Belsh Travel Guide

Explore the culturally important attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drinks, where to stay, transportation options, and more in Belsh, Albania.


Introduction to Belsh

Belsh is a small town located in Southeastern Albania. The town is best known for its cultural and historical significance, natural attractions, outdoor activities, and delicious food and wine.

Belsh is the perfect destination for travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience in Albania. The town is small and easy to navigate, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or a longer stay.

This comprehensive travel guide to Belsh will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in this charming Albanian town.

List of Places to Visit in Belsh

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Belsh Castle

Belsh Castle is a medieval fortress that dates back to the 14th century. The castle was built by the Balsha family and was used as a military stronghold during the Ottoman Empire.

Today, the castle is a popular tourist destination and offers spectacular views of the town and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can explore the castle’s walls, towers, and gates and learn about the castle’s history and significance in Albanian history.

Ethnographic Museum

The Ethnographic Museum in Belsh is a must-visit for travelers interested in Albanian culture and history. The museum features exhibits on the traditional clothing, crafts, and tools used by the people of Belsh and the surrounding region.

Visitors can see traditional Albanian clothing, weaving looms, pottery, and household items that were used by the people of Belsh throughout history.

Saint George Church

Saint George Church is a beautiful Byzantine-style church located in the center of Belsh. The church was built in the 16th century and features stunning frescoes and well-preserved icons.

The church is an important cultural and religious site in Belsh and is a popular destination for visitors to the town.

Natural Attractions of Belsh: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Shebenik-Jabllanice National Park

Shebenik-Jabllanice National Park is located just outside of Belsh and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers hiking and biking trails, scenic views, and opportunities to view local wildlife.

Visitors to the park can see brown bears, wolves, wild cats, as well as various bird species such as the Golden eagle. The park also features beautiful waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and stunning views of the Albanian Alps.

Belsh Lake

Belsh Lake is a popular spot for fishing, picnicking, and boating. The lake is surrounded by beautiful mountains and is home to various species of fish, including carp and catfish.

Visitors can rent boats or kayaks and explore the lake’s calm waters, go fishing, or simply relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Belsh

Belsh is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and offers several hiking and biking trails. One of the most popular routes is the trail around Belsh Lake. The trail is approximately 8km long and offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

Another popular hiking route is the trail to Mount Tomorri. The trail is more challenging than the Belsh Lake route, but it offers spectacular views of the Albanian Alps and the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Belsh: Activities and Tours

Wine Tasting Tour

The Belsh region is known for its delicious wine, and a wine tasting tour is a great way to sample some of the local varietals. Visitors can visit local wineries and learn about the wine-making process while sampling some of the region’s best wines.

Cooking Class

Albanian cuisine is delicious, and a cooking class is a great way to learn how to prepare some of the region’s most famous dishes. Visitors can take a class and learn how to make traditional Albanian dishes such as qofte (meatballs), byrek (savory pastries), and flia (layered pie).

Week-Long Itinerary for Belsh

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit Belsh Castle and explore the town
Day 2 Go on a hiking or biking tour of Shebenik-Jabllanice National Park
Day 3 Take a wine tasting tour of the Belsh region
Day 4 Visit the Ethnographic Museum and Saint George Church
Day 5 Explore Belsh Lake and go fishing or boating
Day 6 Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Albanian dishes
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the town’s cafes and restaurants

Food and Drink Scene of Belsh

Must-Try Dishes

Tave Kosi

Tave Kosi is a traditional Albanian dish made with baked lamb, rice, and yogurt. The dish is rich and creamy and has a slightly sour flavor from the yogurt.

Byrek

Byrek is a savory pastry made with phyllo dough, cheese, and spinach or meat. Byrek is a popular breakfast or snack food in Albania.

Baklava

Baklava is a sweet and flaky pastry made of layers of phyllo dough filled with honey and nuts.

Local Beverages

Rakia

Rakia is a traditional Albanian spirit made from distilled fruit juice, usually grape or plums. The alcohol content of Rakia can vary depending on how it is made.

Raki

Raki is an Albanian brandy made from distilled grapes. Raki is a popular drink in Albania and is often served as an aperitif.

Where to Stay in Belsh: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Belsh has several accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly hostels to more upscale hotels. Some of the best places to stay in Belsh include:

Hotel Belsh

Hotel Belsh is a modern and comfortable hotel located in the center of town. The hotel offers air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a restaurant serving traditional Albanian cuisine.

Guesthouse Shpella

Guesthouse Shpella is a family-run guesthouse located just outside of the town. The guesthouse offers cozy rooms, a garden, and a terrace with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Hostel Belsh

Hostel Belsh is a budget-friendly hostel located in the center of town. The hostel offers dormitory rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a shared kitchen.

What to Buy in Belsh: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Belsh is known for its traditional crafts, including weaving, pottery, and woodcarving. Visitors can buy handmade souvenirs such as rugs, ceramics, and wooden toys.

The town is also known for its delicious wine, honey, and olive oil, which make great gifts to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Belsh

The people of Belsh are friendly and hospitable and take pride in their town’s cultural and historical significance. Visitors should be respectful of local customs, such as removing shoes before entering homes or places of worship.

Best Time to Visit Belsh

The best time to visit Belsh is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the trees and flowers are in bloom. The town can be quite hot and crowded during the summer months, and some attractions may be closed during the winter.

Do’s and Don’ts of Belsh

Do:

  • Take the time to explore the town and its museums and historical sites.
  • Try the local cuisine and wine.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing in places of worship.
  • Take photos of people without their permission.
  • litter or leave a mess.

Safety and Health

Safety in Belsh

Belsh is a safe town, and crime is low. Visitors should take normal precautions, such as keeping an eye on their belongings and not walking alone at night.

Health in Belsh

Belsh has a medical center that provides basic health services. Visitors should have traveler’s insurance and carry any necessary medications with them.

Getting to Belsh: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Belsh

The nearest airport to Belsh is Tirana International Airport. The airport is located approximately 150 km from Belsh and is served by several international airlines.

Bus Stations Near Belsh

Belsh has a small bus station that serves several nearby towns and cities, including Elbasan and Tirana.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a taxi or rent a car to travel to Belsh from nearby towns and cities.

How to Get Around in Belsh

Belsh is a small town and is easy to navigate on foot. Visitors can also rent bicycles or hire a taxi to explore the town and its surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Belsh: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some nearby destinations and excursions from Belsh include:

  • Tirana, Albania’s capital city.
  • Elbasan, a city known for its Ottoman-era castle and fortress.
  • The Albanian Alps, for a more adventurous hiking and outdoor experience.

Conclusion

Belsh is a charming town with a rich cultural and historical heritage. Visitors to the town can explore its museums and historical sites, hike in the nearby national park, and sample delicious local cuisine and wine.

This comprehensive travel guide to Belsh provides all the information you need to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful and off-the-beaten-path Albanian town.