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

Experience the soothing waters of Permet’s Thermal Baths and explore the dramatic canyon scenery on a well-organized day trip from Tirana, Durres, or Golem. Led by engaging guides, this 8.5-hour adventure combines a mix of relaxing dips, scenic drives, and authentic Albanian culture. You’ll start early with pickup from your hotel, making the journey comfortable with stops for coffee and rest breaks. The highlight? Swirling in mineral-rich waters at the Benja Natural Hot Baths—an experience that’s both relaxing and therapeutic. Alongside, you’ll take in panoramic views from Tepelena Castle and wander through the charming town of Permet, famous for its warm springs and rugged landscapes.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are the opportunity to swim in the Benja Hot Baths all year round—perfect for any weather—and the chance to explore Permet’s gorgeous canyon areas, like Grunas and Langarica, which are as scenic as they are invigorating. The guide’s insights into local history and ecology enrich the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. One potential consideration? The drive involves a fair amount of time on the road, so if you’re not keen on long bus rides, it’s worth noting. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a blend of relaxation, nature, and cultural discovery, especially those eager to see Albania’s lesser-visited natural gems with a knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: Full organized transport from Tirana, Durres, or Golem ensures a hassle-free journey.
• Authentic Local Experience: Visit the charming town of Permet and learn about its cultural heritage from your guide.
• Natural Wonders: Explore stunning canyons and relax in mineral-rich thermal waters known for their therapeutic benefits.
• Flexible and Informative: The tour includes stops for rest, photos, and local stories, making the experience engaging and personalized.
• Value for Money: All transport, taxes, and insurance are included, with optional extras like food and souvenirs to enhance your trip.
• Ideal for Relaxation and Adventure Seekers: Perfect if you want a balanced mix of scenic exploration, culture, and wellness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Thorough Look at the Permet Canyon & Thermal Baths Tour

Stepping into this tour, you’ll quickly notice the mix of practical comfort and genuine adventure built into the day. We loved the ease of being picked up from central locations like Tirana, Durres, or Golem—no coordinating with multiple stops or worrying about transport logistics. The journey kicks off early, starting at 7:30 am from Tirana, with later pickups from Durres and Golem, giving you a full 8.5 hours to soak in the sights and relax at your pace.

The Highlights of the Itinerary

Tepelena Castle is your first historical stop—and an excellent way to begin your day. Sitting high above the surrounding landscape, this fortress offers sweeping views that instantly connect you with Albania’s scenic terrain. You won’t just see ruins; you’ll get a sense of the strategic importance of this site and its centuries-long history. The guide generally shares stories about the castle’s past, providing a tangible link to the region’s heritage.

Next, moving into the town of Tepelena, known for its refreshing water springs, you’ll get a taste of everyday Albanian life. It’s authentic, not overly touristy, which means you’ll experience local rhythms and perhaps spot a few street vendors offering fresh produce.

The Vjosa River and Natural Beauty

As we near Permet, the landscape becomes even more captivating. The Vjosa River, protected as a national park, is one of Albania’s most pristine waterways. We loved the way the river’s calm flow contrasted with the rugged cliffs that surround it, offering perfect photo opportunities. The guide explains that the Vjosa is one of Europe’s last wild rivers, a jewel that underscores Albania’s commitment to natural preservation.

Permet and the Thermal Baths

Arriving in Permet, the town itself is charming—busy but unspoiled, with a welcoming local vibe. The highlight here is the Benja Natural Hot Baths, where you can unwind in mineral-rich waters renowned for their healing properties. The baths are open year-round, meaning you can indulge whether it’s summer or winter. The experience of sitting in warm, bubbling waters surrounded by Albanian countryside is genuinely restorative. According to a review, “Alex, our guide, took us to all the best spots, including the baths, where the waters truly felt invigorating.”

Many travelers find that the thermal waters help relieve muscle tension and improve circulation. The baths are simple but effective, and you’ll appreciate the chance to soak outdoors, with views of the hills and cliffs.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Canyon Exploration

After relaxing in the hot springs, the tour dives into the natural spectacle of Permet Canyon, including canyons like Grunas and Langarica. These areas are a favorite for their towering cliffs and clear waters, offering both solitude and stunning scenery. You might find yourself walking along trails, crossing small bridges, or just marveling at the sheer cliffs that seem to rise endlessly.

The guide shares insights into the geology and ecology of these canyons, enhancing your appreciation of this rugged environment. Many reviews note that the canyon views are a highlight: “The scenery is just stunning—like a scene from a movie—towering cliffs and waterfalls everywhere.”

Practical Details and the Experience

Throughout the day, the guide provides a steady stream of interesting facts and local stories, making this more than just a sightseeing trip. For those who love authentic experiences, hearing about Albanian culture and natural conservation efforts adds depth.

The tour includes all transportation-related expenses—driver, car insurance, taxes, petrol—so you pay upfront and focus on experiencing. The only extras are your meals, snacks, and souvenirs, which you might want to bring along. The tour’s length and pacing mean you’ll have plenty of time to explore each stop without feeling rushed.

Authenticity and Value

From a value perspective, this trip offers a lot. You’re getting transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and access to natural and cultural sites that would be challenging to visit on your own. Plus, the chance to swim in mineral waters year-round is a bonus, especially if you’re craving a wellness break amid your travels.

One reviewer summed it up well: “The whole experience was incredible, and Alex made it even better by being super friendly and knowledgeable.” The personalized insights and relaxed pacing make this a memorable day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers eager to combine natural beauty, cultural insights, and relaxation in one day. It’s ideal if you enjoy scenic drives, outdoor exploration, and soaking in thermal waters. The tour is great for those who appreciate a well-organized trip that strikes a balance between free time and guided commentary. It’s also suitable for anyone comfortable with a few hours on a bus—long drives are part of the adventure but are balanced by stops that refresh and inspire.

While not suitable for very young children or those with altitude sickness, it’s a good option for active seniors and families with older children who enjoy nature and history. Keep in mind that the tour is weather-dependent; in rainy seasons, some outdoor activities might be less enjoyable.

FAQs

• What should I bring for the tour? You’ll want comfortable shoes, a camera, comfortable clothes, beachwear for the baths, and cash for personal expenses or souvenirs.
• Is food included? No, meals and drinks aren’t included, so plan to bring snacks or enjoy local eateries in Permet.
• How long is the drive? The total driving time is substantial, but the stops along the way break up the journey and make it manageable.
• Can I swim in the thermal baths? Yes, the Benja Natural Hot Baths are open year-round, and swimming in the warm waters is part of the experience.
• Is this tour suitable for children? It’s suitable for older children and active travelers but not recommended for babies under 1 year or those with mobility issues.
• What happens if I need to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Albania’s natural and cultural riches, making it a smart choice for travelers who want more than just sightseeing. The combination of scenic drives, historical sites, and thermal baths delivers a genuine experience without feeling rushed. The knowledgeable guides and the chance to relax in mineral waters make it stand out as a memorable day.

If you enjoy discovering off-the-beaten-path gems, appreciate learning about local traditions, and seek a bit of wellness during your travels, this trip is a strong contender. It’s particularly good if you’re traveling from Tirana, Durres, or Golem and looking for a full-day escape into Albania’s natural splendor.

In sum, this tour is a balanced blend of relaxation, adventure, and culture, perfect for travelers eager to experience Albania’s authentic side while enjoying its most beautiful landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: