Day Tour to Permet Thermal Baths and Langarica Canyon: An Authentic Albanian Escape
Located in the scenic Korçë County, this full-day adventure takes you to some of Albania’s most captivating outdoor spots — the Benje Thermal Baths and Langarica Canyon. Priced at $136 per person, the tour typically lasts around a full day and includes transportation, guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off. It’s a chance to relax in therapeutic waters, walk through dramatic canyon scenery, and soak up local culture — all without the crowds often found at more touristy spots.
What we love most about this tour is how it beautifully combines nature, relaxation, and local heritage. The natural thermal baths are comfortably warm year-round, rich in sulfur, and set in a quiet, scenic environment. Meanwhile, the Langarica Canyon offers a hands-on, accessible adventure with jaw-dropping cliffs, waterfalls, and inviting natural pools. These elements make for a memorable day that balances physical activity with peaceful moments in unspoiled nature.
One possible drawback? The thermal baths can get a bit crowded, especially during peak times, which might limit your privacy or quiet time. Also, the trip from Sarandë or other coast towns takes over two hours each way, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a longer day in the car. If you’re looking for an authentic, scenic experience away from mass tourism, this tour is ideal — perfect for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, or anyone craving a genuine Albanian escape.
Key Points
- Authentic Experience: Surrounded by lush nature, with a focus on local heritage and untouched landscapes.
- Relaxing Thermal Baths: Naturally heated, sulfur-rich pools under a historic Ottoman stone bridge.
- Scenic Canyon Walks: Accessible, shallow river walks through towering cliffs, waterfalls, and caves.
- Uncrowded Environment: Part of Hotova National Park, offering pristine air and crystal-clear waters.
- Cultural Highlights: Historic Ottoman bridge and charming town of Përmet, known as the city of flowers.
- Guided and Comfortable: Expert guides, hotel pickup, and return included.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience
The Journey Begins: Scenic Drive from Sarandë or Nearby
We start early with hotel pickup in a comfortable vehicle, often a spacious Mercedes-Van, as some reviews highlight. The drive itself is part of the adventure, passing through the Albanian countryside. Expect to see rolling hills, small villages, and lush greenery — a visual feast that makes the long drive worthwhile. As Baptiste mentioned, the guide was welcoming and offered plenty of interesting stories about Albania along the way, which made the hours fly by.
Visiting Benje Thermal Baths: Nature’s Spa
Once we arrive at the Benja Thermal Baths, the first thing that strikes us is the setting. These natural pools are carved into rugged rocks beneath an Ottoman stone bridge, known as Ura e Kadiut. The water is comfortably warm, around 22-28°C year-round, and is filled with sulfur, reputed to have therapeutic properties for skin, joints, and respiratory issues.
What makes this spot special is the combination of natural beauty and history — bathing under the stone bridge, surrounded by green hills, feels like stepping back in time. Some visitors, like Martina, have described it as a “magical, almost surreal atmosphere” filled with the scent of sulfur and the sound of gentle flowing water.
The Benefits of Soaking in Natural Thermal Waters
Many reviews praise the healing waters and the relaxing atmosphere. The pools are often lively but spacious enough to find a quiet corner. Despite some crowding, there’s generally enough room to swim and enjoy the warm water. MICHEL mentions that the thermal springs are “superb,” and the experience was “one of the best excursions” he’d had in Albania.
More Great Tours NearbyWalking Through Langarica Canyon: An Accessible Natural Wonder
After relaxing in the thermal pools, we head to Langarica Canyon, carved by the Langarica River. The canyon’s dramatic cliffs and narrow passages are truly breathtaking. The walk involves wading through shallow river waters, which is easy with water shoes, and offers stunning views of small waterfalls, hidden caves, and warm springs along the trail.
The canyon is suited for most people with a sense of adventure, as Denzel described it as “a bit of a walk,” but “well worth it.” The experience is enhanced by the unspoiled environment, with clear river water and clean air, perfect for disconnecting from daily stresses. The canyon remains uncrowded, allowing for moments of quiet reflection amidst raw nature.
Cultural and Historical Touches
The Ottoman bridge near the baths isn’t just picturesque; it’s a centuries-old structure that adds depth to this natural landscape. In towns like Përmet, you’ll find well-kept streets, historic churches, and the welcoming warmth of local hospitality, which further enriches the day trip.
Practical Details and What to Bring
To fully enjoy the experience, packing swimwear, water shoes, a towel, and waterproof shoes is recommended. You’ll want to keep your belongings dry while wading through the canyon. Note that lunch isn’t included, so bringing snacks or a packed meal is wise, especially since no food or drinks are available at the pools.
The Guide and Overall Value
Many reviews emphasize the importance of a knowledgeable guide — someone like Klajdi, who is praised for being friendly, helpful, and fluent in English. They help with logistics, share interesting facts, and ensure safety, especially during the canyon walk.
At $136 per person, the tour offers a balance of comfort, adventure, and cultural insight. Considering the cost of transportation, guided commentary, and hotel pickup and drop-off, it presents good value for travelers wanting a comprehensive, authentic experience of Albania’s natural beauty.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This trip is perfect for nature lovers wanting an active day in the outdoors, history buffs interested in Ottoman-era architecture, or travelers seeking relaxation in thermal waters away from crowded tourist spots. If you enjoy scenic drives, easy hikes, or simply want a peaceful escape in unspoiled nature, this tour ticks all those boxes.
It’s less suited for those with mobility impairments due to some walking and wading involved, but most physically able visitors will find it accessible and rewarding.
Final Thoughts
This guided day trip to Permet’s thermal baths and Langarica Canyon offers a mix of health, adventure, and culture. The natural thermal pools provide a soothing experience that’s both fun and potentially healing. Meanwhile, the canyon walk lets you witness some of Albania’s most dramatic scenery in a way that’s accessible and not overly crowded.
The tour’s strengths lie in its authenticity, professional guides, and the chance to enjoy pristine nature. It’s an excellent choice for travelers looking to balance sightseeing with relaxation, especially if you’re keen on discovering genuine local environments away from busy tourist areas.
If you’re after scenic beauty, cultural richness, and a sense of adventure, this trip is likely to leave you with lasting memories. Pack your swimwear, water shoes, and sense of curiosity — this is Albania’s natural wonder at its best.
FAQ
How long is the trip from Sarandë?
The drive to Permet takes just over two hours each way, so plan for a long day, but the scenic views along the way make the journey enjoyable.
What should I bring for the canyon walk?
Water shoes are essential, along with swimwear, a towel, and waterproof shoes. It’s best to come prepared for walking in shallow water and some wading.
Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, so bringing snacks or a packed meal is recommended since there are no facilities at the thermal baths.
Can I swim in the thermal pools?
Yes, the pools are open for swimming and relaxing. They can sometimes get crowded, but there’s usually enough space to enjoy the warm water comfortably.
Are children or people with mobility issues suited for this tour?
The tour involves some walking and wading through shallow river waters, so it’s not ideal for those with mobility impairments or very young children.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
This tour blends natural beauty, cultural history, and relaxation into one memorable Albanian day. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat, an active adventure, or a glimpse into local heritage, it’s an experience that’s well worth considering.
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