A Journey Through the Albanian Alps

The journey began in Tirana, a city that seemed to pulse with a rhythm all its own. As I wandered through Skanderbeg Square, the heart of the city, I felt the weight of history pressing down on me. The Enver Hoxha Pyramid loomed in the distance, a relic of a past that seemed both distant and immediate. It was here that I met Genci, our guide, whose warmth and knowledge would become a beacon throughout our journey.

Our first stop was Kruja, a city steeped in legend and history. The castle, perched high above the town, offered a glimpse into Albania’s storied past. As I wandered through the Ethnographic Museum, I felt a connection to the people who had walked these halls centuries before. The air was thick with the scent of spices from the nearby bazaar, a reminder of the vibrant culture that thrived here.

Shkodra, our next destination, was a city of contrasts. The Marubi National Photography Museum captured the essence of Albania’s artistic soul, while the Venice Art Mask Factory showcased the intricate craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations. As I stood atop Rozafa Castle, overlooking the shimmering waters of Lake Shkodra, I felt a sense of peace wash over me. It was as if the city itself was whispering its secrets to me, urging me to listen.

Into the Wild: Valbona and Theth

The ferry ride across Lake Koman was a surreal experience. The mountains rose majestically from the water, their peaks shrouded in mist. It was a landscape that seemed untouched by time, a place where nature reigned supreme. As we arrived in Valbona, I was struck by the tranquility of the valley. The air was crisp and clean, a stark contrast to the bustling city we had left behind.

The hike to Valbona Pass was challenging, but the reward was worth every step. As I reached the summit, the view took my breath away. The mountains stretched out before me, a sea of green and gray that seemed to go on forever. It was a moment of pure clarity, a reminder of the beauty that exists in the world if we only take the time to seek it out.

Theth was a village unlike any I had ever seen. Nestled in the heart of the mountains, it felt like a place out of time. The Grunasi Waterfall was a sight to behold, its waters cascading down the rocks with a force that was both awe-inspiring and humbling. As I stood at the base of the falls, I felt a sense of renewal, as if the water was washing away the burdens I had carried with me.

Reflections in Tirana

Our journey ended back in Tirana, where Genci took us on a personal tour of the city. The Opera and Ballet Theater stood proudly in the center, a testament to the cultural richness of the city. Our stay in a day-rental apartment, housed in a building that was once home to the famous Albanian author Ismail Kadare, was a fitting end to our adventure.

As I sat in the park across from the theater, reflecting on the journey, I realized that this trip had been more than just a physical journey. It had been a journey of self-discovery, a chance to explore not only the beauty of Albania but also the depths of my own soul. The mountains, the cities, the people – they had all left an indelible mark on me, one that I would carry with me long after I had returned home.

The north of Albania is a place of wild beauty and rich history, a place that challenges and rewards in equal measure. It is a place that calls to the soul, urging us to explore, to discover, to reflect. And as I boarded the plane back to my own life, I knew that I would return, drawn back by the allure of the Albanian Alps and the promise of new adventures.