Top 5 of Albania’s Hot Springs
Beyond the sun-kissed beaches and rugged mountain peaks, Albania whispers tales of hidden oases, where steaming waters bubble from the earth's heart, inviting you to soak in serenity and mineral magic. Forget Yellowstone's fiery geysers or Nevada's desert oasis; Albania's hot springs offer a unique tapestry of history, natural beauty, and therapeutic whispers, promising a dip unlike any other. From ancient Roman baths echoing with laughter to secluded havens nestled amidst untouched landscapes, Albania's springs beckon you to reconnect with the raw power of nature and experience the healing warmth of mineral-rich waters.
The story of Albania's hot springs stretches back centuries, with their therapeutic properties utilized by ancient Romans and Illyrians. Early settlers, too, recognized their potential, establishing bathhouses and resorts that drew visitors from across the region. Today, remnants of this golden age remain in charming ruins like the Roman baths of Banja e Bardhës or the Ottoman-era bathhouses of Elbasan.
The Best Time for a Springtime Getaway:
Each season offers its own unique charm at Albania's hot springs:
Spring and fall: Enjoy mild temperatures, vibrant landscapes, and fewer crowds. Perfect for a relaxing dip and exploring the surrounding nature.
Summer: Escape the heat with a refreshing dip in the natural pools, especially near waterfalls. Be prepared for larger crowds, especially on weekends.
Winter: Experience the magic of snow-covered landscapes and the contrast of steaming water amidst the chilly air. Some springs, like Peshkopi Thermal Waters, remain accessible year-round for the adventurous.
Mineral Matters: A Dip into the Science:
Albania's hot springs are as diverse in their mineral content as they are in their settings. Here's a glimpse into the magic of their waters:
Sulfur: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, sulfur-rich springs like Benja Thermal Baths can be beneficial for joint pain and skin conditions.
Magnesium: This "relaxation mineral" found in springs like Leskovik Springs can ease muscle tension and promote stress relief.
Silica: The smooth, silky feeling of some springs like Fir of Hotova National Park comes from silica, which is beneficial for skin health and hair growth.
Calcium: Trace amounts of calcium in springs like Peshkopi Thermal Waters can be beneficial for bone health and muscle function.
A medieval bridge stretches over a sulfur-rich river that leads to year-round natural hot springs. Built in the Middle Ages, it has been letting people cross the sulfur-rich river since the days of the Ottoman Empire.
The hot water flows down the river unless you or others make pools to trap it. Temperature of the four springs is 23 to 32 degrees Celsius. You’ll have to walk up the canyon to find them all. Over the years the temperature has been decreasing and they are not as warm.
The river carves through a beautiful gorge, backdropped by distant mountains that stretch toward the sky. Also located adjacent to the baths was a wonderful architectural example of an ancient stone constructed Ottoman Bridge which spans the Lengarica River.
It costs 200L for parking at the site. It is possible to hike there from the nearby town of Përmet.
There are no changing facilities so it’s a quick change in car. There is a hut here selling basic drinks but no toilet facilities.
Once you are done with the springs, spend some time in Përmet. The "City of Roses" — as Përmet is known — is surrounded by mountains, rivers, and beautiful countryside and lies along the Vjosa River. Famous for folk music, delicious recipes (especially sweets like gliko), and rich history, visiting Përmet is like taking a trip into nature's wonders.
The Vjosa Valley offers stunning views along the entire length of the Vjosa River and is an excellent ecotourism destination. Fir of Hotova National Park, known as the "natural lungs" of southern Albania, has an area of 1400 hectares, is one of the most picturesque sites in the country and has something to offer visitors all year round.
Enjoy treats known to Albania. Gliko is undoubtedly everyone's favorite treat in Përmet. Not just a sweet preserve but an important ingredient of Albanian cuisine, it is made from many different fruits and vegetables. “Walnut husk” gliko is made with whole, green (unripe) walnuts, eggplant, wild figs, plums, and apricots.
Enjoy eating traditional food at Antigonea, a family-run restaurant with an ancient Greek decor and tables in front of the house. With the international Slow Food label, it is a very good address with famous traditional local dishes such as very good calf's liver, excellent rabbit, fish caught in the Vjosa, magnificent cheeses, succulent candied fruits.
Water Quality: 4 stars - Clean but with noticeable sulfur smell, some sediment near edges.
Ease of Access: 4 stars - Paved road access, ample parking, but can get crowded during peak season. A five minute or so walk will take you to a beautiful Ottoman bridge you cross before reaching the thermal baths.
Ability to be Alone: 3 stars - Large communal pools, quieter areas available but limited privacy.
Water Temperature: 4 stars - Multiple pools with varying temperatures, generally comfortable.
Health Benefits: 4 stars - Rich in sulfur and other minerals, beneficial for joint pain and skin conditions. Nice mud to cover your skin in.
Nearby Amenities: 4 stars - Restaurants, hotels, and shops within walking distance. No changing facilities onsite.
The Thermal Spa is located to the east of Peshkopi, approximately 1km from the city center. The mineral waters remain at a temperature of 40 - 43C and are used to treat conditions such as: rheumatism and arthritis.
