrian ruins, and visits to cultural landmarks unique to Belsh. You’ll enjoy traditional Albanian food, boat rides, and even rowing on lakes shaped like the country map. The tour is designed for those who value genuine experiences and peaceful, untouched nature, with the convenience of private group transport and multilingual guides.

A key highlight is the focus on off-the-beaten-path locations, making this tour ideal for travelers looking for calm and authenticity. Most activities are suited for a broad range of fitness levels, though some walking and boat rides are part of the experience. The tour’s pacing makes it manageable without feeling rushed, but it’s best suited for those eager to explore nature and local culture in depth.

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Key Points

• Private, guided 2-day tour starting from Belsh with a focus on lakes and cultural landmarks
• Explore 84 lakes, including Lake Merhoja and the Lake of flowers shaped like Albania
• Visit Illyrian ruins, the Old Fountain, and Belsh’s iconic monuments
• Enjoy a traditional Albanian lunch at a guesthouse and participate in optional activities like fishing or kayaking
• Experience boat rides, biking, and row boating on scenic lakes at sunset and during the day
• The tour includes hotel check-in, transportation, and multilingual guides in English, Italian, and Albanian

Starting Point and Logistics in Belsh

The tour begins with a welcome at the main square of Belsh, where a guide greets the group. The tour is a private group, ensuring personalized attention, and includes pickup from Rinas Airport or TEG in Tirana. This setup makes it convenient for visitors arriving from the capital or nearby airports.

Throughout the 2 days, the group travels in comfortable transportation, with transfers between scenic sites, lakes, and local landmarks. The itinerary balances sightseeing with relaxing moments, including coffee breaks and leisure time at shops or local cafes. The hotel check-in during the first day offers a chance to rest after the morning activities.

Belsh’s Cultural Landmarks and Monuments

The tour’s first stop is Belsh’s main square, where the guide introduces three major monuments: the statue of Skanderbeg, Sami Frashëri, and the Nymph of the Lakes. These landmarks provide insights into Albanian history and local identity.

A visit to the Old Fountain, a symbol of the town dating back to the communist era, offers a glimpse of Belsh’s recent history. The guide shares cultural context during this walk, making the experience more meaningful.

Visiting Lake Seferan and the Aphrodite Podium

A highlight of the tour is the scenic walk around Lake Seferan. This lake is one of the many lakes in the area, and visitors visit the Aphrodite symbolic podium, adding a mythic touch to the landscape. The walk allows for quiet reflection and appreciation of the untouched natural scenery.

The lake’s calm waters and the surrounding nature make it an ideal spot for photography and relaxation. The lake’s proximity to other sites makes it a key part of the scenic route.

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Traditional Albanian Lunch at Seferan

At a local guesthouse, the tour offers an authentic Albanian lunch, featuring fresh homemade cheese from village milk, village-style chicken, byrek (savory pies), and duck with cornbread stuffing. This meal highlights regional flavors and handcrafted dishes, providing a taste of rural Albanian cuisine.

The meal is served in a traditional setting, often with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a great way to experience local hospitality and organic, homemade food.

Exploring Lake Merhoja and the Lake of Flowers

The deeper Lake Merhoja, reaching 61 meters, is a key highlight for nature lovers. The tour includes a visit to this lake, which offers striking views and a chance to see Albania’s freshwater ecosystems up close.

Later, the Lake of flowers, shaped like the map of Albania, provides a unique rowing experience. Embarking on the lake by rowboat, visitors enjoy the peaceful environment as the sun sets, creating memorable photo opportunities and a tranquil atmosphere.

Sunset Boat Ride and Evening Activities

As evening approaches, the tour features a sunset boat ride on Lake Belsh. The calm waters and changing light provide a picturesque backdrop, ideal for relaxing and capturing photos.

Following the boat ride, a bike ride along the lakeside path offers panoramic views and a gentle, active way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The day concludes with dinner at the hotel, allowing for reflection on the day’s experiences.

Day Two: Belsh’s Panoramic Tower and Eco-Experiences

The second day begins with a breakfast at the hotel, providing a hearty start before heading out to visit the Belsh Panoramic Tower. This structure offers sweeping views over the town and lakes, giving a sense of the area’s scale and beauty.

Next, the group visits a lakeside agritourism spot for coffee and optional activities such as sport fishing or kayaking. These options add a layer of interactive fun, suited for active participants. The tour continues with a visit to the Dumrea eco-park, where guests can enjoy local organic dishes in a traditional rural setting.

The afternoon includes free time in Belsh to explore local shops, including artisanal craft stores and clothing boutiques. The tour wraps up with a stop at Belsh’s oldest pastry shop, where recipes have been handed down through generations, offering a sweet end to the trip.

Unique Experiences and Highlights of the Tour

This tour stands out for its focus on unspoiled natural landscapes and cultural landmarks specific to Belsh. The 84 lakes provide a rare opportunity to see the region’s aquatic richness, with Lake Merhoja and the Lake of flowers being particular highlights.

The mixture of cultural sites, such as Illyrian ruins and monuments, along with local food tasting and recreational activities like fishing, kayaking, and rowing, makes the experience well-rounded. The emphasis on authenticity and calm appeals to those seeking a peaceful retreat into nature.

The guides speak English, Italian, and Albanian, ensuring clear communication and informative narration. The private group format offers flexibility and a more intimate experience compared to larger tours.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Participants should be prepared for walking during scenic walks and sightseeing stops. The tour involves boat rides and cycling, so a moderate level of mobility is helpful. The hotel accommodation provides a restful base after the first day’s activities.

The tour includes meals and optional activities, but travelers should inform the provider if they wish to participate in options like fishing or kayaking. The cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible for changing plans.

Why Choose the Discover Albania: 84 Lakes Scenic Tour

This tour offers a genuine experience of Albanian nature and culture, with a focus on tranquil lakes and cultural landmarks found only in Belsh. It excels for those who want to escape crowded tourist areas and enjoy authentic rural life.

The multi-lake scenery, combined with historic sites and traditional cuisine, ensures a memorable trip. The private group format and multilingual guides provide comfort and clarity, making it accessible for international visitors.

While the itinerary is packed with diverse activities, it maintains a relaxed pace, perfect for those who prefer a calm exploration over hurried tours. The main limitations include the physical activity involved and the fact that some stops are more scenic than historically detailed, making it ideal for lovers of nature and authentic local life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes private transportation, hotel check-in, guided visits, meals, and activities listed in the itinerary. Pickup from Rinas Airport or TEG is also included.

How long is each day’s activity?
Day one runs from morning until night with activities like lakes visits, cultural landmarks, and a boat ride, while day two covers panoramic views, eco-activities, and local exploration, all planned for a relaxed pace.

What should I bring for the lakeside activities?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera are recommended. For optional activities like kayaking, inquire whether equipment is provided.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most activities are gentle, involving walking, boat rides, and cycling, children should be comfortable with outdoor activities and moderate walking.

Are meals included?
Yes, traditional lunch at a guesthouse and dinner at the hotel are included, with options to enjoy local specialties.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is a private group, so some flexibility might be available; discuss your preferences with the guide beforehand.

What language do guides speak?
Guides are available in English, Italian, and Albanian.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Most activities involve walking, gentle cycling, and boat rides, making it suitable for most travelers with average mobility.

Is this tour suitable for seniors?
It’s recommended for those under 95 years old, as some walking and active participation are involved.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

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