2 independent reviews for Albanian Alps walking holiday, tailor made
Reviews for Albanian Alps walking holiday, tailor made
Sally Slade review 7 Oct 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
The Albanian Alps are truly stunning in their remoteness and grandeur.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Just go!3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
All the stays were in local guesthouses / home stays. Local public transport - buses , taxis , ferries used where available. All meals were included and locally sourced/ made . The guidance was comprehensive re safe water sources so we could top up without plastic.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Outstanding and would highly recommend.Melissa Hanbury review 8 Aug 2022
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Walking the Valbone Pass - it was truly breathtaking and also just the right amount of challenge. Also we ate dinner in Theth at Shapella Hotel and it was delicious!2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Bring two walking sticks to help with the sliding rocks when walking down. Eat at Shapella in Theth even if you’re not staying there! Swim in the rivers along the way rather than waiting for the place that the itinerary recommends - this will mean you’ll be swimming alone rather than with lots of others.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
I definitely felt like it benefitted local people. I loved meeting all the Albanian people along the way. They were so friendly and welcoming and helpful. It was a highlight of the trip. They way we travelled was certainly environmentally friendly but I think people need to make 100% sure they take all their rubbish with them back down the mountain - even when they’ve had a coke at the top from a friendly pop up bar in a shepherds hut. We were also totally shocked on our second day’s hike to be almost pushed off the path by 7 rally Bikes which came tearing up the mountain on the tiny single track paths knocking walkers off and destroying the ancient paths. The noise was horrendous and the environmental impact devastating. We showed them our disapproval and they seemed impervious - we gathered from the locals that they are Kosovans and it’s been a real problem recently. I would urge Responsible Travel to support the locals in stopping them. One idea I had was to place logs across the path at 100m intervals. Small enough for hikers and donkeys to step over but frustrating for bikers to move or go round? If something isn’t done then these ancient and fragile paths that have been formed over hundred of years will be destroyed. Not to mention someone will get injured. The only other thing I would say in terms of environmental preservation is there is clearly a massive amount of development happening in Albania and I’m sure this is a sign of their successful tourism BUT they are putting up monstrous building everywhere - huge great multi story hotels etc which I can’t help feeling will end up having a detrimental effect on the peace and yea quality and over all beauty of the place. Not much you an do about that but worth mentioning!4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
I couldn’t rate it more highly. It was the most incredible week and I will never forget it. The Albanian alps are truly spectacular and the people are charming. We can’t wait to explore Kosovo and Montenegro next!Holiday Reviews
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