Albania
Ages 30s–40s
Cultural
Singles & Solo
Albania: Castles to Coast
Overview
Discover Albania, a rising star in travel where culinary delights, dramatic landscapes, and ancient Ottoman cities await. If you’re looking for a unique blend of culture and adventure, Albania offers the perfect balance. On this adventure you’ll explore castles, canyons, beaches, and exceptional wine in Europe’s next must-visit destination. From the vibrant streets of Tirana to the Albanian Riviera, this journey takes you off the beaten path – before everyone else gets there.
- Touch down in ancient Tirana, the capital of Albania, where a private Flash Pack transfer will take you to your boutique city hotel
- Take some time to refresh and relax before a welcome drink and first meeting with your group and Pack Leader at your hotel
- Now to dive into traditional Albanian cuisine in an expert-led cooking demo. Perfect the art of authentic savoury pies and a local ‘tave kosi’ dish while getting to know your soon-to-be-friends
- Arriving in Berat, discover the city’s fascinating and well-preserved history at the UNESCO site of Berat Castle, ascending to the Gorica Viewpoint for breathtaking vistas of the city and Osum River
- Visit Berat’s charming family-run vineyard at Çobo winery and enjoy a tasting of unique blends combining modern and traditional winemaking techniques
- Enjoy dinner while experiencing authentic Albanian folklore with live music and dancing set against the Berat mountains
- Arriving at one of the last wild rivers in Europe, you’ll enjoy a guided canyon rafting experience* through the untamed Vjosa River – swimming in crystal-clear pools and stopping at striking rock formations and waterfalls
- After a full-on day, this afternoon you’ll have the chance to explore Berat at your own pace once more
- *Please see the FAQs at the bottom of this page for restrictions associated with this activity
- Onwards to Gjirokaster, an impossibly charming city known for its stone-roofed houses, narrow cobbled streets and the imposing Gjirokastër Castle
- Explore the historic wonders here, taking in panoramic views from the UNESCO fortress and stepping back in time at the dramatic 336-metre-high castle
- After a short yet charming stop at a family home for authentic refreshments (think Turkish coffee, mountain tea, and homemade cake) you’ll have free time to explore Gjirokaster at your own pace – your Pack Leader will be on hand to give you local restaurant recommendations
- This morning you’ll experience the beauty of Butrint, the biggest and most important archaeological park in Albania. Stroll amongst ruins that date back to the 7th century
- Forage for the famous blue mussels of Butrint lagoon*, before trying a variety of local mussel-infused dishes
- Settle in for an evening at a beautiful hotel overlooking the Adriatic Sea
- *Please see the FAQs at the bottom of this page for restrictions associated with this activity
- Your final day and you’ll be doing it just right: private speedboat* cruising along the postcard-perfect Albanian Riviera
- Spend a full day exploring the area’s scenic beauty, best-known for its crystal-clear waters and secret beaches
- Back on dry land you’ll be transferred to the capital Tirana for one last traditional meal, and plenty of toasts to unique adventures with incredible friends
- *Please see the FAQs at the bottom of this page for restrictions associated with this activity
- After breakfast, head to the airport and say goodbye to your fellow Flashpackers and Pack Leader
- Arrive home feeling invigorated and inspired after a week of discovery and wonder in Albania. You’ve opened your eyes to this up-and-coming destination – now it’s up to you if you want to share this beautiful secret
Included
- 6 nights accommodation in hand-picked hotels & riads
- 7 breakfasts
- 1 lunch
- 4 dinners
- 14 minivan journeys
- 1 airport transfer journey
- Riviera boat trip
- Albanian cooking demo
- Berat sightseeing (UNESCO World Heritage site)
- Rafting in Vjosa River
- Visit to Butrint Archaeological Park (UNESCO World Heritage site)
- Mussel tour on Butrint lake
- Gjirokaster sightseeing (UNESCO World Heritage site)