Kolonja Day Tour with Breakfast and Dinner

If you’re looking to explore a less-traveled part of Albania while enjoying authentic food, scenic landscapes, and a taste of local heritage, the Kolonja Day Tour offers a compelling option. This 15-hour journey isn’t just about ticking off sights; it’s a well-curated experience designed to show you the heart of Korçë County’s ethnographic traditions, natural beauty, and architectural charm.

What we love about this tour is the combination of culture and scenic exploration. The inclusion of a traditional Albanian breakfast and dinner adds a genuine flavor that many travelers miss when rushing through a country. We also appreciate the focus on historical sites like Saint Kolli Vodice church and the opportunity to visit a genuine 1800s house, which offers real insights into local life.

One possible drawback? The day is quite full, and while the pace is generally manageable, those with mobility issues or who prefer a more leisurely approach might find it a bit intense. The experience is suited best for travelers eager to cover a lot of ground, enjoy authentic regional cuisine, and learn about Albania’s lesser-known towns and traditions.

This tour appeals most to those who want a full-day cultural and scenic immersion without the hassle of organizing transport or guides themselves. It’s ideal for curious travelers who value local stories, traditional food, and scenic vistas over luxury or a slow pace.

Key Points

• Authentic Albanian cuisine is front and center, with breakfast, traditional lunch, and dinner included.
• Cultural highlights include a visit to Saint Kolli Vodice church and a historic 1800s house.
• Scenic views of Mount Gramoz are a consistent theme, with multiple photo stops.
• Comfortable transportation helps cover long distances efficiently, leaving more time for exploration.
• Local heritage is emphasized through visits to historically significant sites and architecture.
• Suitable for active travelers comfortable with walking and a full schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary and Experience

Starting Point at Oxygen Boutique Hotel in Tirana

The adventure begins at the Oxygen Boutique Hotel, offering a cozy base for your morning preparations. The hotel’s relaxed atmosphere helps ease into the long day ahead. From there, a comfortable coach whisks you away for the first leg of your journey, setting the tone for a well-organized day.

The Drive to Erseka and Scenic Views

The first stretch of roughly an hour on the coach is a chance to settle in, take in the changing Albanian landscape, and get excited about what’s to come. The scenery here is worth noting—mountainous terrain and lush greenery start to hint at the natural beauty of the region.

Coffee Stop with a View of Mount Gramoz

Next, about an hour into the tour, there’s a break and coffee stop. Here, you’ll enjoy a warm drink while admiring views of Mount Gramoz, Albania’s fourth highest peak. This moment is perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the crisp mountain air. It’s a small but meaningful pause that helps you transition from travel mode to cultural explorer.

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Mid-Morning Transfer and More Scenic Travel

After the coffee break, a 1.5-hour coach ride takes you further into the heart of Kolonja, revealing more of the region’s landscape and rural charm. This part of the trip offers a good chance to chat with your guide and get background info on the area’s history and local way of life.

Exploring Erseka and Traditional Lunch

The vibrant town of Erske serves as the tour’s hub. Here, after a brief walk, you’ll enjoy a traditional Albanian lunch. Expect local village products, which means fresh, hearty, and often simple dishes that reflect the region’s culinary traditions. This meal is more than just sustenance; it’s a window into everyday Albanian rural life.

Visiting Saint Kolli Vodice Church and a Historic 1800s House

Following lunch, the tour takes you to the Saint Kolli Vodice church, a site of historical significance. The church’s architecture and history offer insights into local religious traditions. Nearby, a house from the 1800s belonging to the Jovanes family provides a glimpse into the region’s architectural style and familial history. As one review highlighted, “Visiting the Jovanes house was like stepping back in time, with its preserved architecture and stories of the village’s founders.”

Afternoon Scenic Stops and Free Time

Further stops include photo opportunities and a guided tour of the church and house, allowing for deeper understanding and personal reflection. The tour’s flexibility, with some free time, lets you explore at a comfortable pace, capturing more photos or simply soaking in the mountain scenery.

Coffee, Rest, and Concluding Visits

As the day winds down, another short break offers a final chance for coffee and photos. The last visits are to local sites, rounding out your understanding of Kolonja’s cultural fabric. The guide’s commentary often includes stories about the local families and traditions, enriching the experience.

Final Dinner at Sofra Kolonjare

The day concludes with a dinner at Sofra Kolonjare, a restaurant known for its mountain architecture and traditional Albanian cuisine. Here, you’ll taste hearty dishes, often featuring local ingredients, in a cozy, authentic setting. The dinner is a fitting ending—filling and flavorful, with the chance to reflect on the day’s discoveries.

Return Journey to Tirana

After dinner, the coach takes you back to Tirana in about an hour, leaving you with plenty of memories and photos from a day well spent exploring Albania’s lesser-known treasures.

The Value of the Experience

At $292 per person, this tour offers considerable value considering the inclusions—breakfast, lunch, dinner, transport, and multiple site visits. It’s a full, well-organized day that combines scenic beauty, cultural education, and genuine local cuisine, making it a practical choice for travelers wanting more than just a quick glance at Albania’s countryside.

The guided aspect ensures you get insightful commentary and historical context, which elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing. On top of that, the bus transport is a huge convenience, allowing you to cover long distances comfortably without worrying about navigation or parking.

The tour’s focus on authentic experiences—visiting a historic house, local church, and enjoying traditional food—means you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Albanian life and culture. For those who enjoy a mix of scenic views, cultural sites, and delicious regional dishes, this experience strikes a strong balance.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who:

• Want a full-day exploration without the hassle of planning transportation or guides
• Are interested in local culture, history, and traditional cuisine
• Don’t mind walking and standing during visits
• Appreciate scenic drives with plenty of photo stops
• Are comfortable with a busy schedule that includes some free time but also structured visits

It might not be suitable for those with mobility issues or who prefer a more leisurely or slow-paced experience. Also, if your main focus is luxury or very personalized experiences, this guided group tour may not meet those expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour begins at the Oxygen Boutique Hotel in Tirana, and transportation from the airport to the hotel is arranged separately.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers breakfast, traditional lunch, dinner, visits to Saint Kolli Church and a historic house, and transportation.

Are there any additional costs?
Personal expenses, such as souvenirs or extra drinks, are not included.

How long is the drive between stops?
Drive times vary, but you can expect around 40 minutes to 1.5 hours between key points.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the full-day schedule and walking suggest it’s better suited for older children or active adults.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a camera, water, and snacks are recommended.

Is the tour accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments due to walking and site visits.

Can I cancel?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What language is the tour guided in?
Guides speak Albanian and English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Final Thoughts

For those eager to see Albania beyond the capital and beaches, the Kolonja Day Tour offers a well-rounded taste of mountain life, local heritage, and scenic beauty. It’s a chance to understand how traditional Albanian communities live, eat, and celebrate their history. The combination of guided visits, authentic meals, and stunning views makes for a memorable and educational day out.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, culturally rich experience without the stress of organizing every detail. If you’re looking for a balance of education, scenery, and regional cuisine, it’s an excellent choice—especially if you value authentic, off-the-beaten-path moments. Just remember, it’s a full day of activity, so come prepared for a busy, rewarding adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: