Hidden deep in the rolling hills of southern Albania, Nepravishte is not a name that shows up in typical travel guides, but that’s exactly why we were drawn to it. As part of the “100 Villages” initiative and the broader vision of Sustainable Rural Development Albania, we were invited by GIZ Albania to explore and document the human stories, cultural depth, and natural beauty of this lesser-known destination. What followed was a weekend filled with warm encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and a deep sense of connection to nature, to community, and to tradition.
A welcome like no other
Our journey began at 7:30 AM departure from Tirana. The road to Nepravishtë wound through picturesque valleys, and as we approached the village, the sense of stepping into a slower, more grounded world began to settle in. Waiting for us at the entrance were the smiling faces of local residents and most memorably, a group of elementary school children dressed in traditional costumes, proudly representing the cultural identity of their community. This heartfelt welcome set the tone for what was clearly going to be an extraordinary experience.
Inside Nepravishta’s Heart: Homes, Food, and Song
Our first stop took us to a traditional family courtyard where the aromas of freshly prepared dishes greeted us before we even crossed the gate. We were welcomed with a table full of local delicacies, qifqi, petulla, gliko, cheeses, meatballs, and homemade bread, all crafted by the hands of the village women. Between toasts with local raki and generous servings, we also had the privilege to learn the basics of polyphonic singing, an ancient and soulful tradition guided by local artist Roland Çenko. This moment, shared in the shade of a family’s garden, felt like a living window into Nepravishta’s heritage.
Balconies with soul and paths of spirituality
From there, we hiked toward the “Ballkoni i Nepravishtës” a spectacular viewpoint built entirely through the initiative of the villagers. Overlooking the lush Drino Valley, this balcony isn’t just scenic it’s symbolic. Every August 19th, locals and visitors gather here to celebrate the village’s traditional festival, blending community, music, and memory.
Next, we visited another extraordinary home this one marked by beautiful stone architecture, hanging grapevines, and a veranda lined with jars of homemade delights. But the crown jewel? Honeycomb harvested on-site, bursting with flavor and history.
We continued our journey on foot to the Teqeja e Melanit, walking along ancient paths that are now being revitalized as part of a hiking trail network by GIZ Albania. Perched on a hilltop with sweeping views, the 19th-century teqe (a Bektashi Sufi lodge) welcomed us with quiet grandeur. The resident dervish greeted us warmly, answering our many questions about the site’s spiritual significance and local history. Some of us joined him in thoughtful conversation, while others embraced a moment of peace during a guided meditation session led by Erdit Asllanaj, set in the serenity of the teqe’s garden under the open sky.
Evening of culture, connection, and celebration
As the afternoon sun began to dip, we set off on foot once again this time toward Fushë-Nepravishta, walking along wild trails dotted with remnants of ancient Roman roads and mysterious stone ruins, whispering stories from centuries past.
We arrived at “Life on the Farm”, a beautiful open-air venue where exhaustion melted away thanks to the warm hospitality that greeted us. A generous table awaited: grilled meats, fresh salads, savory pies, and local drinks, all prepared with love and care. But this wasn’t just a dinner it was a celebration.
As twilight descended, the stage came alive with the soulful voice of Agona Shporta, performing among hay bales and flickering lights. She was later joined by the youth polyphonic group of Nepravishtë and artists from Libohova’s folkloric ensemble, creating a deeply emotional performance of traditional Albanian music that left a lasting imprint on us all.
To end the evening, we gathered in the village’s open field for a “Cinema Under the Stars” screening, supported by hbs Tirana. Lying on blankets and benches under the night sky, we shared smiles, stories, and a sense of quiet wonder.
A new day in Labova e Kryqit
We woke up to the calm rhythm of village life and the smell of fresh bread. After a restful night at guesthouses in Labova e Kryqit, Sophie’s Guesthouse and Bujtina.Maria we started the morning with a traditional breakfast prepared by our hosts. The freshness of local dairy, homemade jams, and warm pastries reminded us again of the richness found in simplicity.
Before diving into the day’s activities, we visited the historic church of Labova, said by legend to have housed a fragment of the True Cross. The atmosphere was sacred and peaceful, offering a moment of quiet reflection before heading into the village center.
There, we participated in an Open Roundtable at the Village Center with local stakeholders, tourism operators, and media representatives. It was a meaningful exchange of ideas on preserving heritage, boosting rural tourism, and ensuring that development remains sustainable and community-led. The honesty of the villagers and their hopes for the future gave our trip a deeper sense of purpose.
Ancient Stones and Gentle Creatures
Our final adventures took us just beyond Nepravishtë, starting with a visit to the ancient city of Adrianopoli. Built by Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD, this archaeological site still echoes the grandeur of its past, with remnants of a theater and stone pathways hinting at life from a forgotten empire.
Next, we made our way to something equally surprising but far more down to earth Reiz Donkey Farm, a charming example of sustainable agri-tourism. There, we walked alongside donkeys across open meadows, learned about traditional milking techniques, and tasted fresh donkey milk and goat cheese. The warmth of the host family was unmatched; we ended the visit gathered around a rustic table, sharing stories over warm, just-baked kulac.
It was the kind of moment that captures the soul of Nepravishtë: human, humble, and deeply connected to the land.
Why Nepravishte deserves your weekend
Nepravishtë isn’t just a village it’s a living example of what happens when tradition, nature, and hospitality come together with purpose. From the laughter of children in traditional dress to the heartfelt songs under the stars, every moment felt personal. And yet, this experience isn’t just for a select few.
With its inclusion in the “100 Villages” program and growing focus on sustainable rural development, Nepravishtë is ready to welcome curious travelers seeking authenticity over luxury, connection over convenience.
So if you’re someone looking to explore hidden gems in Albania, taste food cooked with heart, walk trails shaped by centuries, and meet people who will treat you like family Nepravishte is calling.
Pack a small bag, bring an open heart, and trust us: you’ll leave with a full one.
👉 If you’re already exploring southern Albania, don’t miss nearby Gjirokastër – a UNESCO city full of history and life. Here’s a full guide on what to do in Gjirokastër.
