King Skerdilajdi Trail Central Albania This ride follows in the tracks of King Ilirian Skerdilajd, on his way to conquer Kaonia 2,300 years ago. Experience unspoiled nature, colourful culture heritage, and welcoming people on the back of reliable, strong horses. Wind your way through a variety of landscapes combining mountain climbing, steep downhill and uphill rides, river crossings, woods, and the seaside. Here you will find ancient ruins, castles, churches, and monasteries sitting adjacent to the bunkers and military infrastructure from communist past. During this period of isolation and militarization, communist leaders built around 750,000 bunkers of defense in case of attack from western “enemies”. This is a mountainous trail ride with around 6 hours riding and some walking every day. The horses are small but very robust and surefooted Arab and Tarpan cross. Participation in this trail will allow you to experience true Albania with the best local cuisine, history, and hospitality. You will be accommodated in local or family guesthouses every night where your host families will provide a delicious local meal and conversation is enjoyed by all over dinner. Most of the dishes are homemade with fruits, vegetables, and meat from local gardens and farms. From May to the end of September you can enjoy swimming in the sea (without horses) on two day of the trail. Progressive Ride (no camping) Family Vacation Meeting: Gjirokaster Airport: Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza (TIA) Transfer: Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza (TIA) or Saranda Port. Riders: Min 2 riders Max 12 riders Trip Brochure (PDF) Trip Rating

Packages and Options

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Rates Note:

Please, provide your passport information at time of booking

Transfer and Other Charges:

Pick-up/ drop-off for this trip is from Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza (TIA). Scheduled transfers every Saturday at 12:30 pm and 14:30 pm Recommended arrival time for flights: No later than 14:30 pm Recommended departure time for flights: Not earlier than 1:00 pm On the last day, we will drop you off at the airport between 9:00am and 12:00pm (noon), so please do not book your departure flights for before 1:00pm!

Sample Itinerary - subject to changes

Please note that this itinerary is given as guidance only and may be altered. From May to October, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy two days of swimming in the sea (without horses) during the trail.

Day 1 (Saturday): Arrival
Plan your flight to arrive at Tirana airport ideally in the morning, but no later than 2:30 pm - this leaves time for the transfer and to be able to visit the town of Gjirokstra with your guides. From the airport the transfer will be by mini-van or off-road car and will take around 3-4 hours (250km). Settle into your hotel, 10 minutes walking from the centre of historical Gjirokastra .You can have a walk around the historical town of the old Bazaar: visit Enver Hoxha’s house, Gjirokastra castle, the church of the Old Bazaar, the mosque of the Bazzar and Skenduli house representing an ideal sample of Gjirokastra traditional life. Dinner will be served at a traditional restaurant. During dinner your guides will be able to speak to you about the trail: possible requests or needs, advice and things which are good to know. We recommend that you buy a map of the area before dinner in order to gain a good understanding of the itinerary.
Meals included: Dinner
Overnight at Hotel in Gjirokastra

Day 2 (Sunday): Ride to Fushbardha
Begin your riding adventure from our stable, a 15-minute drive from Gjirokastra, at an elevation of 360 meters above sea level. Prepare to be amazed as the mountainous ecosystem rapidly transforms before your eyes. The ride starts with traversing valleys, allowing for exhilarating canters, before crossing the Drino River. The rest of the day entails riding through hilly terrain, small rivers, pine forests, and steep ascents and descents. We will take a short break at the Cepo Monastery, an essential Orthodox site boasting breathtaking views of the Drinos Valley. After a 30-minute ride, we will stop to enjoy launch at a local farm. Afterward, we will ride down to the Kardhiq River, where you'll encounter intriguing natural formations like the "Gods of the Light" pillar rocks. We will also pass through the village of Zhulat. The day's ride will conclude after approximately 6 hours in the village of Fushbardha, a significant hub in the Laberia region. Spend the evening and night in a village house, enjoying homemade traditional food and beverages. Immerse yourself in the local life by taking a walk, enjoying a beer, meeting the locals, and reconnecting with the horses by feeding and brushing them while soaking in the village's peaceful atmosphere.
Riding hours 6
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Family House in Fushbardha

