bigtravelbuzzPërmet District is a beautiful region located in southern Albania, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture. Here are some highlights of the district:
Thermal Baths: Përmet is known for its thermal baths, which are said to have healing properties. The most famous of these baths is Benja, located near the village of Benjë. The water temperature in the baths ranges from 26 to 39 degrees Celsius, and visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak while surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.
National Park: Përmet is home to the Fir of Hotova National Park, which covers an area of 34,000 hectares and is known for its diverse wildlife and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, camping, and birdwatching in the park.
Stone City: The Stone City, also known as the Castle of Përmet, is a historical monument located in the center of Përmet town. The castle dates back to the 17th century and was used to protect the town from invading armies.
Cuisine: Përmet is known for its delicious traditional Albanian cuisine, with dishes like qifqi, petanik, and lakror. The district is also famous for its wine, with several wineries in the area producing high-quality red and white wines.
Culture: Përmet has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional music and dance being an important part of local festivals and celebrations. The district is also known for its traditional handicrafts, such as weaving and embroidery.
Rafting: The Vjosa River, which flows through Përmet, is one of the last free-flowing rivers in Europe and is a popular destination for rafting and kayaking. Visitors can enjoy a thrilling ride while surrounded by stunning natural scenery.
Festivals: Përmet hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Festival of Roses in May, the Festival of the River in July, and the Festival of Grape Harvest in September. These festivals are a great way to experience local culture and traditions.
Places to Visit in Përmet District
Përmet District is a beautiful region located in southern Albania, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture. Here are some places to visit in Përmet District:
Benja Thermal Baths: The Benja Thermal Baths are a series of natural hot springs located near the village of Benjë. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing soak in the thermal waters while surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.
Fir of Hotova National Park: The Fir of Hotova National Park covers an area of 34,000 hectares and is home to diverse wildlife, including bears, wolves, and wildcats. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, camping, and birdwatching in the park.
Stone City: The Stone City, also known as the Castle of Përmet, is a historical monument located in the center of Përmet town. The castle dates back to the 17th century and was used to protect the town from invading armies.
Bënja Canyon: Bënja Canyon is a beautiful canyon located near the village of Benjë. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, swimming in natural pools, and exploring the stunning natural scenery.
The Red Mosque: The Red Mosque, also known as the Mosque of Labova e Kryqit, is a historical mosque located in the village of Labova e Kryqit. The mosque was built in the 15th century and is known for its beautiful red brickwork.
The Church of St. Mary: The Church of St. Mary is a beautiful Orthodox church located in Përmet town. The church dates back to the 18th century and is known for its beautiful frescoes and intricate woodwork.
The Museum of Ethnography: The Museum of Ethnography is a small museum located in Përmet town. The museum showcases traditional Albanian costumes, household items, and handicrafts, providing a fascinating insight into local culture and traditions.
The Vjosa River: The Vjosa River is one of the last free-flowing rivers in Europe and is a popular destination for rafting and kayaking. Visitors can enjoy a thrilling ride while surrounded by stunning natural scenery.
Best Time To Visit Përmet District
The best time to visit Përmet District is during the spring and summer months from April to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the natural beauty of the area is at its peak. During this time, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and rafting in the Vjosa River. The months of May and June are particularly beautiful, as the wildflowers are in bloom, and the temperatures are pleasant.
However, visitors should be aware that Përmet can get quite busy during the summer months, especially in July and August when many Albanians take their holidays. Accommodation prices may be higher, and popular sites can be crowded. Visitors who prefer quieter surroundings may want to consider traveling during the shoulder season, in April, May, or September, when the weather is still pleasant, and the crowds are smaller.
Winter is not the best time to visit Përmet District, as the weather can be cold and rainy, and some sites may be closed. However, if visitors are interested in skiing or winter sports, the nearby ski resort of Barmash is an excellent destination during the winter months.
Things to Do in Përmet District
Përmet District is a beautiful region in southern Albania that offers a wide range of outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Here are some things to do in Përmet District:
Visit the Benja Thermal Baths: Take a relaxing dip in the natural hot springs of the Benja Thermal Baths and enjoy the stunning natural scenery.
Explore the Fir of Hotova National Park: Hike through the stunning landscapes of the Fir of Hotova National Park and enjoy birdwatching, camping, and wildlife spotting.
Go rafting or kayaking in the Vjosa River: Experience the thrill of white water rafting or kayaking in the pristine waters of the Vjosa River.
