Nestled in the heart of the Balkan Peninsula, Albania stands as an enchanting destination that has been a well-kept secret among travelers for decades. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality, Albania offers an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience for those seeking to escape the crowds and discover a true hidden gem. Albania stands as a captivating destination for travelers seeking an authentic and enriching experience. With its stunning coastlines, historical treasures, majestic mountains, flavorful cuisine, and vibrant traditions, Albania offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. As this Balkan gem continues to gain recognition on the global tourism map, there has never been a better time to explore the hidden wonders of Albania. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover the magic that lies within this captivating country.

BUT IN WHICH CITY OF ALBANIA DOES THE RETREAT TAKES PLACE?

“Have you visited Permet yet? You really should!” 

The small, little known town has a romantic location. It stretches in the valley of the river Vjosa and is surrounded by mountains. Përmet itself does not offer much for tourists, it also looks like a sleepy, run-down town. Nevertheless, it have stolen our hearts. Not only because there are great sights of the region nearby, like the hot springs of Benje or the Kadiut Bridge, but because Përmet is so authentic. There are no big attractions in the town itself that would attract masses of tourists.

Permet, a town of some 10,000 people, is located in the south of Albania in Gjirokaster County. It straddles the Vjosa River and nestles in the Kelcyre Gorge between the Trebeshine and Dhembel mountains. Citizens of the town are known for their humour and the town itself, sometimes called The City of Roses, is full of beautiful blooms. Other famous features of Permet include gliko (fruit or nuts preserved in syrup), jams made from roses and fruit, and of course, raki.

A four-hour drive from airport, Permet is quite a trek, but the road that takes you there is spectacular. Once you pass through the dusty farmland of Lushnje and Fier, punctuated by people selling watermelons and red poppies lining the road, the Vjosa river greets you and guides you the rest of the way.

Europe’s last free-flowing wild river, the Vjosa, is currently subject to an international campaign to designate it as a National Park so it will be protected from the march of hydropower plants, luxury resorts, and oil exploration. So far, the Albanian government has resisted, but activists hope their prolonged pressure will prevail.

It is not hard to understand why people are so passionate about it. The river’s water is the most spectacular luminous blue, even on a grey day. It winds and weaves like water ribbons through pastures, around rock formations, and under the boughs of ancient weather-worn trees. Wherever it twists and turns, fertility in the shape of luscious green foliage sprouts from its banks and rises up the surrounding hills.