Why Albania Is Europe's Most Underrated Trail Running Destination
- Laura Whyms
- Jul 6
- 4 min read
From the famous towns and beaches to the wild Vjosa Valley, here's why I'm so excited to return to Albania with Run Weekends.
Contents:
My First Trip to Albania
I've been lucky enough to travel to more than 80 countries, but every now and then a destination completely surprises me.
Albania was one of those places.
When I first visited a couple of years ago, I explored some of the country's best-known highlights; Berat, Gjirokastër, the Blue Eye and Ksamil, and I absolutely loved them. The scenery was stunning, the food was delicious, the people were incredibly welcoming, and I remember wondering why it had taken me so long to visit.
But when I came home, I realised I'd only seen one side of Albania.
The more I learned about the country, the more I discovered there were remote valleys, mountain trails and traditional villages that most visitors never get to experience.
That's exactly why I'm so excited about our newest Run Weekends adventure.
A Different Side of Albania
One of the things I love most about Run Weekends is that we don't just visit destinations, we experience them.
Rather than following the usual tourist trail, we're always looking for places that feel authentic, adventurous and a little off the beaten track.
That's exactly what this trip is all about.
Instead of returning to the places I'd already visited, this time we're heading into the beautiful Vjosa Valley, exploring a side of Albania that's still wonderfully undiscovered.
Although I haven't been to this region myself yet, I've spent months helping to plan the trip and learning about everything that makes it so special. The more I've discovered, the more excited I've become to experience it for myself, and to share it with everyone who joins us.
Why Trail Running Is the Best Way to Explore
I've always believed that running lets you experience a place differently.
You notice the changing landscapes.
You slow down to chat with local people.
You reach viewpoints that cars never can.
You earn every incredible view.
It's one of the reasons I love leading Run Weekends trips. Running creates a real connection with a destination, and I can't think of a better way to explore somewhere as wild and unspoilt as this.
Discover the Vjosa Valley
Our adventure takes us through one of Albania's most spectacular landscapes. We'll run through the Vjosa Valley, home to Europe's last wild river, where the river still flows naturally from the mountains to the sea. It's a landscape of dramatic peaks, forest trails, crystal-clear water, traditional villages and open countryside that feels a world away from busy tourist destinations.
Along the way we'll explore beautiful trails through Hotova–Dangëlli National Park, discover quiet mountain villages and experience a part of Albania that many international visitors never even hear about.
It's exactly the sort of place I love discovering.
Meet Our Local Guide, Veton
One of the biggest reasons I'm excited about this trip is our local guide, Veton.
He's spent years exploring trails in both Albania and Kosovo.
Having someone with that local knowledge completely changes the experience. Instead of simply following a route on a map, we'll discover hidden trails, hear local stories and visit places that most travellers would never find on their own.
It's these local connections that make Run Weekends trips so special.
More Than Just a Running Holiday
Of course, the running is only part of the adventure.
We'll stay in family-run accommodation, enjoy delicious homemade Albanian food and experience the famous hospitality that made such an impression on me during my first visit.
These are often the moments that stay with you longest, the conversations over dinner, the laughter after a day on the trails and the friendships that grow over a weekend away.
Every Run Weekends trip has its own personality, and I have a feeling this one is going to be something really special.
Is This Trip for You?
Our Albania adventure is perfect if you enjoy:
Trail running holidays
Exploring lesser-known destinations
Incredible scenery
Small group adventures
Authentic local experiences
Meeting like-minded runners
Discovering somewhere completely different
Whether you're new to trail running or already love spending your weekends in the hills, this trip is all about enjoying the journey together.
Join us in Albania
One of my favourite things about travel is discovering places that surprise you.
The places that aren't crowded.
The places where local traditions are still part of everyday life.
The places that make you wonder why more people haven't discovered them yet.
I have a feeling this part of Albania is going to be exactly that.
I can't wait to explore it for the first time with our Run Weekends community, and I'd love you to join us.
Ready to Discover a Different Side of Albania?
If you're looking for a trail running adventure that combines spectacular scenery, authentic local culture and unforgettable running, our Albania Run Weekend could be exactly what you're looking for.
👉 Explore the Albania Run Weekend and reserve your place today.
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