Kraj Berat
The Berat region is a very popular inland region of Albania. Most of all, it attracts the city of Berat itself, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Berat is a fascinating example of Ottoman and Balkan architecture. The old quarters of Mangalem and Gorica are famous for their white houses that cascade down into the valley of the Osumi River.
The nature of the surrounding region is as beautiful as the central city. Osumi Canyon, just a short drive from Berat, is one of Albania’s greatest natural wonders. A fascinating experience is hiking in the Tomorri Mountains. Explorers will rejoice in Pirogoshi Cave. Nearby in the village of Bogova, there is a walk along the crystal-clear Bogova River and a visit to its namesake waterfall.
The Berat region is a place where you can taste authentic Albanian dishes, such as freshly grilled meat, homemade byrek or the traditional Beratian cordon bleu “Vienezi i Beratit” – a rolled steak of beef or pork and kaçkavall cheese.
City Berat
The historic city of Berat is located in the Osum River valley. It is one of the oldest and best-preserved cities in the country and was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2008. Berat is known for its picturesque ancient houses, which illustrate the times under Turkish rule. Many of them are built in the typical Ottoman style with white facades, red and black roofs and lots of windows. Berat is therefore often called the “City of a Thousand Windows”.
Berat is a fascinating place for anyone interested in history, architecture and culture. Its picturesque streets, historical monuments and charming atmosphere offer a unique experience. For the best experience of Berat, you can choose accommodation in authentic stone houses, which you can easily select and book here on Booking.
Více o Beratu
Mount Tomorr, whose base is formed by hollows and pits – as if created by a club – now stands to the southeast of Berat as a silent witness to the fratricidal battle. Mount Shpirag rises on the opposite – western – side of the Berat valley. Its ridge is as if shattered by a scythe. Between the mountains flows the river Osumi, like a silent memorial to the mystical tragedy that forever changed the landscape and the heart of Berat.
Praktické info
Parking is hassle-free directly under the citadel HERE .
Another option is more parking spaces in front of the city center HERE. A walk through the streets from the city up to the citadel will certainly not disappoint you, even though you might get a little out of breath. When visiting the citadel during hot summer months, don’t forget to bring plenty of water. The temperatures here, thanks to the enclosed nature of the space, tend to be quite high.
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Mountain Range Tomorri
Tomorri Mountains is a mountain massif located near the city of Berat. It is one of the most remarkable mountains in the country and is part of a national park that was designated in 1956. In Albanian legends, Mount Tomorr is considered the home of the gods, similar to Greek Olympus.
This mountain was allegedly home to Father Tomorr (Baba Tomorri), who had four eagles instead of feet, with which he was able to soar. The meaning of the name Tomorr is “dark”. In the national park, it is possible to observe many species of animals, such as wolves, bears, lynxes, ravens and birds of prey. You can hike to the top of Tomorri year-round. In summer, you can even drive an SUV or OffRoad. However, in winter the summit is covered with snow, so it is only possible to reach it on foot or with a powerful four-wheeler.
Více o Tomorri
The highest peak is Partizan Peak (alb. Çuka e Partizanit – 2416 m.a.s.l. ). However, the most famous is Tomorr Mountain, reaching a height of 2379 meters. In summer you can drive up by off-road vehicle, but in winter the entire peak is covered in snow. If you don’t have a suitable car, you can enjoy a hiking ascent from the pass Kulmak. We complete it in the snow regularly and are always extremely delighted with it.
The path to the summit is about 4.5 km with an elevation gain of about 800 m. At the summit of the mountain you will find the alleged tomb of the Shiite saint Abbas ibn Ali and his equestrian statue with two children in the saddle. According to Bektashi legend, Abbas Ibn Ali came to Albania on a white horse to save the land from barbarians. Allegedly he spent five days on Tomorri. This happened approximately in the 7th century of our era.
From August 20 to 25, thousands of pilgrims travel to the summit each year. It doesn’t matter what faith they have. Bektashis and Muslim and Christian believers from all over Albania participate, as well as pilgrims from Albanian diasporas around the world. Participation grows year after year and has reportedly reached 250,000 pilgrims.
The tekke at the Kulmak pass (where the starting point for Tomorri is and where there is a large parking lot) was first built around 1908 by local believers. It was a dervish hut with two rooms and a stone wall. In spring 1914, the Greeks destroyed dozens of tekkes in the south and the dervish monastery under the leadership of Çuky Abaze Ali also fell victim to these reprisals. Dervish Iljazi rebuilt and founded a new tekke under the dervish monastery in 1916. Today this tekke is two-story with large spaces.
