Hike through Valbonë Valley in northern Albania, where the Accursed Mountains rise over rivers, wildflower trails, and quiet guesthouses. Discover one of the Balkans’ last unspoiled corners before the crowds arrive.

A brief stop in Bajram Curri turned into an unexpected glimpse into Albania’s mountain history. From quiet pine-lined streets to echoes of its revolutionary past, this small town revealed more than we planned to see on our way to Valbonë Valley.

Lake Koman Ferry, Albania, one of Europe’s most beautiful boat journeys, winding through fjord-like mountains between Shkodër and Valbonë.

Shkodër, the heart of northern Albania, carries the echoes of its long past. Venetian facades, Ottoman mosques, and Illyrian legends meet where three rivers flow. It is a city that moves at its own pace, calm and enduring, the quiet pause before the journey north to Lake Komani.

We climbed Rozafa Hill under the June sun, following the story of an Illyrian fortress built on sacrifice and overlooking the rivers Buna, Drin, and Kir.

Walk through Krujë, Albania’s first capital, on a two-hour loop linking its castle, Skanderbeg Museum, and quiet Sufi tekkes.

A day of wine tasting in Orahovac and Velika Hoča showed us just how good Kosovo’s wines are. From crisp whites to sweet reds, charcuterie boards and a shot of rakia, it was an unforgettable surprise.