From Tirana/Durres/Shkoder: Theth & Blue Eye Tour (Smll Grp)

Traveling through Albania’s northern mountains and lush valleys sounds like a classic cliché, but this tour makes it real — and surprisingly accessible. Whether you’re staying in Tirana, Durres, or Shkoder, this day-long adventure takes you into the heart of the Albanian Alps, offering stunning vistas, cultural highlights, and a taste of local life—all for just $30 per person.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides who bring history and culture alive with stories. Second, the breathtaking scenery at every turn—especially the Blue Eye, which is even more impressive in person than in photos. The only potential snag? The long travel time — up to 14 hours—so it’s best suited for those with a sense of adventure and patience.

If you’re someone eager to see Albania’s wild side without the hassle of self-driving, this tour offers great value, authentic moments, and a chance to connect with local life in Theth village. It’s an excellent choice for nature lovers, curious travelers, and anyone wanting a full Albanian mountain experience in one day.

Key Points

• Excellent value for the price of around $30, covering transportation, guided tours, and entry fees.
• Small-group size means more personalized attention and a friendlier atmosphere.
• Diverse highlights — from scenic mountain stops to cultural sites in Theth village.
• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning, ideal for long hours on mountainous roads.
• Expert guides make the experience engaging with storytelling and local insights.
• Packed itinerary with about 10 to 14 hours of activity, so prepare for a full day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: What’s the Tour All About?

Let’s face it: Albania’s northern mountains are not the easiest to explore without local knowledge or a well-organized plan. This tour from Amazing Albania Travel Agency offers a practical way to experience the highlights without the stress of planning. It’s a full-day trip that takes you from the bustling cities of Tirana, Durres, or Shkoder into the heart of the Albanian Alps, showcasing breathtaking scenery and some authentic cultural sights along the way.

We really like the way this tour balances scenic beauty with culture. From mountain panoramas to the charm of Theth village, it covers some of the best natural and historical sites in the area. Another aspect we appreciate is the small group size, which tends to foster a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere—perfect for those who prefer a more personalized experience rather than being herded around in a large bus.

That said, the day is long — up to 14 hours — so it’s not for everyone. If you’re prone to fatigue or prefer softer-paced sightseeing, this might be a bit intense. Still, it’s a wonderful way for active travelers to get a snapshot of northern Albania’s rugged beauty in just one day. Ideal for those with a sense of adventure, a love for nature, and curiosity about Albanian culture.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Pickup and Transport

The tour begins with a pick-up from up to seven locations, including Tirana, Durres, and Golem. The vans are comfortable, air-conditioned, and designed for long drives — a crucial factor considering the mountainous terrain. Reviews consistently praise the smooth ride and the friendly, safe driving of guides like Engjell and Jeffery, who are noted for their knowledge and professionalism.

Travel time from the start point to Theth can be around 3 hours, but the scenic drive is part of the experience, with winding roads offering glimpses of Albania’s rugged landscape. Most travelers find the journey comfortable, especially with the commentary and stories from guides that make the hours fly by.

Qafe Thore: Mountain Viewpoint

The first stop is Qafa e Thores, a mountain pass offering a panoramic view of the Alps. You’ll want your camera ready for sweeping vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. It’s a great photo op and a moment to breathe in the fresh mountain air. From reviews, we learn that this stop is appreciated for its serenity and the stunning backdrop that makes the long drive worthwhile.

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Blue Eye of Theth: Hiking and Natural Wonder

Next comes the highlight for many—the Blue Eye. Getting there involves a 45-minute hike each way, rated as a level 2 difficulty on a 5-point scale. This hike is manageable for most, provided you wear sturdy shoes, as the trail is rocky and narrow.

Once at the Blue Eye, you’ll see crystal-clear waters bubbling from underground springs—a natural fountain of shimmering blue that’s unlike anything else in the region. The photos don’t do it justice. Visitors often describe it as breathtaking and recommend taking the time to appreciate the peaceful surroundings. Many reviewers mention that the hike is worthwhile, with comments like “the view is unbelievable; no picture captures its true beauty.”

Nderlysaj Natural Baths and Optional Hike

Descending from the Blue Eye, the group hits Nderlysaj Natural Baths, a tranquil spot where you can unwind in warm waters or take a scenic walk along the river. The baths are a perfect rest spot, especially if you choose not to hike to the Blue Eye.

