Day Tour to Permet Thermal Baths and Langarica Canyon

Exploring Albania’s Hidden Gems: A Day Tour to Permet’s Thermal Baths and Langarica Canyon

If you’re searching for a day trip that combines natural beauty, a touch of history, and a peaceful escape from crowded tourist spots, this tour to Permet, especially the thermal baths and river canyon, hits the spot. The experience promises to introduce you to some of the most striking scenery in the Balkans—think dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and bubbling sulfur pools—paired with the warm hospitality Albania is known for.

What we truly love about this outing is how it balances adventure with relaxation. You get exhilarating walks through Langarica Canyon and the chance to soothe your muscles in natural thermal pools. Plus, the fact that you’ll be in a small group (capped at just 10 participants) means a more intimate and tailored experience. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the long drive from Sarandë or Gjirokastër, which might be tiring if you’re not a fan of bus rides. Still, for those seeking genuine untouched nature and cultural sights, this trip is ideal.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love authentic landscapes, enjoy light adventure, and want a taste of local life away from tourist crowds. It’s a great pick for nature lovers, history buffs, or anyone needing a relaxing day in a stunning setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more genuine feel.
• Natural Thermal Baths: Warm, sulfur-rich waters with healing properties amid lush, scenic surroundings.
• Langarica Canyon: A breathtaking river gorge with cliffs, waterfalls, and inviting pools, perfect for light trekking and photography.
• Cultural Touch: The centuries-old Ottoman bridge adds historical charm along the route.
• Unspoiled Environment: Surrounded by the protected area of Fir of Hotova National Park, away from mass tourism.
• Flexible and Practical: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary and Its Charm

Starting with pickup options from Gjirokastër or Sarandë, the journey sets off through the scenic Albanian countryside. Expect a scenic drive, with reviews emphasizing how beautiful the views are even before reaching the main sites. The drive itself is part of the charm—passing through rolling hills, quaint villages, and lush landscapes that make the long trip feel worthwhile.

The first stop is in Tepelene, where you’ll have a brief pause for photos and to stretch your legs. Travelers have appreciated this as a chance to enjoy some local snacks and take in the peaceful surroundings before heading to the main attractions. The guide often shares insights into the region’s history and local culture here, adding depth to your experience.

Next, the group visits Kelcyre, a small town with a rich history dating back centuries. A quick photo stop allows travelers to admire the architecture and natural scenery. Guides frequently point out interesting facts about the area, making the stop both scenic and educational.

The Thermal Baths: Benja Thermal Baths

The highlight for many is the Benja Thermal Baths. Here, you’re led to natural rock pools heated by sulfur-rich waters, which are believed to have therapeutic benefits. The baths are set under an ancient Ottoman stone bridge, Ura e Kadiut, which adds a romantic old-world vibe to the soak.

Reviewers describe this part as a relaxing, almost magical experience. The water stays around 22-28°C all year, so there’s no need to worry about seasonal changes. You’ll see locals and visitors alike enjoying the soothing waters, which are also said to be beneficial for skin, joints, and respiratory health. Expect a laid-back atmosphere—some spots might be a bit crowded, but there’s usually enough room to find your own corner for a peaceful dip.

Langarica Canyon: Nature’s Masterpiece

After the baths, the adventure continues into the Langarica Canyon. This is where the scenery truly takes your breath away. The canyon, carved by the Langarica River, features towering cliffs, narrow passages, and small waterfalls. As you walk along the shallow river, you’ll pass natural pools perfect for a quick dip or just admiring the scenery.

According to regular travelers, the walk through the canyon is accessible—no intense climbing required—making it suitable for most fitness levels with water shoes. The reviews highlight how breathtaking the views are, with some mentioning hidden caves and warm springs along the route, perfect for explorers or those seeking a quiet moment in nature.

The guides are praised for their knowledge, helping you spot interesting features and sharing stories about the area’s geology and history. The entire walk takes around 1.5 hours, but the scenery makes it feel like a much longer, more immersive experience.

