Permet – Sopot Waterfall – Benja – Gjirokaster

The scenery alone is worth the 45 min drive to today’s trailhead. Below, the turquoise waters of Vjosa have dug deep into the rock, above the river towers the rugged Mt. Nemercka (2.485 m). From afar, the sheer, 650 m high wall of Southern Albania’s second highest summit looks impressive, but only a walk along water channels towards the Sopot Waterfall at the wall’s base reveals its full extent. Returning from the hike, another unique nature gem at the nearby entrance of the Langarica Canyon waits to surprise. The warm thermal pools of Benje are said to have a healing effect on many ailments. They are a welcome treatment after the last days of hiking. Soak and relax in their sulfuric waters or explore the river canyon on foot. From here it takes a good 90 min to transfer to Gjirokaster, where you will stay at one of the vernacular mansions of Ottoman architecture in the old town. Start exploring the streets of the “City of Stone” and absorb the atmosphere in one of the many small cafes, tomorrow there’s time for more.