Day 3 (Monday): Fushbardha to Borsh
After enjoying a traditional breakfast at the family house, you will prepare for a long day of riding, which can last up to 8-9 hours. Today's ride follows the tracks of King Skerdilajd's army, which passed through the "Neck of the Rock" around 2,300 years ago. King Skerdilajd played a crucial role in Queen Teuta's plans to create an Adriatic Front against Rome.
The trail takes you through beautiful woods, mountain climbs, rocky landscapes, and ancient ruins. Along the way, you will encounter various landmarks such as the Basha Stones, Dhespina cave, the Rock of Kaze, The Valley of Cheries, the Crooked Brook, Shameti Brook, Trullas Neck, and Derrasa Hole. These sites offer glimpses into the rich history and ancient civilizations of the region.
During the day, you will have a picnic lunch break in a mountain valley surrounded by a small oak forest, which you will pack yourself in the morning. The picturesque landscape and serene atmosphere provide a perfect setting for a relaxing meal. Be prepared for some walking during the day, as you may need to lead the horses for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes through difficult paths and steep downhill sections. It is advisable to wear good mountain hiking shoes to ensure your comfort and safety, and to carry at least three bottles of water with you.
By late afternoon, you will arrive at a family house where you will spend the evening and night. The hosts will treat you to homemade traditional food, often prepared with olive oil, which is abundant in the region. You can also enjoy local wine, raki (a traditional Albanian spirit), and mountain tea, which will help you unwind after a long day of riding. In the evening, you can enjoy the return of the herds (sheep and cows). You are also welcome to feed or brush the horses once again.
Riding hours 8-9 (including walking by leading the horses)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Family House in Borsh

Day 4 (Tuesday): Borsh to Piqeras
This morning, you will embark on a shorter but pleasant riding day. The first stop is the castle of Borsh, also known as the Castle of Sopot, situated on a hill in Borsh village at an altitude of 500 meters. This ancient castle dates back to the 4th or 3rd century BC and has witnessed the influence of various civilizations, including the Byzantine Empire and the Republic of Venice.
After exploring the castle ruins, you will ride along the old road that runs parallel to the seaside. Olive trees, citrus fruits, and grapefruits adorn the upper part of the road, while remnants of defense bunkers from the past can be seen along the coastline of Piqeras, an old fishing village. The ride concludes for the day in the village, where you will enjoy lunch on the terrace of a hosting house. For accommodation, you will stay in a typical house of the coast, immersing yourself in the local atmosphere.
After lunch, you will have the opportunity to relax and enjoy a free afternoon by the sea (where we will drive you by car).
Dinner will be served on the terrace of the guesthouse, where you can enjoy the local atmosphere, music, and fresh fish. You are also welcome to feed or brush the horses once again, immersing yourself further in the experience.
Riding hours 3.5
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Family House in Piqeras

Day 5 (Wednesday): Piqeras to Bajkaj 
Start your day with a delightful breakfast on the terrace, overlooking the Ionian Sea. Traditional coastal delicacies such as byrek (cheese pie), cookies, butter, fresh milk, and honey will be served. The day's ride takes you through olive tree terraces, offering magnificent views of the sea. You will ride along the beach of Bunec, a pristine stretch of sand and pebbles, enjoying the refreshing breeze from the sea.
Enjoy a homemade lunch at a small restaurant by the sea. Afterward, take a 2-3 hour break to swim, sunbathe, or enjoy leisurely walks along the beach.
The day's ride continues as you enter a small "jungle" of trees, bushes, and rocks, encountering the remains of an old road that once connected the sea with the villages along the coast. In the afternoon, you will pass through the village of Shen Vasil, a medieval center with a dark history during the dictatorship era, as it served as a labor camp for political prisoners. Traces of this tumultuous past can still be seen throughout the village.
We will then descend into the Kalasa Valley to reach the battlefield of 229 BC, where we will canter along the ancient battlefield of King Skerdilajd. Along the way, you may encounter herds of sheep and goats accompanied by local shepherds. This region has a strong rural tradition, and you might get a glimpse into the daily lives of the local population. The day will conclude in Bajkaj Village, located 200 meters above the valley and surrounded by citrus groves (oranges, lemons, olives).
In the late afternoon, you will arrive at a local house where you will be accommodated for the night. The village atmosphere provides a cozy and comfortable setting, allowing you to rest and recharge for the next day's adventures. You are welcomed to feed or brush the horses once again.
Riding hours: 6.5
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Family House in Bajkaj 

