Tucked away in the Albanian Alps, Lumi i Shales is our very own 'Thailand of Albania,' a place of stunning natural beauty you have to see to believe. The journey itself is part of the magic; you'll need to take a scenic 1.5-hour boat ride across the breathtaking Komani Lake to reach this secluded river canyon. Once you arrive, you're greeted by crystal-clear, turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs, perfect for a refreshing (and very cold!) swim, kayaking or simply relaxing on the pebble beaches. It's a true escape, a piece of untouched paradise waiting to be discovered.

How long to stay: 2–6 hours depending on activity, or include as part of overnight stays in lakeside guesthouses