Saranda: Farm Day! Gourmet Lunch, Tour & Cooking Class!

Planning a day trip that combines authentic Albanian farm life with delicious food and scenic views? This Farm Day experience in Saranda offers just that, with an engaging mix of hands-on activities, tasty meals, and beautiful countryside scenery. While we haven’t personally attended, reviews highlight its enjoyable, genuine vibe and the chance to connect with local life.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the six-course farm-to-table meal paired with unlimited drinks, including wine and infused ice-tea, offers great value for food and drink enthusiasts. Second, the interactive cooking class—where you’ll learn to make traditional Albanian byrek—adds a personalized touch. Lastly, the chance to play with friendly farm animals and swim in a natural eco-pool makes it a well-rounded, engaging outing.

One consideration is the duration of about five hours, which might be a long day for travelers with tight schedules or small children. However, the mix of activities means you’ll get a full taste of farm life without feeling rushed. This tour suits those interested in authentic experiences, food lovers, animal lovers, and travelers seeking a relaxed yet enriching day outside Saranda.

Key Points

• Authentic Albanian farm experience with friendly animals and scenic gardens
• Gourmet six-course meal with unlimited wine and herbal drinks
• Hands-on activities like milking goats and cooking classes
• Relaxing eco-pool swim with scenic views and farm ambiance
• Transportation included for convenience
• Suitable for families (children under 5 are free) and those with a love for local culture

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deeper Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure begins conveniently at the On My Way (OMW) gas station in Saranda, just outside the town center, next to Yes Cash&Carry. The tour offers transportation to and from the farm, which means you avoid the hassle of arranging your own travel—an underrated perk when exploring the Albanian countryside. The group size is not specified, but reviews suggest it remains intimate enough for personal interaction.

The Drive to Bote Farms

The ride itself is short and comfortable, setting a relaxed tone for the day ahead. This is especially handy if you’re coming from Saranda’s bustling streets, as it allows you to arrive feeling refreshed and ready to enjoy the farm’s tranquil surroundings.

Arrival and Welcome

Once at Bote Farms, you’re greeted with a refreshing welcome drink. The hosts, Kyle and Shawn, are praised for their warm hospitality and friendliness, which immediately makes visitors feel at home. The farm’s setting is picturesque, with terraced gardens, a wine vineyard, and sweeping views of the Albanian countryside, perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the peaceful environment.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Cooking Class

The first activity is an engaging Albanian cooking class led by knowledgeable guides. You’ll learn to prepare a traditional byrek, a savory pastry popular across the region. Reviewers mention that the cooking experience is delightful, with Wessel calling it a “really unique activity,” and Adam noting the “most amazing bureyk.” This hands-on part isn’t just educational—it’s also fun, especially if you’re into food or want a break from sightseeing.

Exploring the Farm

After the culinary lesson, you’re free to explore the farm’s terraced gardens, which showcase local agricultural efforts, and visit the small vineyard. Feeding and playing with farm animals such as goats, donkeys, pigs, and rescue animals is an activity many reviews highlight as a highlight. MaryJo mentions the friendly animals and the joy of feeding and playing with them, which makes this experience appealing for families and animal lovers alike.

Eco Pool and Relaxation

A unique feature here is the eco-friendly natural pool—a refreshing spot to cool off and take in the scenic views. Reviewers like Brandon appreciated the pool’s peaceful setting, with umbrellas and towels provided for added comfort. The pool area encourages casual conversations and relaxation, making it a good chance for downtime amid the farm’s natural beauty.

The Main Meal: Six-Course Farm-to-Table Feast

The highlight for many is the six-course meal, which is described as abundant, delicious, and thoughtfully prepared. The meals are predominantly farm-to-table, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients, and vegetarian or vegan options can be accommodated. Unlimited wine and herbal drinks such as ice-tea are included, which many reviewers appreciated—Adam called the drinks “plenty of” and of “good quality.” This part of the tour truly feels like a celebration of Albanian culinary traditions.

Final Toast and Departure

The day concludes with a Raki toast—a traditional Albanian spirit—and the return transport takes you back to Saranda. The seamless organization and friendly guides make the experience feel personal, like a visit to a welcoming Albanian family farm.

The Value of the Experience

Pricing for this tour is reasonable, considering the inclusions: transportation, a cooking class, farm activities, a six-course meal, and unlimited drinks. When you compare the cost to the richness of the experience and the authentic interactions, it offers excellent value. The reviews underscore this, with visitors describing it as “a must-do,” “absolutely amazing,” and “a beautiful experience.”

This tour particularly benefits those who want to step outside typical tourist sites and enjoy a slice of Albanian rural life. It delivers a nice balance of education, relaxation, and fun, wrapped in scenic beauty. Families with children under five will find it a great, accessible outing, as kids love the animals and swimming.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys culinary experiences, farm animals, scenic countryside, and local culture, this is a perfect choice. It’s ideal for food lovers, families, and casual travelers looking for a relaxed yet enriching day.

For those with an interest in authentic Albanian life, the combination of hands-on activities and traditional cuisine makes for memorable moments. However, travelers seeking a fast-paced sightseeing tour or with mobility restrictions might find it less suitable, given the rural setting and the duration.

Final Thoughts

This Farm Day experience in Saranda provides a genuine taste of Albanian rural life paired with delicious food, scenic views, and warm hospitality. The inclusion of a cooking class, animal interactions, and a peaceful eco-pool creates a well-rounded day that’s both fun and meaningful.

The value for the price is clear, especially considering the variety of activities, the quality of the meal, and the friendly guides. It’s a wonderful way to connect with Albanian traditions in a relaxed, natural setting.

While it may not be suited for those on a strict schedule or with mobility issues, it’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting an authentic, immersive farm experience away from busy tourist centers. Expect to come away with new skills, great photos, and a deeper appreciation for Albania’s countryside.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation from the designated meeting point in Saranda.

Where do I meet the guides?
You meet at the On My Way (OMW) gas station in Saranda, next to Yes Cash&Carry.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately five hours, with starting times varying by day.

Can vegetarians or vegans participate?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options can be accommodated during the meal.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and beachwear for swimming are recommended.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Children under five are free, and the farm activities are engaging for kids. Note that the tour is not recommended for wheelchair users.

What drinks are included?
Unlimited wine, lemonade, ice-tea, and water are included in the meal.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the farm accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the rural setting and terrain.

How many people typically join the tour?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, reviews suggest it remains intimate enough for a personal experience.

This farm day promises a delightful blend of authentic Albanian hospitality, scenic beauty, and engaging activities—perfect for those wanting to experience the country beyond its beaches.

You can check availability for your dates here: