Kolonja Day Tour with Breakfast and Dinner

Experience the Charm of Albania’s Kolonja Region in a Full-Day Tour

If you’re craving a taste of authentic Albania beyond the usual tourist spots, the Kolonja Day Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into this fascinating and scenic part of Korçë County. For $292 per person, you’ll spend around 15 hours exploring colorful villages, historic churches, and lush landscapes, all with a friendly guide named Albert who keeps things engaging. The tour includes a traditional breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it a feast for both your eyes and your palate.

What we love most about this experience are the detailed visits to Saint Kolli Vodice church, a site steeped in history, and the opportunity to enjoy spectacular views of Mount Gramoz from a cozy coffee stop. The inclusion of a characteristic 1800s house provides a glimpse into local life and architecture. A possible consideration is the long duration and bus rides, which might be tiring for those less accustomed to a full day on the move. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, culturally immersive experience and enjoy learning about local traditions, history, and landscapes in a single day.

This experience made our article of Tirana’s 8 Best Dining Experiences.

Key Points

• Authentic Regional Experience: Visit traditional villages, historic churches, and homes that showcase Albania’s ethnographic legacy.
• Scenic Landscapes: Enjoy panoramic views of Mount Gramoz and picturesque countryside during multiple stops.
• Cultural Highlights: Explore Saint Kolli Vodice church and a historically significant 1800s house.
• Local Cuisine: Indulge in a breakfast, traditional lunch, and dinner showcasing regional specialties.
• Comfortable Transportation: Relax on a well-organized bus tour with planned stops, making the most of your day.
• For Curious Travelers: Ideal for those interested in history, architecture, and natural beauty, willing to spend a full day exploring.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Walkthrough of the Kolonja Day Tour

Starting Point at Oxygen Boutique Hotel in Tirana

Your day begins comfortably at the Oxygen Boutique Hotel, where you’ll meet your guide, Albert. From there, a short drive takes you out of Tirana, heading toward the southeast into Korçë County. The initial journey lasts about an hour, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and get oriented.

First Scenic Break and Coffee with a View

After the drive, you’ll stop for a coffee break at a scenic spot overlooking Mount Gramoz. This is a highlight, especially for photography lovers. The views are striking — the mountain’s peaks are often shrouded in clouds, adding a touch of drama. Multiple reviewers mention how this first stop sets a relaxed tone, giving time to absorb the natural beauty and chat with fellow travelers.

Exploring Erseka and the Surrounding Villages

Next, the tour continues with about 1.5 hours in the bus, winding through the lush Albanian countryside to reach Erseka, the lively heart of Kolonja. Here, you’ll experience vibrant local life, with a chance to stroll through its streets and get a feel for everyday Albanian life.

During the day, you’ll enjoy a traditional lunch—a highlight for many. The meal features local village products, likely including fresh bread, cheeses, and possibly regional specialties. The natural setting near Saint Kolli Vodice church makes the lunch both scenic and memorable.

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Visiting Saint Kolli Vodice Church

One of the most culturally significant stops is the Saint Kolli Vodice church. Built with traditional craftsmanship, this historic church offers insight into the area’s religious and architectural heritage. Travelers have appreciated the opportunity to explore this site with a guided tour, learning about its history and significance.

Visiting a Characteristic 1800s House

A visit to a house from the 1800s offers a rare glimpse into traditional Albanian architecture and rural life. The Jovanes family, renowned for their role in founding the village and building the church, opens their historic home for visitors. Many reviews mention how this stop adds depth to the experience, making history feel tangible.

Scenic Stops and Photo Opportunities

Throughout the day, you’ll make multiple photo stops and short walks, including a 50-minute free time for exploring or relaxing. These breaks are designed to let you soak in the scenery, take pictures, and absorb the local atmosphere.

End of the Day with Dinner in Erseka

The final highlight is a hearty dinner at Sofra Kolonjare, known for its mountain architecture and rustic charm. The meal caps off your day with regional flavors, leaving you full and satisfied. Many travelers find this a fitting end, appreciating the chance to reflect on the day’s discoveries.

Return to Tirana

After dinner, the bus heads back toward Tirana, with approximately 1 hour of travel. You’ll arrive back at the Oxygen Boutique Hotel, tired but enriched by your journey.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour’s price covers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus visits to Saint Kolli Church and the historic house. These inclusions provide excellent value, especially considering the depth of cultural exposure and scenic beauty involved.

However, note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included**, so planning your transportation to and from Tirana is essential. The tour’s duration and bus rides may be long, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable spending a full day on the road. Moderate walking is involved, and the experience isn’t suitable for those with mobility challenges or wheelchair users.

Practical Tips for a Great Experience

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and exploring uneven terrain.
• Dress in layers, as the mountain air can be cooler, especially in the morning and evening.
• Bring your camera to capture the stunning views and historic sites.
• Pack water and snacks for between meals — there are plenty of scenic stops, but you might get hungry or thirsty.
• Remember that smoking is not allowed during the tour to ensure a pleasant experience for all.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs and culture lovers who want to see Albania’s traditional architecture and religious sites. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate scenery and local cuisine, as the day is packed with picturesque stops and regional dishes. If you prefer a relaxed pace with lots of storytelling and authentic experiences, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

However, if you’re sensitive to long bus rides or walking, or require accommodations for mobility impairments, this might not be the best fit.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 15 hours, beginning and ending at the Oxygen Boutique Hotel in Tirana.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast at the start, a traditional lunch near Saint Kolli Vodice church, and dinner at Sofra Kolonjare are included.

Is transportation provided?
Transportation is included between Tirana and the Kolonja region, but hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour involves a full day of travel and walking, so it’s best for older children or teenagers who can handle a long day on the bus.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a camera, water, and snacks are recommended.

Is there a guide?
Yes, the tour is led by a live guide, who speaks Albanian and English.

Can I join if I don’t speak Albanian?
Absolutely. The guide speaks English, so language won’t be a barrier for most travelers.

This Kolonja Day Tour offers a balanced mix of scenery, history, and regional flavors that will appeal to curious travelers eager to understand Albania’s cultural fabric. It’s a full, immersive experience that encapsulates the beauty and tradition of this lesser-visited corner of the country—perfect for those who want an authentic taste of Albanian life in just one day.

You can check availability for your dates here: