Immerse yourself in the captivating journey of King Skerdilajd as you follow in his historic footsteps on his conquest of Kaonia 2,300 years ago. This extraordinary tour invites you to experience the untamed beauty of nature, vibrant cultural heritage, warm hospitality, and the thrill of riding reliable, sturdy horses. Traverse diverse landscapes, including mountain ranges, steep hillsides, river crossings, lush forests, and the stunning seaside. Along the way, encounter ancient ruins, majestic castles, picturesque churches, and monasteries that stand side by side with remnants of communist-era bunkers and military infrastructure.
Embark on this mountainous trail ride, where you’ll spend approximately 5-6 hours on horseback each day, complemented by some walking. Our horses, a crossbreed of Arab and Tarpan, may be small in stature but are incredibly resilient and surefooted. This trail allows you to truly immerse yourself in the authentic Albanian experience, indulging in the finest local cuisine, delving into the rich historical tapestry, and basking in the warm hospitality of the locals. Each night, you’ll be accommodated in local or family guesthouses, where your host families will treat you to delicious homemade meals, fostering engaging conversations over dinner. Expect the freshest ingredients sourced from local gardens and farms, providing a true taste of the region.
From May to end September, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy two days of swimming in the sea (without horses) during the trail.
Weight limit :90 kg
We have a weight limit of 90 kg for participants in our activities, with considerations for height-to-weight proportions. This is because the weight distribution directly impacts the safety and comfort of participants horses and equipment. Therefore, we reserve the right to refuse participation to individuals whose weight-to-height proportions significantly deviate, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of everyone involved.
Trail difficulty: Level 4 riding outdoors (out of 5 levels) High intermediate rider
“Please note: All itineraries are given for your guidance only and may be altered on the ground and in accordance with the prevailing conditions by the organizing team.
Beach Riding: Please note that although this trail includes some beach riding, any fast riding takes place along an old path 100m from the beach. The sand is rocky and therefore is only suitable for walking on. The mountain horses are also not too keen on the water, so they will not tend to want to paddle.
Climate Summary: The best months to visit Albania are from April to October. Although precipitation is quite high in Albania, there is less rain during these months. Because of the continental air mass, most precipitation is over the central highlands. Albania has a high number of climatic regions relative to its landmass – the coastal lowlands have a typically Mediterranean climate, while the highlands have a Mediterranean continental climate. This ride takes place in southern Albania, which is around 5 degrees warmer than the rest of the country. You will experience different types of weather on the trail, from cooler mountainous air to a warmer climate down on the coast.
About
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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.