Overview
This stage marks the symbolic beginning of transhumance, starting from the southernmost tip of the country in the small town Konispol — the city of tangerines. It is a short, relaxed trail that takes you back in time, connecting a Mediterranean landscape filled with the scent of sage and olive groves, with the earliest evidence of human life in the region. It is here where, as the warmer temperatures set in and the grass yellows, shepherds and their flocks make their way towards the lush pastures of the southern giants Mt. Nemerçka (2,482 m), Mt. Dhëmbel (2,050 m) and Mt. Gramoz (2,523 m).
Trail profile
Trail description
The distance of approximately 8–10 km serves as a gentle introduction to the hilly terrain, where the Ionian horizon and the island of Corfu remain constant companions in the background. From one last high-up panorama, you descend from the small town through the village houses on the hilltop towards the fields of the farmers down below.
As you walk the fields, you pass the cone-shaped hill “Çuka e Ajtoit”, where the ruins of an ancient castle, guarding the road to the town “Buthrontum”, hide in between the dense bushes of Turkish Sage. Back on trail, a constant ascent takes you to the other side of the road and the village of Shkallë, where the stage ends.
Accommodation & services
Hotel Konispoli
A very simple accommodation at the town center, behind Heteme.
No accommodation on site
Currently no accommodation in Shkallë — you will need a transfer at the end of the day. This will be updated as soon as options are identified.
Nearby attractions
Çuka e Ajtoit
Ahead of Shkallë, a short, steep detour leads you to the ruins of a 4th century BC castle, a strategic watch-over point of ancient civilisation. Add some explorer spirit to this short day and enjoy the high-up views.
Archaeological Park “Butrint”
A 20 min transfer from Shkallë takes you to the Archaeological Park Butrint, an ancient city that has seen many civilisations before falling and being uncovered in the 1920s. A National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992, centuries of history await — you can spend a good 2 hours walking through the shaded nature park.