Albania: God’s Creation in Full Glory
As a send-off before my next big adventure, my brother, cousin, and I spent two weeks on the road—and the first ten days were in Albania. Honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but Albania turned out to be one of the most stunning and surprising countries I’ve ever visited. God met us there in the mountains, the sea, and the little moments in between, and I left in awe of both the land and the Lord who created it.
A Glimpse of Albania
Albania sits in southeastern Europe along the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. Its history is long and complicated—conquered by Greeks, Romans, Venetians, Ottomans, Italians, and Germans. Then, under Enver Hoxha’s communist regime, the country spent 46 years almost completely cut off from the outside world. But today, just 33 years after communism ended, Albania is transforming—full of energy, modern development, and growing tourism.
Its culture is as rich as its geography: ancient Illyrian roots, Ottoman influence, and a language (Albanian) unlike any other in the world. And the landscapes? Mediterranean coastline, rugged alpine peaks, fertile valleys, and crystal-clear rivers. Everywhere we turned felt like another masterpiece of God’s design.
Highlights From Our Trip
Berat & the Gorica Quarter
Known as the “city of a thousand windows,” Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with charm at every turn. The city is divided between a fortified hilltop full of churches and mosques, and a lower town that bustles with Ottoman-era character. We spent hours wandering cobblestone streets, sipping coffee, and exploring history.
The Byzantine church at the top of the hill, its ancient paintings still visible, left me stunned—it was like stepping back centuries. Standing within that small place of worship and contemplation made me reflect on how generations of believers have worshiped God across time and culture.
And the food? Incredible. We stumbled upon a hidden restaurant serving a degustation menu—fruits, cheeses, veggies, and meats. Even as someone who doesn’t consider herself a foodie, I have to say: it was delicious.
Ksamil, Butrint & the Llogara Pass
Driving through the Llogara Pass was one of the most breathtaking moments of the trip. You begin in dense mountain forests, then crest the ridge to find sweeping views of the Ionian Sea and jagged coastal cliffs that stretch for miles. It felt like the world had opened up.
From there, we reached Ksamil, a seaside town with white-sand beaches and crystal-clear water. Families, kids, couples—everyone seemed at peace in the sunshine. For me, it was a reminder of God’s kindness in giving us places of rest and joy.
Nearby, we explored Butrint, another UNESCO site filled with layers of history—Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian. Walking among the ruins was humbling. Nations rise and fall, but God remains sovereign and unshaken.
Theth (The Albanian Alps)
Northern Albania’s mountains were, hands down, the highlight of our trip. Theth felt like a place set apart: towering peaks, evergreen valleys, and a simple, rural way of life. Our cabin sat on a beekeeper and shepherd’s property, with sheep wandering right up to the door. It was simple living, and it made me think about Psalm 23 and our Good Shepherd who provides all that we need.
We hiked to Grunas Waterfall, a 30-meter cascade, and later trekked to the Blue Eye, a vivid blue spring hidden deep in the mountains. The hike was long and tough—hot sun, steep climbs—but the destination was worth every step. Standing before that icy, jewel-toned pool, I couldn’t help but think of God’s living water that refreshes and restores us.
What God Showed Me
This trip was more than a vacation. It was a time of bonding with family, resting after a busy season, and seeing God’s glory reflected in creation.
- In the mountains, I saw His strength.
- In the sea, I saw His peace.
- In the history, I saw His sovereignty.
- In the moments of laughter with my brother and cousin, I saw His goodness.
As I reflect on this time, I’m reminded again that creation is not just beautiful—it’s worshipful. Albania, with its soaring mountains and shimmering seas, pointed me back to the Creator.
As Psalm 19:1 says: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.”
*Check out our Montenegro adventures HERE!*
**All expenses for my Albania and Montenegro travels were covered personally; RevivEE donations were not used for this trip**
