Theth National Park: a nature lovers dream
About an hour and 45 minutes away from the Skadar (Shkodër), right next to Valbona Valley National Park, a beautiful national treasure is hiding in “Albanian Alps” (Prokletije or Accursed Mountains). Theth National Park, named one of the best national parks in Albania, is a nature lovers’ dream.
Theth National Park was established in 1966 to protect flora and fauna that is scattered across 26.3 km2.
Theth National Park: Photo: Ilse, Unsplash
Situated in the heart of the Accursed Mountains, surrounding a large portion of Shala Valley, Theth National Park, is known for its small villages, Shala River flow, hidden gems, and wildlife. It is home to over 1500 species of plants and 80 species of animals, of which lynx is the most present.
Goats, Theth National park, Photo: Abenteuer Albanien, Unsplash
The main attraction in this magical park is definitely the Theth village. This small, but inhabited village, is surrounded from all four sides by numerous mountains. Only one single road leads there from the village of Boga, and it is barely accessible during winter months due to snow. From what we heard from other travelers, the people are very pleasant, however, they only speak Albanian so make sure to come prepared with an Albanian dictionary.
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Besides Theth village, within Theth National Park you can also see its own Blue Eye of Kaprre, in the village of Kaprre, one of the most beautiful villages within the park. To reach it you need to pass the beautiful Grunas Canyon of Theth.
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The next must-see thing is the Grunasi waterfall. Hidden in Grunas Canyon, at 30 meters high.
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Theth National Park is also filled with caves. Some of the caves you should explore are Cuckoo Cave, the Cave of Shakujve Valley, the Red Cave, the Pepes Cave in Okol, and the Water hole Pejë.
On the other hand, from the cultural attractions, you can also check out the Tower of Nikoll Koceku, the Church of Theth, and the House of Lulash Boshi.
If you are looking for a perfect escape and you enjoy hiking, then this park will definitely be the best for a weekend getaway.
Paula Kovačić Taha
Once I saw that there was a bigger world out there, so I made myself be a part of it.
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