Praktické
Driving a car from the Kulmak saddle to the summit is certainly more comfortable and saves time, but taking a leisurely 1.5-2 hour walk is a wonderful opportunity for exercise and along the way you will be offered fantastic views of the surrounding mountains. Parking is hassle-free near Tekke Iljazit Kulmaka. On the way to Tomorri, don’t forget to stop for coffee and great raki at our friend’s place in his modest tavern, which is located about 4 km before the parking lot at the upper tekke.
Opposite the tavern you will see a modest tekke, which allegedly hides the hoofprint of the horse of Abbas ibn Ali HERE. On the way to the upper parking lot in the Kulmak saddle you will have the tekke on your right and on your left the tavern with a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere…and our friend. He will definitely play Greek songs on guitar for you. After all, he worked on a ship in Greece for many years.
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Canyon Osumi
The Osum River was formerly called the Berat River. It is 161 km long and runs through the center of the city of Berat. The Osumi River Canyon is one of Albania’s most amazing natural wonders and one of the largest canyons in the Balkans. The walls of the 26 km long canyon rise up to 150 meters in places.
It is believed to have been formed 2-3 million years ago by water erosion. One theory suggests that the river flowed underground and over hundreds of thousands of years the river current eroded the rock, creating the current form of the gorge. Some rock formations in the canyon have dramatic names, such as the Cathedral, the Eye, or Demon’s Gate.
The canyon is located near the town of Çorovodë and for its impressive beauty and dramatic scenery is a very popular destination. It is another place in Albania that demonstrates the untamed beauty of the Albanian landscape and provides visitors with a unique and inimitable experience.
Více o kaňonu
During spring, the high water level allows you to explore the entire length of the gorge by raft. Spring is also the best season for observing many waterfalls in the gorges. The rapids are class II, so you don’t need ultra-great previous experience with whitewater to navigate them. However, if you are a complete beginner, it is definitely better to trust professionals.
In late summer, when the water level is lower, the entire length of the gorge is not navigable, but there are hiking options with opportunities to swim in pools and streams. Rare plants grow around the canyon and various species of birds and animals live here, which also attracts nature lovers and photographers.
Praktické
One of the ways to see the canyon walls from below is rafting. One of the companies providing this service is located HERE. You can also go hiking and explore the upper part of the canyon on your own. The starting point is HERE.
After about 3 km of canyoning you will reach a famous summer bar tavern where our great friend Andon reigns, who will prepare everything you could wish for…and it’s a lot of fun with him. The bar is HERE. You can also drive to the bar directly from the road and do a short walk above the canyon from there. You can start with a small rakija at the bar with Andon.
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Waterfall Bogova
Bogova Waterfall is a frequent destination for tourists and also for tourist guides on their expeditions. The best time to visit the waterfall is certainly spring. Due to snowmelt, the water capacity increases significantly. You will certainly find longer and more interesting waterfalls in Albania, but if you have accommodation in the area near Bogova, definitely do not miss this attractive and easy-going destination.
A walk to it and swimming in the lagoon is a leisurely activity with a nice and interesting natural destination. In summer you will also find an easy-going snack bar with refreshments here.
Více o vodopádu
Bogova Waterfall may seem relatively small, but it holds a piece of romance and is a great place for a day trip from Berat. You can park in the village of Bogova, where you will also find several local restaurants and small shops with refreshments and drinks. However, it is possible to drive a bit further towards the waterfall. About a kilometer from the turn-off, you will reach an area with a clay surface where you can leave your car – HERE.
The entire hike runs along a river that flows from Mount Tomorri. After 2.7 km you will reach Bogova Waterfall. The total distance there and back is about 5.5 km. The water is cold, but in the scorching heat you will definitely not resist and will be happy to jump into the pool below the waterfall.
Praktické
You can reach the waterfalls by public transport as well. Buses run every hour from Berat (bus station) to Skrapar. Get off the bus in the small village of Bogove (at the restaurant). Right across from the restaurant is a road leading to the waterfall. The walk takes about 45 minutes.
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Cave Pirogoshi
Pirogoshi Cave is located near the city of Çorovodë. It has a 12 m wide entrance and a height of about 4-5 m. In places it is up to 30 m wide. The explored length to date is 1853 m. The cave is generally easily accessible and inside there are beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. This cave is home to a bat colony, so don’t be frightened. Pirogoshi is the largest in Skrapar and is one of the most unique caves in Albania.
It is believed that King Pyrrhus of Epirus hid treasures here that he plundered in wars. Many foreign speleological groups have visited this cave, but no one has reported finding the treasure yet. The most significant exploration was carried out in 1995 by Italian speleologists. However, no one has ever explored the entire cave.
Více o jeskyni
The cave is located on the right side of the Gradec canyon, perched on a natural balcony-like terrace at the highest point of the rock above the canyon. From here, you’ll enjoy a stunning view of the Radešský waterfall and the river valley with its lush vegetation. Your expedition can begin by car from Çorovodë along asphalt road, which winds upstream along the Skrapar river.
After 1 km, you’ll reach the Kasabash bridge, a striking Ottoman-era structure offering panoramic views of the canyon and river valley. From here you can venture down to the bunkers before returning to your car. After another kilometre of driving along winding unpaved roads, you’ll arrive at the starting point of the trail leading to the cave above Gradec canyon. From there, it’s approximately three-quarters of a kilometre to the cave entrance.
A complete cave exploration can take several hours, but that’s entirely up to you and how thoroughly you’d like to venture into this subterranean wonder, following in the footsteps of Italian speleologists :).
Praktické
Although it is not a particularly demanding trip, it is still worth being aware that inside the cave there is a lot of humid and heavy air, which can cause problems for people with heart problems or pressure and breathing issues. It is also good to bring headlamps and wear sturdy footwear.
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Most Kasabashi
Kasabashi Bridge is located about 1 km from the city of Çorovoda and offers a great experience for lovers of history and architecture. It is a cultural monument built in 1640 by the chief builder of the Ottoman Empire, architect Kasëm (Reis Mimar Kasëm). This structure has rare architectural values and was an important connecting element in the infrastructure network of the time. With a length of 26 meters, a width of 3 meters and an arch of 12 meters, Kasabashi Bridge is an impressive architectural achievement.
It is characterized by perfect construction and its durability. The arch of the bridge has high load capacity despite its relatively slender arch. Side openings are a matter of course, which reduced the bridge’s resistance during periods of high water. The bridge demonstrates extraordinary engineering skill of the time in which it was built. It is named after its creator.
Více o mostu
As with most such bridges across rivers, here too there is a large arch (sometimes several arches) designed for the flow of the main river current during calm periods. Smaller openings in the side arches served to allow water to flow through in case of higher water content, which happened mainly in spring during snowmelt. In the past, Kasabashi Bridge played an important role in connecting regions of the province. It remains functional to this day and is one of the most important connecting elements in this area.
Praktické
A visit to the bridge is ideal combined with an expedition to Pirogoshi Cave. On the way from Çorovoda to the cave you will have the bridge on your right hand.
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Canyon Sineci with restaurant
Sineci Canyon with Lumas Restaurant is one of those places where nature and gastronomy combine so perfectly that you will feel like you are in a fairy tale. Imagine a deep canyon where water quietly flows over stones, and above it on high stilts stands a restaurant – as if it were floating.
First you immerse yourself in refreshing water – an ideal way to cool your body after the summer sun. Then you climb up to the restaurant terrace, sit down and let yourself be pampered with regional specialties. On the menu you will find fresh fish, grilled meat, homemade cheeses, herbal salads and specifically for example Tavë kosi – lamb meat baked in yogurt.
Whether you come for breakfast, lunch or a romantic dinner – the combination of swimming in a natural pool and excellent food promises an experience you will remember for a long time.
Více o restauraci
Sineci Lumas Berat is not just a restaurant – it is a journey to the heart of Albanian gastronomy. A somewhat punk interior is decorated with rustic decor that reflects Albania’s cultural heritage and complements the atmosphere for enjoying regional cuisine.
The menu of Sineci Lumas Berat restaurant offers a range of traditional Albanian dishes prepared from fresh local ingredients. From hearty stewed dishes to grilled meat to vegetarian options – there is something for everyone. Among the excellent dishes is “tavë kosi” (baked lamb with yogurt).
The staff is very popular for their friendly service. This restaurant quickly gained popularity among visitors and received enthusiastic reviews both for the quality of the food and for the pleasant atmosphere.
Praktické
You won’t get to the canyon with an ordinary car, so we recommend parking for example HERE and from there set out on roughly a two-kilometer walk. Remember that the restaurant operates reliably only in the summer months from May to September daily from 8:00 to 22:00.
If you want to visit the restaurant outside the season, it’s better to send an inquiry in English via WhatsApp +355685793333 before your arrival. It’s not ruled out that the owner will open the restaurant for you or it will be open on a sunny day even in winter.
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What to see in Albania?
Albania offers plenty of beautiful and interesting places waiting for your discovery – stunning beaches on the southern coast, majestic mountains in the north, river canyons, lakes, well-preserved historic cities and remains of previous civilizations.
Check out our tips for attractive places in individual regions of Albania. Whether you’re drawn to adventure in wild nature, history or the charm of traditional Albanian villages, you’ll find plenty of places here that we think are worth seeing! We will gradually add new places as we visit them. Simply select the area that interests you on the map.
How to enjoy your vacation and not overspend
Stay smart
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Internet v mobilu
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Think of a backup plan
Good travel insurance is the foundation of any trip. A trip to Albania is no exception. Insurance covers you in case of illness, injuries and loss of belongings. We've ended up in a hospital in a foreign country a few times ourselves. Having good insurance saves a lot of stress and especially money.
