page_title: Tourism in Albania
section_title: Northern Albania
hierarchical_section_title: Tourism in Albania / Northern Albania
caption_attribution_description: English: Catholic Church
context_page_description: Tourism in Albania has been a key element to the country's economic activity and is constantly developing. It is characterized by its rich archaeological and cultural heritage dating back to the classical period when Illyrians and Ancient Greeks inhabited the region. Over the course of history, the territory of Albania was occupied and populated by Romans, Byzantines, Venetians and Ottomans. Notably the country features unspoiled beaches, mountainous landscapes, traditional cuisine, archaeological artifacts, unique traditions, low prices and the wild atmosphere of the countryside.
  The country lies in Southeastern Europe bordering Montenegro to the northwest, Kosovo to the northeast, North Macedonia to the east and Greece to the south. The Mediterranean Sea with the Adriatic and Ionian Sea make up the entire west border of the country. The country's coastline length is about 481 km composed of both sandy and rocky beaches,
  bays, caves, cliffs, capes and lagoons. Although the country features notable diversity with the landscape ranging from the snow-capped Albanian Alps, Sharr,
  Skanderbeg, Korab, Pindus and Ceraunian Mountains to the sunny Albanian Adriatic and Ionian Sea Coasts.
context_section_description: The northern region of the country is particularly known for its natural and cultural heritage, picturesque alpine mountainous landscapes, scenic highlands, glacial lakes, rich flora and fauna, curative sandy beaches, and historic regions with ancient traditions and delicious cuisine. It is underlain by karstic rock, mainly dolomite and limestone with associated lakes and cave which has given rise to the most distinctive feature of its lakes and rivers.
  The Albanian Alps are among the most valuable and unique features of the northern region of Albania. Its mountainous landscape with multiple contrasts, traversed by river valleys with crystal waters, gorges and mountain saddles with a rich biodiversity attracts both domestic and foreign tourists from all over the world.
  Gashi River and Rajcë are both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Nature Reserve. They offers a fascinating and incredibly diverse picture of the original landscapes with less human impact. The river originates and flows through the Albanian Alps in the north until it reaches the Valbona River.
  Both Valbonë Valley National Park and Theth National Park stretches within the Albanian Alps and offers a variety of opportunities for tourism, fishing, mountaineering and trekking. The Valbona Pass, standing at 1,795 ha (17.95 km²), separates the national parks. The Albanian traditions, hospitality, culture and culinary values of this region are strong elements that those parks offer for tourists.
  The villages of Theth are surrounded on four sides by numerous two-thousanders such as Radohima in the west, Arapi and Poplluka in the north and Jezerca in the east. It is well known for its unique Roman Catholic churches, folk traditions but also its natural heritage.
  Nikaj-Mërtur Regional Nature Park is an area of scenic alpine landscapes, deep river valleys, vertical cliffs, dense forests and small lakes. It lies within the Dukagjin highlands and borders Valbonë Valley National Park in the northeast and Theth National Park in the north and northeast.
  The Lake Koman within the Albanian Alps, a unique journey amidst spectacular mountain views, is considered as one of the most popular ferry rides in Southern Europe. Sometimes it reminds of the Scandinavian fjords.
  Shkodër has been founded since the 4th century BC by the Illyrian tribes of the Ardiaei and Labeates. Nowadays, it exerts strong influences in culture, religion, arts and entertainment of northern Albania. The city is dotted with numerous different structures. It retains its characteristic appearance with narrow streets with tall stone walls on both sides and tall gates. The Rozafa Castle, east of the city, is one of the most prominent architectural features on the region.
  Lake Shkodër, the largest lake in Southern Europe, is a popular destination due to its natural richness and ease of access both from land and sea. The surrounding area around the lake is desirable for a vacation spent in peace and quiet. Other tourist attractions include sailing, fishing and other water sports.
  Emerging agritourism areas includes Pukë, the panoramic Ulëz lake and the nearby Vau i Dejes, Barbullush and Fishte villages in Zadrima near the city of Lezhë, Katund i Vjeter in the Mirdita region near Rubik, but also Shishtavec near Kukës, and the alpine area of Nikaj-Mertur in Lekbibaj region near Bajram Curri. Other emerging areas include fishing villages of Shiroka, Zogaj, and Grile or Omaraj along the Lake Shkodër.
  Northern Albania's main seaside towns include Shengjin and Velipoja, the former being a major port town and the latter known for its curative beach sand. Very popular during the summer months, Shengjin is becoming worldwide known for organizing electronic music UNUM Festival at Rana e Hedhun sand dune tourist attraction. Velipoja is known for its protected area of abundant pine trees and fauna species.
caption: Typical architecture in Theth.
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