Embark on an extraordinary journey through the rich heritage of southern Albania, a harmonious blend of gastronomic wonders, dances, songs, traditions and genuine connections with the local community. As you pass through Korça, Kolonja, Përmet, Këlcyra, Gjirokastra and Tepelena, each day and each destination reveals new chapters of a rich folklore through educational tours, folklore performances and authentic experiences with local residents.
The journey begins in the heart of Korça, with an exploration of the old bazaar and a special stop at the traditional bakery of Mr. Anesti Duka, where the chickpea bread carries the taste of old times. Further, the cultural heritage is discovered in the ethnographic gallery of the master Lirika Pojani and the artisan workshops of the area.
The evening continues with dinner and traditional dance at the Shtëpia e Kuajve Agritourism, where under the direction of the choreographer Bardhi Pojani, folk music and dances bring the atmosphere of the past.
The next day begins with breakfast at the farm and involvement in traditional work: loom work with Mrs. Fili or embroidery with Mrs. Rovena. A horseback ride around the village follows, with stops at the tekke, the river and Mrs. Zana’s honey farm.
The journey continues to Polena, to experience village life up close, and then to Xhufka Agritourism, where the “farm to table” experience is transformed into a culinary delight. In the evening, the visitor takes part in a traditional lakrori cooking class at Vila Melko & Farm.
The final breakfast includes a visit to the Melko farm and then to Boboshticë, to discover the art of raki production. The journey concludes with a final stop at the area’s dairy farms, a tasty greeting from rural Korça.
The journey continues south, to the heart of Kolonja, where hospitality takes shape at Sofra Kolonjare in Ersekë. There, we have a special experience: shaking the dybek in the traditional way, amidst folk songs and the aroma of fresh butter. The lively atmosphere continues with the preparation of provisions, as in the past, when work and song went hand in hand.
After this authentic experience, the journey continues with a visit to the picturesque village of Rehova, a place rich in history, heritage and characteristic architecture. Then, a short stop is made at the Ethnographic Museum of Kolonja, where the memories and identity of the area are preserved.
In the evening, guests return to Sofra Kolonjare, for a warm dinner and comfortable accommodation. The next day begins with a leisurely walk to the farm’s lake, to enjoy the pure and clear nature, followed by a rich traditional breakfast, a conclusion to this chapter of the trip to Kolonjë.
The journey continues towards the highlands, with the next stop at Sotira Farm, After a short stop, the road leads to the village of Hoseckë and then, on a quiet walk through the fields, to the village of Radanjë.
There, a natural surprise awaits them, the secret lake, hidden among the greenery and surrounded by absolute tranquility. Further, a visit to the stable in the mountain, or a more intimate stop with the inhabitants of Radanj, to share history, traditions and to better understand local life, can be chosen.
In the evening, the atmosphere warms up under the powerful and melancholic sounds of the legendary group “Sazet e Leskovikut”, an ensemble with over 200 years of history that turns dinner into an unforgettable folklore experience. After this night full of emotions, a stay at the farm offers the right tranquility for rest.
The day ends with breakfast and departure for Përmet, with a short stop in Leskovik, to enjoy the atmosphere of the city and to gracefully close this chapter of the Southeast trip.
In Përmet, the journey takes on a new flavor with a culinary experience at the Nemërçka restaurant, accompanied by a folkloric performance that brings liveliness and tradition to every note. Then, the visitor is involved in an authentic slow-food experience, where cooking is slowed down to highlight the pure flavors of the country.
The exploration continues at Di Pro Bio and Mr. Kastriot’s Honey House, where the connection between nature and local products is understood more deeply. At Mrs. Flora Sali’s shop, the visitor tastes the rare Bedunice honey, known for its GI and STG certifications.
Then, the stop moves to Ballaban, at the Grand Albanik farm. There, the history of the farm is presented and a cooking class is held that concludes with the tasting of fresh products. The last breakfast on this itinerary is served right there, on the farm, simple, traditional and full of flavor.
In Këlcyrë, the visit begins at the artisanal cheese workshop of Mr. Altin Meshini, built inside a communist-era bunker, a unique combination of history and tradition. Afterwards, at The Barrels – Te Fuçitë Agritourism, a traditional lunch is enjoyed and a short tour of the farm is taken.
The trip continues with a visit to the Byzantine church of St. Mary in Labovë e Kryqit, to end the day with dinner, accommodation, a cooking class and photos in traditional clothing at Bujtina Maria.
The next day, after a leisurely breakfast, a tour of Libohovo takes place and then a visit to the Old Bazaar of Gjirokastra to meet local artisans. Next, visitors stop at the Ethnographic Museum and take part in an iso-polyphony class with master Roland Çenko. The evening concludes with dinner at Lord Byron Agrotourism. where an optional cooking class is also offered.
Breakfast and educational tour of local crops and traditional costumes.