For the trail · alpventurer.com/shen-andre-bay
Albania’s Secret Paradise: The Trek to Shen Andre Bay
Albania’s Secret Paradise · Albania
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Season
- Early spring and late autumn
- Water
- No sources; carry around 3 litres
- Parking
- Free
In short
The circular hike from Palasë to Shën Andre Bay and back in Albania covers 17.6 km, with 521 m of ascent and descent. It is moderately challenging, and the bay is about 9.5 km into the route. Go in early spring or late autumn; there are no water sources, so carry around 3 litres.
The route
- Distance
- 17.6 km
- Ascent
- +521 m
- Descent
- −521 m
- High point
- 81 m
- Lowest point
- -5 m
A Palasë: 40.17148, 19.58210▲ High point: 40.19615, 19.51258
Walking time, without breaks
- Relaxed7 h 15 min
- Average5 h 45 min
- Fast4 h 40 min
How steep
- Under 8% 14.9 km
- 8 to 15% 1.9 km
- 15 to 25% 0.6 km
- Over 25% 0.2 km
In two parts
- Up to the high point 7.3 km · +211 m
- Back down to Palasë 10.2 km · −294 m
What to pack
Every hike
- Water: about 2.5 litres (half a litre an hour)
- Rain jacket
- A warm layer (fleece or light down)
- Sun cap, sunglasses and sun cream
- Boots or trail shoes with good grip
- Phone with the map offline, and a power bank
- Small first aid kit
- Headlamp, in case it gets late
- Some cash and your ID
For a long day
- Lunch, and a snack for every two hours
- Salty snacks or electrolytes
- Blister plasters
Water and sun
- Swimsuit and a quick-dry towel, if you fancy a dip
- More water than usual in summer, and time in the shade
The guide
Southern Albania is a treasure trove of untouched beauty, concealed valleys, and picturesque coastlines that beckon adventurous souls. Amongst the most stunning destinations is Shën Andre Bay, a relatively unexplored, virgin locale between rugged hills and the crystal clear Adriatic Sea. Here, I’ll be sharing my experience of hiking from Palasë to Shën Andre Bay and back.
About Palasë to Shen Andre Bay hike
Winding through undulating terrains, dense forests, and remote hamlets, the Palasë-Shën Andre Bay trail provides a moderate technical difficulty level. With an elevation gain and loss of 521 m, it promises an engaging hike for those seeking a blend of tranquility and thrill. It’s a circular hike, so you’ll end up back where you started in Palasë, a serene village known for its pebbled beaches and old-world charm.
Our journey begins in Palasë, where the sea and hills converge in a breathtaking panorama. As we depart from the quiet settlement, we’re greeted by the rhythmic lapping of the sea waves and the intoxicating scent of pine trees.
The trail can be described as a symphony of colors and sounds, bringing together the turquoise waters, verdant hills, and melodious bird songs. It’s a moderately challenging hike, but the mesmerizing views at every turn make the effort worthwhile.
You’ll encounter several uphill and downhill gradients on this trail, contributing to the elevation gain and loss. As we traverse the woods, there are multiple opportunities to spot wildlife, including colorful birds and small mammals.
After roughly 9.5 km, we arrive at our main attraction: Shën Andre Bay. The sight of the secluded bay is nothing short of awe-inspiring, surrounded by jagged cliffs and adorned with clear, shimmering waters. The bay is still a well-kept secret, so you’ll likely have the place to yourself.
Here, time seems to stand still. It’s an ideal place to unpack your lunch and bask in the untouched beauty of the bay. If you’re brave, a dip in the cool, inviting waters might be the perfect reward after the strenuous hike.
Once we have soaked in the magnificence of Shën Andre Bay, it’s time to head back to Palasë. The return journey offers a different perspective of the same landscapes, with the golden hues of the setting sun painting a fresh picture.
It’s important to note that there are no water sources along the trail, so it’s essential to carry an ample supply of water—around 3 liters is recommended. The weather can be quite warm, especially from May to October, making early spring and late autumn the ideal times to embark on this hike.
Remember to be mindful of the local environment and culture. Pack your waste with you, respect the wildlife, and appreciate this region’s peace and tranquility.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable outdoor adventure, this hike should definitely be on your bucket list. Happy trails!