Overview
This is an easy-to-moderate mountain traverse through the Zagoria region of southern Albania, taking you deeper into the mountains and the mountain pastures of the Nemërçka–Dhëmbel Range. The route follows historic mule tracks, shepherd trails, forest roads, and short gravel connectors, with long stretches of isolated terrain and limited infrastructure between villages. From Labovë, the trail passes through orchards and vineyards, then descends into the Selckë Gorge before climbing the old shepherd path to Sheper.
Trail profile
Trail description
The trail from Labovë e Kryqit begins through dense vegetation filled with ferns and shrubs. Initially, the path descends toward the valley of the Gryka River. The trail is well marked and easy to follow until reaching the river, where extra caution is needed when crossing to reconnect with the trail on the opposite side. From there, the route follows the Selckë road.
After walking approximately 2.5 km, hikers can stop to visit Selckë Waterfall, although the access trail is slightly damaged due to a bridge crossing. The trail then continues uphill toward Mount Laluc. A 300 m ascent passes through dense forests rich in wildlife, where signs of hunting activity can also be observed.
Descending from the highest point of the trail, around 950 m, toward 680 m, the route crosses mountain meadows and a karst lake surrounded by reeds and aquatic vegetation. The traverse between Selckë and Sheper includes several exposed panoramic sections with broad visibility across terraced slopes, high pastures, and steep limestone formations. Approaching Sheper, the terrain transitions into rolling upland valley topography with wider pastoral basins and long sightlines framed by surrounding peaks.
Accommodation & services
A.D Guesthouse
The only homestay of Sheper, offering private or shared rooms and three home-cooked meals, with a picnic included for the next day.
Nearby attractions
Sheper Lake & the Zagoria Valley
After six hours of hiking, the beautiful Sheper Lake appears near the village, marking the entrance into the Zagoria Valley. Crossed by the Zagoria River, this regional national park stretches between the ranges of Shëndëlli, Lunxhëri, Bureto, Trebeshina, Dhëmbel and Nëmërçkë — some of the highest mountains in southern Albania. Zagoria resembles a natural pearl surrounded by mountains, rich in biodiversity, culture, and history.
Sheper village
Birthplace of the 19th-century Albanian Renaissance writer Andon Zako Çajupi and prominent scholars such as linguist Jorgo Bulo. In the village center stand the Church of Saint Friday, the statue of Andon Zako Çajupi, and his house.