Visit the Castle of Përmet: Explore the historical monument of the Castle of Përmet and learn about the region’s rich history.
Hike in the Bënja Canyon: Hike through the stunning landscapes of the Bënja Canyon and swim in the natural pools along the way.
Visit the Red Mosque: Explore the beautiful red brickwork of the Red Mosque, also known as the Mosque of Labova e Kryqit.
Learn about local culture at the Museum of Ethnography: Discover the traditional costumes, household items, and handicrafts of the region at the Museum of Ethnography.
Taste the local cuisine: Sample the delicious traditional cuisine of Përmet District, such as roasted lamb, flija (a layered pancake), and byrek (a savory pastry).
Attend local festivals and events: Experience the local culture and traditions by attending festivals such as the Përmeti Carnival, the Cherry Festival, and the Folklore Festival.
Visit nearby attractions: Explore nearby attractions such as the Blue Eye (Syri i Kalter), the Gjirokastra Fortress, and the Butrint National Park.
How to get around in Përmet District
The best way to get around Përmet District is by car or by hiring a private driver. Although the public transportation system in the region is quite limited, there are some options available such as local buses and shared taxis known as “furgons.”
If you choose to rent a car, there are several car rental companies available in larger cities such as Gjirokastra and Saranda. It’s recommended to book in advance, especially during the high season.
Another option is to hire a private driver or a tour guide who can take you around the region and show you the best spots. You can find local tour operators offering guided tours of the region, or you can ask at your accommodation for recommendations.
If you prefer public transportation, local buses and furgons are available, but they can be infrequent and unreliable. It’s best to ask at your accommodation for the current schedule and plan accordingly. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive compared to other transportation options.
Where to eat in Përmet District
Përmet District is known for its delicious traditional cuisine, with many local restaurants and eateries serving up authentic Albanian dishes. Here are some recommendations on where to eat in Përmet District:
Restaurant Përmeti: Located in the heart of Përmet town, this restaurant offers a range of traditional dishes, including roasted lamb, grilled meat, and vegetarian options.
Viroi Lake Restaurant: Situated on the shores of Viroi Lake, this restaurant offers stunning views and serves fresh fish caught from the lake.
Restaurant Sofra: This restaurant is located in the village of Çarçovë and serves traditional Albanian dishes, including flija and byrek.
Kujtimi Restaurant: This family-run restaurant is located in the village of Bënja and serves traditional Albanian food, including roasted lamb and grilled meat.
Restaurant Lulishte: This restaurant is located in the village of Kardhiq and serves traditional Albanian food, including lamb, goat, and chicken dishes.
Restaurant Guri i Bardhe: This restaurant is located in the village of Lengarica and offers traditional Albanian cuisine, including grilled meat, salads, and soups.
Bar-Restaurant Bujtina e Valëve: Located in the village of Zagoria, this restaurant offers traditional Albanian dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Restaurant-Kafe Vila Çuka: This restaurant is located in the town of Përmet and offers traditional Albanian cuisine, including roasted lamb and grilled meat.
Restaurant Turizmi i Liqenit: This restaurant is located near Viroi Lake and serves traditional Albanian dishes, including fish, grilled meat, and vegetarian options.
Kujtimi Bar and Restaurant: This family-run restaurant is located in the village of Çarçovë and offers traditional Albanian food, including byrek, grilled meat, and vegetarian options.
Famous street stalls in Përmet District
Përmet District is known for its delicious traditional cuisine, with many local street stalls and vendors selling authentic Albanian dishes. Here are some famous street stalls in Përmet District:
Flija Stand: Flija is a traditional Albanian dish made with thin layers of pancake-like batter and cooked over an open flame. You can find street vendors selling fresh flija throughout the region, particularly in Përmet town.
Qofte Stand: Qofte is a popular Albanian meatball made with minced beef or lamb, onion, garlic, and spices. You can find street vendors selling qofte in Përmet town and other villages throughout the district.
Byrek Stand: Byrek is a savory pastry made with phyllo dough and filled with cheese, spinach, or meat. You can find street vendors selling fresh byrek in Përmet town and other villages throughout the district.
Grilled Meat Stand: Grilled meat is a popular dish in Albania, and you can find street vendors selling fresh grilled meat, including lamb, beef, and chicken, in Përmet town and other villages throughout the district.
Sweet Stand: Albanian sweets, including baklava, halva, and Turkish delight, are popular throughout the country. You can find street vendors selling fresh sweets in Përmet town and other villages throughout the district.
