From Tirana/Durres/Golem:Permet, Canyon & Thermal Baths.

Exploring Albania’s Hidden Gem: Permet, Canyon & Thermal Baths Tour

This detailed review covers an 8.5-hour adventure that takes you from Tirana, Durres, or Golem to the enchanting town of Permet, famous for its thermal baths and dramatic canyon landscapes. If you’re craving a mix of relaxation, nature, and a taste of local Albanian life, this tour offers a well-rounded experience.

What we love about this tour is its perfect balance of scenic exploration and wellness, the knowledgeable guide (who makes every stop interesting), and the opportunity to enjoy natural thermal waters year-round. The only thing to consider is that the journey involves a fair amount of driving—about 8.5 hours total—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with full-day excursions. This trip is ideal for travelers eager to see authentic Albania’s landscapes and unwind in soothing thermal baths without sacrificing cultural insights along the way.

Good To Know

• Authentic Albanian Experiences: Explore Permet’s local charm with its vibrant city center and thermal baths.
• Stunning Natural Beauty: Marvel at the impressive Permet Canyon and the Vjosa River’s pristine waters.
• Well-Organized Day: Includes transport, a professional guide, and stops for brief rests, making the long drive comfortable.
• Thermal Waters: Enjoy swimming in mineral-rich Benja Hot Baths, renowned for their therapeutic properties.
• Cultural Insights: Gain knowledge about local history, geology, and ecology from your guide.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance or reserve now and pay later for maximum flexibility.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Close Look at the Permet, Canyon & Thermal Baths Tour

Starting Points and Logistics: Smooth and Convenient

Your day begins early, with pickup options from Tirana at 7:30 am, Durres at 8:00 am, or Golem at 8:30 am. The tour’s flexibility for these three pick-up locations is a huge plus, especially if you’re staying in any of these areas. The transport is included, which takes a lot off your mind. Expect a comfortable vehicle with plenty of space, as the total drive from your starting point to Permet is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

Throughout the journey, the tour provides short stops for coffee or restroom breaks, so you won’t feel rushed or cramped. These little pauses are appreciated, especially on a long day out, helping keep everyone refreshed and ready to explore.

First Stop: Tepelena Castle – A Glimpse into History

The first major stop is at Tepelena Castle, an ancient fortress that offers panoramic views of the surrounding Albanian countryside. The ancient walls and towers provide a tangible sense of history, and the vistas make for great photo opportunities. The castle’s location offers a strategic overlook, and some reviewers have noted that the guide, Alex, shared fascinating stories about its past, adding depth to the visit.

Vibrant Tepelena Village and the Pristine Vjosa River

Next, you’ll pass through the charming village of Tepelena, famous for its refreshing cold water springs. The village’s relaxed atmosphere and traditional architecture let you see real Albanian life away from tourist hotspots. As you approach the Vjosa River, its untouched beauty becomes evident—an ideal backdrop for nature lovers.

The Vjosa River, now a protected national park, presents a picture of serene, clear waters flowing over rocky beds. Many reviewers appreciate the river’s natural state, which offers opportunities for photography and simply soaking in nature.

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Arriving in Permet: The Heart of the Experience

Once in Permet, the tour really kicks into gear. The city boasts a lively downtown with local shops, cafes, and a friendly vibe. Here, you’ll have some free time to explore, take photos, or grab a quick snack. The guide recommends trying local delicacies, which adds an authentic flavor to your visit.

The Highlight: Benja Natural Hot Baths

The Benja Hot Baths are the star of the show. These natural thermal pools are famous for their mineral-rich waters that are believed to have therapeutic properties. Open all year, they provide a relaxing break from sightseeing, and the warm waters are perfect for unwinding, especially after a morning of travel and exploration.

Guests report that the baths are not overly commercialized, maintaining a natural charm. Many describe the experience as both relaxing and invigorating. One reviewer, Sonal, shared: “Alex made the experience even better with his friendly guidance. The hot baths are a must-visit, and the waters truly feel healing.” Be sure to bring your bathing suit and towel—these are essential for enjoying the baths comfortably.

