This week-long equestrian vacation in Albania is specifically designed for complete beginners from 12-years-old upward. Aspiring horseback riders will learn the all-important fundamentals of horseback riding from qualified instructors. Each day, as confidence grows, riders will experience the thrill of riding on easy trails through beautiful scenery. Most days have an optional activity or tour available, enhancing the rider's experience of this fascinating country. Accommodation is at the home of a host family, close to the stables on the outskirts of the village, in comfortable double-rooms and shared bathrooms.
Please Note: The opinions expressed in these reviews are the author's and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unicorn Trails Ltd. These reviews are "directly from the horses mouth" and unedited. Unicorn Trails may make additional comments for clarification clearly identified in red.
Review received from NS of Vienna on 21/10/2024
Day 1
The hosts will greet the riders upon arrival and after settling into the accommodation the day is free to take in the beauty of the surroundings before the adventure begins. In the evening, head to the picturesque village of Asim Zeneli, for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant in Gjirokastër. The overnight accommodation for the whole trip will be in a local family run guest house on the outskirts of the village close to the farm.
Day 2
Start the day by learning the art of grooming and tacking up horses and discussing the basics of horse riding. This& is essential knowledge for all riders and will help bond horse and new rider. After lunch at a local restaurant, embark on a fascinating Cold War City Tour (optional) where riders explore the historical remnants and hear captivating tales from a bygone era during this immersive 3-hour tour. Return to the centre for a second round of lessons focusing on basic riding positions, balance exercises in the arena, and overall skill reinforcement. In the evening, riders can opt for a rural village experience or spend time with family on the veranda. Friends are welcome to join cooking sessions and assist with other tasks. An optional visit to the horse stables is available if willing to walk 15 minutes one way to the stables.
Day 3
The day begins with independent horse preparation followed by a nature ride test to assess skills acquired during the morning session. Lunch will be decided based on group's preferences and the intensity of riding lessons. The afternoon session will include basic knowledge tests on the track and guided horseback riding in nature, focusing on safety measures, risk management, and using reins in outdoor settings.
Day 4
Revise the lessons learned so far and prepare for trotting on the track. In the morning sessions, riders will need to concentrate as they practice trotting in the arena and outdoor settings. Lunch options will be chosen on the basis of the group's preferences. After lunch there will be further trotting practice on the track, horse leading, plus up and downhill riding positions.
Day 5
The day begins with the familiar routine of preparing the horses before the first& real challenge - a trek to Cini Lake. With the horses saddled and ready, and using the lessons of the past days, set off for the morning session with a series of advanced trotting exercises designed to test the rider's limits. The instructors provide guidance and feedback throughout the ride, fine-tuning techniques and addressing any lingering questions. Riding in pairs fosters camaraderie and teamwork, reinforcing the bond between rider and horse. Arrive back at the farm and stable the horses before lunch. A free afternoon and evening for the riders, and a rest for the horses. Dinner again with the host family. 4-5 hours riding.
Day 6
The morning session will focus on intensive trotting sessions on the track, along with some fun horse games. Riders will practice riding in pairs, maintaining safe distances and applying technical elements of trail discipline. In the afternoon, riders continue with trotting and horse games in the afternoon along with testing of trotting and short canters for balance assessment. These will take place out in nature going through the very diverse landscape of Gjinofshat hills possible to test all the lessons so far. Optional activities during break times may include relaxation, stable work, or village exploration.
Day 7
Today is the culmination of each rider's week-long journey. Riders gather in the arena in the morning to meet the horses and undertake a skills test on all that has been taught during the week. Under the watchful eye of the trainers, riders will navigate a series of exercises designed to asses proficiency in the saddle. After the test, the group head out on a scenic trek to Qestorati Lake. Along the way, pass the imposing castle of Santa Triada, its ancient walls standing as a silent testament to the region's storied past. The route leads through the village of Dhoksat, where time seems to stand still midst cobblestone streets and rustic buildings. 4-5 hours riding. After lunch, riders can enjoy free time or engage in optional activities. The day ends with a group dinner to celebrate the week, at a local restaurant in the historic city centre.
