“Albanian Equine Odyssey: Unleash Your Inner Rider – A Journey of Discovery and Adventure”
Welcome to the exciting and immersive equestrian adventure of a lifetime! Get ready to embark on a week-long journey filled with thrilling horseback riding experiences, cultural explorations, and delicious culinary delights.Β
990 Euro / Full board * AllΒ meals and accommodation apart from the transport along the stay, extra drinks and ticket entrances in museums, cultural sites, art gallery or activities (optional) that are mentioned with extra cost etc.
*Please note that transportation to each location can be arranged at an additional cost, ensuring your comfort and convenience throughout the adventure.
Note also that if riders want to choose be accommodated in the town historical area instead of the village farm it is possible with an additional cost of 212 Euros. Meals also will take place in town.
Group minimum: 2 riders
Group maximum: 8 riders
Riding level required: No experience or beginners. This program doesnβt fit more advanced riding levels.
2023: 05.08-12.08Β /Β 02.09-09.09Β /Β 30.09-07.10Β /Β 04.11-11.11Β /Β 02.12-09.12Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β
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2024: 07.01-14.01Β /Β 03.02-10.02Β / Β 02.03 β 09.03Β /Β 01.04-08.04Β /Β 04.05-11.05Β /Β 01.06-08.06Β /Β 29.06-06.07Β / Β 03.08-10.08Β / Β 31.08-07.09Β /Β 05.10-12.10Β / Β 02.11-09.11Β /Β 30.11-07.12
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Single Supplement:
The single supplement for a single room is 15 Euros per night, payable here.
Small Group Supplement:
The small group supplement is applicable if only 1 rider did book onto the ride.
If, at the time of departure, more than 1 rider is booked, the small group supplement will be refunded.
The small group supplement is 132 Euros per person.
Health
We still strongly advise consulting with your General Practitioner before traveling in 2024. It is important to seek their medical advice regarding any necessary immunizations or health precautions based on your individual medical history. Recommendations for travel health and safety can vary depending on various factors, such as destination, current health conditions, and other potential risks.
While the information regarding COVID-19 may be different in 2024, it is still prudent to consult with your doctor before your trip to ensure you are in good health and ready for travel. Keep in mind that travel policies and guidelines, including those related to COVID-19, can change over time. Staying informed about the current situation and any specific requirements for traveling to your chosen destination is important. It is recommended to consult official sources, such as government health agencies or reputable travel advisories, for the most up-to-date information.
Please remember to prioritize your health and well-being during your travels, even if the COVID-19 pandemic is no longer ongoing. Your General Practitioner will be able to provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.
Health (ride specific)
Please take along sun cream and anti-allergy medicine for possible insect bites.
Film and Camera Equipment
Internet access will be difficult during the ride. Riders can buy an Albanian sim card/phone number for round β¬13 and have free internet access and around 30 minutes of free calls with most European countries.Β
Access to electricity is possible every evening and the whole area is covered very well with signal.Β
Packing List
Attire:
Riding hat
Long-sleeved shirts (avoid expensive or favorite clothing)
Warm jacket
Riding trousers and chaps
Gloves
Footwear:
Good mountain shoes with a grip (not too thick)
Avoid smooth-soled riding boots
Outerwear:
Waterproof raincoat
Swimming Clothes:
Swimwear
Evening attire:
Casual clothes
Protection:
Sun cream
Sunglasses
Hat
Medical supplies:
Anti-allergy medicine for insect bites
Essentials:
Torch (flashlight) for walking to feed the horses in the evening
Photography:
Small camera (avoid large professional cameras)
Identification:
Copy of passport
Saddlebags:
Personal saddlebags welcome (provided by riders)
Small saddlebags provided by the ride for food and water.
In addition to the other items, including a torch (flashlight) is recommended for walking to the horses to feed them in the evening. This will provide better visibility and ensure your safety during this activity.
Travel Summary:
Meeting Points:
Arrival: Tirana Airport (TIA) or Saranda Port
Departure: Saranda (CFU) – Take a flight to Corfu and then a boat to Saranda
Transfer Options:
Tirana Airport to Gjirokastra (Round trip):
Cost: β¬90 per person (β¬45 one way)
Distance: 225 km
Duration: 3 hours
Scheduled transfers every Saturday at 12:30 pm and 14:30 pm
Recommended arrival time for flights: No later than 14:30 pm
Recommended departure time for flights: Not earlier than 12:00 pm (midday)
Riders arriving in Tirana one day in advance should plan their arrival for the 12:00 pm or 14:30 pm transfer
Transfers from Tirana can’t be organized, but it’s easy and affordable to reach Tirana Airport by bus. Buses run every hour from the center of Tirana (behind the opera palace).
Private transfer to/from Tirana:
1 person: β¬140 (one way)
2 persons: β¬70 each (one way)
3 persons or more: β¬55 each (one way)
Note: Private transfers can be booked if it’s not possible to schedule flights that align with the normal transfer schedule.
