The Valbona Pass hike is without a doubt one of the most beautiful hiking routes in Albania. This spectacular trek links the villages of Theth and Valbona, leading you over a mountain trail along steep rock faces, dense forests, and open alpine meadows. It’s a challenging hike that rewards you with fantastic views over the valleys of both mountain villages. While most travelers complete the full hike, it’s also possible to do a shortened version. That saves a lot of time, since getting back to your starting point isn’t exactly easy. In this article, we’ll tell you everything about the Valbona Pass route options and share tips to help you prepare for the hike!

Valbona Pass hike at a glance

You can choose to hike the full Valbona Pass or take the shortened route. In this article, you’ll find details on both options.

What makes the Valbona Pass hike special?

The Valbona Pass is a gorgeous mountain hike where you’re surrounded by untouched nature from start to finish. The landscapes are constantly changing: you’ll walk through forests, over rocky trails, alongside small mountain streams, and across open meadows filled with wildflowers.

Reaching the top of Valbona Pass also feels like a true accomplishment. The Albanian flag flutters in the wind, and you’re rewarded with panoramic views over the valleys of Theth and Valbona. It’s that mix of raw nature, physical challenge, and the feeling of being far from everything that makes the Valbona Pass an unforgettable adventure.

Hike the full route or shorten it?

You can do the Valbona Pass in two ways: hike the full route from Theth to Valbona (or vice versa), or do a shortened out-and-back, starting and finishing in the same place. In other words: hike from the valley to the pass, then return via the same path. The full hike requires two days because you’ll either need to return via a long detour by bus or hike the entire route back. For this reason, some travelers opt for the shortened version.

The full route

The full route covers about 17 kilometers (10.6 miles), taking you from Valbona to Theth or the other way around. You’ll traverse the entire mountain pass and enjoy constantly changing scenery along the way.

If you’re traveling Albania by rental car, the full route brings logistical challenges. Finishing the hike in Valbona and wanting to return to Theth to continue your trip with your car means either hiking back the same way or making a long detour by public transport. In that case, you’ll travel from Valbona to Fierzë, take the ferry across Lake Koman, and then continue via Shkodër back to Theth. This return trip can easily take a full day and requires careful planning. So with a rental car, this isn’t the most efficient option. If you’re traveling by public transport, however, it’s simple to continue onward from Valbona without returning to Theth to pick up a car. You can arrange a luggage transfer through your accommodations so you don’t have to carry everything during the hike.

The shortened route

Traveling with a rental car? Then the shortened Valbona Pass route is ideal, since you’ll end up back at your starting point the same day—ready to drive on the next morning. You’ll hike the first section of the trail up to the Valbona Pass viewpoint, the highest point of the hike, then turn around and follow the same path back.

For most people, Theth will be a more logical starting point than the more remote Valbona. In this case, you’ll hike about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles), which takes roughly 5 to 6 hours. This is the route we took ourselves. With this shortened version, you won’t miss much of the experience—the best views are on and around the top of Valbona Pass. We do recommend continuing just past the well-known spot with the flag (toward Valbona). There you’ll find a fun, slightly more adventurous section with a few additional, beautiful viewpoints.

Starting from Valbona instead? Expect a total of about 4 to 5 hours for the climb to the top and the return to the valley, roughly 10 kilometers (6.2 miles). Note that the first part is steeper, but the views from the top are absolutely worth it.

When is the best time to hike Valbona Pass?

The best time to hike the Valbona Pass is from June through September. During these months, the weather is most stable, the trails are in good condition, and the chance of snow is minimal. You’ll also have the best odds of clear skies and long-range views. Keep in mind that July and August are the hottest and busiest months, so start early to avoid the worst heat and the crowds.

In October, temperatures in the Albanian Alps drop quickly. The weather becomes more unpredictable, and snowfall can arrive early on the pass. That makes the hike suitable only for well-prepared, experienced mountain hikers in this month.

In winter and early spring, Valbona Pass is generally impassable due to thick snow and ice. Even in May there can still be significant snow at the highest point of the trail (around 1,800 meters (5,906 feet)), making the path hard to see and dangerously slippery.

How hard is the Valbona Pass hike?

The Valbona Pass isn’t technically difficult, but you shouldn’t underestimate the physical effort. In just a few hours, you’ll climb roughly 800 to 1,000 meters (2,625 to 3,281 feet). A solid base level of fitness is a must. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and use good sun protection. In summer, temperatures can rise, and the sun can be intense at this elevation. We recommend starting early to beat both the heat and the crowds.

Along the way, you’ll pass a few simple mountain huts where you can get something to eat or drink. Don’t expect an extensive menu, but you can definitely stop for a simple meal or a refreshing drink. On our hike from Theth toward Valbona Pass, we stopped at the first little place you’ll encounter on the route—easy to spot thanks to the row of flags fluttering in the wind. Say hi to the owner, File, if you pass by, and order the pancakes with local honey—they’re delicious!

