Tomorr is a prominent and culturally the most significant mountain in Albania. It is often associated with various legends and myths, and it is considered sacred by locals. Its two main summits offer breathtaking views of the landscapes of central and southern Albania. The southern peak, where a pilgrimage takes place every year, can be reached even by car. The mountain’s surroundings are protected within the Tomorr Mountain National Park, which was the first in the country to be declared in 1956.
Tomorr holds a special place in Albanian folklore and traditions. According to legends, the mountain embodied the mythical Father Tomorr (Baba Tomorri), a giant flying with the help of four eagles instead of legs. His cult was especially present in the works of Albanian authors in the 19th century. The very name tomorr, which means dark in Old Illyrian, contributed to the mythological significance, as well as the shape reminiscent of an Albanian eagle when looking from the north. The mountain is considered sacred by Christians and Bektashis in Albania.
The mountain range stretches for about 20 kilometres from north to south. Its northern summit, called Partisan Peak (Çuka e Partizanit, 2,416 m) is the highest mountain in central Albania, surpassing most of the neighbouring peaks by margin. The southern summit (Maja e Tomorrit, 2379 m) can easily be reached and is the highest point in Albania you can drive to.
In 1620 the mausoleum of the Shiite saint Abbas Ali Tomorri was built in Mount Tomorr. Abbas Ali Tomorri was the son of a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad and, according to legend, after his death at the Battle of Karbala in present-day Iraq, went on horseback to Albania and stayed for five days at Tomorr. The Bektashi revere him as do the Shiites, and thousands of pilgrims come to the mountain’s summit each year between August 20 and 25.
A drive to the southern summit is one of the most attractive in Albania in terms of scenery. In good weather, you can even see Italy from the top. There is a new scenic asphalt road leading from the town of Poliçan to Kulmak Pass (Qafa e Kulmakut), where the oldest Bektashi tekke in Albania is located as well as a modest guesthouse and some camping spots. From there it’s about 800 more vertical metres to the summit on a well-maintained gravel road (4×4 vehicle is advised). Be aware that there’s snow in the higher parts of Tomorr until late spring.
TIP: If you want to enjoy the beatiful area of southern Tomorr, stay in one of several lovely guesthouses and campings in the village of Ujanik which is located at the end of the asphalt road from Poliçan to Kulmak Pass. Continuing from Ujanik towards village of Gjerbes and further to Çorovodë (high-clearence vehicle is needed) is one of the most beautiful off-road trips in Albania, with magnicifent views on Tomorrica Valley.
The northern summit, on the other hand, is remote and not easy to access. First, you’ll need to get to the mountain village of Dardhë, which is less than 30 km from Berat and Gramsh. An off-road car is required when coming from both directions, but especially from Gramsh (via Sotira village) the the approach is rather difficult (see map).
From Dardhë, it is at least five hours of walking to the top (see map). A shorter hike from Dardhë involves the so-called Tomorr Castle, a gigantic rock towering on the northwestern slope of Tomorr Mountain reminiscent of a fortress (see map). There is a guesthouse in Dardhë which can arrange the transport with 4×4 vehicle for you.
Picturesque Bogova Waterfall (Ujëvara e Bogovës) is another feature of the Tomorr National Park, located on its southern edge. It is known for its serene and picturesque setting, surrounded by lush greenery and rocky formations. You have to take an easy hike (2 km, marked trail) to reach it from the village of Bogovë which is on the asphalt road between Berat and Çorovodë.
The best season to go there is spring when the waterfall has the most water. It flows from several directions into a beautiful pool, which is a pleasure to swim in on a hot day.
There are also several agencies doing day trips to Tomorr National Park from Berat.
Useful Links
Accommodation
Use Booking.com to find the best places to stay in Tomorr National Park.
Flights
Find the cheapest flight to Albania on Kiwi.com. It combines various airlines into a single itinerary.
Car Rental
Discover Albania with cheap & reliable car rentals through Rent from Locals.
Mobile data
Airalo provides affordable and convenient mobile data to keep you connected wherever you travel. Forget local SIM or roaming charges.
Experiences
Book a day trip to Tomorr on Viator.com.