Albania

Given that this country in the Balkans isn’t big on promoting itself, perhaps it isn’t surprising few know much about the place.

Certainly, Albania is a relatively poor country by financial measures and as such lacks infrastructure in some areas. However, as we found out, it is rich in terms of natural beauty and scenery. Equally important is its fantastic culture and its incredibly friendly and hospitable people, which was obvious to us in spite of the language barrier. As such we discovered Albania to be a country well suited to exploring 4WD Overland-style and moreover it’s been one of our most enjoyed destinations.

East/west divide

Albania’s West is home to several vibrant cities, including the capital Tirana; these places have the expected levels of infrastructure and are easily accessible to any tourist. In contrast, to the East it appeared to me that some Albanians live lives seemingly lost in time, in remote and simple villages set amidst beautiful mountain scenery.

These remote villages are connected by a string of what most of us would deem to be ‘4WD tracks’, and with no option to choose an alternative route that is paved or graded, it’s the ‘4WD track’ or nothing.

So, does this mean these Albanian villagers all drive 4WDs? No. Donkeys and wooden carts are still popular, as