Theth is a charming village located in the northern region of Albania called Shkodra. The village is nestled among the Shala mountains, which makes it isolated and almost inaccessible during times of heavy snowfall. The village was founded about 400 years ago by six brothers, and different parts of the village still bear their names. Legend has it that Theth was founded as a refuge to escape conversion to Islam by the Ottomans. Despite its remote location, Theth has become a popular destination for foreign tourists, with around 5,000 to 10,000 visitors every year from March to November.
The village of Theth has a population of only 17 families who live there year-round, many of whom rely on remittances from relatives who have sought employment elsewhere in Albania and abroad.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is seeking to improve Theth’s economic prospects by promoting tourism in the area. In cooperation with the German Technical Cooperation Enterprise (GTZ), the UNDP has provided initial funds to several households to convert their homes into guesthouses. This strategy could help the entire community, as residents young and old can benefit from increased tourism by becoming local tour guides, while others can produce and sell traditional handicrafts as souvenirs.
Established in 1966, Theth National Park covers an area of 2630 hectares and ranges in altitude from approximately 1200 m to 2567 m, with the summit of Mt Radohima being the highest point. The park is located about 45 km from Koplik and 72 km from Shkodra. The area is crossed by a water network that flows from both eastern and western slopes in the valley. The River Theth rises from several different sources and streams above Okol. The direction of the flow is from the north to the south. The river of Theth is crystal clear and foamy in some places, with an average water temperature of 7ºC. One of the most distinguishing properties of this river is the abundance of mountain trout.
Theth National Park is home to several mountain peaks and passes, including Albania’s highest peak, the peak of Jezerca, which lies just outside the park at the north of the valley. Almost two-thirds of the park are covered in trees, and in many places, the steep wooded terrain is so inaccessible to humans that it is considered “primeval forest.” Human activity is subject to regulation in three distinct zones, A, B, and C, with all human activity being prohibited in zone A, conditionally prohibited in zone B, and strictly regulated in zone C.
Theth is a village that has preserved its authenticity and traditional way of life. It is a peaceful and quiet place, where the river might be the world’s well-spring, its banks the fit home of elemental instincts, passions that are red and rapid. It is truly a hidden gem of Albania.
We offer transportation from Shkoder to Theth and from Theth to Shkoder.
