A protected beauty in the northwest of Albania! This is the Gashi River!

Even the birds on the branches know that Albania has overnight become one of the newest and most popular tourist centers that attract tourists from all over the world, but mainly to the coast and larger, more popular cities. However, this country has much more to offer.

We have already written about many hidden gems, but it is time to jump to the very northwest where the Gashi River is located.

Gashi River, Photo: Mensur Gashi, CC BY-SA 4.0

This beauty is located near the municipality of Tropoje, in a valley surrounded by as many as 28 mountains in the northern part of the Albanian Alps. It borders Montenegro on one side, and Kosovo on the other.

As much as 27 kilometers long, the Gashi River is part of a protected nature reserve that protects the river, its valley, and ancient beech forests.

Gashi River, Photo: Mensur Gashi, CC BY-SA 4.0

The source of the Gashi River is located somewhere below the Doberdol Pass, at 2238 meters above sea level. From there, the Gashi River travels through valleys and magical landscapes. At one point, it changes direction and heads towards Valbona, which it eventually enters.

The upper two-thirds of the river are strictly protected areas, which cover about 3,000 hectares. This area of ​​the river forms part of the European Green Belt and is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beech forests.

Surrounded by beautiful beech forests, some of the oldest trees of which are over 450 years old, and stone rocks originating from the oldest geological age, the Gashi River together with the mountains provides a paradise for diverse flora and fauna.

Over 15 species of trees and diverse plants, at least 8 species of mammals, 13 species of birds, amphibians, insects, and molluscs found their home here.

Gashi River, Photo: Mensur Gashi, CC BY-SA 4.0

Visiting the beautiful canyon and the Gashi River is only possible through the river’s lower reaches, mostly on foot. Those looking for adventure can find local guides in the town of Bajram Curri and the surrounding villages.