Culture and Environment

One of the tour’s understated charms is the local Ottoman bridge that spans the river, often featured in Albanian tourism material. It’s not just picturesque but also a reminder of the region’s long history.

The surrounding environment remains pristine and uncrowded, largely because the area is part of Fir of Hotova National Park, one of Albania’s largest protected zones. Visitors consistently mention how clean air, crystal waters, and untouched nature create a feeling of peace—ideal for a digital detox or simply recharging away from busy city life.

Practical Details

The tour lasts about 7 hours and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a big plus for convenience. The group is limited to 10 people, ensuring more personal interaction and flexibility. The cost is around $128 per person, which, considering the included transportation, guides, and access to unique natural sights, offers good value—especially when you factor in the authentic experiences and fewer crowds.

However, food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring your own water, snacks, or plan to buy some locally. The tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues because of the walking involved at the canyon, and it’s recommended to wear swimwear, water shoes, and bring towels.

Authentic Reviews and Insights

Many travelers have highlighted the quality of the guides, with some specifically mentioning Klajdi as an excellent escort—friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful even beyond the scheduled itinerary. One reviewer noted how Klajdi balanced safety, especially during times of local fires, while still making the trip enjoyable.

On the natural side, guests consistently mention the breathtaking scenery—from the lush canyon walls to the tranquil thermal pools. One reviewer from Switzerland described the thermal baths as “atmospheric and breathtaking,” while others appreciated how uncrowded the area remains, maintaining a genuine, untouched feel.

The value for money is another common theme. The trip’s length, the expert guidance, and the chance to experience authentic Albanian nature and culture make it a worthwhile investment. For many, the highlight was the friendly, helpful guide who made the trip smooth and engaging.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want more than just sightseeing; if you enjoy light adventure coupled with relaxation, it’s perfect. Nature lovers who enjoy scenic walks and natural thermal waters will find this particularly rewarding. It’s also a good fit for those looking to escape the crowds and appreciate a more genuine, tranquil side of Albania.

However, if you have mobility issues or prefer a more leisurely, less physically demanding experience, this might not be ideal. Also, you’ll want to plan for the long drive if you’re coming from Sarandë or Gjirokastër, and come prepared with snacks, water, and swim gear.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a wonderfully balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural history, and genuine Albanian hospitality. For under $130, you gain access to spectacular scenery, therapeutic waters, and a peaceful environment that’s hard to match in a day trip setting. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and authentic experience make it a standout choice for those wanting to explore off-the-beaten-path Albania.

While the drive can be lengthy, the scenic views and tranquil atmosphere make it worthwhile. It’s especially suited for adventurers, nature lovers, and those seeking authentic moments away from tourist crowds. Whether you’re soaking in the thermal pools or walking through the dramatic canyon, this trip promises memories of serene landscapes and warm Albanian hospitality that you’ll cherish long after it’s over.

FAQ

How long is the drive to the site?
The drive depends on your pickup location but expects to be around 2 hours from Sarandë and Gjirokastër. The journey itself is scenic and adds to the overall experience.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. It’s recommended to bring water, snacks, or purchase local refreshments during stops.

What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, water shoes, towels, and waterproof shoes. Comfortable clothing suitable for walking is also advised since walking through the canyon is part of the experience.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
This tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments due to the walking involved, particularly at Langarica Canyon.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

How many people will be in my group?
The group is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed experience.

What is the best time of year to do this trip?
While available year-round, summer offers the best weather for enjoying the canyon walk and thermal baths. However, the baths stay comfortably warm all year.

Is there a guide included?
Yes, your guide will be knowledgeable, fluent in Albanian and English, and will share interesting facts about the area.

Will I have free time at the thermal baths and canyon?
Yes, the itinerary allows for free time to relax, explore, or take photos at each stop, with around 1.5 hours at each main site.

Whether you’re looking to unwind in healing waters or marvel at rugged cliffs, this tour to Permet’s thermal baths and Langarica Canyon offers a genuine slice of Albanian nature and culture, all within a well-organized, value-packed day.