From Tirana/Durres/Golem:Permet, Canyon & Thermal Baths.

Exploring Albania’s hidden gems often means venturing beyond the well-trodden tourist paths, and this tour to Permet offers just that—a chance to experience stunning natural landscapes, soothing thermal waters, and local charm all in one day. With comfortable transport, expert guides, and carefully curated stops, it promises a balanced mix of relaxation and adventure.

What we particularly love about this trip is the way it combines scenic drives with immersive experiences: soaking in mineral-rich hot baths, exploring dramatic canyons, and soaking up the local culture in Permet’s lively town center. Plus, the opportunity to swim in the Benja Thermal Baths all year round is a true highlight.

One possible consideration is that the full-day nature of the tour requires a bit of energy—long drives, walking, and exploring. But for those craving a genuine taste of Albania’s outdoors and taking it slow, this could be perfect. This tour is ideal for curious travelers who enjoy nature, history, and local traditions, all wrapped into one memorable day.

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Key Points

Convenient Pickup & Dropoff: From Tirana, Durres, or Golem, making planning easier.
Authentic Experiences: Visits to Tepelena Castle, Vjosa River, and Permet’s hot springs.
All-Year Swimming: Warm mineral waters at Benja Thermal Baths, regardless of season.
Scenic Drive & Cultural Insights: Enjoy picturesque Albanian countryside with commentary from guides.
Balanced Itinerary: Mix of nature, history, and relaxation to suit varied interests.
Value for Money: Includes all transport, taxes, and professional guiding, with optional extras to enhance your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey to Permet: What to Expect

This tour kicks off bright and early, with pickup options in Tirana at 7:30 am, Durres at 8:00 am, or Golem at 8:30 am. The slightly staggered start times accommodate travelers from different locations, and the day is packed with scenic stops, cultural highlights, and plenty of time to relax.

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The Drive & First Stops: Tepelena Castle & Village

As you leave the bustling cities behind, your guide—who is often praised for being both friendly and knowledgeable—will share insights into Albania’s history and landscape. The first stop is Tepelena Castle, an ancient fortress offering sweeping views over the valley. Here, you get a snapshot of the region’s past, with panoramic vistas that make for excellent photo opportunities.

Next, we pass through the charming village of Tepelena, famous for its refreshing cold water springs. This quiet spot is perfect for stretching your legs and soaking in the rural Albanian vibe. We loved the way the guide explained how these springs have been used by locals for generations, giving the stop an authentic, lived-in feel.

The Majestic Vjosa River & Nature’s Beauty

Continuing towards Permet, you’ll catch your first glimpses of the Vjosa River, often called one of Europe’s last wild rivers. Designated as a protected national park, it’s a symbol of Albania’s unspoiled natural wealth. The river’s flow through steep cliffs and lush greenery is truly mesmerizing, offering numerous photo moments.

Arriving in Permet: Culture & Thermal Baths

Once in Permet, the day’s highlight is the Benja Natural Hot Baths. Travelers love that these thermal waters are warm year-round, packed with minerals believed to have healing properties. Many reviewers, including Sonal, mention how relaxing it was to unwind in these natural pools, praising the helpful and friendly guides who ensure everyone is comfortable and safe.

The baths are a favorite among visitors, with some saying they felt a “full-body rejuvenation,” thanks to the mineral-rich waters. The experience isn’t just about soaking; it’s about feeling good, both physically and mentally, surrounded by stunning natural scenery.

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Exploring Permet Canyon: Nature’s Masterpiece

After the baths, we head into the Permet Canyon, a dramatic landscape that features towering cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and pathways for walking or light hiking. Among the canyons visited, Grunas and Langarica are top picks, each offering unique views and photo opportunities.

Travelers often mention how the canyons’ sheer cliffs and refreshing waters create a perfect backdrop for adventure and relaxation. The guided commentary enriches the experience, with insights about the geology and ecology of the area.

There's plenty more to explore in Permet

Transportation & Duration: Making It Smooth & Enjoyable

Your round-trip includes comfortable transport, with a professional guide leading the way. The total duration is approximately 8.5 hours, which is quite reasonable given the variety of stops and leisurely pace. Some reviews highlight how the driver’s careful navigation made the long drive enjoyable, with plenty of opportunities for photos and stretching breaks.

The Guide: Knowledge & Local Tips

Guides such as Alex, mentioned in reviews, are praised for being friendly, patient, and full of interesting stories about the region. They often suggest local eateries, share cultural tidbits, and make sure everyone gets enough time to explore each stop.

Practical Details & Tips

The tour includes all transport, taxes, and insurance, which simplifies planning. However, lunch, snacks, drinks, and souvenirs are not included, so bringing some cash for these extras is recommended. Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring a camera, and pack swimwear if they wish to take a dip in the thermal baths.

The Experience from a Traveller’s Perspective

One of the standout reviews mentions how their guide made the journey special: “Alex was very patient, giving us plenty of time to explore and enjoy the day at our own pace.” This sentiment echoes among travelers who appreciate guides who balance storytelling with space for personal discovery.

Many also highlight the delicious local food, which guides often recommend during breaks, adding to the authentic experience. The scenic drives, combined with the chance to engage with the local culture, make this tour more than just sightseeing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic landscapes, and relaxing wellness moments. It’s particularly appealing for those who want a full day of variety without the hassle of planning every detail. The tour’s pace and group size make it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to meet like-minded explorers.

However, those with mobility issues or who aren’t comfortable with long drives might want to consider their comfort level, as the day involves some walking and vehicle time. It’s also not suitable for babies under 1 year or individuals over 95, due to the physical nature of some stops.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour offers a well-rounded blend of natural beauty, cultural insight, and relaxation, making it a fantastic choice for curious travelers eager to experience Albania’s less-traveled corners. The affordability combined with included transport and knowledgeable guides make it great value for those wanting to see a lot in one day without sacrificing depth.

If you’re someone who appreciates stunning landscapes and authentic experiences—whether soaking in thermal waters, exploring rugged canyons, or simply enjoying the countryside—this trip has plenty to offer. Perfect for those looking to escape the city hustle and reconnect with nature, all in a manageable, guided package.

For travelers who crave a day of diverse scenery, cultural insights, and wellness, this tour genuinely delivers. Just pack your camera, some cash, and your sense of adventure—you’re in for a memorable Albanian journey.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8.5 hours, starting early in the morning with pickups from Tirana, Durres, or Golem.

What is included in the price?
Transport, professional guide, hotel pick-up and drop-off, tourist taxes, car insurance, road taxes, and petrol are included. Lunch, drinks, snacks, and souvenirs are not.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for most children, but not recommended for babies under 1 year or those over 95 years due to the physical nature of some stops and long drives.

Can I swim in the thermal baths?
Yes, the Benja Natural Hot Baths are open year-round, and many visitors enjoy swimming in the mineral-rich waters.

Do I need to bring cash?
Yes, bringing cash is advised for personal expenses, snacks, drinks, or souvenirs during the stops.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential, and bringing swimwear, a camera, and casual clothes for exploring and relaxing is recommended.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, guides like Alex are highly praised for their friendliness, patience, and local insights, making the experience more enriching.

Is the trip flexible?
The itinerary is quite fixed, but guides usually allow enough time at each stop for personal exploration and photos.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Albania’s natural beauty and local culture, all wrapped into one memorable day. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, it’s a journey worth considering for your Albanian itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: