Hidden Treasures
If you are ready to share the wonder of “Hidden Treasures” with the world, now is the time to start your adventure. Albania awaits you, to become part of your travel story. Focus on nature, create amazing memories, and share these hidden treasures with others.
Albania is ready to be discovered. What greater joy could there be than sharing these precious destinations with the world?!
Kauri Cave in Puke
The Langarica Canyon
The Langarica Canyons are a marvelous natural wonder in Albania that undoubtedly capture the attention of all those who wish to explore the country’s natural beauties.
This destination offers an extraordinary experience, providing a breathtaking landscape with hills, cliffs, water flows, and true inspiration.
The Langarica Canyon is a chain of unique natural monuments and cultural heritage that constitute a great wealth for the development of tourism in Albania. The canyon and the flow of the Langarica River are one of the largest branches feeding the entire source area of the Vjosa River, while the thermal springs are located no more than 5 km away from the city of Përmet, and the road to this natural pearl deviates from the national road Përmet – Korçë only 200 – 300 meters before reaching the center of the commune in Petran. Undoubtedly, the Langarica River, this powerful branch for the Vjosa, flows through a spectacular rocky canyon hidden among the forests and mountains of Dangëlli and Shqeri.
The natural landscape of this river is one of the most picturesque in all of Albania, beautiful, awe-inspiring, and changeable according to the seasons which offer different and stunning landscapes.
Environmentalists value this unique canyon for its natural, historical, and touristic riches. This helps in the development of tourism, infrastructure, and the promotion of traditional culture, attracting more visitors.
The Langarica Canyons are a perfect destination for exploring nature, meditating, or simply enjoying a peaceful break away from city noise. This is a place where nature speaks, and inspiration comes naturally.
The Gashi River
The Gashi River is one of two Albanian natural reserves included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List of Nature. Covering an area of 3000 hectares, the Gashi Valley is located in the basin of Valbona National Park, in the northeastern part of the Albanian Alps, in the Tropoja District, far from inhabited areas.
A large part of the Gashi River’s surface is covered with ancient virgin beech forests, which is why Albania joined 12 other countries on the UNESCO list.
Near the Gashi River are the glacial lakes of Dobërdol and Sylbicë, which give the entire area a fairy-tale appearance. This Albanian river sings the sweet song of the untouched and offers a peaceful haven for those who seek to immerse themselves in its natural beauty.
This natural wonder preserves one of the most pristine natures in Albania!
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Rrajca
Second on UNESCO’s World Heritage List of Nature is Rrajca, part of the European Green Belt of beech forests and one of the few places where the Balkan lynx can be found.
Near the area of Përrenjas or Librazhd, this 4700-hectare space includes four stunning glacial lakes.
Rrajca is part of the Shebenik-Jabllanica National Park, which is still relatively unknown as it was a restricted border area during half a century of communist dictatorship.
It was precisely this closure that today constitutes one of its greatest assets, as around 34,000 hectares of surface filled with forests, meadows, and multi-colored flowers are extremely untouched.
The unique landscapes of Rrajca make it a dream come true for photographers. The interplay of light and shadow on the limestone formations creates a canvas of beauty that is always changing.
Discover the enchanting beauty of Rrajca, where every step you take is a journey through geological wonders and undisturbed nature.
Whether you seek adventure or peaceful contemplation, Rrajca welcomes you to experience its magic. Discover nature’s craftsmanship in this unspoiled Albanian destination.
The Cave of Fairies
The Cave of Fairies, also known as Gojan i Madh, is one of Albania’s hidden natural wonders, inviting you on a mesmerizing journey beneath the earth’s surface.
This small yet exceptionally beautiful and unique cave is the only one of its kind in Albania. The water source flowing above it has adorned the cave on all sides down to the stream, creating extraordinary formations and offering a panoramic view of the surrounding area.
Until the 1960s, this cave also served as a pilgrimage site, as suggested by its name “Cave of Fairies,” a place where fairies dwell. Fairies are mythological figures and objects of belief in our culture, with origins tracing back to ancient times and continuing to the present day.
The “ORA” are known more as protectors or miracle-workers in the Cycle of the Kreshniks (Albanian epic tales), guarding and protecting warriors in various battles. The cave is revered as a sacred place with healing properties by the local inhabitants.
This destination is a gift from nature, awaiting your exploration to uncover the riches and mysteries within the earth. A visit to the Cave of Fairies is an unforgettable journey that will be cherished forever.
