The Këlcyra Gorge (Gryka e Këlcyrës) is a stunning natural landmark located near the town of Këlcyrë. It is known for its dramatic landscapes, towering cliffs, and the Vjosa River, which flows through the gorge, carving its way through the surrounding mountain range. Do not miss a stop at the renowned restaurant and the local version of the famous Blue Eye Spring.
The gorge is 13 kilometres long and about one kilometre wide. The difference in height between the river and the highest parts of the Dhëmbel-Trëbëshinj mountains is an impressive 1700 metres. In addition, Vjosa creates a “canyon within a canyon” which is about 10 metres deep.
Due to its picturesque setting, a must-stop is the local restaurant and hotel Gryka e Këlcyres. Located on the left bank just behind the bridge over Vjosa, it is built on a place where a mighty stream originating near the restaurant falls into the riverbed after just a few meters.
Being a natural defensive position on the sole route between the Albanian southern coast and the interior, the gorge is strategically important from a military perspective. As a result, it has seen many battles in the past. In 1941, the Greek army achieved here a major victory against the invading Italian forces. Remains of weapons and military equipment can still be found around the village of Peshtan and elsewhere.
You will be passing through the gorge on your way from Tepelenë to Përmet. The town of Këlcyrë lies at the eastern entrance to the valley. There is nothing to see here except the ruins of a former castle above the town. Beautiful views down into the valley are worth the 20-minute climb.
About two kilometres walk from the restaurant (upstream on the left bank) lies another of Albania’s “blue eyes” – a powerful spring forming a small lake with a beautiful blue-green colour. Locals call it the Black Water (Uji i Zi). The outflowing water mixes almost immediately with Vjosa.
Këlcyra Gorge is a starting point of the 3-day trek through the Zagoria Valley. Hikes usually start directly from the restaurant or the village of Peshtan. If you want to shorten the trek by car, a newly paved road leads steeply uphill from Këlcyrë almost to the village of Malëshovë.
TIP: The best way to enjoy the gorge is directly from the river. Take advantage of the kayaking trip that is offered by local agencies.
Cover photo: Jakub Hrab
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