Lunch in Theth Village

Midday is reserved for lunch, which can be organized with the tour, but travelers also have the option to buy food at local restaurants or bring a picnic. Many reviews emphasize the generous and delicious Albanian cuisine available in Theth, often featuring fresh, local ingredients. It’s a good chance to relax and soak in the mountain village atmosphere.

Exploring Theth Village: Culture and History

After lunch, the tour visits the historic Church of Theth and the Isolation Tower—a small but fascinating insight into local traditions. The village itself is charming, with traditional stone houses and friendly locals. The guides do a good job of explaining the significance of each site, giving context to the architecture and stories.

Many reviewers appreciated the pace of exploration, saying they felt they had enough time to wander, take photos, and absorb the ambiance. One traveler noted, “the guide was very knowledgeable about the history and culture of Theth, which made the visit even more meaningful.”

Return Journey and Shkodra Stopover

After a full day, the return drive takes about 2.33 hours, with a brief 40-minute stop in Shkoder City Center. This is an excellent chance to stretch, grab a quick coffee, or do some last-minute sightseeing—many travelers speak fondly of this scenic, historic city.

The final leg back to the starting points takes roughly 2.5 hours, completing the 10-14 hour adventure.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the expert guides—noting their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to share Albania’s stories in engaging ways. Comments like “Kledis was an amazing guide, very friendly and very helpful” show how guides elevate the experience. Many mention how the scenic views exceeded expectations, with some calling the Blue Eye hike “worth every step” despite the rocky terrain.

Value for money is a recurring theme. Travelers feel that for $30, they receive a comprehensive day of sightseeing, cultural insights, and stunning natural sights—all in a small, intimate group. Several reviews highlight the good organization and efficient pacing, which allow ample time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Some minor drawbacks include the long hours—with some wishing for a slightly longer stop at the Blue Eye or in Shkoder. Others mention the necessity to bring cash for local payments, as card acceptance is limited in Theth.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

If you’re eager to see Albania’s natural beauty and traditional villages in one day, this tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, hiking, and cultural stops. It’s ideal for active travelers who don’t mind a long day but want to maximize their time. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it easier to ask questions and get personalized insights. Plus, at just $30, the value is quite attractive, especially given the inclusions like transportation, entrance fees, and guided visits.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to spend more time in each location, you might find this tour a bit rushed. Also, those with mobility issues or altitude sickness should consider the hiking and mountain roads involved.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour to Theth and the Blue Eye is a solid choice for travelers who want an authentic Albanian mountain adventure without the hassle of self-driving. It’s perfect for nature lovers, cultural explorers, and adventure seekers who enjoy a well-organized, budget-friendly experience. The guides’ knowledge and friendly manner turn what could be a long, tiring journey into a memorable, enjoyable day.

While it demands a full day’s commitment and involves some hiking, the scenery, authentic small villages, and the chance to see a natural marvel like the Blue Eye make it well worth the effort. If you’re looking for a concentrated dose of Albania’s stunning landscape and culture, this tour offers a good mix of both, with a friendly, small-group vibe that keeps things personal.

FAQ

What is the price of the tour?
It costs $30 per person, which includes transport, guides, and entrance fees like the Lock Tower in Theth.

How long does the tour last?
It runs between 10 to 14 hours, so be prepared for a full day out.

Where do I get picked up?
You can be picked up from seven locations, including Tirana, Durres, and Golem, making access quite flexible.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a camera, sunscreen, cash (for local payments), a change of clothes, and trekking shoes for the hike.

Is the hike to Blue Eye difficult?
The hike takes about 45 minutes each way and is rated as difficulty level 2 out of 5, suitable for most people comfortable with moderate walking.

Can I skip the hike?
Yes, if you prefer not to hike, you can wait in Theth village while others go to the Blue Eye.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 3 years, wheelchair users, people with altitude sickness, or those over 75.

Is food included?
Lunch is available as part of the tour, with options to eat at local restaurants or bring your own picnic.

Do I need cash?
Yes, as local vendors in Theth only accept cash, so plan accordingly.

To sum it up, this small-group tour offers a beautifully balanced day of breathtaking scenery, cultural highlights, and friendly guides — an ideal way to experience the natural splendors of northern Albania efficiently and affordably. It’s best suited for active travelers eager to explore, learn, and take plenty of photos along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: