Horseback Riding Towards The Last Wild River of Europe in Albania

12 Days, Multiple Departures

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Horseback Riding Towards The Last Wild River of Europe in Albania
  • About
  • Gallery
  • Itinerary
  • Things to keep in mind

This exhilarating trail offers a captivating riding experience through diverse landscapes, presenting ample opportunities for swimming in rivers, river hiking, canyon exploration, camping, and immersing yourself in local culture. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to visit rare cultural monuments and encounter remnants of Albania’s communist dictatorship. Indulge in local traditional cuisine, savour the famous Permeti Raki and wine, witness livestock rituals, and even delve into city nightlife, making this trail an incredibly diverse and enriching adventure.

The highlight of this trail is encountering the majestic Vjosa River, known as the last wild river in Europe. Riding alongside its untamed, free-flowing waters and camping in the river bed offers a breath-taking experience. The Vjosa, also referred to as “the blue heart” of Europe, spans over 270 kilometers and boasts stunning canyons, braided river sections, islands, oxbows, and meandering stretches. It serves as a complex habitat for spawning fish and migratory birds.

About

All accommodations and meals (from dinner on day 1 to breakfast on day 12)

An English-speaking guide

A second guide (if there are more than 4 riders)

Water and drinks provided during meals

Luggage transport by car between destinations

Flights

Entrance tickets to monuments or parks

Lunch on day 1

Extra drinks

Any other services or expenses during free time

Meals, drinks, and additional activities on Day 7 (designated free day)

Attire:

Riding hat

Long-sleeved shirts (avoid expensive or favorite clothing)

Riding trousers and chaps

Gloves Footwear:

Good mountain shoes with a grip (not too thick)

Avoid smooth-soled riding boots

Outerwear:

Waterproof raincoat

Warm jacket (for cooler evenings)

Swimming Clothes

Casual clothes

Protection:

Sun cream

Sunglasses

Hat

Medical supplies:

Anti-allergy medicine for insect bites

Small basic first aid kit especially don’t forget personal medication

Essentials:

Torch (flashlight) for walking to feed the horses in the evening

Headlamp for hands-free lighting

Photography:

Small camera (avoid large professional cameras)

Identification:

Copy of passport

Saddlebags:

Personal saddlebags welcome (provided by riders)

Small saddlebags provided by the ride for food and water

Camping essentials: (sleeping bag, mat, toiletries, etc.)

Before travelling all riders are required to undertake by their own, travel insurance, covering horse riding trip accidents, possible trip cancellation, baggage etc.

Health
We still strongly advise consulting with your General Practitioner before traveling in 2024. It is important to seek their medical advice regarding any necessary immunizations or health precautions based on your individual medical history.

Health (ride specific)
Please take along sun cream and anti-allergy medicine for possible insect bites.

Film and Camera Equipment
Internet access will be difficult during the ride. Riders can buy an Albanian sim card/phone number for round €13 and have free internet access and around 30 minutes of free calls with most European countries.
Access to electricity is possible every evening and the whole area is covered very well with signal.


"Just returned from an excellent week with the team on the Following Zagoria Pathways trail. Thank you Aurel for being a fantastic guide and such good company making this a very memorable holiday for us. The horses had an incredible endurance throughout the day and throughout the week. Even after long steep climbs they were ready to go. I enjoyed the fast gallops and the relaxed atmosphere around the riding. The nature was impressive and all the families providing accommodations on the tour served the most delicious local food. I can highly recommend this trail."

- Jeppe B (As seen on TripAdvisor)

"Amazing organization run by kind, lovely people who take great care of their horses. The horses are strong, healthy and very sure-footed. I did the King Skerdilajd trail last year and came back for the Zagoria trail this year. Both were absolutely beautiful. And the families we stayed at on the trail were so sweet and welcoming. They even made special vegan meals for me every day. It was a truly amazing way to experience Albania in all it’s beauty and authenticity."

- Jane Singer (As seen on TripAdvisor)

Gallery
About The Host

Since 2011, we have been welcoming enthusiasts of horses, nature, history, and culture. Founded and run by three childhood friends, we have created a thriving and eco-friendly environment for both our 42 horses and guests alike.

