Hiking in Berat: An Epic Mountain Adventure with Mules, Meadows, and Magic
Last June 27th, I set out on a hike through the mountains of Berat — and though I knew it would be beautiful, I didn’t expect it to be one of the most soulful adventures I’ve ever experienced.
We began our day at Hotel Castle Park, where the fresh mountain air already hinted at the adventure ahead. I joined a group of fellow travelers — we were a mix of nationalities: Germans, Dutch, English, Americans and us, Mexicans — all drawn together by curiosity and a shared hunger for the outdoors.
Waiting for us was our local guide, Sajdi, from Albania Rafting Group — warm-hearted and full of stories. We reached the base of the mountain in a 4×4 after an hour-long drive with breathtaking views, and that was just the beginning. At the trailhead, another guide was waiting with a small caravan of mules to carry our supplies. It felt like stepping back in time, into a slower, deeper rhythm of life.
Into the Wild: Scented Trails and Silent Valleys
As we hiked uphill, the city of Berat faded behind us. We followed ancient trails once used by shepherds and villagers, winding through olive groves, pine forests, and wild meadows. The scent of thyme, sage, and mountain oregano rose up from the warm earth with every step. Our guides would pause to point out wild plants and tell us their names in Albanian, sometimes even plucking a leaf for us to smell or taste.
Despite our different languages and backgrounds, we found a rhythm together — walking, laughing, sometimes walking in silence, soaking in the sounds of birds and the rustle of the trees.
A Mountain Table Like No Other
After a few hours, we reached a high plateau, a breathtaking spot where the land opened up to reveal sweeping views of the Tomorr Mountains and the valleys far below. It felt like we had climbed into the sky.
The guides unloaded the mules and began to lay out our lunch. What happened next was nothing short of magical.
Out came homemade byrek, rice, meat grilled on the spot; goat cheese from a local farm; olives, fresh tomatoes and cucumber, and thick slices of crusty bread. We had fresh water from the source, some coffee and even a little raki to toast with. Everything was prepared with such care, and we sat together in a circle, sharing food and laughter as if we had known each other for years.
There was a moment — sitting there on the grass, the sun on our faces, the mules grazing nearby, the mountains stretching endlessly around us — when I felt completely still. Completely alive.
The Way Back: With Light Feet and Full Hearts
The descent felt lighter somehow, as if the mountain had taken some weight from our shoulders. The conversations flowed more easily, and we moved as one — a group of strangers turned companions.
But the mountain still had a surprise in store for us. We made a stop at a nearby lake, where we could wade into the cool, clear water and refresh ourselves. Our eyes could hardly believe the color — a stunning shade of turquoise that seemed almost unreal against the backdrop of the wild landscape.
Back at the hotel, dusty and tired, we thank our guides. We had seen a different side of Albania, one not found in guidebooks: the soul of the mountains, the strength of tradition, and the joy of simple moments shared with others.
Come Hike With Us
This isn’t just a mountain hike — it’s a doorway into Albania’s heart. With trusted local guides, the gentle strength of mules, and the taste of homemade food under the open sky, you’ll return with more than just photos. You’ll return with a story.
Join us at Hotel Castle Park and Albania Rafting Group. Let the mountain carry you away.