Day 8
After breakfast at the host's home, savour the last moments of this enchanting journey. Take a moment to reflect on the incredible memories and newfound skills before bidding farewell to the hosts and this captivating equestrian experience.
Those not wanting to go on the additional activities are free to spend the time at the farm or exploring the area. There are also numerous workshops and activities to book while here. There are numerous extra activities and workshop aavailable to book.
The small group supplement is applicable if only 1 participant booked onto the program.If, at the time of departure, more than 1 client is booked, the small group supplement will be refunded.
Please note: All itineraries are given for your guidance only and it may be altered on the ground and in accordance with the prevailing conditions by the organising team.
The horses are a mix of Arab and Tarpan crosses. These breeds were mentioned in the ancient chronicles from the time of the King Skerdilajd and stand up to 14hh tall (145cm). Although small, the horses are very strong and surefooted. Selected older horses (12yrs - 20yrs) which have all undergone specific training for this programme are used and new riders will find them easy to handle.
Daily riding times: 4 - 5 hours.
Riding level required: No experience or beginners. This program doesn’t fit more advanced riding levels.
We have a weight limit of 90 kg for participants in our activities, with considerations for height-to-weight proportions. This is because the weight distribution directly impacts the safety and comfort of participants horses and equipment. Therefore, we reserve the right to refuse participation to individuals whose weight-to-height proportions significantly deviate, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of everyone involved.
The weight limit for this ride is 198 lb/90 kg, please enquire if you are an experienced rider exceeding this weight.
Accommodation is a local family run guest house in comfortable double rooms with shared bathrooms a 10-minute walk from the stables (3 min drive), on the outskirts of the picturesque village of Asim Zeneli.
Breakfast and dinner is at the accommodation. Lunches are either taken in village restaurants or as picnics en-route unless otherwise advised. Most of the dinners take place on the veranda of the house apart from the first and last dinner that guests spend dinner in town with the guides. Please advise us of any specific dietary requests before booking. Should riders wish to stay in the town's historical area instead of the village farm, this may be possible for an additional charge. Please enquire.
Vegetarian or other dietary requirements within reason can be accommodated with advance notice. Please contact Unicorn Trails with requests before booking.
Please note that it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct documentation in place for your trip. NB: Be sure to check the COVID status of the country you plan to visit including entry procedures and requirements while travelling. Visa requirements can change from year to year depending on diplomatic relations. Please request information from the appropriate Consulate in your home country. Unicorn Trails will assist with any questions you have or supply any necessary supporting documents as required by the consulate should you need a visa. All travellers will need a passport valid for at least 90 days following your departure date from Albania. In the UK the British Foreign Office gives advice: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/albania In the US: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Albania.html In Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/albania
Another useful resource is Sherpa - this summarises any travel and vaccination requirements based on when you are travelling simply by entering your home country followed by your destination country: https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions
The best months to visit Albania are from April to September. Although precipitation is quite high in Albania there is less rain during these months and because of the continental air mass, most precipitation is over the central highlands. Albania has a high number of climatic regions relative to its landmass - the coastal lowlands have a typically Mediterranean climate; the highlands have a Mediterranean continental climate.
We still strongly advise consulting with your General Practitioner regarding any necessary immunizations or health precautions based on your individual medical history. Recommendations for travel health and safety can vary depending on various factors, such as destination, current health conditions, and other potential risks.
It is recommended that you drink only bottled water as the tap water is not always potable. If you drink milk, make sure it is UHT (pasteurised). Please refer to your country’s latest health guideline for travel in Albania and contact your own GP for up to date advice on vaccinations and prophylaxis prior to travel.
Please take along sun cream and anti-allergy medicine for possible insect bites.
In Albania the standard voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. You can use your electric appliances if the standard voltage in your country is in between 220 - 240 V.
Internet access will be difficult during the ride. Riders can buy an Albanian sim card/phone number for round €13 and have free internet access and around 30 minutes of free calls with most European countries. There is electricity every evening and the whole area is covered very well with signal. If using a GoPro ensure to have the permission of the group to be filmed.