Grama Bay
Grama Bay, located in the Karaburun Peninsula along the Ionian coast, is a splendid natural gem of Albania. In ancient times, this bay was known as a haven for ships seeking refuge from the fierce waves of the sea.
The bay’s name, which translates to ” Grama Bay ” or “Bay of Writing,” is intrinsically linked to the ancient inscriptions carved into its rocks. Over 1500 inscriptions have been recorded, with the oldest being Greek and dating back to the last centuries BC. These inscriptions are often prayers and supplications for salvation or favorable winds, directed towards Jesus Christ. In recent times, contemporary travelers have continued this tradition by leaving their own marks.
Today, the visitors to Gjiri i Gramës are not mariners, warriors, or pirates but tourists who come to enjoy one of the most beautiful bays in Albania. People from all over Albania and beyond are drawn to this stunning location, and none leave indifferent to its rare beauty.
Gjiri i Gramës is characterized by its crystal-clear waters, a feature common to the small beaches of the Karaburun Peninsula. The bay’s sharp cliffs result from centuries of quarrying due to the solidity of the local rock.
Traveling to Gjiri i Gramës by boat, especially from Dhërmi as the shortest route, provides an opportunity to admire the entire coastal line with its numerous small bays, although none match its beauty.
An alternative way to visit the bay is by trekking along a beautiful Mediterranean vegetation trail in Karaburun. This path has become quite popular, although most visitors still prefer to approach by sea. The journey, whether by land or sea, offers a unique experience to explore this remarkable Albanian coastal treasure.
Blue Eye
Blue Eye, located near the city of Sarandë, is a natural spring that captivates visitors with its deep, crystal-clear waters and mesmerizing blue color, making it a must-visit attraction for nature enthusiasts and adventurers.
Named for its stunning appearance, Syri i Kaltër resembles a radiant blue eye amidst lush greenery. The source of the spring is a karstic hole more than 50 meters deep, surrounded by a dense forest that adds to its ethereal beauty.
One of the most intriguing features of Syri i Kaltër is its extraordinary clarity, allowing visitors to see to the bottom of the spring, where numerous underwater caves and mysterious rock formations await. The spring’s water is very cold, fed by underground sources and the Bistrice River.
Visitors often seize the opportunity to dive into the refreshing waters of Syri i Kaltër, enjoying a swim in a unique environment. The sensation of the cold, pure water is both invigorating and calming, making it a perfect way to escape the Albanian summer heat.
Sarandë and Syri i Kaltër are jewels of the Albanian Riviera, and Syri i Kaltër itself is a natural wonder that embodies the extraordinary beauty of the region. It is a place that allows you to connect with nature, refresh in a cool spring, and experience the enchanting allure of Albania’s natural landscapes. A visit to Syri i Kaltër is a journey into the heart of the country’s untouched natural beauty and a chance to witness one of its most enchanting treasures.
Flake Beach (Durrës)
Albania continues to preserve many unexplored beaches, waiting to be discovered by travelers. One of these natural treasures is Flake Beach. Flake is a small village near Durrës, and its beach encompasses a wonderful area. Just 11 kilometers from Durrës, this beach is gaining the status of a favored tourist destination.
The beach in this area is known for its favorable geographical position, crystal-clear water, wide sandy beach, and the surrounding lush pine forest. This area offers services at reasonable prices.
Evenings at this beach offer surprises as the sunset is mesmerizing. The few local establishments in the area have created a very relaxing environment where you can spend some beautiful hours.
For those passionate about photography, the sunset provides a wonderful opportunity to capture romantic and stunning photos that the picturesque nature of this place enables. Flake Beach offers a perfect closure to a wonderful day, taking you away for a moment from urban life and bringing you to the beautiful coastline of the Adriatic.
Rana e Hedhun
Rana e Hedhun, located in Lezha, Albania, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travelers seeking an unspoiled coastal paradise. This picturesque destination offers a unique blend of natural beauty. Generous nature and imagination have created this place, like a mysterious hand carelessly scattering sand to form high dunes, where it’s unclear where this sandy belt begins – sometimes seeming to descend from the mountain, other times appearing to crumble from the blue shore.
The crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea gently kiss the coastline, creating a calm and inviting atmosphere for swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking a peaceful stroll along the beach.
Trees nearby provide shade on this ideal beach for camping, picnicking in the cooler seasons, or soaking up the generous rays of the Albanian summer sun during the day, while evenings and nights belong to the sleepless, those who stay up until dawn to the sounds of music.