Note that street food can be risky in terms of hygiene, so it’s important to choose vendors that look clean and well-maintained. It’s also a good idea to bring hand sanitizer or to wash your hands before eating.
Where to stay in Përmet District
Luxury accommodation
If you’re looking for luxury accommodation in Përmet District, there are a few options that you might consider:
Hotel Alvero: This is a 5-star hotel located in the heart of Përmet. It features luxurious rooms and suites, a spa and wellness center, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, and a swimming pool with panoramic views of the mountains.
Hotel Ramizi: Another 5-star hotel located in Përmet, Hotel Ramizi offers spacious rooms and suites with balconies overlooking the city and the Vjosa River. The hotel features a restaurant serving traditional Albanian cuisine, a spa and wellness center, and a swimming pool.
Hotel Kalemi: This is a boutique hotel located in the historic castle of Përmet. It offers luxurious rooms and suites with traditional decor and modern amenities. The hotel features a restaurant serving local cuisine, a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city, and a spa and wellness center.
Hotel Vila Kostveri: This is a 4-star hotel located in the village of Benje, just outside of Përmet. It offers luxurious rooms and suites with balconies overlooking the surrounding mountains and valleys. The hotel features a restaurant serving traditional Albanian cuisine, a spa and wellness center, and a swimming pool with panoramic views.
These are just a few examples of luxury accommodation options in Përmet District. There are also many other hotels, guesthouses, and villas to choose from, depending on your preferences and budget.
Where to stay in Përmet District
Budget accommodation
If you’re looking for budget accommodation options in Përmet District, there are several options available:
Guesthouse Familja Çelo: This is a budget-friendly guesthouse located in the village of Çarshovë. It offers simple but comfortable rooms with shared bathrooms, as well as a communal kitchen and a garden with a barbecue area.
Guesthouse Dhimitri: Another budget-friendly guesthouse located in the village of Benje, Guesthouse Dhimitri offers basic rooms with shared bathrooms and a communal kitchen. It also has a garden with a seating area and a barbecue.
Hostel Përmeti: This is a hostel located in the center of Përmet. It offers dormitory-style rooms with shared bathrooms, as well as private rooms with en-suite bathrooms. The hostel also has a communal kitchen and a lounge area.
Hotel Hasmegaj: This is a budget-friendly hotel located in the village of Gusmar. It offers simple but comfortable rooms with en-suite bathrooms, as well as a restaurant serving local cuisine and a garden with a seating area.
Guesthouse Krisafi: This is a budget-friendly guesthouse located in the village of Leskovik. It offers basic rooms with shared bathrooms and a communal kitchen. The guesthouse also has a garden with a seating area.
These are just a few examples of budget accommodation options in Përmet District. There are also many other guesthouses and hostels to choose from, depending on your preferences and budget.
Travel Tips Përmet District
Here are some travel tips for visiting Përmet District:
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Përmet District is during the spring (April to June) or the fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. The summer months (July to August) can be very hot and crowded, while the winter months (December to March) can be cold and snowy.
Getting there: The closest airport to Përmet District is Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport in Corfu, Greece, which is about 3 hours away by car. Alternatively, you can fly into Tirana International Airport and then take a bus or hire a car to Përmet.
Getting around: The best way to get around Përmet District is by car, as there are many scenic roads and villages to explore. However, if you don’t have a car, there are also buses and taxis available.
Accommodation: As mentioned earlier, there are both luxury and budget accommodation options available in Përmet District. It’s best to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the high season.
Food and drink: Përmet District is known for its delicious cuisine, especially its traditional Albanian dishes such as qofte (meatballs), tave kosi (baked lamb with yogurt), and byrek (savory pies). Be sure to try some local wine and raki (a strong fruit brandy) as well.
Activities: There are many outdoor activities to enjoy in Përmet District, such as hiking in the mountains, rafting on the Vjosa River, and visiting the hot springs in Benje. You can also explore the traditional villages, churches, and castles in the area.
Language: Albanian is the official language in Përmet District, but many people also speak English, especially in the tourist areas.
Safety: Përmet District is generally a safe place to visit, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
Currency: The currency in Albania is the Albanian Lek (ALL). Euros are also widely accepted in tourist areas.
Customs: Albanians are known for their hospitality and friendliness, so it’s always appreciated to show respect and politeness to the locals. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and remove your shoes before entering someone’s home.