In northern Albania, slightly east of Lake Shkodra, lies the small town of Koplik, nestled in a wide, fertile plain. Founded by the Romans, it is now an important waypoint along the SH1 highway, which runs north from Shkodra to the border with Montenegro. From Koplik, a winding mountain road ascends in countless curves and switchbacks to the 1,786-meter-high Thora Pass. The bad news: until a few years ago, this route was a gravel track, but it has since been paved. The good news: beyond the Thora Pass, starting at the village of Theth, the journey continues off-road.
In the 1980s, several thousand people lived in and around Theth, but many left due to a lack of economic opportunities. However, the development of hiking tourism, supported by development funds, has reversed this trend. Today, Theth presents itself as a charming tourist destination with good infrastructure.
The trail that winds from Theth through the western reaches of the Albanian Alps is not overly challenging. Although it features occasional fords, cross-ruts, and loose gravel, it is otherwise easy to navigate. Picturesque spots along the way invite travelers to stop and camp under the stars. A handful of switchbacks on fine gravel mark the final stretch before the road descends into the village of Prekal, where this off-road segment concludes.
Conditions, closures and tips — from members who drove here recently.
Coming from Theth toward Prekal, the first stretch up to the campground is actually paved. From the campground on, it becomes a gravel road that’s wide in places. It’s rough in spots, but SG2 (blue). Everything is set up for the asphalt paving. Basically a long construction zone, but nothing’s happening there. At least not today, on Sunday.
This is a narrow and steep road. We just made it down in our Iveco 4x4!! It can be very scary in some spots. There are a lot of fallen rocks after the heavy rains. Check the weather for updates. Also, at the top, there is a great flat spot for camping (wild camping). Beautiful views; a smaller RV is ideal.
Hi there, Julian, we're planning to drive this route in the next couple of days. Which section was scary, and why? We also have an Iveco, but it's a 1997 model. Best regards, Stefff
Extremely scenic plateau. However, if you're hoping for a camping spot by the river, you'll have to drive the route from shkodra to teth, otherwise you won't be able to get directly to the river. There was an hour's delay on the route due to construction work, which only cleared the road after closing time.
A scenic, picturesque trail. The trail between Shala Valley and Prekal has been repaired and freshly groomed.
Albania
Montenegro
Albania
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