Alyona CheLeaving Greece and going to Albania: from Konitsa to Permet
After leaving Larisa, where we had our last preparations, we spent the first night few kilometers before Konitsa, in the area of Pindos mountains in Greece. We camped in a very quiet place just next to the river and slept in our new rooftop tent.
This area is very famous of its wildlife, beautiful Vikos gorge and Zagorohoria villages. But we need to say, that the north part of this mountain massive is much more quiet, less touristic and extremely beautiful.
However, we did not expect the route from Konitsa to Permet to be so awesome. We chose it so that to cross less busy borders and because there are hot springs in Permet. We just wanted to drive North as fast as possible, so that to spend more time in the Alps and Black Forest. But, surprisingly, the landscapes are extremely picturesque and time flies when admiring natural surroundings.
Unexpectedly impressing Albania
Actually, it came to our mind that this route is one of the most beautiful routes we have ever driven (Iceland doesn’t count lol). The road is pretty bad, which is quite normal for Albania, but it also makes the ride very special. The landscapes are stunning and the view to the mountains made us think even of the famous Fitz Roy.
Few kilometers before Permet, there is a natural hot pool, where you can relax and get ready for a more bumpy road. We did not have time to enjoy it, so we just had a walk and took several pictures of the old ottoman bridge Kadiut at the same spot.
Finally, our second night of this road trip was spent at “friends of friends” house in Tirana. Albanian hospitality left us speechless. Fatjon and his family welcomed us like their beloved family members. They were our first (out of many) hosts during this trip and, without a doubt, among the best.
Definitely, we put Albania on our list of must-come-back-and-explore-more countries. What a paradox, that we travel to far-away destinations looking for beautiful nature and different cultures, while Albania, completely unknown and unexplored for us, is just a couple of hours drive far.
Next stop in Kotor!
Stay tuned 🙂