bigtravelbuzzThe Devoll District is a beautiful region in southeastern Albania, known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality. Here are some things to see and do in the Devoll District:
Explore the natural beauty: The Devoll District is home to some of Albania’s most stunning natural landscapes, including the Osumi Canyon, the Mount Tomorr National Park, and the thermal springs of Benjë. Be sure to take some time to explore these natural wonders, whether it’s hiking in the mountains, swimming in the river, or relaxing in the hot springs.
Visit the historic sites: The Devoll District is also rich in history and culture, with several ancient sites and landmarks worth visiting. Some of the top attractions include the medieval castle of Berat, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Gjirokastra, and the Ottoman-era mosque of Kuçova.
Experience local culture and cuisine: Albania has a rich culinary heritage, and the Devoll District is no exception. Be sure to try some of the local dishes, such as byrek (a savory pastry), tave kosi (a baked dish made with yogurt and meat), and qofte (meatballs). You can also experience local culture by attending festivals and events, such as the National Folk Festival in Gjirokastra or the summer festivals in Përmet.
Go rafting or kayaking: The Osumi Canyon is one of Albania’s top destinations for outdoor adventure, with opportunities for rafting and kayaking on the river. This is a great way to experience the stunning natural beauty of the canyon and get your adrenaline pumping at the same time.
Relax and unwind: The Devoll District is a great place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and relax in a peaceful natural setting. Whether you’re soaking in the hot springs of Benjë, strolling through the historic streets of Gjirokastra, or simply enjoying the scenic beauty of the mountains, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to unwind and recharge.
Overall, the Devoll District is a beautiful and diverse region that offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in outdoor adventure, cultural heritage, or simply relaxing in a peaceful natural setting.
Places to Visit in Devoll District
The Devoll District in southeastern Albania is a beautiful and diverse region, known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Here are some of the top places to visit in the Devoll District:
Osumi Canyon: The Osumi Canyon is one of Albania’s top natural attractions, a stunning river gorge that stretches for over 26 kilometers. Visitors can hike through the canyon, swim in the river, or go rafting or kayaking.
Berat: Berat is a historic city known as the “city of a thousand windows” due to its distinctive Ottoman-era architecture. The city is home to a castle, several museums, and a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Mangalem Quarter.
Gjirokastra: Gjirokastra is another historic city with a well-preserved Ottoman-era center, including a castle, a bazaar, and several museums. The city is also known for its folk music and traditional crafts.
Benjë Thermal Baths: The Benjë Thermal Baths are a series of natural hot springs located in a picturesque valley near the Osumi Canyon. The baths are a great place to relax and unwind, with several pools of varying temperatures and scenic views.
Mount Tomorr National Park: Mount Tomorr is the highest mountain in southern Albania, and the surrounding national park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including several endemic species. The park is a great destination for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Kuçova: Kuçova is a small town with a unique Ottoman-era mosque, the Xhamia e Kuçovës, which features an unusual circular design and intricate tilework.
Përmet: Përmet is a small town located in a picturesque valley, known for its natural beauty and traditional crafts. The town hosts several summer festivals, including a popular “feast of fire” celebration.
These are just a few of the many wonderful places to visit in the Devoll District. Whether you’re interested in natural beauty, history, culture, or outdoor adventure, you’re sure to find something to love in this beautiful region.
Best Time To Visit Devoll District
The best time to visit the Devoll District in southeastern Albania depends on your preferences and interests. Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons and what they have to offer:
Spring (March – May): Spring is a great time to visit the Devoll District if you’re interested in outdoor activities like hiking, as the weather is mild and the mountains and valleys are in full bloom with wildflowers. It’s also a good time to visit historic sites and cities like Berat and Gjirokastra, as the crowds are smaller than in the summer.
Summer (June – August): Summer is the peak tourist season in the Devoll District, as the weather is warm and sunny, and the rivers and lakes are perfect for swimming and water sports. However, it can also be quite crowded, especially in popular destinations like the Osumi Canyon and Benjë Thermal Baths.
Fall (September – November): Fall is another great time to visit the Devoll District, as the weather is still mild and the foliage begins to change colors, making for some stunning scenery. It’s also a good time to try traditional dishes like byrek and tave kosi, as many restaurants and cafes offer seasonal specialties.