Pack as you usually would for a holiday, for e.g. sunglasses, toiletries, casual clothes, and then these are your Horse Riding holiday essentials. If you are unsure, please speak with your Travel Consultant:
ESSENTIALS FOR ALL RIDING HOLIDAYS
- Riding helmet – complying with current EU & British standards (some locations can provide them but if possible bring your own for comfort and correct fit)*
- Riding boots designed for riding and walking*
- Riding gloves
- Chaps*
- At least 2 pairs of riding trousers – jodhpur’s/breeches are best
- Long sleeved shirts
- Lightweight waterproof
- Water bottle
- Mobile phone
- Torch (flashlight) for walking to feed the horses in the evening.
Provided by the hosts:
Small saddlebags for food and water
*Helmets, body protection and chaps are mandatory on this ride and the host is able to provide these
8d / 7n programme with 6 riding days
2024: 7 Jan, 3 Feb, 2 Mar, 1 Apr, 4 May, 1, 29 Jun; 3, 31 Aug, 5 Oct, 2, 30 Nov
2025: 18 Jan; 15 Feb; 8 Mar; 5, 17 Apr; 7 Jun: 5 Jul; 2 Aug; 13 Sep; 4 Oct; 1 Nov; 13 Dec
2024/5 Single rider for the week supplement is applicable if only 1 participant booked onto the program. If, at the time of departure, more than 1 client is booked, this supplement will be refunded.
No of days/nights |
Riding days | Product item description | £ | |
2024 | 8d/7n | 6 | double pp | 839 |
2024 | 8d/7n | 6 | single supplement | 115 |
2024 | 8d/7n | 6 | single rider supplement for the week | 115 |
2025 | 8d/7n | 6 | double pp | 875 |
No of days/nights |
Riding days | Product item description | € | |
2024 | 8d/7n | 6 | double pp | 989 |
2024 | 8d/7n | 6 | single supplement | 135 |
2024 | 8d/7n | 6 | single rider supplement for the week | 135 |
2025 | 8d/7n | 6 | double pp | 1,029 |
No of days/nights |
Riding days | Product item description | US $ | |
2024 | 8d/7n | 6 | double pp | 1,135 |
2024 | 8d/7n | 6 | single supplement | 149 |
2024 | 8d/7n | 6 | single rider supplement for the week | 145 |
2025 | 8d/7n | 6 | double pp | 1,179 |
No of days/nights |
Riding days | Product item description | SEK | |
2024 | 8d/7n | 6 | double pp | 11,939 |
2024 | 8d/7n | 6 | single supplement | 1,579 |
2024 | 8d/7n | 6 | single rider supplement for the week | 1,555 |
2025 | 8d/7n | 6 | double pp | 12,409 |
Chronicle in Stone - Iamael Kadare
I Humburi - Fatos Kongoli
Biograhi: A Traveler's Tale - Lloyd Jones
Women who Become Men - Antonia Young
Palace of Dreams - Ismael Kadare
For the equestrian traveller who would like to see what is possible on horseback visit www.thelongridersguild.com
Also a fantastic place to acquire your equestrian travel books is www.horsetravelbooks.com
2024/5 Prices
Wood crafting workshop - 36 Euro per person
Cooking class – 46 Euro per person
Buggy tour – 35 Euro per person
Cold War city tour – 55 Euro per person (including entrance tickets in three monuments)
Guided hiking tour – from 48 – 64 Euro per person depending on the itinerary
Embroidery class – from 25 Euro per person
Dress as a local – from 15 Euro per person
Ice cream making activity – from 13 Euro per person
Farming activity – From 34 Euro per person
Flora and Fauna: If we refer to the Albanian species, of which are 3250, 13% belong to Gjirokastra´s territory. There are lots of medicinal and curative plants. The number reaches up to 50 kinds of such plants. The most widely spread animals are hares, deer, wild boars, martens, bears, wild cats etc. Different kinds of fish like trout, eels and many more lurk in the rivers.
Since Albania lacks equestrian shops, procuring necessary horse equipment from the local market becomes a significant challenge for us. If it's feasible for you, we kindly request your assistance in bringing along any spare or unused items such as old pads, halters, ropes, girths, bridles, or any other equipment that you no longer use. Your contribution would be greatly appreciated by our center.