Exploring the Permet Canyon: Natural Wonder

From the thermal baths, the tour takes you into the Permet Canyon, a spectacular geological formation with towering cliffs, narrow passages, and crystalline waters. You’ll see sections like Grunas and Langarica canyons, which feature dramatic rock walls and inviting waterways—perfect for photography and nature appreciation.

The canyon’s rugged beauty offers a sense of adventure, and walking or light hiking optional depending on your energy level. The guide provides insights into the region’s geology and ecology, which enriches the experience. Some reviewers found the canyon to be even more breathtaking than expected, describing it as “a hidden gem” worth the visit.

Knowledgeable Guides Make a Difference

Throughout the day, your guide (notably Alex, based on reviews) enriches your journey with interesting stories, local tips, and historical context. Sonal praised Alex for his friendly approach and deep knowledge: “He took us to all the best spots and made sure we had plenty of time to enjoy each one at our own pace.” This personal touch is what elevates the tour beyond just sightseeing.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers transport, professional guidance, tourist taxes, car insurance, road taxes, and petrol. It’s a comprehensive package that offers good value, especially considering the long drive and varied stops. However, meals, drinks, souvenirs, and personal expenses are not included, so plan to bring cash for snacks or local treats you might want to try.

Timing and Pace

The entire experience lasts around 8.5 hours, with a flexible start time based on your pickup location. The day is well-paced, balancing sightseeing, relaxation, and free time. Keep in mind that the drive is long, but the scenery and stops make it worthwhile. If you prefer shorter days or less travel time, this might not be ideal, but for those eager to see multiple highlights in one day, it’s a good option.

Accessibility and Suitability

The tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year, people over 95 years, or those with altitude sickness. It requires walking around canyon areas and thermal baths, so comfortable shoes and a moderate level of fitness are recommended. Pets, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed, maintaining a family-friendly atmosphere.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This full-day trip from Tirana, Durres, or Golem to Permet’s thermal baths and canyon delivers a genuine taste of Albania’s natural beauty and local culture. The combination of scenic drives, historical sites, relaxing thermal pools, and breathtaking canyon landscapes makes it a well-rounded experience.

You’ll love the knowledgeable guides who bring each location to life and the chance to unwind in mineral-rich hot springs—an experience that feels both luxurious and authentic. The scenery throughout is stunning, and the small group size helps foster a friendly, personal atmosphere.

The value for the price is solid, considering the inclusions and the opportunity to explore some of Albania’s less-visited but spectacular spots. The only downside might be the long hours on the road, but if you’re comfortable with a full-day trip, this tour offers a rewarding taste of the region’s natural and cultural riches.

This tour suits travelers who are curious about authentic Albanian life, enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation, and want to explore beyond the typical tourist trail. It’s perfect if you want to see scenic landscapes, soak in thermal waters, and learn from passionate guides who truly know their country.

FAQs

How early does the tour start?
Pickups are scheduled between 7:30 am and 8:30 am depending on your location, to ensure a full day of exploration.

What’s included in the cost?
Transport, a professional tour guide, tourist taxes, car insurance, road taxes, and petrol are all included in the price, providing a hassle-free experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s suitable for most ages, but not recommended for babies under 1 year or people over 95 years. Walking and some climbing may be involved in canyon areas.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, casual clothes, beachwear, and cash for snacks or souvenirs are recommended.

Can I swim in the thermal baths?
Yes, swimming in the mineral-rich Benja Hot Baths is a key part of the experience, so bring your swimwear and towel.

How long are the drive and stops?
The total drive time from your starting point is about 1.5-2 hours, with several short stops for breaks and sightseeing.

Is the guide fluent in English?
Yes, the tour is led by an English-speaking guide, ensuring clear explanations and local insights throughout the day.

In summary, this tour from Tirana, Durres, or Golem offers a fantastic day out for those eager to see some of Albania’s best-kept secrets—natural hot springs, dramatic canyons, and authentic local life—completely worth the time and effort.

You can check if your dates are available here: