Albania - Shkodra or Berat?
Replies: 3 - Last Post: Jul 13, 2012 11:23 AM Last Post By: scottie_b
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I visited both last summer, and I would recommend that you do the same. Which way will you be travelling from? There really isn't much (okay, any) tourism in Shkodra, but Rozafa Fortress is definitely worth a look. I did a 1-night stop-over there on my way from Budva, Montenegro to Berat. Stayed in a fantastic guest house (http://www.hostelworld.com/hosteldetails.php/Florian-Shkodra-Guesthouse/Shkoder/46642), and your man drove us up to the Fortress for a small fee. He also offers other tours nearby, so if you are into the off-the-beaten path sort of thing, you'll dig it. As for Berat, great place to check out. 2-3 days is about all you really need as there isn't a ton of stuff to see/do, but the hospitality of Albanians will truly blow you away. Check out this place for accommodation (http://www.hostelworld.com/hosteldetails.php/Nasho-Vruho-Hotel-and-Guesthouse/Berat/61560). The family speaks Albanian, French, Italian, and a lick of German...I speak none of these fluently, but still got along just fine. Better yet, both hosts did a fantastic job or organizing transportation along the way. If you can't do both, either one is a definite win. Each family we stayed with was genuinely welcoming and excited to have us as guests, they prepared traditional Balkan meals for us, and they made fantastic recommendations for sight-seeing.2
Thank you so much for your reply, it was very useful! I will be driving from Mostar in Bosnia, but will unfortunately only have 2 days in Albania so I would rather visit just one of these places... I have decided on Berat and will definitely be staying in the accommodation you recommended!Thank you
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No problem! I hope you enjoy it. Nasho is a stand-up guy and will definitely take care of you. Make sure to hike up to the fortress while you are in Berat and try to get in on a xhiro while you're there.
