Slovenia was truly an amazing experience with friendly people and beautiful nature. Incredible to be able to drive from the Alps to the coast within a few short hours. Highly recommend making a trip here.

Pictures in order:

1. Lake Bled (overlook from Bled castle)
2. The island in Lake Bled at sunset
3. Vintgar Gorge
4. Logar Valley
5. Ljubljana (main city of Slovenia)
6. Ljubljana
7. Piran
8. Piran city center
9. Streets of Piran
10. Piran
11. Predjama castle
12. Vogel cable car overlook

I was watching these swallowtails and then another joined and another and soon there were 5, all clumped up.

What was going on?

[OC]

My first peony bouquet of the year!

Looking for tips and constructive criticism ( but kind please) 😀

Just wrapped up a week-long road trip across Albania. Highly recommend it!

We started in Theth National Park and drove south, hitting Shkodër, Tirana, Berat, Sarandë, Ksamil, and Gjirokastër. Albania blew us away with its variety: dramatic mountains, Ottoman-era towns, turquoise beaches, and incredible food. Roads have improved a lot. The first photos are from the Theth National Park, followed by Gjirokaster, Berat and lastly Ksamil.

Theth National Park

We kicked off in the north with Theth. The drive from Shkodër on the SH21 is fully paved now but features steep switchbacks, hairpins, and jaw-dropping views over the Accursed Mountains. A regular car worked fine in good weather, but an 4x4 SUV gives more peace of mind on village tracks.

Theth felt like stepping into a postcard stone houses, clear rivers, waterfalls, and hiking trails everywhere. We did the short hike to the Blue Eye of Theth (stunning turquoise pool) and explored the valley. the hospitality is warm (try the homemade raki!)

Shkodër

Stayed at Shkodër. The town has a nice vibe with pedestrian areas, cafes, and Ottoman architecture. Great for a wander before or after the mountains.

Tirana

We spent time in Tirana soaking up the urban side. Parking was a pain to find though

Berat

One of the absolute highlights. Berat is incredibly photogenic with its Ottoman houses stacked on the hillside overlooking the Osum River. Cross the old bridge, and climb to the castle for sunset views. We loved the slow pace, local wine, and traditional food.

Sarandë, Ksamil

Sarandë and Ksamil were lively coastal towns with promenade walks, seafood, and ferries to Corfu if you want a side trip. To be honest wasn't a big fan of this area, felt okay.

Gjirokastër

It has a more dramatic, mountainous feel than Berat and pairs perfectly with a Blue Eye spring visit. Has a huge market (felt very touristy) and a cold war bunker as well. The drive from Blue Eye to Gjirokaster was beautiful.