Winter (December – February): Winter is the least popular time to visit the Devoll District, as the weather can be cold and snowy, especially in the mountains. However, it can be a good time to visit if you’re interested in skiing or snowshoeing, as there are several ski resorts in the area.
Overall, the best time to visit the Devoll District depends on your interests and what you want to do. However, spring and fall are generally considered the best seasons for a visit, as they offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and a wide range of activities and attractions.
Things to Do in Devoll District
The Devoll District in southeastern Albania is a diverse region with plenty of things to do, from outdoor activities to cultural experiences. Here are some of the top things to do in Devoll:
Hiking: The Devoll District is home to several stunning hiking trails, including the Osumi Canyon Trail, the Tomorr Mountain Trail, and the Lengarica Canyon Trail. These trails offer breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, and rivers, and are suitable for hikers of all levels.
Swimming and Rafting: The Osumi Canyon and Benjë Thermal Baths are popular destinations for swimming, rafting, and kayaking. The crystal-clear water and scenic surroundings make for a memorable day out.
Cultural Tours: The Devoll District has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can explore historic cities like Berat and Gjirokastra, as well as traditional villages like Dardha and Boboshtica. These places offer a glimpse into Albania’s past and present, with opportunities to learn about the country’s history, customs, and traditions.
Food and Drink: The Devoll District is known for its delicious food and drink, including traditional dishes like tave kosi (baked lamb and yogurt) and byrek (savory pastry). Visitors can sample local specialties at restaurants and cafes throughout the region, as well as at markets and festivals.
Relaxation: The Devoll District is a great place to unwind and relax, with several natural hot springs and spa resorts in the area. Visitors can soak in the healing waters of the Benjë Thermal Baths or indulge in a massage or other spa treatments.
These are just a few of the many things to do in the Devoll District. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, culture, food, or relaxation, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful and diverse region.
How to get around in Devoll District
Devoll District is located in southeastern Albania and can be easily accessed by various modes of transportation, including:
Bus: There are regular bus services that operate within the district, connecting major towns and cities. You can check the bus schedules and routes online or inquire at the local bus station.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available in the larger towns of Devoll District. You can either hail a taxi on the street or call for one using a local taxi service.
Car rental: If you prefer to have more flexibility and independence while getting around, you can rent a car from one of the car rental agencies in the nearby cities or airports.
Walking: Walking is a great way to explore the smaller villages and towns within Devoll District. However, keep in mind that the terrain can be hilly and uneven in some areas.
Bicycle: You can rent a bicycle in some of the larger towns in Devoll District and explore the area at your own pace.
Whatever mode of transportation you choose, make sure to have a good map or GPS device to help you navigate the roads and get around efficiently.
Where to eat in Devoll District
Devoll District has several local restaurants and cafes that offer traditional Albanian cuisine as well as international dishes. Here are some recommendations:
Restaurant ‘Traditional House of Guri’: This restaurant is located in the village of Polican and offers traditional Albanian cuisine with a focus on grilled meat dishes. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere with outdoor seating options.
Restaurant ‘Rexho’: This restaurant is located in the town of Bilisht and offers a mix of traditional Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant has a spacious indoor dining area as well as outdoor seating options.
Cafe ‘Kafe e Vjeter’: This cafe is located in the town of Bilisht and serves a variety of coffee drinks and light snacks. The cafe has a cozy and relaxed atmosphere.
Restaurant ‘Iliria’: This restaurant is located in the town of Bilisht and offers a mix of traditional Albanian and Italian cuisine. The restaurant has a spacious indoor dining area and outdoor seating options.
Restaurant ‘Ura e Gurit’: This restaurant is located in the village of Qendër Devoll and offers traditional Albanian cuisine with a focus on grilled meat dishes. The restaurant has a scenic location near a river and outdoor seating options.
There are many other restaurants and cafes in Devoll District, so be sure to ask locals for their recommendations as well.
Famous street stalls in Devoll District
Devoll District in Albania is known for its delicious street food, which is a great way to experience the local culture and flavors. Here are some famous street stalls in Devoll District:
Qebapa: This is a traditional Albanian dish made of grilled sausage-like meat served with bread, onions, and a spicy red pepper sauce. You can find qebapa stalls throughout the district, especially in the town of Bilisht.
Byrek: Byrek is a savory pastry made of thin layers of dough filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. You can find byrek stalls in many towns and villages throughout Devoll District.
Tavë kosi: Tavë kosi is a traditional Albanian dish made of baked lamb or beef with yogurt, eggs, and rice. You can find tavë kosi stalls in some of the larger towns in the district.
Baklava: Baklava is a sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough filled with chopped nuts and honey syrup. You can find baklava stalls in many towns throughout Devoll District.
Çomlek: Çomlek is a traditional Albanian dish made of baked meat and vegetables in a clay pot. You can find çomlek stalls in some of the larger towns in the district.
These street stalls are just a few examples of the delicious food that you can find in Devoll District. Be sure to explore the local markets and street vendors to discover more culinary delights!
Where to stay in Devoll District
Luxury accommodation
Devoll District in Albania is a beautiful area with scenic landscapes, mountains, and rich cultural heritage. Although there are not many luxury accommodations available in the district, there are a few options that offer comfortable amenities and stunning views. Here are some of the best luxury accommodations in Devoll District:
Hotel Ramizi: This is a 4-star hotel located in the town of Bilisht, offering elegant and spacious rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a private balcony. The hotel has a restaurant, bar, and a fitness center. It is an excellent choice for travelers who want to explore the natural beauty of Devoll District.
Hotel Vila Alba: This is a 4-star hotel located in the village of Progonat, offering luxurious rooms with air conditioning, a private balcony, and free Wi-Fi. The hotel has an outdoor pool, a spa center, and a restaurant that serves traditional Albanian cuisine.
Bujtina Berberi: This is a boutique guesthouse located in the village of Qendër Devoll, offering traditional-style rooms with wooden furnishings and modern amenities. The guesthouse has a restaurant that serves homemade dishes and a terrace with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Kreshnik Hotel: This is a 3-star hotel located in the town of Bilisht, offering comfortable rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a private balcony. The hotel has a restaurant that serves traditional Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine, as well as a bar and a garden.
These luxury accommodations in Devoll District offer a comfortable and memorable stay for travelers who want to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the area.
Where to stay in Devoll District
Budget accommodation
Devoll District is located in southeastern Albania and offers several budget accommodation options for travelers. Here are a few suggestions:
Guesthouse Vila Alba – This guesthouse offers clean and comfortable rooms at affordable prices. It is located in the town of Bilisht and offers easy access to nearby attractions such as the Shebenik-Jabllanice National Park.
Hotel Rivas – Another budget-friendly option in Bilisht, Hotel Rivas offers basic but clean rooms with private bathrooms. The hotel also has a restaurant that serves traditional Albanian cuisine.
Hotel Bujtina Ollga – This family-run hotel is located in the village of Qarrishtë, about 15 km from Bilisht. It offers comfortable rooms with private bathrooms and traditional Albanian breakfast is included in the room rate.
Guesthouse Doshka – Located in the village of Miras, Guesthouse Doshka offers simple but comfortable rooms with shared bathrooms. The guesthouse also has a garden and a terrace with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
Overall, there are many budget accommodation options in Devoll District that offer good value for money. It’s a good idea to book in advance, especially during peak travel season.
Travel Tips Devoll District
Devoll District is a beautiful and historic region located in southeastern Albania. Here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your trip:
Explore the Shebenik-Jabllanice National Park: This national park is located in the eastern part of Devoll District and is home to stunning mountain landscapes, hiking trails, and unique flora and fauna. Be sure to bring appropriate gear and check weather conditions before embarking on any hikes.
Visit the historic city of Bilisht: Bilisht is the largest city in Devoll District and has a rich history dating back to the Ottoman Empire. Be sure to visit the Bilisht Mosque and the 19th-century Clock Tower, both of which are important landmarks in the city.
Try traditional Albanian cuisine: Devoll District is known for its delicious traditional Albanian cuisine. Be sure to try local dishes such as tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt), fërgesë (a spicy pepper and tomato stew), and qofte të fërguara (fried meatballs with spices).
Experience local festivals and events: Devoll District has several traditional festivals and events throughout the year, including the Fustanella Festival in Bilisht, which celebrates Albanian culture and heritage through dance, music, and traditional dress.
Be respectful of local customs and traditions: Albania is a conservative country with strong cultural and religious traditions. Be sure to dress modestly and be respectful of local customs, especially when visiting mosques and other religious sites.
Learn some basic Albanian phrases: While many people in Albania speak English, learning some basic Albanian phrases such as “faleminderit” (thank you) and “mirëdita” (good day) can go a long way in showing respect and building connections with locals.