Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park, Librazhd

National Park near Librazhd

Strizak during late winter Jablanica Mountain
Strizak during late winter Jablanica Mountain
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Liridon

Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park is one of the best places to visit in eastern Albania for travellers seeking wilderness, solitude, and dramatic mountain scenery. Located along the border with North Macedonia, this vast protected area encompasses high peaks, deep forests, meadows, and remote shepherd hamlets that feel worlds away from modern life. It is also a great place to visit on a walking tour of Librazhd's surrounding landscapes, offering a sense of untouched nature rarely found elsewhere in the country.

Created in 2008 and now spanning over 33,000 hectares, the park takes its name from the mighty Shebenik and Jabllanicë mountains, both rising above 2,200 metres. Its terrain transitions from gentle foothills to rugged alpine slopes, making it a haven for hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those craving pure mountain air.

History and Significance of Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park

The park represents one of Albania’s most important natural reserves, preserving a vast wilderness once heavily restricted during the communist era due to its proximity to the state border. This limited access inadvertently protected its ecosystems, allowing species such as the brown bear, grey wolf, and the critically endangered Balkan lynx to survive in these remote forests.

In 2008 the area was officially designated a national park, strengthening conservation efforts and promoting sustainable eco-tourism. Today, Shebenik-Jabllanicë is part of the wider European Green Belt, a transboundary initiative preserving former borderlands across the continent.

Its ancient beech forests, high meadows, and glacial terrain make it both ecologically valuable and visually spectacular.

Things to See and Do in Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park

Hiking is the park’s greatest attraction, with trails ranging from gentle valley walks to demanding ascents of Mount Shebenik and Mount Jabllanica. The views at the summits stretch across Albania and North Macedonia.

The park is also known for its glacial lakes, including the serene Lakes of Rajca and the shimmering group of small alpine lakes near Qarrisht. Wildflower meadows burst into colour in spring and early summer, while autumn transforms the beech forests into a vibrant gold.

Wildlife watchers may spot traces of brown bears or wolves, while the elusive Balkan lynx remains one of Europe’s rarest predators. Birdlife is plentiful, including eagles, owls, and woodpeckers.

Remote villages, shepherd huts, and traditional pasturelands offer a glimpse into rural Albanian life unchanged for generations.

How to Get to Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park

Most visitors access the park from the town of Librazhd. The nearest major airport is Tirana International Airport, which connects to Librazhd via the national highway toward Elbasan. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Librazhd on Booking.com.

Librazhd has rail links from central Albania, although service may be limited; from the station, travellers typically continue by car or local transport to trailheads.

Travelling by car provides the most flexibility. Many park roads are dirt tracks, and some require a high-clearance vehicle or four-wheel drive, especially near remote villages and higher elevations. If you are looking to rent a car in Albania I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park

  • Suggested tips: Bring plenty of water, good boots, and navigation tools, as trails can be poorly marked.
  • Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn for clear trails and accessible mountain roads.
  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: Open year-round.
  • Official website: Refer to Albania’s National Agency of Protected Areas (AKZM).
  • How long to spend: One full day for basic hikes; two to three days for deeper exploration.
  • Accessibility: Trails and dirt roads are challenging; not suitable for mobility-impaired visitors.
  • Facilities: Limited; expect basic shelters, occasional guesthouses, and natural springs.
  • Photography tip: Sunrise and sunset light up the mountain ridges beautifully-ideal for landscape shots.
  • Guided tours: Available through local guides in Librazhd or via eco-tourism organisations.
  • Nearby food options: Traditional home-cooked meals available in guesthouses in nearby villages.

Where to Stay close to Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park

In Librazhd, Hotel Librazhd offers convenient access to the main park entrances. For a rustic mountain experience, Guesthouse Rrajca provides proximity to popular trailheads. Another option near the foothills is Vila 43 Agriturizëm, ideal for travellers seeking a rural escape.

Is Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park is one of the where to go in Librazhd, offering rugged beauty, pristine forests, abundant wildlife, and unforgettable mountain vistas. For lovers of wilderness and remote landscapes, it is one of Albania's finest natural destinations.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (27)

Shebenik, located in Albania, is praised by visitors as a peaceful, forested park ideal for escaping city life with fresh air, bird song and wide green views; it features mountains, mini lakes, hiking and biking trails, off‑road access and nearby guesthouses, though some note the road in can be long and a bit challenging.

Armando Gjyshka
3 years ago
"It is a must-visit place with lots of woods and fresh air."
Eni Balla
6 years ago
"If you want a different weekend away from the every day life, night in clubs for sure this is the best palace to visit. Here you can find peace, hearthe birds singing in the morning and see the unique green view...."
Klodian Hajdari
4 years ago
"This is super beautiful park! I love it. Nocr ground, beautiful forest! It has some beautiful mountains. The park is quite and interesant! Access foroffroad car, hiking trails, and bike trails. You can find nice guesthouse...."

FAQs for Visiting Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park

They range from easy valley walks to steep, challenging mountain routes.
Some areas can be reached with a regular car, but many park roads require a high-clearance 4×4.
The park is home to bears and wolves, but encounters are extremely rare.
Yes, wild camping is generally allowed-practice Leave No Trace principles.

Nearby Attractions to Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park

  • Rajca Glacial Lakes: Beautiful alpine lakes perfect for day hikes.
  • Librazhd Town: A good base with local cafés and shops.
  • Qafë Thanë Pass: Stunning viewpoint on the road toward Lake Ohrid.
  • Miraka Fortress: A small historical ruin overlooking the valley.
  • Lake Ohrid (Pogradec): A UNESCO World Heritage site within an hour's drive.

The Shebenik-Jabllanicë National Park appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Librazhd!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Price:

Free

Librazhd: 13 km

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