Until recently, Albania was a predominantly rural country. Like many Eastern Bloc countries before it, once the local communist government fell, Albanians flocked to the city or migrated overseas. Few wanted to remain on family farms, leaving many properties and villages in neglect.
But the last few years has seen a resurgence of small farms, redeveloped with tourism in mind but with quality local and seasonal produce at the forefront. These agritourism businesses provide farm stay accommodation for tourists while growing their own food, raising livestock and providing other services to tourists like hiking, transport and tour guides.
At this point in time, most Albanian farm stays are located in the north of the country, predominantly around Shkodra, Theth and Valbona. But you’ll find one of the best farms stays near Korca and many more are opening up around Berat and further south towards the coast near Saranda.
Farm Stays in Albania
If you’re looking to book a farm stay in Albania, the following small agritourism businesses stand out above the rest.
- Mrizi i Zanave Agroturizëm
Albania’s most famous and luxury farm stay, Mrizi i Zanave is located not far from the northern Albanian city of Shkodra. The unique architecture is a mix of traditional stone and modern glass, the food is exceptional and the garden is overflowing with fresh produce. - Agroturizem Rruga e Mullirit
In northern Albania, past the city of Shkodra and not far from the Montenegrin border is the family-run farm stay Rruga e Mullirit. You have the opportunity to explore the gardens while gaining insight from your hosts. Taste locally grown produce including roasted chestnuts, mountain tea as well as freshly made burek, cheese and jams. - Farm Sotira
The best farm stay in southern Albania, this is the perfect stop on the road between Korca and Gjirokastra. Not only can you enjoy the fresh air, farm food and resident animals, but you can also use the farm as a base for hiking and other outdoor activities. - Agroturizem Marku
In a quiet area south of Shkodra, Agroturizem Marku is a highly-rated family-run accommodation with warm, welcoming hosts. Enjoy freshly baked bread, local olives, cheese, plum jam, Albanian pastries and farm eggs. - Bujtina Polia
Another small family-run farm stay in Theth in the Albanian Alps, Bujtina Polia is known for feeding guests traditional breakfasts and hearty peasant food dinners. Most visitors use the guest house as a base for hiking in the Theth / Valbona region either on their own or with a group organised by the host. This is a great option if you’re looking for vegetarian food. - Logu i Harushave
Eat traditional Albanian dishes before and after your hike in the Theth region. At the farm stay you can interact with the farm animals including horses and eat breakfast and dinner under the fruit trees. - Hylli i Drites
On a hill overlooking the Lezha countryside, Hylli i Drites is an upmarket farm stay perfect if you’re driving from Shkodra towards Tirana. Highly rated for their Albanian meals which draw visitors and locals from nearby regions.
Depending on the region, Albanian farm stays and great for hiking (in the north), swimming (in the south) and as opportunities to interact with the warm Albanian people.