Leusë — Delvinë
Stage 9 of 12Moderate

Leusë — Delvinë

Leusë · Lëshicë · Badëlonjë · Petran · Ogdunan · Delvinë

18.5km
Distance
1060m
Ascent
570m
Descent
7h
Duration

Overview

The trail winds through pine forests, vineyards, and olive groves, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and the river valley below. It is common to encounter shepherds with their flocks, as well as mules which are still used for transport in the area.

Trail profile

Elevation profile for Stage 9: Leusë — Delvinë
Elevation profile from the official roadbook · 1060 m ascent · 570 m descent over 18.5 km.

Trail description

The stage begins in Leusë (Leusa), known for its traditional stone architecture and the Church of St. Mary, which features well-preserved frescoes. You often need to ask for a key from a local villager (look for the house with the blue gate) to see the interior. Continuing through pine forests, a half-hour hike leads you to Lëshicë (Leshica), a small village offering a quiet atmosphere and views of the Vjosa Valley. There is a water source near the meadow at the village Church of St Spyridon.

The trail from Lëshicë to Badëlonjë offers scenic views of the Vjosa Valley, passing through mountainous terrain. Travelers must be aware of the shepherd dogs protecting the huts along this trail (especially before May, when the flocks are still down at the mountain foothills). There's a water source near the village cemetery of Badelonje. Onward towards Petran, the track is generally unpaved but smooth, passing through fields and meadows — beware to put on some sun protection, as the trees are sparse. You cross the Vjosa river on a swing footbridge to reach the other side of the valley and reach Petran village center.

A moderate route connects Petran with the secluded mountain village of Ogdunan. The trail is generally easy to follow but involves some steep sections; some segments may be overgrown with shrubs, so long pants are recommended. There's a water source in Ogdunan, covered in a small stone building left of the trail, in front of St. Mary's Church of Ogdunan — surrounded by tall cypresses, with about three remaining households. Ascending towards Delvinë, you reach a high point then descend through oaks and beech. From the first viewpoint of Delvinë, descend the stone path down to a big creek named “Përroi Madh”, a great spot for a picnic. As you enter the village you encounter the big St John's church, surrounded by tall cypresses.

Accommodation & services

Albturist Eco Camping

Near Lëshicë (other side of the river) — campground & rafting tours on the Vjosa.

Glauk Jace Guests — Traditional Pit Stop, Badëlonjë

This family house serves drinks, sweets and traditional food if you call ahead (not an accommodation). Vladimir & Zhaneta.

Petran guesthouses

Petran has multiple guesthouses and restaurants that operate year-round — you can drop by spontaneously. Perfect if you want to take a day to enjoy the river Vjosa and a rafting tour. Be aware of the next, longer stage to Sanjollas.

Bujtina e Yjeve, Delvinë

Owned by Ylli & Yllka, “Guesthouse of the Stars”. A proper village house offering a unique overnight (and culinary!) experience, accommodating up to 8 persons in a traditional, big-family stone villa. Yllka also offers specialties such as mulberry raki with St. John's Wort, oregano raki & olive oil.

Nearby attractions

The Vjosa River Valley

A National Park with enough vistas and activities to stop travellers in their tracks for a couple of days — one of the last wild rivers in Europe.

Churches of Leusë, Ogdunan & Delvinë

Each village has its enormous church of the 17th/18th centuries, recounting stories of the settlements' glorious past — all three located on trail and visitable, with the Leusa church being the richest in remaining frescoes.