Albania: Wellness, Adventure, Yoga, Mountains & Beaches

Tell your friends or family you’re off to Albania, and you’ll likely receive a stock response. “Isn’t it dangerous?”, “Isn’t there a war going on there?”, and “Is that even in Europe?” are some of the most common. Speak instead to those who have been, and the response will be far more positive – you’ll hear of rippling mountains, Ottoman architecture, pristine beaches and endlessly hospitable locals.

Following decades of isolationist rule, this rugged land still doesn’t seem to fit into the grand continental jigsaw. With it’s distinctly exotic feeling, unique cuisine and customs, you should pay a visit to this beguiling corner of Europe now, before it garners the popularity it deserves. That’s why I’ve chosen Albania for my next Wellness Adventure.

“As often as possible, go some place you’ve never been before. Experience new places and new things. You might find yourself with someone or somewhere that makes you much happier than your previous circumstance.” ~ Dalai Lama

Let me introduce myself…

My name is Aneta, The Wellness Designer. I help people thrive through travelling the world, learning new skills, making new friends and exploring their mind-body connection on my Wellness Adventures & Retreats.

I’ve always been passionate about the science of wellness. Having studied psychology, NLP, Nutritional Therapy, Detox/Toxicology and the science of yoga I’ve come to appreciate that a healthy mind-body connection, exercise and nutrition is the recipe for longevity, happiness and healthy living. Let me show you how your body is designed to feel.

I’ve also been lucky enough to travel 83 countries and learnt to speak five languages, giving me the confidence and inspiration to ensure your Wellness Adventure is a unique journey, off the beaten track.

So why Albania?

Well for starters it isn’t a popular destination, especially compared to other oversubscribed destinations. Don’t get me wrong, places like the Greek Islands and the mountains of Switzerland are amazing but Albania has it all. The Mediterranean climate and the mountain views to die for, with the added bonus of virtually no tourists. It’s a Total Wellness Experience for the connoisseur traveller and adventurer alike.

The locals will gladly welcome you into their homes and you’ll receive the warmest hospitality (though if you’re vegetarian be sure to mention it, or you may end up with a feast of goat slow-roasted in your honour). The cuisine of Albania is delicious, mostly organic and includes a selection of delicious cheese, and veggie stews.

What could be a better than a morning hike through the untouched wilderness followed by yoga in the serene and beautiful surroundings of Albania’s meadows and vineyards?

When I first visited Albania, the nature, culture, and friendliness of the locals took us by surprise. So much tranquillity, beauty and hospitality and amazingly we were the only non-locals there! It was a unique experience to wander the mountains, practice yoga in the vineyards and meadows, enjoy the guesthouses and swim the pristine local rivers and lakes.

We not only boosted our wellness by daily hiking, yoga and organic local food, but also centred our focus by daily meditation, and created strong friendships. I loved that most of the time there was no wi-fi and we found a far better way of connecting.

Albania is truly an unexplored treasure – join me there in June 2017 for the off-the-beaten track experience before the crowds get there!

Photo Credit: Aneta Grabiec & Amit Badami