The Peshkopi hot springs, or “Llixhat e Peshkopise,” much like other Albian Hot Springs are high in sulfuric content.
The spa complex operates year-round with numerous hotel facilities and restaurants nearby.
Water Quality: 5 stars - Crystal-clear and naturally filtered, no unpleasant odors.
Ease of Access: 3 stars - Moderate hike through picturesque mountains, good physical fitness needed.
Ability to be Alone: 5 stars - Secluded pools with stunning scenery, minimal crowds.
Water Temperature: 4 stars - Comfortable soaking temperature, with slight variations between pools. Water reaches temperatures as high as 43 degrees Celsius
Health Benefits: 4 stars - High magnesium content, excellent for stress relief and muscle relaxation.
Nearby Amenities: 2 stars - Remote location, camping available but limited other amenities. Only one kilometer away from the city of Peshkopi, these baths spring from the gypsum formations of Korabi Mountain.
Bilaj's Thermal Springs
The Bilaj thermal springs are the only manufactured hot springs in Albania. Back in 1965, Russian and Albanian engineers were drilling for oil in the village of Bilaj when they unearthed the thermal water.
These springs are located on the national road Vora in the village of Bilaj, near the Gjola bridge.
The water temperature is 55 degrees Celsius.
Given its proximity to Tirana and the International Airport, there is an abundance of accommodations in the area that offer various spa treatments, such as the Nirvana Resort & Spa.
Visit the nearby Castle of Kruja, the center of the rebellion against the Ottoman Empire. This castle is one of the most visited places in Albania.
Water Quality: 4 stars - Clean and clear, mild iron smell not overpowering.
Ease of Access: 4 stars - Easy drive with clear signage, parking space available.
Ability to be Alone: 3 stars - Moderate crowds, some private nooks but shared pools.
Water Temperature: 3 stars - Water tends to be on the hotter side, requires adjustment and caution.
Health Benefits: 3 stars - Moderate mineral content, primarily offers relaxation and skin benefits, rich in minerals such as calcium, salts, potassium, iron, magnesium.
Nearby Amenities: 3 stars - Restaurants and cafes nearby, other attractions require travel.
Elbasan Spas
The famous thermal springs of Elbasan and Hidrajt are located on the Valley of Tregan River, close to Shirjan Village. The thermal springs span over a 500 meters long belt from Shirjan to Hidrajt village. Hidrajt springs are located 1.5 km south-east of Elbasan thermal baths, on the slopes of Banja mountain. The water temperature varies from 46 to58 degrees Celsius.
The springs were used since the Roman era due to their proximity to Via Egnatia.
Enjoy this luxurious spa environment 20 Km from the city of Elbasan.
There are a number of hotels that offer access to the sulphur hot springs and mud baths including Termal Iliria, Puka and Nice. Try out thermal mud therapy - applied at temperatures 45 ° - 48 ° C for 10-20 minutes each day.
Water Quality: 4 stars - Clean and well-maintained, occasional slight sulfur smell.
Ease of Access: 5 stars - Located within city limits, parking and access are convenient.
Ability to be Alone: 2 stars - Large public bathhouse with shared pools, high visitor number.
Water Temperature: 4 stars - Multiple pools with varying temperatures, comfortable range available.
Health Benefits: 4 stars - Rich in various minerals, beneficial for respiratory and skin conditions.
Nearby Amenities: 5 stars - Restaurants, shops, and other attractions within walking distance. They are located in Shengjon (Saint John) village just at the entrance of Elbasan, where the motorway to Tirana starts.
Sarandaporo Thermal Baths
Leskovik is located on the main road between Permet and Korca. Located 10 kilometres from Leskovik right on the border with Greece, the Sarandaporo Thermal Springs are a nice alternative to the popular pools at Benja near Permet. Locals know them, but the area is relatively unexplored by tourists. There is also a sulfur cave used for medicinal purposes.
There is a very easy trail that goes along the Vjosa river and the Albanian-Greek border. The wide dirt road leads to the thermal springs. Inside the gorge there is a little cave full of thermal water.
While in the area try Leskovik’s Melesin Distillery – a gin and raki distillery with a terrific restaurant and boutique hotel attached. Explore the We will reach the farm of Sotira. This farm is a very peaceful place, where you can find yourself in the heart of the nature, enjoying grilled local products and the famous raki. Different activities like horse riding and hiking are offered.
Water Quality: 4 stars - Clean and clear, with a faint sulfur smell that dissipates quickly.
Ease of Access: 3 stars - Requires short drive and walk on uneven terrain, moderate physical fitness needed. There is no trail to the baths – you must walk along the river bed. The pools are right on the state border.
Ability to be Alone: 4 stars - Large pool with designated quiet areas, fewer crowds compared to Benja.
Water Temperature: 4 stars - Comfortable soaking temperature, slight variation depending on location.
Health Benefits: 3 stars - Moderate mineral content, primarily offers relaxation and general wellness benefits.
Nearby Amenities: 3 stars - Restaurants and cafes available, other attractions require travel.