Our stable is located in a picturesque setting, nestled among rolling hills, green valleys, and towering mountains, just a few kilometers from the UNESCO World Heritage city of Gjirokastra in southern Albania. While much has evolved since our first year, our core motto has remained unchanged: to offer authentic, enjoyable, and professional riding experiences for our international guests. We aim to maintain a balanced relationship between humans, horses, and nature in every riding tour we offer.

Our signature experiences, “Following Zagoria Pathways” and “King Skerdilajd Army Route,” are available as week-long trails from March to November. Our 12-day Vjosa Expedition, designed for our loyal, returning riders, takes place twice a year. Additionally, we offer a winter trail each year centered around a different theme. This year's theme blends art, particularly ideological art, and its impact on people's lives. Our "Learn to Ride" program is an excellent opportunity for beginner riders to discover the basics of horsemanship, immersing themselves in the natural world, local life, and outdoor exploration.

We also specialize in creating tailor-made private tours based on the individual interests of our guests. For those short on time, we offer one-day trails year-round, typically on weekends.

We are committed to continuously enhancing the quality of our riding experience, ensuring the welfare of our horses, and maintaining the highest standards for our saddles, tack, and logistics. Our philosophy includes a focus on staff training and quality, as well as a deep appreciation for diversity. We view different cultures and experiences as valuable assets. Each year, our guest numbers grow, and our tours provide a unique, interactive experience for horse enthusiasts from all corners of the world. Our riding concept and philosophy are continually evolving, making this special experience increasingly accessible to more and more people.

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive at Tirana airport ideally in the morning, but no later than 14.30. This allows time for the transfer and an opportunity to explore the town of Gjirokstra. The drive to Gjirokastra takes approximately 3 hours. Settle into your hotel, which is conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from the historic center of Gjirokstra. Before dinner, take a stroll around the historical town, including the old Bazaar, and visit notable attractions such as Enver Hoxha’s house, Gjirokastra castle, the church of the Old Bazaar, and Skenduli house, offering insights into traditional Gjirokastra life. Enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, where your guides will provide information about the trail, address any inquiries, offer advice, and share useful details. We recommend purchasing a map of the area before dinner to familiarize yourself with the itinerary.


Day 2

After breakfast at the hotel and horse allocation, embark on your ride through the countryside towards the medieval village of Karjan. This village holds a traditional charm and once served as a rural stop for passing caravans. Admire its small churches and the old Roman bridge. The route traverses a rural landscape, passing by small houses, gardens, and traditional farming activities. Expect a mix of hilly landscapes, valleys, small water streams, and cliffs. Along the way, catch glimpses of the “Tree of Life” river, the important water basin in the area associated with ancient pagan beliefs. Encounter the ruins of the castle of Santa Triada, reconstructed by Ali Pasha in 1809-1810 as a strategic point for controlling caravan routes. The castle ruins were later utilized for military purposes during the socialist era. Pause for lunch in Shen Toder village, and after another 1.5 hours of riding, reach Karjan village where you’ll be hosted by a local family. Experience the local cuisine, prepared from their own garden produce, and indulge in raki and wine.

Riding hours: 4.5

Day 3

After breakfast, we’ll start our ride through the picturesque Drino’s Valley. Our first stops will be Andon Poci village and later Hundkuq village, where the ride becomes more challenging as we enter a small forest. Emerging from the forest, we’ll reach the historic village of Labova of Zhapa, renowned for its magnificent Church and grand merchant houses, although most of them now lie in ruins. Labova is also the birthplace of Vangjel Zhapa, a famous businessman and philanthropist who lived around 200 years ago. We’ll enjoy a visit inside the unique medieval church, known for its distinctive style and pagan elements in the wall paintings. Afterward, we’ll start riding up the mountain, marvelling at the rare vegetation and endemic plants along the way. The path will lead us to the valley of Cajupi, where we’ll encounter a cattle of 1000 sheep. This scenic spot will be our camping place for the night, offering the chance to taste the famous Brati spring water, witness a small medieval protection tower called “karakoll,” and experience sheep milking and cooking with the shepherds. Please note that depending on the day’s temperatures, the guides may opt for a shorter path to Cajupi valley and plan an afternoon ride in the surrounding mountains.