Saranda Port to Gjirokastra (Round trip):
Cost: β¬50 per person (round trip)
Distance: 60 km
Duration: 1 hour
Transfers can be organized based on the ferries’ timetable for 2024, typically with one morning and one afternoon option.
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Assisting the Riding Center: Since Albania lacks equestrian shops, procuring necessary horse equipment from the local market becomes a significant challenge for us. If it’s feasible for you, we kindly request your assistance in bringing along any spare or unused items such as old pads, halters, ropes, girths, bridles, or any other equipment that you no longer require. Your contribution would be greatly appreciated by our center.
Upon your arrival, be greeted with warm hospitality as you settle into your accommodation. Take a moment to relax and soak in the serene atmosphere before the adventure begins. In the evening, we’ll head to the picturesque village of Asim Zeneli, where you’ll indulge in a delectable dinner at “The Barrels,” a charming restaurant located just outside the village. Your overnight stay for the whole trip will be a local guest house in the village “Asim Zeneli.”
Let the equestrian adventure commence! Start your day by learning the art of grooming and tacking horses. Prepare the magnificent creatures for the morning riding lessons in the arena. Delve into the foundational concepts of riding and develop a strong bond with your equine companions.
Midday: Refuel with a delightful lunch at Restaurant Mapo, followed by a fascinating Cold War City Tour. Explore the historical remnants and hear captivating tales from a bygone era during this immersive 3-hour tour (additional cost: 55 euros).
Evening Session: Return to the facility in the evening and get ready for the second round of lessons. Review your foundational skills and practice riding patterns under the guidance of experienced instructors. Experience the thrill of riding as you bond with your horse.
Take your riding skills to the next level as you engage in pole exercises and pattern riding in the arena. Fine-tune your technique and witness your confidence soar.
Midday: Savor a scrumptious lunch at Kodra Restaurant, followed by a unique Art/Tea Therapy session. Immerse yourself in creativity and relaxation as you indulge in artistic expression and soothing tea rituals (additional cost: 40 euros, 2 hours).
Evening Session: Prepare for an exciting evening filled with games on horseback and a mock-style horse show. Showcase your newfound skills and revel in the joy of friendly competition.
Embark on a captivating trek to Gjinofshat, surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature as you traverse the trails with your trusty steed.
Midday: Pause for a delightful picnic amidst nature’s embrace before embarking on a hike to the enchanting Monastery of Spilea (additional cost: 48 euros, 3-4 hours). Discover the historical significance of this sacred place while relishing the beauty of your surroundings.
Evening Session: Indulge in the art of horse care. Learn the essentials of washing, grooming, and nurturing these majestic creatures. Gain insights into basic anatomy and discover daily stretches that can enhance the well-being of your equine companions.
Engage in a schooling session to improve your riding skills while exploring the picturesque trails. Embrace the natural beauty of the surroundings and revel in the joy of horseback riding.
Midday: Relish a delectable lunch at Restaurant “Nga Shtepia,” followed by a well-deserved rest before embarking on an exciting trail that leads to a sparkling lake. Afterwards enjoy a buggy tour to Qestorati lake. The experience offers lots of adrenaline along 1,5 hours and absolute off-road drive. (Additional cost: 30 Euros 1,5-2 hours)
Evening Session: Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature as you trek to the lake. If you’re up for it, take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters, creating unforgettable memories in the embrace of nature.
Begin your day early as you ride through the village, witnessing the vibrant morning life unfold. Experience the thrill of galloping in an open field, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and a lively atmosphere.
Midday: Participate in rural life and farm activities such as gardening, milking, harvesting, watering, and cooking. Engage with the local community, learn traditional techniques, and embrace the authenticity of rural Albanian life.
Evening Session: The evening session presents an exciting challengeβa review of your skills and an obstacle course competition. Put your newfound abilities to the test and compete against fellow riders in a thrilling and friendly atmosphere.
It’s a day of choice! Select your preferred activity, whether it’s another invigorating trek to a previous location, engaging in more lessons and competitions, or playing exhilarating games on horseback. The choice is yours to make!
Midday: Enjoy a delightful picnic before embarking on an adrenaline-pumping rafting adventure on the Vjosa River (additional cost: 40 euros, 2 hours). Feel the rush of the rapids as you navigate the pristine waters.
Evening Session: Bid farewell to your equine companions with a heartwarming ceremony. Groom, massage, and stretch the horses, showing your gratitude for their companionship. Conclude this unforgettable day with a traditional dinner shared with the horses, celebrating the bond you’ve formed.
Departure Indulge in a delightful breakfast at the guest house, savoring the last moments of this enchanting journey. Take a moment to reflect on the incredible memories and newfound skills before bidding farewell to this captivating equestrian experience.
Join us on this extraordinary equestrian escapade, where horseback riding, cultural exploration, farm activities, and culinary delights converge to create a truly unforgettable experience!