Day 6 (Thursday): Bajkaj to Lazarat 
The day begins with the ascent of Mount Sopoti. Initially, you'll ride through gentle and picturesque hills towards Varfaj village, where you'll be greeted by breathtaking vistas. As you continue to reach the summit of Mount Sopoti, where we’ll stop at some natural springs to water the horses, refill our bottles, and refresh ourselves.
After the village of Varaj, the ascent becomes steeper and more rocky, so we will ride at a slower pace until we reach the top of Mount Sopoti. At the summit, we will enjoy a picnic that you have prepared in the morning.
The descent offers panoramic views of the Drinos Valley, but some sections require dismounting and walking for approximately 15 minutes.
Arriving at Lazarat village, known for its storied past and recent transformations, you'll find yourself immersed in its rich culture. Once infamous for marijuana cultivation, Lazarat now proudly showcases its timeless traditions. Your accommodation in a local home offers an authentic experience, enhanced by your participation in a cooking class led by your hosts. Amidst the serene ambiance of the olive groves, dinner becomes an unforgettable feast, evoking a sense of tranquility and contentment. Afterward, you are welcomed to feed or brush the horses once again, further connecting with the local atmosphere.
Riding hours: 6 (including possible walking while leading the horses)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Family House in Lazarat 

Day 7 (Friday): Ride back to Gjirokastra
On the final leg of your journey, we'll embark on a shorter riding day, beginning with a traverse through Lazarat village en route to Drinos Valley. Our path will lead us to a suitable crossing over the Drino River, where we'll navigate numerous exhilarating canters. As we approach the southern outskirts of “Asim Zeneli” village, we'll ascend the hills, eventually arriving at the stables. Here, we'll tenderly care for the horses, granting them a chance to roam freely and unwind.
After bidding farewell to our week companions, we'll pause for the lunch break. A picnic, thoughtfully prepared by a local family in Asim Zeneli, awaits us, and we'll savor it alongside a refreshing beverage at the village café. This moment offers a fitting conclusion and reflection on our week equestrian adventure.
Riding hours: 3
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Overnight at Hotel in Gjirokastra

Day 8 (Saturday): Departure
After breakfast at the hotel you will be transferred to Tirana airport.
Meals included: Breakfast

Please note that although this trail includes some beach riding, any fast riding takes place along an old path 100-200m from the beach. The sand is rocky and therefore is only suitable for walking on. The mountain horses are also not too keen on the water so will not tend to want to paddle!

                                            Gjirokaster area

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Average High Temperature (°F)	41	45	52	59	67	75	82	83	76	63	51	42
Average Low Temperature (°F)	24	27	31	36	43	48	54	53	48	39	31	24
Average High Temperature (°C)	5	7	11	15	19	24	28	28	24	17	11	6
Average Low Temperature (°C)	-4	-3	-1	2	6	9	12	11	9	4	0	-4

Source: NOAA


Seasons
The best months to visit Albania are from April to October. Although precipitation is quite high in Albania there is less rain during these months and because of the continental air mass, most precipitation is over the central highlands. Albania has a high number of climatic regions relative to its landmass - the coastal lowlands have a typically Mediterranean climate; the highlands have a Mediterranean continental climate. This ride takes place in southern Albania which is around 5 degrees warmer than the rest of the country. You will experience different types of weather on the trail; from cooler mountainous air to a warmer climate down on the coast.

Your luggage is transported by vehicle to the accommodations each night.

What to Bring

• Normal riding clothes: riding hat, long sleeved shirts (please avoid packing your favourite or expensive clothing due to risk of damage)  riding trousers and chaps, gloves.
• Good mountain shoes - with a grip for walking but not too thick as you will need to ride in them too. Normal riding boots with a smooth sole are not recommended as they can be slippery when walking on foot.
• Waterproof raincoat
• Casual clothes for the evening
• Swimming suit, river shoes and towels
• Sleeping bag for camping
• Sun cream, sunglasses, hat, water bottles.
• Anti-allergy medicine for possible insects bites
• Camera - please bring small cameras as large professional ones are very difficult to transport on horseback.
• Copy of passport
• Personal saddlebags are welcome if riders would like to bring their own. Small saddlebags are provided by the ride but just for food and water.

Since Albania lacks equestrian shops, procuring necessary horse equipment from the local market becomes a significant challenge for us. If it's feasible for you, we kindly request your assistance in bringing along any spare or unused items such as old pads, halters, ropes, girths, bridles, or any other equipment that you no longer require. Your contribution would be greatly appreciated.

Average ratings from 2 tour feedbacks (see details below) Horses: (5) Excellent (4) Very Good (3) Good (2) Satisfactory (1) Not Satisfactory Saddle/Tack: Accommodations: Meals: Host/Guide: other Riders: Name Date radovan geist 7/22/2018 david balan 6/22/2018

Accommodations
This is a progressive ride so nights are spent in different locations.

Description
We spend 5 nights in different village family houses and 2 nights (the first and the last) in a hotel in Gjirokaster. Bathrooms are shared during the whole trip.
Access to electricity is possible every evening and the whole area has a good phone coverage. Laundry can be done at various locations for a small fee.

Wi-Fi access is only available in Gjirokaster. Internet access is difficult during this ride so we recommend guests to buy an Albanian sim card (around 13 euros) to get free internet access and about 30 minutes of free calls. We have electricity and phone service available during the entire ride.

Personal necessary things are carried in saddlebags; all other luggage is transported by car every day from destination to destination

Accommodation Itinerary - subject to changes based on availability
Night 1: Hotel in Gjirokaster
Night 2: Family house in Fushbardhe
Night 3: Family house in Borsh
Night 4: Family house in Piqeras
Night 5: Family house in Bajkaj
Night 6: Family house in Lazarat
Night 7: Hotel in Gjirokaster

Room Occupancy
Most nights include shared accommodations so the single supplement fee only applies for the first and last night, in Gjirokaster.



Meals
All meals are included except for lunch of the first day. Dinner & breakfast are eaten at the hotel and family houses and lunches generally consist of a picnic, except for the first lunch at the hotel in Gjirokaster.

Breakfasts include eggs, butter, cheese, local pancakes, fruit jams, honey, milk and tea.
Lunch is a picnic that consist of bread, cheese, tomatoes, eggs, olive, pie fruit and a drink.
For dinner, we serve meat (chicken, calf  or pork meat, fish by the sea), salads, cheese, local yogurt sauce, olives, pickles, vegetables from the garden, fruits and Raki and wine (included in the trip cost).  

Dietary Restrictions
We can cater to most dietary restrictions with prior notice.

This trip includes some wine with dinner and can accommodate special dietary requests.

Tack:		English Trekking
Horses:		Albanian Local Breeds
Pace:		Moderate with some trots and canters. 5 to 6 hrs a day (approx. 100km total) | Walk | Trot | Canter |
Level:		(2.5 to 3 out of 5)    Intermediate
Age:		Min 14
Weight:		Max 200 lbs / 90 kg
Riders:		Min 2 riders	Max 12 riders

Riding Experience
This trip has been designed for intermediate riders who are reasonably fit and in a decent state of health. You should also be happy to share facilities with others and live in basic conditions.

Horses
The horses used for this ride are locally bred and ideal for the terrain. They are small but very robust and surefooted Albanian horses (between 13 and 14.2 hands). The Albanian horse, a unique mountain breed that is s local mixture of the archaic Tarpan and medieval Arab horse. They are great climber, have a clear mind and are surefooted. Our breeding program aims to help saving this declining breed of horses.
Our stable include 38 horses and is situated amidst scenic hills, green valleys, surrounded by high mountains. Our horses are trained with natural horsemanship techniques that we are pleased to share with the guests.

Pace
The rides are at a moderate pace overall. Most of the time we are traveling through mountains so that must be taken into account in regards to your expectations of speed, however there are indeed occasions where you can have a good canter. We ride for 6 days, for about 5-6 hours per day.
The total distance covered on this trip is about 100 km.

Beach Riding
Please note that although this trail includes some beach riding, any fast riding takes place along an old path 200m from the beach. The sand is rocky and therefore is only suitable for walking on. The mountain horses are also not too keen on the water so will not tend to want to paddle!

Guides
Kristina, Aurel and Ilir are all native from Albania and always happy to share their love for horses and their knowledge of Albania with guests.
If there are more than 4 riders, we will have two guides for this trip.

This information is not being updated on a regular basis. Hidden Trails does not take any responsibility for the accuracy of the above information. Please, consult the embassy or consulate for updated info.