Lonely track with a view

If you drive about five kilometers north from Berat on the SH 72, you’ll come to a turnoff on the right that leads through Lapardha and Bardhaj to Lumas. There, an off-road trail begins, winding through a region that’s utterly deserted, even by Albanian standards, and crosses a mountain ridge into the Devoll Valley. The route is challenging: steep ascents and descents, deep cross and longitudinal ruts, slippery dirt paths, and rough gravel await off-road enthusiasts. Experience is a must to truly enjoy driving on this track. The good news? Even large vehicles can handle it.

From Lumas, the trail reaches the villages of Pëllumbas and Sarasel without much fanfare. Fine gravel crunches under the wheels, and the track is decently wide and easy to navigate. However, the adventure begins after Sarasel. Steep sections with deep ruts and rough stones demand steady hands at the wheel—or handlebars—a clear view, and a calm approach. Passing Katerlis, the trail becomes somewhat less demanding, peaking at around 900 meters before reverting to its challenging nature.

The descent into the Devoll Valley becomes another true test of skill, but don’t forget to occasionally lift your gaze from the track to admire the striking peak of Mount Tomorr. It’s visible almost the entire way, painting a picture-perfect backdrop. The trail ends at Ostenth, where the asphalt road begins.