While it’s true that Albania is most known for its pristine beaches, rest assured that the country doesn’t disappoint in the winter, either. The Albanian Alps are often compared to the Swiss Alps, for example, and there’s a reason why; they have high peaks, they’re magnificent, fascinating, but also provide opportunities for many winter sports, professionally or not.
We will suggest to you some of the most interesting Albanian destinations for skiing, mountaineering, or other sports in the winter season, from north to south. What they have in common is that it can be a few hours away from Tirana by car, and even closer to some of the larger cities in the country. Accommodation is economical, the atmosphere is always warm and welcoming, despite the winter frost and you will have the entire landscape for yourself, because these destinations are not very populated during the winter. You will absolutely feel like you’re in a winter wonderland!
Let’s start with the northernmost tip of Albania, Vermosh
Vermosh
Vermosh (aka Vermoshi, Vërmosh, Vërmoshi) is a village in the Municipality of Kelmendi, in the District of Malesia e Madhe. It’s located about 60 miles (95km) from the city of Shkodra. From Shkodra, Vermosh is about a five hour car ride. One thing to note, you want a 4×4 vehicle, with lots of ground clearance, especially in the winter.The ride from Shkodra to Vermosh is absolutely stunning with breathtaking landscapes that are just amazing in the winter as they are in the summer.That pure snow whiteness will surely make you hungry, so prepare for the specialties of the area which are mainly meat products and some high calorie sweets.
Valbona Valley National Park
Valbona Valley National Park is located about 16-17 miles (25-30 km) north of the town of Bajram Curri. If during the spring and summer you will see the brightest colors that nature offers with a 4K quality, winter comes with a white veil over Valbona and wears it for several months. Despite its steep peaks and high mountain ridges, it can hardly hide. In addition to winter sports in the Valbona Valley National Park, you will find accommodation to have a very unique experience to them, because you will sleep in the high towers, like the local of the area. A unique experience, most certainly!
Theth National Park
The Theth Natioal Park is located about 44 miles (70 km) from Shkodra. Do not be afraid, but I am telling you that here is where you’ll also find the “isolation tower”, this epic element of Albanian life where during the blood feud period bloodshed was sheltered. Although in some northern provinces this custom is still a plague of society, I invite you to learn more about the history of this country, the culture of the locals and their mentality. In addition, the residents are very hospitable to tourists and are open to this industry in any season. During the winter you can enjoy winter sports and warm home meals according to the northern tradition.
Razma
The village of Razma is located about 25 miles (40 km) north of Shkodra. It has a mountainous climate, with a cold and long winter, very clean air to fill the lungs for weeks on end, and to get away from the big metropolitean areas, with curative values for the health of everyone. The right place to go skiing in the glacial moraines, especially in the Black Field and in the sports field of Razma Camp. For those of you who like luxury, you’ll find quite comfortable accommodations.
Dajti Mountain National Park
It is located in the eastern part of the capital Tirana, so enjoying the snow and its magic for a few hours, has never been easier. You can go by car if you want to enjoy a road trip or use the cable car for 10 dollars round trip if you do not have a problem with the heights and want to get a good bird eye view of Tirana for about 20 minutes. Dajti offers all the possibilities for one-day entertainment and more, comfortable accommodation, quality food in many of the new restaurants, and opportunities for winter sports. You can often do horse riding, even in the winter.
Voskopoja
Voskopoja is located about 13 miles (21 km) from Korca. It’s a mountainous village about 3800 ft (1160 m) above sea level. It blows a fresh wind even in the summer, so you can just imagine the winter winds, perfect to form the right layers of snow for professional skiing. Voskopoja is one of the favorite destinations to celebrate Christmas Eve or New Year because restaurants and hotesl offer live folk music and very good food.
Dardhe
Dardhe (aka Dardhë, Dardha) is a tourist village about 12 miles (20 km) southeast of Korce, at an altitude of about 4400 ft (1350 m) above sea level. Dardhe is perfect for you! Why? Because you’ll have the whole village to yourself. There aren’t many local people here, except the ones who are fully vested in the tourism industry, such as inn and hotel owners, restaurant owners, and such.
FUN FACT: Dardha, or Dardhe, holds the name of the pear fruit.
Dardha is the dream of every vacationeer who wants to enjoy some alone time away from the crowds.Dardha offers a very healthy climate full of fresh air. Winter sports, especially skiing, attract lots of passionate tourists. Whether you’re a professional or beginner, there’s always a track suitable to you, and lots of opportunities and time to improve.
Llogara
The Llogara National Park is located about 25 miles (40 km) southeast of Vlora. Many travelers know it by the name Llogara Pass, which is the crossing point of southern beaches and a rest area if you’re traveling from Vlora to the southern part of Albania, like Himara and Saranda. The Llogara Park is actually one of the most beautiful parks in Albania, especially in the winter. You’ll enjoy a few winter adventures in the area, such as air sports, hiking, mountain climbing, etc. And once you’re done with these activities, enjoy the special cuisine of the area.
BONUS TIP: Look for the yogurt with honey and nuts dish, you’ll thank us later!