Valbone – Valbona Pass – Theth

Another highlight, an important milestone in most Albanian Alps journeys, awaits today. After a short ride over the rough riverbed, you meet the mule porter who carries the main luggage and sets out for the hike across Valbona Pass (1.811 m). Above the village Rragam, a few steep segments need to be tackled. Pause regularly near springs and on colorful meadows to take a breath of herb-filled aromatic mountain air and enjoy the splendid views. Reaching the pass, the surrounding peaks appear on par and sweeping views of both national parks fascinate even the seasoned traveler. Enjoy the picturesque landscape during a lunch break ahead of the descent to Theth, where the fairy-tale beech forest provides cover from the afternoon sun. Close to the village, the woods thin out, Mt. Arapi (2.217 m) becomes more dominant and soon, you reach the uppermost houses of Gjelaj, Theth. Spread below are the valley’s many hamlets, and a broad path takes you through the village to another inviting guesthouse.