Nderlysa Village

Village in Theth

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Fabiola Muhollari

Nestled deep within the Shala Valley, Nderlysa Village (also spelled Nderlysaj) is one of the most picturesque and peaceful spots in Theth National Park. Located about 7 kilometers from Theth village, it sits at the confluence of two mountain streams that have sculpted the landscape into a mosaic of turquoise pools, polished white rocks, and lush greenery. The road to Nderlysa winds along the valley floor, following the Shala River as it glistens in the sunlight, with views of towering peaks rising dramatically on either side. Even before reaching the village, you'll sense that this is a special place — where time slows and nature feels untouched.

Nderlysa is often described as the gateway to the Blue Eye of Theth, since the trail to this famous natural spring begins here. But the village itself deserves far more than a brief stop. Its small collection of traditional stone houses, farmsteads, and guesthouses are surrounded by apple orchards, vegetable gardens, and alpine meadows. The air is filled with the scent of pine and wild herbs, and the soundtrack is a blend of birdsong, flowing water, and the occasional call of a shepherd. Staying here overnight allows travelers to experience a quieter side of the Albanian Alps — one that feels deeply connected to the rhythms of nature.

The real magic of Nderlysa lies in its natural pools and rock formations. Over centuries, the Shala River has carved smooth limestone channels through the valley, creating cascading pools of aquamarine water that sparkle under the sun. These “natural jacuzzis” are a favorite among visitors, especially during summer, when the cool mountain water offers the perfect respite after a hike. Many travelers choose to picnic here or simply spend an afternoon relaxing by the river before continuing toward the Blue Eye. The colors of the water — shifting from emerald to crystal blue — make this one of the most photogenic spots in northern Albania.

Life in Nderlysa remains simple and genuine. Families grow their own food, raise animals, and welcome visitors into rustic guesthouses where home-cooked meals are served with warm hospitality. Dishes often feature locally sourced trout, honey, and mountain tea — flavors that reflect the purity of the surroundings. Whether you stop briefly on your way to the Blue Eye or stay longer to soak in the tranquility, Nderlysa Village captures the essence of Theth: a place where nature, tradition, and serenity coexist in perfect harmony.

Hike from Nderlysa to the Blue Eye of Theth

From the serene pools of Nderlysa Village, a narrow trail winds through forests, riverbeds, and rocky slopes toward one of Albania's most captivating natural wonders — the Blue Eye of Theth (Syri i Kaltër i Thethit). This 7-kilometer round-trip hike is one of the most rewarding short treks in the Albanian Alps, offering a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. The route follows the path of the Kaprre River, weaving through wild landscapes where every step reveals a new vista — from moss-covered rocks to glacial streams that sparkle in the sunlight.

The first section of the hike traces the riverbank before gradually climbing through shaded forest. Wooden bridges cross over rushing streams, and wildflowers dot the path in spring and summer. The terrain alternates between smooth trails and stony paths, but the incline is steady and manageable for most walkers. Along the way, you'll encounter traditional mountain huts and shepherd shelters, reminders that life here still follows ancient rhythms. About halfway through, the valley opens up dramatically, revealing distant peaks that form a jagged skyline — a hint of the wild beauty that defines Theth National Park.

After roughly an hour and a half of hiking, you'll reach a small wooden sign marking the descent to the Blue Eye, where the landscape suddenly transforms. The path drops into a hidden basin surrounded by trees and limestone cliffs, and at the center lies the spring itself — a mesmerizing pool of deep blue and emerald green. Fed by underground sources, the water is astonishingly clear and icy cold, even in midsummer. Sunlight plays across the surface, making the colors shimmer and shift with every ripple. Many travelers describe the Blue Eye as almost surreal — a place that feels both sacred and alive.

Visitors can relax on the smooth rocks surrounding the spring or brave a quick dip in its bone-chilling waters — a refreshing reward after the hike. Nearby, a rustic café offers cold drinks and snacks during the summer season, making it a lovely place to linger and enjoy the serenity of the setting. The return journey to Nderlysa follows the same path but feels entirely different as the light changes across the valley. Whether you come for the adventure, the photography, or the sheer peace of the place, the hike from Nderlysa to the Blue Eye is an unmissable experience — one that captures the pure, untamed magic of Theth.

The Nderlysa Village appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Theth!

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