Why Hike Maja e Vajushës

This hike is honestly one of the most peaceful and rewarding experiences I've had in the Albanian mountains. The trail begins right from the village of Lëpushë, and within 2 to 2.5 hours, you’ll find yourself at one of the most underrated panoramic viewpoints in northern Albania.

Despite the elevation gain, the hike is relatively moderate, especially compared to other trails in the region. The trail is well-marked and passes through open meadows. And the view at the top feels like you're looking out over a hidden corner of Switzerland: dramatic ridgelines and endless alpine peaks stretching across Albania and Montenegro.

Tips for the Trail

• Start after breakfast and give yourself plenty of time to hang out at the top.

• The hike is best done in the summer months, between June and September.

• The descent is gentle, but plan to return before dark

• The trail can be pretty empty, especially on weekdays. It’s considered less well-known compared to hikes like Valbona Pass.

Where to Stay

I’d highly recommend staying in Lëpushë for two nights: the night before the hike, and the night you return. It’s definitely doable to just spend one night, but it’s better not to rush and enjoy the beauty and calm of Lëpushë. You can stay at a family-run guesthouse like Hotel Kelmendi, which offers great food and hospitality.

If you want to see more footage of the hike and our overall trip to Lëpushë, check out the video my friend James made below:

"The Most Underrated Village in North Albania: Lëpushë"