Theth and the Albanian Alps

The Albanian Alps National Park covers the valleys of Theth, Valbona and Vermosh in the north, an area of high peaks, glacial rivers and forest that the tourism agency calls the Balkans' main alpine destination. It is the country's best walking terrain and a strong contrast with the beaches of the south.

Plan it as a stay of at least two or three nights rather than a day trip, in family-run guesthouses in the village. Summer and early autumn suit hiking. The FCDO warns of unexploded landmines in remote areas around hill towns near the northern border with Kosovo, so stick to marked paths, take local advice on routes, and allow for altitude, as it lists altitude sickness as a risk in parts of Albania.