Riding hours: 5

Day 4

After enjoying a delicious traditional breakfast, our trail will follow the medieval Caravan pathway, passing by the infamous bandit hideout known as ‘Hija e Mallkuar’ or ‘The Cursed Shadow.’ This pathway was once used by medieval thieves to ambush caravans traveling through Zagoria. Continuing our ride, we’ll traverse the most important horse pathway of the 17th and 18th centuries, which connected the major commercial centers of Southern Albania. Along the way, we’ll be treated to the breath-taking view of the natural monument, the Rock of Zhej.

Prepare for a challenging downhill route that will lead us to the ruins of a medieval stone bridge, where we’ll enjoy a lunch break and a refreshing swim in the nearby river. In the afternoon, we’ll make our way to the Church of the Monastery of Nivan, constructed in 1702, and cross a symbolic bridge over the Zagoria River to conclude the day’s ride in Nderan, one of the region’s significant villages. We’ll spend the evening and night with a welcoming local family.

Total riding hours: 3,5

Day 5

Today’s ride will begin with a return to Hoshteva and a mountain climb to reach the Gjurmemushka mountain pass. Once we reach the summit, we’ll mostly enjoy a downhill ride, passing through Maleshova village to visit its charming church and the ruins of the Limari antic castle. We’ll pause for a picnic lunch near a tranquil water stream, where we can rest under the shade of the trees. During the afternoon ride, we’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Vjosa River from the mountaintop. Our overnight stay will be in a comfortable village guest house in Grabova village, a remote and isolated area known for its warm hospitality. Here, you can experience the traditional mountain cooking and savour the famous “petanik,” a special local pie. Grabova is renowned for its Raki production and delectable “spoon” desserts. In the evening, we’ll enjoy dinner on the guest house’s terrace, overlooking the magnificent flow of the Vjosa River just 200 meters away.

Riding hours: 6-7

Day 6

After a satisfying breakfast, we’ll embark on a downhill ride to reach the Vjosa River. The rest of the day’s ride will take place along the river bank, offering breath-taking and diverse landscapes. This leg of the journey will be particularly enjoyable, with ample opportunities for exhilarating gallops. We’ll pause for a swimming break near Piskova village, taking advantage of the dry part of the river bed. For lunch, we’ll relish in the delicious food prepared by a small restaurant in Permet, which will be conveniently transported to our riverside stop. If interested, you can also indulge in some fishing. Spend the entire afternoon swimming and relaxing before riding the final 1.5 hours to reach the small town of Permet. After settling the horses at the accommodation, we’ll spend the night in a nearby hotel, just a short 10-minute walk from the town center. Dinner will be served at a well-known traditional restaurant.

Riding hours: 3

Day 7

This day is a free riding day, allowing you to choose your own adventure. We suggest a visit to the Benja thermal waters in the Langarica canyons, a mere 30 minutes away from Permet. There, you can explore the canyons, swim, and for the more daring, engage in river hiking to discover the “Pigeons Cave” perched on a rock along the Langarica River. We have arranged lunch at a restaurant near the canyons, and we’ll return to Permeti town in the late afternoon. Dinner will be served at a small restaurant close to the hotel. Alternatively, if you prefer to rest and relax, you’re free to create your own plan for the day.

Riding hours: None (but taking care of the horses yes)

Day 8

Prepare for one of the longest and most challenging days of our journey. Due to branches and foliage, it’s advisable to wear long sleeves. We’ll embark on a mostly uphill ride, climbing Dhembel Mountain. The panoramic view from the top will leave you awestruck. We’ll carry a picnic lunch in our saddles since the car cannot reach us until the final destination later in the day. Our rendezvous point will be in Hoshteva Zagoria, where logistic arrangements await us. We’ll camp beneath the trees near Hoshteva’s church, and as a group, we’ll collaborate to cook dinner and enjoy a memorable meal under the starlit sky. This camping experience will be truly enchanting.

Riding hours: 6

Day 9

Get ready for an exhilarating equestrian adventure this morning. After a fresh country-style breakfast, we’ll ride through a mountain valley that’s perfect for gallops. Along the way, we’ll pass small remote farms, awe-inspiring cliffs, and numerous historical paths off the beaten tourist trail. Our route through the Pogoni region will transport us through time, passing ancient ruins and mythical natural wonders. We’ll enjoy a picnic lunch near the famous stone bridge of Hllomo or Kacarello’s, an isolated construction from the merchant period accessible only by horse. In the afternoon, we’ll reach the heart of the Pogon region, the mountain village of Polican, inhabited by a Greek minority. You’ll spend the night with a Greek minority family, who will accompany you to explore remarkable cult monuments from the medieval period. In the evening, you’ll indulge in local gastronomic delights, including a variety of honey flavors, as this village is renowned for its mountain honey production, offering up to 10 different seasonal tastes.