When visiting Rana e Hedhun, you will have the opportunity to explore charming local villages, enjoy delicious Albanian cuisine, and engage with hospitable locals proud to share their culture and traditions. The warmth and friendliness of the people in this region will leave a lasting impression on your heart.
It’s a place where nature’s beauty and history come together, offering a unique and enriching experience for all who visit. Come and discover the magic of Rana e Hedhun for yourself.
The English Bay (Karaburun)
The English Bay, located on the picturesque Karaburun Peninsula in Albania, is a true coastal gem waiting for your discovery. This enchanting inlet, along with its eponymous cave, holds a unique beauty that attracts adventurers seeking natural allure and historical intrigue.
The Karaburun Peninsula is composed of its stunning coastal formations, and the English Bay stands out as one of its most mesmerizing. Formerly known as “Gjiri i Gjon Gjilekës”, this hidden pearl is only accessible by boat, adding to its allure.
What truly makes the English Bay so enchanting is not just its location, but also the legendary “English Cave”. Few are aware that this bay got its name from the residents of the Dukat region due to its pivotal role during World War II. Major Anthony Quayle of the British army used this bay to clandestinely distribute arms and aid to the Albanian resistance fighters, leaving a historical mark on this secluded site.
As you enter the cave, navigating the rugged terrain, you will be captivated by the stunning natural beauty of millennia-old stalactites and stalagmites. Moreover, you will be amazed by the historical relics within its depths – armaments dating from the critical period of 1943-1944, offering a unique blend of natural wonders and wartime history.
The English Bay in Karaburun is a must-visit destination, where nature’s wonders and echoes of the past come together to create an unforgettable experience. Explore its hidden treasures, dive into the tranquility of the sea, and uncover the secrets of a bygone era in this coastal paradise.
As you enter the cave, set in challenging terrain, you’ll be amazed by the breathtaking natural beauty of the stalagmites and stalactites that are millions of years old, as well as surprised by the historical traces found there.
Lake Viroi Cave (Gjirokastër)
The underwater cave of Lake Viroi, a hidden gem nestled in the enchanting surroundings of Lake Viroi in Albania, is a natural wonder that attracts explorers and nature enthusiasts. This cave, with its mesmerizing underground world, promises an unforgettable adventure.
Located in the heart of the picturesque area of Lake Viroi, this cave has been aptly named “Underwater,” a testament to the ancient geological processes that have sculpted this breathtaking subterranean landscape over millennia.
Venturing into the depths of Lake Viroi, you will be greeted by a captivating tableau of nature’s artworks. Stalactites and stalagmites, formed over countless years, hang like intricate chandeliers and rise like columns from the cave floor, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that ignites the imagination.
Exploring this cave is like embarking on a journey through time, where Earth’s history is written in stone. The cool, damp air and the delicate interplay of light and shadow add to the mystique of this underground marvel, making it a haven for geologists and photographers.
The underwater cave of Lake Viroi is more than just a geological wonder; it’s a testament to the extraordinary forces shaping our planet. This natural masterpiece invites you to connect with Earth’s history, enveloped by the serene beauty of Lake Viroi. Explore the lake’s depths and let its ancient charm captivate your senses as you travel through the heart of Albania’s mesmerizing landscapes.
Church of Saint Marina (Pogradec)
The Church of Saint Marina, located in the picturesque town of Pogradec, Albania, is a monumental testament to the country’s rich cultural and religious heritage. This historic church, dedicated to Saint Marina, holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors.
Set amidst the stunning landscape of Pogradec, with Lake Ohrid shimmering in the background, the Church of Saint Marina stands as a beautifully preserved example of Albanian Byzantine architecture. Its elegant design, adorned with intricate frescoes and remarkable icons, reflects the deep spiritual connection of the community that has worshipped here for generations.
The church’s origins date back to the 16th century, and its walls have witnessed the passage of time, preserving the stories of the faithful and the region’s history. Whether a devoted pilgrim or a curious traveler, the Church of Saint Marina offers a tranquil and contemplative atmosphere, inviting you to explore its sacred halls and admire the religious art within.
As you enter, the sacred silence of the church and the ethereal glow of candlelight create a sense of reverence and awe. It’s a place where you can pause, reflect, and appreciate the enduring spiritual legacy that has shaped the community of Pogradec.
The Church of Saint Marina is not just a place of worship; it’s a living testament to the enduring faith of the Albanian people. A visit to this beautiful church offers a glimpse into the soul of Pogradec and provides an opportunity for a moment of quietude and reflection in a truly extraordinary setting.
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