The back story
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The back story
The Albanian Alps: the back story
From lakeside Shkodër to the high valleys of Theth and Valbona, Albania at its wildest.
Area guide · Albania
The Albanian Alps: Our Favourites
Shkodër on its lake, and the high valleys of Theth and Valbona in the Accursed Mountains. For Tirana itself, see our Tirana guide.
Show 6 places on a map
What to see and do
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3 photosCastle of the legend
Rozafa Castle
A hilltop fortress above Shkodër, looking over the lake and the Buna and Drin rivers.
Kalaja e RozafësExplore View on map
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3 photosBuilt around 1770
Mes Bridge
An elegant humped Ottoman bridge over the Kir river, a short ride from Shkodër.
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3 photosA tower of refuge
The lock-in tower, Theth
A thick-walled stone tower in Theth, once a refuge under the old customary law, the Kanun.
Nature, lakes and beaches
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3 photosBicycles and the lake
Shkodër pedestrian street & Lake Shkodër
Shkodër’s restored pedestrian street, then a bike ride to the largest lake in Southern Europe.
Rruga Kolë IdromenoExplore View on map
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3 photosA valley in the Alps
Theth
A high village ringed by peaks in Theth National Park, with a church, tower and waterfalls.
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3 photosA turquoise pool
The Blue Eye of Theth
An easy riverside walk from Theth to a turquoise pool below a small waterfall.
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3 photosOver the pass to Theth
Valbona valley
A wide valley of guesthouses beneath the Accursed Mountains, linked to Theth on foot.
Where to go next
Questions and answers
Do I need to book in Theth and Valbona?
Book mountain guesthouses ahead in summer, and outside May to October check that they are open.
Share your The Albanian Alps tips
Been there? Share your experience and tips with other visitors.
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