Riding hours: 6

Day 10

This riding day offers a blend of changing landscapes and varying riding paces. You’ll traverse wide valleys, navigate steep downhills, pass through verdant forests, and admire the beauty of the Suha River. We can take a refreshing swimming break in Suha River, explore the bridge, waterfalls, and caves along the river. Later, we’ll embark on a special equestrian climb up the Swallow Rock. Afterward, we’ll head to Labova of the Cross for a late lunch at a traditional guest house and restaurant. Before our afternoon ride, we’ll visit the Church of Labova of the Cross, one of the most significant churches in the country. Built by Justinian the Great in 554, this church served as the venue for his marriage to his wife, Teodora. The villagers have preserved her wedding dress for centuries. The monument was reconstructed in the 10th century and features an old wooden iconostasis adorned with floral and symbolic animal scenes. We’ll conclude the day with a two-hour ride to reach Libohova, a charming town nestled at the foot of the Bureto Mountain. The town boasts an ancient settlement that flourished in the 17th century, becoming a vital commercial center. During the afternoon, you’ll have the option to take a leisurely stroll, visit Libohova’s castle, explore a Bektashi cult object, or pay respects at the tomb of Ali Pasha’s sister, Shanisha. We’ll spend the night in a local family’s house and savor delicious local cuisine.

Riding hours : 5

Day 11

On this day, we’ll embark on a shorter riding adventure. In the morning, we’ll ride through rolling hills and the picturesque Drino’s valley, crossing a few water streams. Afterward, we’ll conquer a steep hill to reach Antigonea National Park, where we’ll stop for a visit. Antigonea, built by King Pyrrhus in 295 BC and named after his first wife Antigona, showcases ancient ruins steeped in history. After the break, we’ll continue riding for another hour to reach the stables, where you’ll experience the joy of releasing your horses and bidding them farewell. A picnic lunch prepared by our last hosting family awaits in the village of “Asim Zeneli,” a short 5-minute drive from the stable. Later, we’ll return to Gjirokastra and stay at the same hotel. For our farewell dinner, we’ll gather at a small restaurant in the old Bazaar. If you’d like, we can conclude the evening with a drink at a popular bar.

Riding hours: 3,5

Day 12

After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll be transferred back to the Tirana airport, marking the end of our equestrian adventure.

Things to keep in mind

Cancelling 40 days prior to starting your tour, the complete amount will be refundable.

Cancelling within 39 - 30 days prior to starting your tour, the deposit of 20% is not refundable.

Cancelling within 29 - 20 days prior to starting your tour will be charged 40% of the total amount.

Cancelling within 20 - 10 days prior to starting your tour will be charged 60% of the total amount.

Cancelling within 9 - 7 days prior to starting your tour will be charged 80% of the total amount.

Cancelling within 6 days prior to starting your tour will be charged 100% of the tour price.

If you want to postpone or change the dates, you can do it free of charge 30 days prior to starting your tour. In case you do it less than 30 days prior to starting your tour, your deposit of 20% isn’t refundable.

Horse riding is a risk sport and activity and it can be dangerous. We train our horses to be friendly, confident and with a good understanding about their environment, but they are given to the rider with the understanding to ride at own risk.

Booking Policy

All riders should complete a Booking Form with necessary information. - To set a reservation on hold you have a limit of 120 days prior to starting your tour. If the booking is made 120 days or less prior to departure, a 20% deposit is payable at the time of booking and the balance up to 30 days before the trail. - In case of booking, 30 days or less prior to starting your tour you should pay 100% of the amount.

Assisting the Riding Center: Since Albania lacks equestrian shops, procuring necessary horse equipment from the local market becomes a significant challenge for us. If it’s feasible for you, we kindly request your assistance in bringing along any spare or unused items such as old pads, halters, ropes, girths, bridles, or any other equipment that you no longer use. Your contribution would be greatly appreciated by our center.