Established in 1966, Theth National Park lies in the Shala Valley at the heart of the Accursed Mountain Range in northern Albania. This stunning valley is home to a diverse ecosystem featuring glacial springs, unique rock formations, waterfalls, dense forests and a beautiful river. The protected national park is of pristine quality and largely remote. The small summer village of Theth has a small population and is a rapidly growing sector for tourism in Albania thanks to the Peaks of the Balkans Trail.

HOW TO GET TO THETH NATIONAL PARK?

Until last year, Theth was only accessible by 4×4 off-road vehicles. The road from Shkoder was only just paved. An influx of tourists looking to explore the Albanian Alps gave the country enough motivation to finally pave the road. With that being said, the only way to get to Theth is from the city of Shkoder. It will take you about 3 hours, but the drive is beautiful. There are vans that leave from Shkoder’s center for Theth a couple times a day and will cost you about 15e.

Although the neighboring Valbona National Park is right next door, there is no access by car from Theth to Valbona, but you can take the famous trail from Theth to Valbona. Also, you can hike to Theth from Montenegro via the Peaks of the Balkans route from Vusanje to Theth.

FIVE THINGS TO DO IN THETH

TAKE A HIKE – The most popular thing to do in Theth is to go for a hike. The massive valley has endless options for adventure. The most popular route is from Theth to the neighboring Valbona National Park via the Valbona Pass. My favorite trek takes you from Theth to Vusanje, Montenegro. This trek features the amazing valley Runica and allows access to The Great Valley of Lakes.

CONQUER PEAKS – If bagging peaks is your thing, then Theth is the perfect basecamp. From here there a handful of famous peaks to climb. The most famous is the tallest mountain in the Accursed Mountains, Maja Jezerce (2,694m). Some other honorable mentions are Maja Bojs (2,461m) and Maja Harapit (2,217m).

VISIT THE BLUE EYE – The blue eye is the most popular attraction in Theth. It is an amazing natural water spring with a waterfall flowing into it. The vibrant blue of the water is where this spring gets it’s name. It serves as the perfect place to enjoy some time in nature and go for a refreshing swim. If you are a fan of natural water springs there is also the Eye of the Grasshopper in Ropojana Valley just across the border in Montenegro.

GO FOR A SWIM – The Shala River flowing through Theth is the perfect place for a swim. The water is always cold, but that makes it more fun. Especially after a hike there is nothing better than taking you boots off and washing away all that sweat off in this river.

WALK THE VALLEY – Theth is the perfect place to take a walk. The valley is full of natural beauty just waiting to be discovered. You can spend an entire day roaming the valley and finding the most relaxing places to spend your time.

EXPLORE WITH ME!

For the best experience in the Accursed Mountain Range, Valbona Valley is a part of the specialized Peaks of The Balkans Tour I provide with Balkan Mountain Adventure Company. Adventure is what we do. These experiences have changed my life forever. I want everyone to share the joy of the mountains with me and experience the wonders of my home. BLKNMTN gives you the opportunity to explore like a local and have the adventure of a lifetime. Click the link for more information and feel free to reach out with any questions!

WHERE TO STAY IN THETH NATIONAL PARK?

The rise of adventurers visiting Theth has lead to a recent surge in guest houses in the area. There are a number of options to chose from. Simply walking the valley, you will have no trouble finding somewhere to stay. My favorite place to stay is at the top of the valley in Guest House Rrashkadoli. The host Niko and his parents are amazing and will treat you like family. Contact me at info@blkntmn.com to book at a reduced rate.

WHY VISIT THETH NATIONAL PARK?

The answer is simple, in Theth you will find endless options for adventure. The valley is stunning and you can spend an entire month exploring it and not experience everything. It is remote, raw and a natural wonder. Not only this, but the people who visit Theth are well traveled and you will make some good friends here.