Good to know: Afraid of heights? This hike is usually manageable. There are only a few short sections where the trail narrows alongside a steep drop, but there are hardly any truly exposed or dangerous passages.

How do you get to the Valbona Pass trailhead?

There are several ways to reach the Valbona Pass trailhead. The routes below start from Shkodër.

From Shkodër to the trailhead in Theth

By rental car — Since the construction of the new road between Shkodër and Theth, this mountain village is easily accessible by rental car. The Valbona Pass trailhead here is right next to Bar Kafe Kodra e Lterit, where you can park your car for a few dollars. It’s just a few minutes’ drive from the center, and you can also walk there from your accommodation.

By bus — The most logical route to Theth starts in Shkodër. From there, minibuses run to Theth in about 2.5 to 3 hours. Check the current departure times and reserve your bus ticket. Theth is small, so many travelers walk from the bus stop to the trailhead.

From Shkodër to the trailhead in Valbona

By rental car — The Valbona trailhead is a bit harder to reach. You’ll get there via a long overland route or a combination of ferry and car. For that reason, Valbona isn’t the ideal starting point if you’re traveling with a rental car. Still want to start here? Take the ferry from Koman to Fierzë, then drive on to Valbona. You’ll find the Valbona Pass trailhead at Hotel Fusha e Gjesë, where you can also park.

By bus and boat — Reaching Valbona by public transport is more complicated than Theth—but it’s very scenic! The journey has three legs: the bus from Shkodër to Koman (±2 hours), the ferry across Lake Koman to Fierzë (±2.5 hours), and finally a minibus from Fierzë to Valbona (±1 hour). Check the current departure times and reserve your bus and boat tickets. Valbona is spread out, and taxis are limited. Some accommodations offer their own transfers to the start of the Valbona Pass hike.

Navigation & waymarking: is the route easy to follow?

The Valbona Pass trail is well marked. You’ll see red-and-white paint blazes on rocks and trees. Along the way, you’ll also come across signposts indicating “Theth” or “Valbona.” Still, it’s handy to have an app like Maps.me, where you can download the area map for offline use—mobile service isn’t guaranteed in the mountains!

What’s the best base for the Valbona Pass hike?

Both Theth and Valbona make great bases for the hike. The choice depends mainly on your itinerary and mode of transportation. We prefer Theth as a base: it’s easier to reach by rental car during an Albania road trip, offers a wide range of charming guesthouses, and—surprisingly—some great restaurants. There’s also plenty to explore nearby, from the iconic church to the fairytale-like Blue Eye. Check out all our tips for Theth.

Prefer to start in Valbona? Then choose accommodation near the trailhead to save time (and extra distance) in the morning. Both Krojet e Rrogamit and Hotel Margjeka are excellent choices close to the start of the Valbona Pass hike.

Packing list for the Valbona Pass hike

You’ll be out for 6 to 8 hours, so setting off well prepared is important. Be sure to bring:

• Plenty of water
• Snacks and a packed lunch
• Cash
• Hiking shoes
• Sunscreen
• A hat or cap
• Sunglasses
• Sweater or windbreaker (it can be cool even in summer)

Extra tips for the Valbona Pass hike

• Start early — Ideally set out before 8:00 AM, especially in July and August, to beat the heat and the crowds.
• Arrange transport in advance — Especially if you’re doing the full route and finishing in Valbona. In high season, minibuses, taxis, and boats between Valbona, Fierzë, and Shkodër can fill up quickly. Don’t wait until the last moment to book—especially if you’re traveling in July or August. Book your transport from Valbona to Shkodër here.
• Travel light — Only carry what you need—the climb to the pass takes plenty of energy on its own.

Our favorite places to stay in Theth

One of the nicest places to stay is Bujtina Tinari Theth. It’s centrally located in Theth, within walking distance of trailheads and surrounded by local restaurants. The property has a cozy feel and comfortable rooms, some with balconies and mountain views. You’ll receive a warm welcome and can count on a hearty breakfast—even if you head out early. In the evening, you can sit down to a delicious dinner. Extra handy: lunch packs are available for day hikes. Guest House Rrashkadoli sits in a quiet, rural spot just outside the center of Theth with beautiful mountain views. It’s warm and homey, and it’s easy to connect with other travelers. Dorms and private rooms are available. For more comfort, Gurra Family Guesthouse is an excellent choice. Not only is the food great (we mentioned the restaurant earlier), but the stay itself is a 10 out of 10. Modern rooms have air conditioning, comfy beds, and welcome extras like a luxurious rain shower or even a jacuzzi. You’ll be warmly welcomed by the lovely family, who’ll do everything to make your stay perfect.

Bujtina Tinari Theth More info

Guest House Rrashkadoli More info

Gurra Family Guesthouse More info