Llogara National Park

The road through Llogara is a switchback with over 1,000 meters of elevation change: from sea level at Orikum to the pass at 1,027 m. The ascent passes through dense conifer forests with centuries-old pines bent by Mediterranean winds. One tree – the "Flag Pine" (Pisha e Flamurit) – is a natural monument: its crown is wind-shaped to resemble a waving flag, and the tree is over 100 years old.

At the pass itself, a viewpoint offers a panorama of the Ionian Sea, the Karaburun Peninsula, and the coastline from Dhermi to Vlora. On clear days, Corfu island is visible. Nearby restaurants serve traditional cuisine: roasted lamb, mountain honey, and herbal tea. Average meal costs 1,000–2,000 ALL (≈ $10–20). Below the pass on the southern slope, another viewpoint and a large Hoxha-era bunker.

Several hiking trails cross the park. Caesar's Pass trail is an easy 4 km route with viewpoints – legend has it Julius Caesar came through here pursuing Pompey in 48 BC. The Mount Çika trail (2,045 m) is a challenging 7.4 km climb with 985 m elevation gain, for experienced hikers. From the summit – a 360° panorama of the sea, the Riviera, and in good weather – the coastlines of Italy and Greece. The park is also one of Albania's premier paragliding spots: tandem flights cost €65–75.

Pass – 1,027 m elevation with Ionian Sea panorama, coastline, and Corfu island views

Area – 10 sq. km of conifer forests: pine, fir, ash, oak

Mount Çika – 2,045 m, highest peak in the Ceraunian range, 360° summit views

Paragliding – tandem flights over the coastline from €65

Flag Pine – 100+ year-old natural monument with wind-shaped crown

Caesar's Pass Trail – easy 4 km hike following Julius Caesar's legendary route

Llogara National Park was established in 1966 to protect the unique conifer forests and biodiversity of the Ceraunian Mountains. The area has held strategic importance since antiquity: according to legend, Julius Caesar used the pass in 48 BC while pursuing Pompey during the Civil War. Illyrian tribes used these mountains as refuges long before the Romans. The pass has always been a key transit route between the Adriatic and Ionian coastlines.

Under the communist regime, a sanatorium for lung diseases was built in the park – the mountain air with conifer phytoncides was considered therapeutic. After the regime fell, the sanatorium deteriorated. Modern infrastructure – restaurants and hotels near the pass – began developing in the 2000s. In 2025, a 6 km tunnel opened under the pass, shortening the journey to the Riviera but depriving travelers of the switchback road's spectacular views.

From Vlora (30–40 km, 40–60 minutes):

– By car on SH8 highway through Orikum, then switchbacks up to the pass

– Any bus heading to Himara/Saranda passes through – 400–600 ALL

– Rent a car – recommended for flexible exploration

From Himara (25 km, 30–40 minutes):

– By car on SH8 north, climbing the switchbacks from the southern side

– Bus toward Vlora – ask to stop at the pass

From Tirana (200 km, 3.5–4 hours):

– By car via Vlora

– Bus to Vlora (700–1,000 ALL, 3 hours), then bus to Himara through the pass

On site:

The road passes through the entire park – stops at viewpoints, restaurants, and trailheads. Parking is free.

Season: April–October for hiking. May–June for wildflowers and mild temperatures. September for gentle weather and fewer tourists. In winter, the road is open but trails may be slippery.

Time of day: Morning offers best visibility for panoramas. Paragliding typically runs afternoons (thermal currents). Sunset from the pass is particularly striking.

Duration: 1–2 hours for viewpoints and lunch. 3–4 hours for Caesar's Pass trail. 6–8 hours for Mount Çika ascent.

Avoid: Fog and clouds at altitude – views will be blocked. Check weather before visiting. Winter ice on trails.